The Gaslit Truth

Send us a text"Is your pancreas suddenly malfunctioning, or could it be your antidepressant?" That's the question at the heart of this explosive episode where we reveal the shocking disconnect between existing research and what medical providers tell patients about SSRI side effects.When co-host Jen called her doctor about concerning blood glucose results during her Lexapro taper, she was immediately shut down with "No, that can't be related to your medication." But as we uncover, multiple studies dating back over a decade have established clear connections between SSRIs and metabolic disturbances. We share a jaw-dropping recording of this medical gaslighting in action, breaking down all the ways Jen's legitimate concerns were dismissed without consideration.Looking deeper, we explore compelling research including a 2013 study showing significant increases in weight, blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides in women taking various SSRIs for just 16 weeks. Even more convincingly, a massive 2020 Japanese study of 90,000 participants concluded that "antidepressants increased the risk of type 2 diabetes," with risk increasing alongside duration and dosage of medication use. Perhaps most importantly, both studies found these metabolic markers returned to baseline after discontinuation - exactly what many patients report but are told is impossible.This episode serves as both validation for those who've felt dismissed by healthcare providers and as ammunition for your next medical appointment. We discuss strategies for advocating for yourself, monitoring your own health metrics, and navigating a system that often refuses to acknowledge medication side effects. If you've ever wondered whether your changing health status might be connected to your psychiatric medication, this conversation will equip you with knowledge to push back against medical gaslighting and take control of your health journey. Support the showAre you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you! Message us your gaslit stories at thegaslittruthpodcast@gmail.com While you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast. Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually at Dr. Teralyn: Instagram @Dr_Teralyn Facebook @DrTeralyn Tik Tok @Dr_Teralyn Therapist Jenn: Instagram @TherapistJen TikTok @Jenn.Schmitz

Send us a textWhat happens when a medical professional becomes the victim of the very medications they once prescribed? Nicole Lamberson, physician assistant and medical director for the Benzodiazepine Information Coalition, takes us through her harrowing journey from stressed PA student to polypharmacy casualty to powerful advocate for medication safety.Nicole's story begins with work-related anxiety during PA school that led to a prescription for Xanax. What followed was a five-year nightmare of escalating medications – six psychiatric drugs simultaneously, including multiple benzodiazepines, stimulants, and antipsychotics. As her health deteriorated, Nicole found herself unable to function, agoraphobic, and eventually suicidal. When she attempted to discontinue these medications, she encountered a medical system utterly unprepared to help patients safely taper off psychiatric drugs.The podcast explores the profound gaps in medical education around deprescribing, with Nicole revealing that her professional training included "absolutely zero" instruction on safely discontinuing medications. This knowledge vacuum creates dangerous situations where withdrawal symptoms are misdiagnosed as worsening mental illness or drug-seeking behavior. Even when patients report severe adverse effects, they're often dismissed as "outliers" or told their experiences are "rare."Through her recovery journey, Nicole became a vital voice in medication safety. She now contributes to deprescribing guidelines, works with the Withdrawal Project, distributes the documentary "Medicating Normal," and coaches individuals through psychiatric medication discontinuation. Her work balances scientific rigor with deep compassion born from lived experience.This eye-opening conversation challenges listeners to question the narratives around psychiatric medications, advocate for themselves in medical settings, and recognize that healing is possible even after severe medication harm. Whether you're a healthcare professional, someone taking psychiatric medications, or supporting a loved one through withdrawal, Nicole's wisdom offers crucial insights for navigating this complex terrain. Support the showAre you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you! Message us your gaslit stories at thegaslittruthpodcast@gmail.com While you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast. Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually at Dr. Teralyn: Instagram @Dr_Teralyn Facebook @DrTeralyn Tik Tok @Dr_Teralyn Therapist Jenn: Instagram @TherapistJen TikTok @Jenn.Schmitz

Send us a textAngie Peacock's life changed forever when she sought psychiatric help after serving in Iraq. What followed was a 13-year nightmare on more than 40 psychiatric medications simultaneously – a pharmaceutical regimen that robbed her of her identity, relationships, and basic functioning."I completely got robbed of my twenties and thirties," Angie reveals, describing how she lost the ability to shower, read, or even watch TV while heavily medicated. Her medical records ultimately labeled her as having "chronic and persistent mental illness not likely to improve." The psychiatric establishment had written her off.The turning point came when Angie was invited to share her story in the groundbreaking documentary "Medicating Normal." During a catastrophic cold-turkey withdrawal from benzodiazepines, she endured three years of akathisia, intrusive thoughts, and physical agony. Yet something remarkable happened – her brain began to heal itself. Without supplements, alternative therapies, or more medications, Angie's psychiatric symptoms resolved completely.Today, Angie lives on the road in her camper van, traveling the country as a psychiatric drug withdrawal consultant and advocate for informed consent. Her story challenges everything we're told about "chemical imbalances" and lifelong medication. As she powerfully states: "These drugs have murdered my brain. That's what happened."Through heart-wrenching honesty and moments of unexpected humor, Angie illustrates how the mental health system traps patients through gaslighting, creating symptoms that are then blamed on underlying illness rather than medication effects. Her journey demonstrates the brain's extraordinary healing capacity when freed from pharmaceutical interference.Whether you're questioning your own psychiatric treatment, supporting a loved one through withdrawal, or simply concerned about our medication-first approach to mental health, this episode will transform your understanding of what's possible. Listen now and discover why thousands worldwide are rethinking everything they've been told about psychiatric medication. Support the showAre you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you! Message us your gaslit stories at thegaslittruthpodcast@gmail.com While you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast. Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually at Dr. Teralyn: Instagram @Dr_Teralyn Facebook @DrTeralyn Tik Tok @Dr_Teralyn Therapist Jenn: Instagram @TherapistJen TikTok @Jenn.Schmitz

Send us a textThe decision to send your child to therapy seems like responsible parenting, but what if that choice follows them long after childhood ends? As licensed therapists ourselves, we're pulling back the curtain on a troubling reality that few professionals discuss openly.Mental health diagnoses given to children as young as six or seven years old don't simply disappear when therapy ends. These labels become permanent parts of medical records that can affect military applications, government employment, insurance coverage, and more. We share real examples from our practices of young adults facing obstacles because of childhood diagnoses they've long since outgrown.A revealing study found that over two-thirds of people who received therapy as children reported negative effects from the experience, with many developing increased stress and a sense that their problems would never improve. Perhaps most concerning is how children are routinely placed on psychiatric medications with profound physiological effects that alter their developing nervous systems.As parents, the pressure to medicate children into compliance can be overwhelming. Schools, doctors, and even family members may insist it's the only solution for behavioral issues or learning differences. We challenge this narrative, offering practical alternatives like working with coaches, paying privately to avoid diagnoses, and exploring holistic approaches before turning to psychiatric interventions.This isn't about shaming parents who've sought help for their children, but rather providing crucial information that's deliberately withheld from the therapy conversation. Before signing your child up for their first session, consider the potentially lifelong implications of that decision. Support the showAre you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you! Message us your gaslit stories at thegaslittruthpodcast@gmail.com While you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast. Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually at Dr. Teralyn: Instagram @Dr_Teralyn Facebook @DrTeralyn Tik Tok @Dr_Teralyn Therapist Jenn: Instagram @TherapistJen TikTok @Jenn.Schmitz

Send us a textThree therapists pull back the curtain on an uncomfortable truth: the mental health industry often keeps us trapped in cycles of symptom management rather than helping us truly thrive."The Capacity Expert" Raquel Hopkins joins Dr. Tara Lynn and Therapist Jen to challenge mainstream mental health narratives that have created an emotionally fragile culture. With her unique background transitioning from corporate HR to therapy, Raquel brings a refreshingly critical perspective that questions the fundamentals of how we approach mental wellness.Together, they explore how we've confused normal human emotions with mental illness, why gaslighting exists in all human relationships, and the danger of creating perpetual therapy clients instead of resilient individuals. "Your emotions are just internal data," Raquel explains, "not facts and not justification for how people should respond to you."The conversation dives into controversial territory, questioning whether childhood exploration should be the default starting point in therapy and challenging the notion that our nervous system is always right about perceived threats. They discuss how the mental health industry has inadvertently contributed to a culture that rewards emotional fragility rather than building capacity to navigate life's inevitable challenges.This episode will make you question everything you've been told about mental health and therapy. Whether you're currently in therapy, considering it, or work in the field yourself, these perspectives offer a much-needed counterbalance to prevailing narratives that have dominated the mental health conversation.Ready to develop true resilience rather than perpetual coping mechanisms? Listen now and discover how to build the capacity to navigate life's complexities without becoming dependent on therapy or pathologizing normal human experiences. Support the showAre you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you! Message us your gaslit stories at thegaslittruthpodcast@gmail.com While you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast. Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually at Dr. Teralyn: Instagram @Dr_Teralyn Facebook @DrTeralyn Tik Tok @Dr_Teralyn Therapist Jenn: Instagram @TherapistJen TikTok @Jenn.Schmitz

Send us a textKevin Gundersen's story begins at age 12 when a doctor prescribed him Celexa for school anxiety. What followed was a two-decade nightmare of medication side effects, new symptoms, and medical gaslighting that robbed him of his youth and health.With raw honesty, Kevin recounts the vicious cycle familiar to many psychiatric patients: medication side effects misdiagnosed as worsening mental illness, leading to higher doses or new medications, creating even worse symptoms. His original anxiety transformed into debilitating panic attacks, vertigo, severe blood pressure spikes reaching 260/150, and the torturous movement disorder akathisia after starting psychiatric medications.Kevin's experience reveals how medical gaslighting extends beyond patients to families. "My parents were also gaslit," he explains, absolving them of blame for decisions made without true informed consent. This crucial insight highlights how psychiatric medication harms ripple through entire families, creating multiple victims from a single prescription.The podcast takes listeners through Kevin's medical journey, complicated by Graves' disease and Lyme disease, and his repeated attempts to taper off medications. Most powerfully, he describes his December 2023 breaking point: "I am going to do everything in my power to get off these drugs. I don't care if I suffer every day for the rest of my life. I'm not giving any more money to these companies that have fucked me up."Now slowly tapering and rebuilding his life, Kevin offers a profound insight that challenges psychiatric orthodoxy: "I feel the best I've felt in a long time, and I'm at the lowest dose I've been on since I was 16." His story is both a warning about the dangers of psychiatric medications and a beacon of hope for those seeking their own path to healing.Follow Kevin's continuing journey on TikTok and YouTube @fightingback203 and share your own experiences with psychiatric medication through our email: thegaslittruthpodcasts@gmail.com. Support the showAre you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you! Message us your gaslit stories at thegaslittruthpodcast@gmail.com While you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast. Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually at Dr. Teralyn: Instagram @Dr_Teralyn Facebook @DrTeralyn Tik Tok @Dr_Teralyn Therapist Jenn: Instagram @TherapistJen TikTok @Jenn.Schmitz

Send us a textMental health is a complex subject often lost in political rhetoric, and our latest episode of the Gaslit Truth Podcast brings this to the forefront. We challenge the commonly held beliefs surrounding civil commitment laws, particularly in Oregon, as we navigate the new proposed legislation that could redefine how mental health crises are handled. Join us as we uncover the intricate relationship between NAMI and civil commitments, confronting the ongoing narrative that embeds mental health within a political tug-of-war. As we discuss the proposed shift towards assessing a patient’s risk over a 30-day period instead of relying solely on immediate threats, we raise essential questions about the responsibilities placed upon mental health professionals. Are we setting them up for failure? And what about the rights of those in crisis?The episode also explores the implications of these laws on vulnerable populations and their intersection with prison reform efforts. As we unpack these pressing issues, we urge our listeners to consider the ramifications of policies that may further stigmatize mental illness while failing to provide adequate support.We encourage you to engage with us, share your thoughts, and contribute to this critical discourse as we work toward a society that advocates for comprehensive mental health care instead of merely imposing strict legal frameworks. Tune in, and let's explore the gaslit truths that shape our understanding of mental health today. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the conversation! Support the showAre you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you! Message us your gaslit stories at thegaslittruthpodcast@gmail.com While you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast. Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually at Dr. Teralyn: Instagram @Dr_Teralyn Facebook @DrTeralyn Tik Tok @Dr_Teralyn Therapist Jenn: Instagram @TherapistJen TikTok @Jenn.Schmitz

Send us a textJoin us on an insightful journey with Jason Smith, the dynamic coach, speaker, and founder of the Enterus Society, as we unravel the intricate tapestry of mental health and personal development. This episode promises to challenge the ordinary by questioning conventional narratives and pushing us to transcend self-imposed limitations. Jason, with his unique perspective, prompts us to reconsider the familiar and explore the transformative power of perspective shifts, particularly in the context of reclaiming mental health as outlined in our book "Your Best Brain."Our conversation ventures into the often-overlooked realm of gender disparities in medical treatment, underscoring the personal battles faced in healthcare settings. From navigating neck and shoulder injuries to the broader implications of public health narratives post-COVID-19 vaccine, we dissect personal experiences that highlight the challenges of advocating for one's health needs. The emotional and psychological toll of working in trauma-heavy environments is also a focal point, with a narrative that transitions from high-stress settings to the introspective world of private practice, illuminating the path to personal well-being and optimal health.Deepening the discussion, we scrutinize the complexities of relationships through the lens of gender expectations, authenticity, and societal narratives. We explore the contrasted dynamics of masculine and feminine energy, revealing how perceived traits can impact relationship satisfaction. From unraveling stories of trauma to exploring the role of humor as a coping mechanism, this episode is a heartfelt examination of the intersections between personal growth, health, and relationships, offering a roadmap for those seeking to embrace authenticity and foster deeper, more meaningful connections. Support the showAre you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you! Message us your gaslit stories at thegaslittruthpodcast@gmail.com While you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast. Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually at Dr. Teralyn: Instagram @Dr_Teralyn Facebook @DrTeralyn Tik Tok @Dr_Teralyn Therapist Jenn: Instagram @TherapistJen TikTok @Jenn.Schmitz

Send us a textWhat happens when humor becomes a healing tool? Join us as we unravel the transformative journey of Heather Gray, a functional diagnostic nutritionist and bioenergetic practitioner, whose battle with chronic illness, including Lyme disease and autoimmune disorders, is both inspiring and deeply personal. Heather's story traces her path from a trauma-filled childhood and medical gaslighting to finding resilience through comedy. Her experiences highlight the power of functional medicine and the importance of not letting chronic illness define one’s life, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of health and humor.Curious about the complexities of Lyme disease and its often-overlooked symptoms? Heather, alongside our hosts, navigates the frustrating maze of misdiagnosis and sheds light on the emotional challenges that accompany chronic health issues. From unexpected symptoms like joint pain to the societal challenges of dating with a health condition, listeners are given a candid glimpse into the broader implications of living with Lyme. The discussion also humorously rebrands the 'Karen' stereotype, adding a layer of levity to a serious topic, while emphasizing the necessity of root cause medicine and functional diagnostics.Heather doesn't stop at illness; she explores healing through somatic practices and bioenergetics, illustrating how these methods can empower individuals to overcome genetic predispositions. Delve into the significance of self-love, mindset shifts, and practical biohacking tools that Heather champions. Her insights, coupled with her comedic flair, challenge the notion of victimhood, urging listeners to embrace empowerment and personal growth. This episode is a rich blend of inspiration, practical advice, and the heartening message that healing is possible beyond chronic illness. Support the showAre you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you! Message us your gaslit stories at thegaslittruthpodcast@gmail.com While you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast. Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually at Dr. Teralyn: Instagram @Dr_Teralyn Facebook @DrTeralyn Tik Tok @Dr_Teralyn Therapist Jenn: Instagram @TherapistJen TikTok @Jenn.Schmitz

Send us a textZelda Menard's story is one of transformation and empowerment, shaped by her journey from being diagnosed with bipolar disorder to becoming a mental health counselor. Her candid experience with the psychiatric treatment system shines a light on the critical need for dignity and humanity in mental health care. Zelda discusses her personal journey, which includes facing the challenges of hospitalization and the impact of mental health labels. Her narrative isn't just a personal reflection; it ignites a broader conversation about systemic changes needed in mental health treatment.We also explore a deeply personal journey through mental health challenges, offering insight into the intricate balance of marriage, motherhood, and the acceptance of medication as a necessity. These stories encourage listeners to reflect on their own life experiences, drawing attention to the profound influence of early childhood patterns on adult mental health and relationships. By recognizing these patterns, individuals can take steps toward healing, underscoring the importance of self-awareness and early intervention in transforming one's mental health outlook.The episode rounds off with a critical examination of mental health labels and stigma. We question the validity of traditional diagnostic criteria and stress the importance of understanding personal triggers in context. Zelda's insights into these complex issues offer hope and encouragement for those navigating similar challenges, urging listeners to reconsider the narratives surrounding mental health. As we conclude, we invite you to share your own experiences, fostering a community of support and understanding. Support the showAre you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you! Message us your gaslit stories at thegaslittruthpodcast@gmail.com While you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast. Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually at Dr. Teralyn: Instagram @Dr_Teralyn Facebook @DrTeralyn Tik Tok @Dr_Teralyn Therapist Jenn: Instagram @TherapistJen TikTok @Jenn.Schmitz