The Stigma of Mental Health with Dr. Michael Foti

The Power of Peacefulness and Stress Relief With Dr Sharon McLaughlin

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Episode Overview: In this episode, Dr. Michael Foti discusses the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in the healthcare profession. Dr. Foti is an internal medicine physician and faculty at the Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is also on the board of directors for the New York State Osteopathic Medical Society and vice president of the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Orange County, New York.

Key Points:

1. Introduction to Dr. Foti:
   • Dr. Michael Foti introduces himself and his professional background.
   • Discusses his roles and contributions in various medical organizations.
2. Personal Mental Health Journey:
   • Dr. Foti shares his personal experience with mental health struggles, exacerbated during his intern year amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
   • He describes the intense pressures of his training and the personal loss of his mother to undiagnosed stage four lung cancer.
3. The Impact of Stigma:
   • Dr. Foti highlights the stigma associated with mental health issues in the healthcare field.
   • Discusses how this stigma prevents healthcare professionals from seeking necessary help.
4. Overcoming Mental Health Challenges:
   • Dr. Foti details his own struggles with panic disorder and the severe symptoms he experienced.
   • He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and shares his journey of getting better through therapy and medication.
5. Healthcare Workers and Mental Health:
   • Discussion about the challenges healthcare workers face regarding mental health and the fear of professional repercussions.
   • Dr. Foti mentions the legal protections for mental health issues under the ADA and ongoing legislative efforts to support mental health in the healthcare workforce.
6. Legislative Efforts and Advocacy:
   • Introduction to the Dr. Lorna Breen Provider Protection Act, which aims to support mental health for healthcare workers.
   • Dr. Foti’s involvement in national advocacy for mental health, including speaking engagements with the U.S. Surgeon General.
7. Practical Tips for Mental Health:
   • Dr. Foti offers three tips for managing mental health:
     1. Speak to someone, whether

The Power of Peacefulness and Stress Relief Podcast was created by Sharon McLaughlin MD FACS to help normalize mental health.
My podcast is designed specifically for women who feel overwhelmed by the demands of daily life. I am a physician who has experienced burnout, a cancer survivor and an autoimmune disease "thriver"
We bring you the latest insights from leading experts in stress management, psychology, and wellness. Learn practical, science-backed strategies to alleviate stress and incorporate peacefulness into your life. Our expert guests share valuable tips on how to create positive relationships, build self-esteem, resolve conflicts, and live a healthier lifestyle.
If you need help creating peace in your life be sure to download our peacefulness workbook.
https://sharonmclaughlinmd.com/workbook
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