[Radio] Ep. 14: The Doctors' Judy Ho on #attachmentstyles + Drug Encounters & Mental Collapse

CBS’s former The Doctors host, Judy Ho, discusses her new book on ‘attachment theory’ and personal development. #AttachmentStyles has gotten 348.2 million views on TikTok alone as this topic dealing with codependency, alcoholism, and your inner child continues to trend. Then we talk with Ruth Poniarski, an artist who grappled with severe mental illness after unwittingly consuming a PCP-laced brownie. Poniarski shares her journey to recovery, highlighting the role of art and effective psychiatry.Part. 1: The New Rules of Attachment: Unlocking the Power of Relationships"In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, our relationships play a crucial role in shaping our lives. Whether it's our friendships, family dynamics, or even our goals and self-perception, the way we attach to others significantly impacts our overall well-being. We dive into the enlightening conversation between Cary Harrison, Ashley Neal, and Dr. Judy Ho, former host of TV's The Doctors, a triple board-certified licensed clinical forensic neuropsychologist, and author of the groundbreaking book, The New Rules of Attachment: How to Heal Your Relationships, Reparent Your Inner Child, and Secure Your Life Vision.Understanding Attachment Theory:Attachment theory, which has gained immense popularity recently, is not as new as one might think. Dr. Judy Ho explains that this theory has been around for 60 to 70 years, but its applications continue to evolve. The theory suggests that during childhood, our brains develop an "operating system" based on the conditions and relationships we experience. This system continues to influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors well into adulthood. Essentially, the way we attach to others as children becomes a template for our future relationships.The Impact of Insecure Attachment:Dr. Judy Ho delves into the various aspects of attachment theory, highlighting the repercussions of insecure attachment styles. She emphasizes that attachment is universal, and we all need socialization to survive and thrive. However, when attachment styles are insecure, they create roadblocks that hinder our ability to form meaningful connections and achieve our goals.Codependency and Workaholism:One common manifestation of insecure attachment is codependency. Dr. Judy Ho explains that people who struggle with codependency often find themselves people-pleasing and constantly striving to save others. However, they rarely pause to understand the roots of these behaviors and why they occur. By exploring the concept of insecure attachment, individuals can uncover the underlying drivers of codependency and take steps towards healing.Another relevant issue discussed in the conversation is workaholism. In today's hustle and bustle culture, workaholism can be glorified and even rewarded. However, it becomes problematic when individuals use work as an escapist coping mechanism and neglect to address deeper issues in their lives. Dr. Judy Ho emphasizes the importance of a balanced self-esteem that stems from various sources, rather than solely relying on professional achievements.Healing through Inner Child Work:Dr. Judy Ho's new book introduces evidence-based methods for inner child work, an essential part of healing attachment styles. Our inner child carries the memories and experiences of our childhood, and unmet needs from that time can continue to impact us as adults. Reparenting our inner child involves acknowledging those wounds and fulfilling their needs with the resources and capabilities we now possess. By making contact with our inner child and actively addressing their needs, we can create a more secure attachment style and pave the way for meaningful and joyful connections.The Gender Perspective:Cary and Ashley raise an important question about potential differences in attachment styles between men and women. Dr. Judy Ho explains that due to cultural values and societal expectations, men and women may express their insecure attachment styles differently. Men may be more rewarded for prioritizing achievements over relationships, while women may face societal pressure to prioritize relationships. Understanding these cultural nuances allows individuals to reflect on how attachment styles may manifest differently based on gender.Attachment in the Digital Age:In the digital age, where virtual connections have become a norm, Cary Harrison highlights the challenges in forming deep and meaningful connections. Dr. Judy Ho emphasizes the significance of real-life connections and the limits of digital interactions. While technology provides convenience and enables conversations like the one between Cary Harrison and Dr. Judy Ho, balance is crucial. Finding opportunities for in-person connections and authentic conversations is essential for our overall well-being.SharePart. 2: ## Ruth Poniarski's Memoir & Journey Through Mental IllnessThe conversation took a revealing turn with Ruth Poniarski, an artist, sharing her nightmarish experience after unknowingly consuming a PCP laced brownie. The event led to a series of mental breakdowns characterized by insomnia, depression, paranoia, and irrational thinking.However, Poniarski managed to surmount these challenges, largely thanks to her encounter with a high-risk psychiatrist. His practical and relatable approach addressed the symptoms of her illnesses and helped her navigate her life better.Poniarski also discovered the power of art as a healing medium. She started painting in 1988, developing surreal, complex narratives that best expressed her feelings and inner turmoil. As she described it, "painting requires a lot of patience, diligence, and most of all, discipline" - qualities that certainly helped her journey towards recovery.## Mental Health Awareness Month: Encouraging Conversations that MatterMay marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a perfect phase to learn about mental health issues and foster meaningful conversations around them. Thus, Ruth’s Book, Journey of the Self: Memoir of an artist and this episode of "Reboot Your Life" reminds us of the importance of understanding, empathy, and practical strategies in the context of mental health and provides valuable insights into helping ourselves and the people around us.Exploration and conversations around mental health issues genuinely matter - whether it's unpacking complex theories like attachment styles, recognising often overlooked issues like workaholism, or acknowledging the therapeutic power of creative outlets like painting. Everyone’s journey is unique, but ultimately, understanding and recovery are universal possibilities. 00:00 Introduction to Reboot Your Life00:35 Meet the Hosts: Cary Harrison and Ashley Neal01:06 Introducing Judy Ho: The Expert on Attachment Theory01:40 Deep Dive into Attachment Theory02:58 Understanding Codependency and Workaholism03:41 Exploring Judy Ho's Previous Work: Stop Self Sabotage04:43 The Importance of Attachment in Early Childhood05:41 The Impact of Attachment Styles on Self Esteem06:47 The Journey of Judy Ho: From Clinical Psychology to Bestselling Author07:16 The Role of Attachment Styles in Relationships09:54 The Power of Inner Child Work and Self Reparenting21:16 The Impact of Digital Age on Relationships and Attachment Styles23:35 Closing Remarks and Appreciation24:13 Introduction to Riverside Recovery of Tampa25:54 Introduction to the Reboot Your Life Hotline26:29 Welcome to Reboot Your Life with Cary Harrison and Ashley Neal26:51 Ruth Poniarski's Struggle with Mental Illness27:33 Ruth's Recovery and Her Memoir28:05 Ruth's Experience with Angel Dust31:17 Ruth's Journey to Recovery33:42 Ruth's Experience with Different Psychiatrists46:46 Ruth's Artistic Journey and Its Impact on Her Mental Health49:46 Introduction to Riverside Recovery of TampaWhen you encounter a homeless veteran or one in trouble, you can call 877-424-3838 and someone will be dispatched to get them help? VA benefits now fund on-the-spot sightings of veterans in need and can guide them toward the treatment or services they may need. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rebootyourlife.substack.com