Flipping his script on how to treat mental health with Dr Fred Moss

Get Real: Talking mental health & disability

For this episode we are talking to Dr Fred Moss, a psychiatrist of more than 30 years who is based in California. He’s consulted, not only with patients, but with other medical professionals, prisons, nursing homes, drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres, shelters and more. He also has extensive experience as an expert witness for court cases.
Dr Fred calls himself an “un-diagnosing psychiatrist”, or a "recovering psychiatrist" and we’ll explore what that means with him in this conversation because has strong views on the traditional psychiatric model and medication. He does not prescribe medication as part of his practice and makes clear his reasons for this.
LISTENER NOTE: People take psychiatric medications for a variety of conditions and for varying lengths of time – sometimes indefinitely. So it is not unusual for some people to consider coming off their medication, especially if they are feeling better or the side effects are making life difficult. Ultimately the decision to stop taking psychiatric medication is a personal choice involving a process weighing up the risks and benefits for each individual. We would urge anyone considering this to talk with their doctor and treating practitioners as part of that process. Being actively involved in your treatment can make a real difference in your recovery. Talking honestly with your doctor or treating practitioner is a big part of that process. If you discuss your concerns and learn about your options, you are much more likely to come up with a plan that works well for you and for the life you want to create, whether that include the use of medication to manage your symptoms or other means.

Dr Fred’s practice centres on conversation, communication, creativity and deep human connection as a tool to help people live their best lives possible.
Fred says his work and vision, that he’s branded WELCOME TO HUMANITY is that each and every person will know that their voice is heard. That who they are and what they do matters.
Fred’s podcast is called Welcome to Humanity with Dr Fred Moss and it’s available on the usual listening platforms. Find out more about Fred at welcometohumanity.net
If you have been affected by anything discussed in these episodes please contact (in Australia):

• Lifeline on 13 11 14
• Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
• 13 YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7 national crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
• QLIFE on 1800 184 527 (anonymous and free LGBTI peer support and referral)
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If you are outside Australia please contact your country-specific mental health helpline/s or services including:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA listeners)
• Samaritans (UK listeners)
• The Canada Suicide Prevention Service (Canadian listeners)

Your hosts are Karenza Louis-Smith, CEO ermha365 and Emily Webb, Advocacy and External Communications Advisor.
ermha365 provides a range of mental health services designed to help people experiencing mental health challenges to thrive in the community.