Making Sense of Mental Health

In this episode, Dr. Phillips, Co-Chair of the Iowa Psychological Association's Public Education Committee, interviews Dr. Katie Kopp, also a member of IPA, about her thoughts on trauma, stress, and PTSD, with a special focus on the impact of recent world events on our experience of stress and trauma.  Topics discussed include: * What is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and how does it differ from stress * Important signs to look for in yourself or a loved one that might indicate the presence of notable stress, trauma, or PTSD * Ways the pandemic, systemic racism, and political stress may have impacted our stress as a nation * Helpful guidance on how to prevent and work with stress and trauma * When and how to seek help from a mental health professional when needed

This episode highlights an interview and discussion between the co-chairs of the Public Education Committee of the Iowa Psychological Association, Drs. Johnson & Phillips about the psychological impact of the pandemic on our healthcare personnel here in Iowa.  Topics discussed include results from the recent APA Stress in America survey and some of the specific impacts the pandemic has had on nurses, doctors, and other medical personnel. Dr. Johnson & Phillips also discuss signs and symptoms healthcare workers and their families may want to watch for in themselves and others and ways that our healthcare personnel can cope with stress and seek help if needed.