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

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

ermha365 provides mental health and disability support for people in Victoria and the Northern Territory. Find out more about our services at our website.

Helplines (Australia):
Lifeline 13 11 14
QLIFE 1800 184 527
13 YARN 13 92 76
Suicide Callback Service 1300 659 467

ermha365 acknowledges that our work in the community takes place on the Traditional Lands of many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and therefore respectfully recognise their Elders, past and present, and the ongoing Custodianship of the Land and Water by all Members of these Communities.

We recognise people with lived experience who contribute to GET REAL podcast, and those who love, support and care for them. We recognise their strength, courage and unique perspective as a vital contribution so that we can learn, grow and achieve better outcomes together.

Chapters

• 3:53 Dr Fred on his journey to psychiatry
• 12:45 What does Fred mean when he says he's an "Undiagnosing Pyschiatrist"
• 14:54 Fred's work as an expert witness in court
• 32:05 Fred's advice for when we feel "off balance"
• 39:25 Fred's final thoughts