Dr. K explores why more people today are struggling with depression that doesn’t respond to the usual fixes. He explains the difference between “classic” depression caused by things like chemical imbalances or cognitive distortions and existential depression, which arises when the future feels objectively bleak. Drawing from philosophy, psychiatry, and Viktor Frankl’s logotherapy, Dr. K shows how existential depression can freeze your sense of possibility, leading to hopelessness, burnout, and lateral behaviors like doom-scrolling, gaming, or numbing out. He argues that standard treatments like SSRIs or CBT fall short here, and what’s needed is a deeper re-engagement with meaning, balance, and forward momentum. Topics include: Why the serotonin imbalance model doesn’t explain most depression The rise of existential depression in a world of uncertainty, debt, AI, and climate anxiety Depressive realism: why some depressed people see reality more accurately than others The “frozen future” and why it leads to lateral movement (scrolling, gaming, numbing) How imbalance between thinking, feeling, and doing worsens existential depression Three sources of fulfillment: self, service to others, and the transcendent/spiritual Practical tools: restoring life’s natural rhythm, paradoxical intention, and dereflection This episode blends clinical insight with existential philosophy, offering both big-picture frameworks and concrete techniques for anyone feeling stuck in the meaninglessness of modern life. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. K unpacks the intense, destabilizing experience of limerance—the obsessive, all consuming “crush” that can hijack your thoughts, emotions, and even your sense of self. He explains how limerance isn’t just infatuation, but a powerful mental state fueled by unmet needs, anxious attachment, fantasy coping, and even traits that overlap with OCD and ADHD. Drawing on Dorothy Tennov’s classic work and his own clinical insights, Dr. K explores how limerance forms, why it can last for years, and how it alters your motivational hierarchy pushing careers, relationships, and identity into the background. He also walks through the neuroscience, attachment roots, and even the spiritual lens that frames limerance as a karmic echo. Most importantly, he offers practical strategies to ground yourself, recognize mental distortions, and re-calibrate your nervous system. Topics include: What limerance really is and how it differs from normal attraction The “limer beast” that hijacks thought patterns and emotions How childhood attachment injuries create fertile ground for limerance Links to OCD, ADHD, and maladaptive daydreaming\ Why limerance thrives on uncertainty and fantasy, not reality The role of the sympathetic nervous system in fueling obsession Practical steps: reality-based thinking, therapy, nervous system regulation, and acceptance This episode blends psychology, neuroscience, and philosophy to help you understand why limerance happens—and how to take back control from it. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. K explains time blindness in ADHD and how it is the hidden deficit that makes planning, punctuality, and follow-through so hard. He breaks down how an impaired internal clock and poor retrospective time perception (not tracking how long things actually take) lead to procrastination, chronic lateness, and undervaluing an hour. Then he offers clear, workable fixes that rebuild your sense of time. Topics include: Why ADHD brains misjudge how long tasks take (and why that wrecks planning) Over/under-estimating time: how it stalls motivation and starts the procrastination loop The “value of an hour” problem and why wasting time feels cheap Practical tools: timers, alarms, calendars, and logging real task durations Sensory-based learning to retrain time estimation (use a visible clock, write it down) Dr. Micaela’s tips: break routines into minute-by-minute steps and add distraction cushions This episode reframes lateness and “laziness” as solvable timing issues and gives you a simple system to start showing up on time. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K talks with creator and former product manager Chloe Shih about her journey through the tech industry, from big names like Google and TikTok to startups that turned toxic. Chloe shares stories of office politics, burnout, cultural clashes, and what it’s like to feel both indispensable and invisible at the same time. They dive into: What “toxic” work cultures really look like on the inside How identity and self-worth can get tied to career success The challenges women face navigating male-dominated tech spaces Why leaving a prestigious job can be the healthiest choice Tools for rebuilding confidence and finding purpose after burnout This conversation unpacks the hidden costs of toxic jobs and what it takes to reclaim your mental health while navigating high-pressure industries. Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K takes a hard look at why so many people get addicted to self-improvement content but never actually change. From endless motivational videos to checklists of goals, he explains how improvement can become just another way of soothing emotional pain without addressing the deeper wounds underneath. Using examples from Reddit posts, Dr. K breaks down: Why self-improvement often starts as a response to rejection or insecurity How quick hits of “inspiration” online reinforce the cycle without progress The neuroscience behind distress tolerance and why it’s the real skill you need What “putting yourself out there” actually means (and why most advice about it falls flat) Practical ways to stop chasing constant improvement and start building peace, contentment, and real change This talk challenges the endless treadmill of “leveling up” and offers a roadmap for those ready to step off and live with intention. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. K and Dr. Micaela dive into the side of ADHD most people don’t hear about. The everyday quirks, emotional struggles, and hidden habits that go far beyond “not paying attention.” They explore how ADHD shows up in piles of clutter (“doom piles”), impulse-driven conversations, and difficulty filtering what really matters. The discussion digs into: Why focus often collapses before big deadlines or events The link between ADHD and social anxiety, rejection sensitivity, and “ADHD guilt” How emotional regulation and chronic boredom fuel cycles of shame Why masking drains energy and damages relationships Practical coping strategies from timers and structured breaks to unmasking safely with trusted people This episode reframes ADHD as more than distraction—it’s about emotions, identity, and the way your brain interacts with the world. Dr. Micaela's ADHD Adulting Workshop: https://bit.ly/4mI2bGG HG Coaching : ⁠https://bit.ly/46bIkdo⁠ Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: ⁠https://bit.ly/44z3Szt⁠ HG Memberships : ⁠https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf⁠ Products & Services : ⁠https://bit.ly/44kz7x0⁠ HealthyGamer.GG: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. K takes a break while Dr. Micaela steps in to dive deep into ADHD, what it really is, how it’s misunderstood, and why it shows up in ways you may not expect. She breaks down the brain science behind executive function, emotion regulation, and social anxiety, showing how ADHD overlaps with everyday struggles people chalk up to laziness or personality flaws. Topics include: Why sleep issues often mimic or worsen ADHD symptoms The link between ADHD and social anxiety (fear of negative evaluation) How emotional reactivity and “ADHD guilt” show up after social interactions Practical strategies for self-acceptance, self-regulation, and breaking the spiral of shame This episode blends clinical insight with real talk about living with ADHD and offers encouragement for anyone learning to work with their brain, not against it. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K takes a hard look at anger, violence, and why some men seem to lose control. Using the Raja Jackson situation as a case study, he unpacks how hurt, ego, and value systems can pile up until anger explodes. Dr. K breaks down: How “perceived value systems” shape what we see as respect or disrespect The hidden role of hurt and egocentric thinking before anger even shows up Why some violence is “reactive” rather than psychopathic Red flags that make someone prone to abuse Why men, in particular, are socialized to convert fear or sadness into anger It’s a deep dive into the psychology of rage, how it develops, and what it takes to break the cycle whether in yourself or in people you know. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K sits down with Jeremiah Brown who is a model, creator, and Love Island alum. He talks about what it means to live “too online” and how it can wreck your sleep, focus, and mental health. Jeremiah shares his journey from day trading to modeling, how Love Island shaped his perspective, and why building community through his book club has become so meaningful. The conversation dives into insomnia, dopamine cravings, discipline, and the challenge of actually applying self-improvement lessons in real life. Topics include: What being “terminally online” really looks like The link between insomnia, dopamine, and bad routines Jeremiah’s path from trading and teaching to full-time modeling Building habits, book clubs, and applying lessons instead of just consuming them Whether you’re stuck in late-night scrolling or chasing endless self-improvement content, this episode offers practical takeaways on how to reset your habits and focus on what really matters. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K breaks down the hype around dopamine detoxes and social media breaks—and why they don’t actually solve the problem. Drawing on his background in addiction psychiatry, he explains that detoxing only pauses the cycle temporarily; if you go back to the same habits, nothing changes. Instead, Dr. K explores the neuroscience of dopamine, how technology hijacks our survival systems, and why balance is about building real-world rewards, not chasing quick fixes. Topics include: Why “dopamine detoxes” are a myth The neuroscience of withdrawal and tolerance How social media and video games mimic survival rewards like achievement and community Why balance means creating real-world alternatives, not just unplugging for a week Practical tips: protecting your morning dopamine, building sustainable habits, and shifting cravings toward healthier activities This is a thoughtful look at why tech is so addictive and how to reclaim your brain from it. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K explores why so many people feel stuck in dissatisfaction—and how deeper practices like meditation and Vedic psychology can help. Rather than just focusing on surface-level self-improvement, he breaks down the inner journey of facing suffering, understanding the mind, and building resilience. On his iPad, Dr. K walks through Vedic psychological models that explain why we get trapped in cycles of frustration, self-criticism, and comparison. He then shows how meditation, properly understood, is not about escape but about transforming how we relate to our thoughts and emotions. Topics include: Why modern life leaves so many feeling empty The Vedic psychology framework for understanding the mind How meditation actually works as a journey, not a quick fix Breaking free from cycles of dissatisfaction and finding deeper meaning This episode offers both practical insights and a philosophical lens to rethink why you struggle and how meditation can become a tool for real change. Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Puer Aeternus: https://bit.ly/3G8KUGL Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this candid conversation, Dr. K talks with Alexandra and Andrea Botez—sisters, chess streamers, and co-creators of @BotezLive. Which is about growing up competitive, finding their voices online, and supporting each other through the ups and downs of fame. They open up about their family history, early rivalries, and how streaming changed their relationship. Topics include: How sibling rivalry pushed them to excel (and sometimes clash) The challenges of building a career in the public eye Navigating burnout, criticism, and high expectations Balancing independence with family loyalty Why they see each other as “ride-or-die” partners today It’s an honest, funny, and heartfelt look at the bond between sisters who’ve turned competition into connection. Both on and off the chessboard. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K sits down with fitness creator @Scottykfitness to explore what it really takes to grow—physically, emotionally, and mentally. They talk through struggles with identity, confidence, and the internal roadblocks that get in the way of becoming your best self. Topics include: How childhood experiences shape adult insecurities The connection between physical fitness and mental resilience Breaking free from fear, shame, and self-judgment Why the “best self” isn’t a destination, but a practice Real stories about growth, setbacks, and showing up authentically It’s a grounded, motivating conversation about personal development from two people who’ve done the work. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to level up in life, not just the gym. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode, Dr. K is joined by Dr. Kirk Honda and Dr. Michaela Thordarson for a head-to-head comparison of how real therapists and AI (ChatGPT) respond to mental health questions. Together, they react to anonymous community submissions and live prompts, discussing whether AI can truly replicate the depth, nuance, and humanity of therapy. Topics covered include: - A mother struggling to reconnect with her adult children - The limits of therapy for people with deep, unmet emotional needs - What happens when someone feels therapy has “failed”The difference between validation and real change - Whether AI-generated empathy can ever match real human insight - You’ll hear the doctors critique AI’s answers, reflect on their own therapeutic styles, and debate where AI might help or harm in mental health care. A thoughtful, honest look at what therapy is (and isn’t) in a world where AI is changing everything. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode, Dr. K talks with developer and content creator The Primeagen about burnout, emotional growth, and breaking generational cycles. What begins as a conversation about work stress evolves into a deep, personal discussion about fatherhood, loss, and the struggle to show up when life feels overwhelming. Topics include: Prime’s experience with burnout in the tech world and how rediscovering passion helped him recover The emotional impact of losing his father at a young age and discovering pornography as a child Navigating grief, parenting with intention, and trying to be the father he never had A vulnerable exploration of emotional suppression, introspection, and the challenge of expressing feelings Reflections on what it means to be a “good parent” in a world full of imperfect choices This episode is honest, raw, and full of meaningful moments—perfect for anyone thinking about healing, parenting, or how past pain shapes present purpose. HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K explores the deep psychological roots of abandonment trauma and how it can shape a person’s personality, perception, and relationships. Through live questions and community voicemails, he shares actionable strategies for healing from early trauma, building healthier relationships, and reconnecting with desire. Key moments include: What “core trauma” really means and how it forms our personality How abandonment can lead to dissociation, helplessness, and survival-based behaviors Tips for supporting siblings raised by narcissistic parents How to break up in a way that minimizes emotional harm A deep dive into the fear of desire and how past disappointments can cause us to suppress our wants Whether you’re working through your own trauma or trying to support someone else, this episode offers thoughtful guidance, real stories, and grounded advice for growth. Reserve YOUR seat for Dr. Honda's "Healing from Narcissistic Parents" Workshop on 07/27: https://bit.ly/4486Pa4 HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K dives into the complex world of narcissistic parenting. What it is, how it shapes family dynamics, and what you can do if you've been affected. Through clinical insight and real-world examples, he breaks down the patterns, emotional impact, and healing strategies. You’ll hear: Clear definitions and real-life traits of narcissistic parents How these relationships affect self-worth, boundaries, and trust Guidance on setting boundaries and reclaiming your identity Live coaching moments where listeners seek clarity and support This is a thoughtful, compassionate look at a difficult topic. Perfect for anyone healing from toxic family experiences or trying to make sense of their upbringing. Reserve YOUR seat for Dr. Honda's "Healing from Narcissistic Parents" Workshop on 07/27: https://bit.ly/4486Pa4 HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K dives into some truly questionable relationship advice circulating online, reacting in real-time to clips, comments, and memes. He breaks down why some tips are problematic, what makes certain advice toxic, and how to find healthier perspectives. You’ll catch: Moments where Dr. K calls out advice that’s misleading, harmful, or just plain bad Insight into what makes relationship guidance actually helpful Practical alternatives and real tips for setting boundaries, communicating better, and building trust A mix of sharp critique and empathetic coaching If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at cringe relationship tips, this one’s for you. It's entertaining, insightful, and grounded in what really helps relationships thrive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K sits down with YouTube creator LaurDIY to talk about managing anxiety while chasing big goals. They get into how anxiety shows up, the fears that hold you back, and real ways to push through. You’ll hear: LaurDIY’s personal experience juggling creativity and mental health What anxiety really feels like and why it stalls progress Dr. K’s suggestions for calming your inner critic Practical tools you can start using today, like shifting your focus, structuring your routine, and practicing kindness toward yourself If anxiety has ever slowed you down even when youre being really productive. This chat offers honest stories and useful advice to help you keep moving forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. K dives into real voicemails sent in by viewers—many deeply personal, sometimes challenging. You’ll hear him respond in real-time, offering coaching, empathy, and razor-sharp insight. It’s honest, human, and often very powerful. Highlights include: Live coaching on issues listeners brought in anonymously Emotional moments where people shared things they’d never said out loud Dr. K’s balance of compassion and practical advice If you’ve ever avoided talking about something hard, this episode shows why sometimes speaking up and someone listening can be a turning point. This Episode on YouTube: http://bit.ly/4nDHMTW HG Coaching : https://bit.ly/46bIkdo Dr. K's Guide to Mental Health: https://bit.ly/44z3Szt HG Memberships : https://bit.ly/3TNoMVf Products & Services : https://bit.ly/44kz7x0 HealthyGamer.GG: https://bit.ly/3ZOopgQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices