Breaking the Cycle of Shame & Finding True Connection with Michael Appleton

Hi Pal! Welcome back to I've got your Back!

In this episode, I’m joined by Michael Appleton, a senior psychotherapist with extensive experience in adult and childhood mental health services within the NHS. Michael has worked as a clinical lead for MIND and consulted for British Airways and Go Crisis on mental health. His documentaries, including Facing the Enemy and Shrinking Childhoods, have been featured on BBC, PBS, Channel 4, and The History Channel, and his work has been published in The Observer, The Business Telegraph, The Washington Times, and United Press International.

Michael shares his perspective on the current mental health crisis, how shame plays a hidden role in anxiety and depression, and why so many people feel the need to mask their struggles. We discuss the importance of real human connection, how community can help people feel seen and understood, and what we can do to create spaces where vulnerability feels safe.

We explore:

• The rise in anxiety and depression post-2020 and why so many people still feel isolated
• How shame stops us from opening up and creates a cycle of self-judgement
• The neuroscience behind emotions, self-compassion, and why we are often our own worst critics
• The differences in mental health approaches between Scotland, Northern Ireland, and England
• How honest conversations can shift our perspectives and help us break free from self-criticism

Michael’s insights offer a fresh perspective on the way we talk about mental health and the small shifts we can make to feel more connected and supported.

All the good stuff 🙌

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