Crazy Together
If you’re sick and tired of listening to the negative talk track playing in your head, then why not listen to us instead? We are Marcus and Esme O’Kayvius (not our real names), a married, neurodivergent couple with a lot of experience managing our own mental health issues while raising a daughter and navigating the dystopic hellscape that is corporate America. Join us each week as we discuss trending mental health issues and explore how they impact our health and wellness. We’ll also examine the myths and misconceptions associated with mental health and what we can do about them. Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com
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Episodes
Wednesday May 14, 2025
Wednesday May 14, 2025
No, people with ADHD are not too literal. We’re not “too” anything. We’re glorious unicorns. That said, numerous studies have demonstrated that people with ADHD often have difficulties understanding and interpreting non-literal language. Marcus is skeptical of this claim. After all, he’s fluent in sarcasm and is always down for a little idiomatic wordplay. Fortunately, Esme talks him through the research and helps him recognize where his own thinking tends to be a little black and white.
Support our show:
Buy us a coffee at ko-fi.com/crazytogetherpod.
Sources for this episode include:
Crespo, N., et al. “Attention Deficit and Understanding of Non-Literal Meanings: The Interpretation of Indirect Speech Acts and Idioms.” Revista de Neurología, vol. 44, no. 2, Jan. 2007, pp. 75-80. PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17236145/.
Segal, Dorit, et al. "Semantic Conflicts Are Resolved Differently by Adults with and Without ADHD." Research in Developmental Disabilities, vol. 47, Dec. 2015, pp. 416-429. Elsevier, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2015.09.024.
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD). "Replace an All-or-Nothing Mindset with Balanced Thinking." CHADD, 6 June 2024, https://chadd.org/adhd-weekly/replace-an-all-or-nothing-mindset-with-balanced-thinking
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD). "Replace an All-or-Nothing Mindset with Balanced Thinking." CHADD, 6 June 2024, https://chadd.org/adhd-weekly/replace-an-all-or-nothing-mindset-with-balanced-thinking
Our theme music:
Midnight—Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Midnight — Declan DP | Free Backgroun... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/midnight-declan-dp
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Marcus and Esme pick up where they left off with last week’s discussion about Selective Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). They begin with an overview of some of the more common myths and outright lies about SSRIs. Then, they discuss a study that demonstrates the impact of misinformation and conspiracy theories on peoples’ willingness to get the help they need. Finally, they close with an extended rant about HHS Secretary RFK Jr., because if ever a man existed who has not received enough negative reinforcement in his life, it’s that crackly-skinned son of a gun.
Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions about depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Listener discretion is advised.
If you or someone you love is dealing with these issues, please know that hope and help is available.
Contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if you are experiencing mental health-related distress or are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
- Call or text 988
- Chat at 988lifeline.org
Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com
Support our show:
Buy us a coffee at ko-fi.com/crazytogetherpod.
Sources for this episode include:
Serrano, Jody. "How to Separate the Facts About Antidepressants From Social Media Fiction." Lifehacker, Ziff Davis, 12 Aug. 2022, https://lifehacker.com/social-media-is-lying-to-you-about-antidepressants-1849404119
Dickson, Ej. "Who Is the Psychiatrist Behind the Antidepressant Study Taking Over Right-Wing Media?" Rolling Stone, Penske Media Corporation, 30 July 2022, https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-news/ssri-right-wing-attack-joanna-moncrieff-1388067/
Goldberg, Alyssa. "Trump, RFK Jr. Go After SSRIs in Executive Order. Here's How They Work." USA Today, 18 Feb. 2025, www.usatoday.com.
Bendix, Aria. "RFK Jr. says he'll review SSRI use among kids — here’s what doctors say." NBC News, NBCUniversal Media, 21 Feb. 2025, https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/rfk-jr-ssri-antidepressants-children-doctors-risks-studies-rcna192722
Cleveland Clinic. "SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): Uses." Cleveland Clinic, 2025, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24795-ssri
Cleveland Clinic. "Serotonin: What Is It, Function & Levels." 18 Mar. 2022, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22572-serotonin
Our theme music:
Midnight—Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Midnight — Declan DP | Free Backgroun... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/midnight-declan-dp
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Esme is back! This week, the Okayviuses discuss Selective Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), the very common antidepressant that, for a variety of reasons, is the target of a lot of influencers and media members who make money by lying to their audiences. The Okayviuses are quick to acknowledge that the experience of going on SSRIs leaves a lot to be desired, but ultimately conclude that the experience is a lot better than the worst possible outcome for anyone who is suffering from depression.
Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions about depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Listener discretion is advised.
If you or someone you love is dealing with these issues, please know that hope and help is available.
Contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if you are experiencing mental health-related distress or are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
- Call or text 988
- Chat at 988lifeline.org
Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com
Support our show:
Buy us a coffee at ko-fi.com/crazytogetherpod.
Sources for this episode include:
Serrano, Jody. "How to Separate the Facts About Antidepressants From Social Media Fiction." Lifehacker, Ziff Davis, 12 Aug. 2022, https://lifehacker.com/social-media-is-lying-to-you-about-antidepressants-1849404119
Dickson, Ej. "Who Is the Psychiatrist Behind the Antidepressant Study Taking Over Right-Wing Media?" Rolling Stone, Penske Media Corporation, 30 July 2022, https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-news/ssri-right-wing-attack-joanna-moncrieff-1388067/
Goldberg, Alyssa. "Trump, RFK Jr. Go After SSRIs in Executive Order. Here's How They Work." USA Today, 18 Feb. 2025, www.usatoday.com.
Bendix, Aria. "RFK Jr. says he'll review SSRI use among kids — here’s what doctors say." NBC News, NBCUniversal Media, 21 Feb. 2025, https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/rfk-jr-ssri-antidepressants-children-doctors-risks-studies-rcna192722
Cleveland Clinic. "SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): Uses." Cleveland Clinic, 2025, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24795-ssri
Cleveland Clinic. "Serotonin: What Is It, Function & Levels." 18 Mar. 2022, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22572-serotonin
Our theme music:
Midnight—Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Midnight — Declan DP | Free Backgroun... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/midnight-declan-dp
Saturday Apr 26, 2025
Saturday Apr 26, 2025
Esme is still under the weather. Marcus is, too, but he’s all hepped up on cough and cold medicines. Let’s hope Esme is restored to good health in short order, or Marcus might continue to go rogue in the editing suite.
Anywho . . . this very special bonus episode contains some additional content from the interview with Will the forester. Will shares a hair-raising tale about accidentally discovering an old mine shaft with his foot. He also discusses how the challenges and the demands of the job can impact foresters’ mental health, and why it’s so hard for them to ask for help.
Thanks again to Will for joining our podcast this week. We appreciate and admire his willingness to step forward and discuss these issues, and we’re grateful that he chose to do that on our show.
Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com
Support our show:
Buy us a coffee at ko-fi.com/crazytogetherpod.
Sources for this episode include:
WebMD Editorial Contributors. "Depression Recovery: An Overview." WebMD, 27 Aug. 2024, https://www.webmd.com/depression/recovery-overview
Alberta Health Services. "Recovering From Depression: Care Instructions." MyHealth.Alberta.ca, Government of Alberta, 28 Feb. 2022, https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=ut3308
"How Depression Affects The Brain - Yale Medicine Explains." YouTube, uploaded by Yale Medicine, 26 May 2021, YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZOLxSQwER8 +
Our theme music:
Midnight—Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Midnight — Declan DP | Free Backgroun... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/midnight-declan-dp
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
Marcus and Esme welcome their very first guest to the podcast! Will the forester (not his official title) joins the O’Kayviuses to discuss the impact the natural world has on our mental health and wellness. They also discuss the very nature of what it means to have ADHD, and how sometimes the best “treatment” is not figuring out how to fit into society, but finding a place in this world that is the best fit for you.
Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com
Support our show:
Buy us a coffee at ko-fi.com/crazytogetherpod.
Our theme music:
Midnight—Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Midnight — Declan DP | Free Backgroun... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/midnight-declan-dp
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
Anyone who has struggled with depression is a tough SOB. Talk about survival skills! Even so, the prospect of undergoing treatment can be a little scary, particularly if it’s someone’s first attempt at getting help. The process is so filled with unknowns – it’s hard to know what to expect. That’s why Marcus and Esme have dedicated an episode to talking about what people can expect as they progress on the road to overcoming depression.
Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com
Support our show:
Buy us a coffee at ko-fi.com/crazytogetherpod.
Sources for this episode include:
WebMD Editorial Contributors. "Depression Recovery: An Overview." WebMD, 27 Aug. 2024, https://www.webmd.com/depression/recovery-overview
Alberta Health Services. "Recovering From Depression: Care Instructions." MyHealth.Alberta.ca, Government of Alberta, 28 Feb. 2022, https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=ut3308
"How Depression Affects The Brain - Yale Medicine Explains." YouTube, uploaded by Yale Medicine, 26 May 2021, YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZOLxSQwER8 +
Our theme music:
Midnight—Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Midnight — Declan DP | Free Backgroun... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/midnight-declan-dp
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
It feels like overkill, but there are so many ways to feel and fear rejection, particularly if you have ADHD. Marcus and Esme discuss three different ways in which those feelings can manifest: rejection sensitivity, Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), and Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD). Spoiler alert: This topic will definitely be revisited in future episodes, so Marcus and Esme might just ask you to share your stories (if you feel comfortable with that sort of thing).
Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com
Support our show:
Buy us a coffee at ko-fi.com/crazytogetherpod.
Sources for this episode include:
Cleveland Clinic. Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD): Symptoms & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic, 30 Aug. 2022, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24099-rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-rsd.
Dodson, William. "Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria: Meaning & Medication Solutions." ADDitude Magazine, 28 Feb. 2020, https://www.additudemag.com/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-and-adhd.
Cleveland Clinic. CPTSD (Complex PTSD): What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic, 5 Apr. 2023, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24881-cptsd-complex-ptsd
Psychology Today Staff. Rejection Sensitivity. Psychology Today, 2025, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/rejection-sensitivity
Meadows, Jesse. "Is It Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria or Complex Trauma?" Medium, 8 Oct. 2020, https://jessemeadows.medium.com/is-it-rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-or-complex-trauma-d9d519b5bb55
Our theme music:
Midnight—Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Midnight — Declan DP | Free Backgroun... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/midnight-declan-dp
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Marcus and Esme explore the concept of happiness as defined by Sociology and Econ majors. They also try to figure out what makes the Finnish people so freaking happy, and come away impressed by their gritty determination to pursue general contentment in a cold, cruel world. Sisu!
Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com
Support our show:
Buy us a coffee at ko-fi.com/crazytogetherpod.
Sources for this episode include:
Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, et al. World Happiness Report. 2025, https://worldhappiness.report/..
Tikkanen, Roosa, et al. Mental Health Conditions and Substance Use: Comparing U.S. Needs and Treatment Capacity with Those in Other High-Income Countries. Commonwealth Fund, 21 May 2020, https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2020/may/mental-health-conditions-substance-use-comparing-us-other-countries.
Pearson, Lucy. "I Looked for Happiness in the World’s Most Contented Nation – and Learned the Importance of Pessimism." The Guardian, 28 June 2023, https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/jun/28/world-happiest-nation-finland-nature-saunas..
Our theme music:
Midnight—Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Midnight — Declan DP | Free Backgroun... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/midnight-declan-dp
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
It’s movie night! Marcus and Esme discuss the 2012 film Silver Linings Playbook.
Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com
Support our show:
Buy us a coffee at ko-fi.com/crazytogetherpod.
Sources for this episode include:
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Bipolar Disorder. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Revised 2025, https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder
Watkins, Gwynne. "Ask a Psychiatrist: How Does Silver Linings Playbook Handle Mental Illness?" Vulture, Vox Media, 3 Dec. 2012, https://www.vulture.com/2012/12/ask-a-psychiatrist-how-does-silver-linings-playbook-handle-mental-illness.html
Our theme music:
Midnight—Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Midnight — Declan DP | Free Backgroun... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/midnight-declan-dp
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Let’s talk about stress! Recent events have reminded Marcus and Esme that they need to be mindful of stress to protect their mental health. As such, they’ve decided to devote an episode to the concept of self-care.
But first, Esme discusses her recent adventures in the field of bathroom design, and Marcus explains what a leprechaun hunt is and how it plays a critical role in his relationship with his daughter.
Visit our website: crazytogetherpod.com
Support our show:
Buy us a coffee at ko-fi.com/crazytogetherpod.
Sources for this episode include:
Cleveland Clinic. "Stress: What It Is, Symptoms, Management & Prevention." Cleveland Clinic, 15 May 2024, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11874-stress.
Chu, Brianna, et al. "Physiology, Stress Reaction." StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, 7 May 2024, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541120/.
Schuster, Sarah. "What Is the Fight, Flight, Freeze, and Fawn Response?" Health, updated 17 Oct. 2023, health.com/fight-flight-freeze-fawn-8348342.
American Psychological Association. "What’s the Difference Between Stress and Anxiety?" APA, updated 14 Feb. 2022, https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/anxiety-difference
Mayo Clinic Staff. "Chronic Stress Puts Your Health at Risk." Mayo Clinic, updated 1 Aug. 2023, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037
Our theme music:
Midnight—Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Midnight — Declan DP | Free Backgroun... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/midnight-declan-dp