DeepSummary
In this podcast episode, psychiatrist Dr. Pooja Lakshmin shares her personal journey of self-discovery and how it led her to redefine the concept of self-care. She reflects on her time spent in a commune focused on female sexuality and her subsequent disillusionment with traditional medicine, which prompted her to drop out of her residency program. Dr. Lakshmin discusses the importance of finding one's unique contribution and aligning work with personal values.
Dr. Lakshmin emphasizes that true self-care lies in the choices individuals make for their lives, rather than relying on external solutions like wellness products or self-care rituals. She argues that healthcare systems often fail to support the well-being of providers, leading to burnout and betrayal. Instead, she advocates for reclaiming autonomy and taking small steps towards making meaningful changes.
The conversation also explores the challenges faced by medical students, residents, and healthcare providers in finding a sense of agency within oppressive systems. Dr. Lakshmin encourages listeners to reflect on their values, find communities that align with their goals, and gradually make choices that enable them to live more authentically and meaningfully.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- True self-care lies in the choices individuals make for their lives, rather than relying on external solutions or products.
- Healthcare systems often fail to support the well-being of providers, leading to burnout and a sense of betrayal.
- Reclaiming autonomy and aligning work with personal values is crucial for finding fulfillment and meaning.
- Finding communities that align with one's goals and values can provide support and encouragement for making meaningful changes.
- Gradual, small steps toward agency and authenticity can lead to significant personal and professional transformation.
- Medical students and residents should strive to find meaning within their training, despite the challenges of the system.
- Psychoanalysis and therapy can provide a space for self-reflection and understanding one's choices and values.
- Challenging the status quo and being open to alternative perspectives can lead to personal growth and transformation.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “It's only true if you make it happen.“ by Pooja Lakshmin
- “I kind of just wanted to put it out there as, like, this is where I'm coming from.“ by Pooja Lakshmin
- “So I have a bit of, like, a Bernie Sanders view on, like, the entire medical establishment.“ by Pooja Lakshmin
- “You're allowed to find meaning as a med student.“ by Pooja Lakshmin
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Episode Information
Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast
David Puder, M.D.
3/22/23
On this week’s episode of the podcast, we interview psychiatrist, author, and founder of Gemma Women, Dr. Pooja Lakshmin. Dr. Lakshmin founded Gemma Women for the purpose of educating women on cultural and social structures that impact their mental health. Gemma also provides community groups, evidence-based conversations, and courses covering topics such as stress, inequity, and structural violence. In her new book, Real Self-Care, she discusses personal experiences that led her to create this transformative movement to redefine wellness.
Link to blog here.