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Dec 2023
18m 10s

are mental disorders brain diseases ‘in ...

Mollie Adler
About this episode

In this thought-provoking episode, join me as we dive deep into the biopsychosocial model, critically examining the prevailing claims that label mental health conditions as brain diseases. In this preview of a premium epiosde, we’ll navigate the complex landscape of mental health by analyzing the powerful words of renowned psychiatrist Dr. Joanna Moncrieff. Dr. Moncrieff has been vocal in questioning the notion that mental disorders—such as schizophrenia—are conclusively brain-based. Through this exploration, we’ll delve into the science behind brain imaging, cognitive function, and the nuanced differences between brain diseases and mental disorders.


What We’ll Cover:


  • The Biopsychosocial Model vs. Brain Disease Theory: Understanding the model that integrates biological, psychological, and social factors to better explain mental health struggles.
  • Dr. Joanna Moncrieff’s Perspective: A deep dive into Moncrieff’s critique of the rhetoric tying mental conditions like schizophrenia to conclusive biological evidence.
  • What Brain Imaging Really Tells Us: The limits and potential misinterpretations of brain imaging studies in defining mental health conditions as brain diseases.
  • Brain Disease or Cognitive Disturbance? Differentiating between cognitive deterioration due to brain diseases and behavioral patterns observed in mental disorders.
  • Implications for Psychiatry and Mental Health Treatment: How rethinking these definitions might impact the future of mental health care, therapy, and individual autonomy.


Tune in to challenge mainstream beliefs, explore the interplay between the mind and body, and gain a richer understanding of mental health beyond conventional psychiatric boundaries. This episode invites you to engage in a nuanced and eye-opening discussion about what it truly means to view mental health through a biopsychosocial lens.


Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.


The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

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