Mental Health Misinformation: Why is Online Anxiety "Science" So Confusing? | EP 334

Mental Health Misinformation: Why is Online Anxiety "Science" So Confusing? | EP 334

Author: Drew Linsalata December 31, 2025 Duration: 44:27
If you've been searching online for ways to deal with your anxiety, you've probably noticed there's an avalanche of information claiming to be "science-based" or "evidence-based." But here's the problem. That isn't always true. This week I'm joined by Dr. Birthe Macdonald, a research psychologist and cognitive neuroscientist, to talk about why online mental health information is so confusing and full of misinformation. We discuss why things that aren't actually science still look like fact w...

If panic, anxiety, or agoraphobia have made your world feel smaller, you're not navigating this alone. The Anxious Truth-A Panic, Anxiety, and Mental Health Podcast is a direct, compassionate resource hosted by Drew Linsalata, born from his own journey through these challenges. This isn't about quick fixes or vague inspiration; it's a practical guide that breaks down how anxiety works and lays out a clear, actionable path toward recovery. Episodes delve into the mechanics of panic attacks, the realities of avoidance, and the hard but rewarding work of reclaiming your life, offering education and straight talk that empowers you to move forward. The podcast has garnered recognition for its honest approach, being featured in the New York Times as one of "6 Podcasts to Soothe An Anxious Mind" and included in Vogue's list of therapist-recommended mental health podcasts. Tuning in, you'll find a voice that understands the fear but firmly believes in your capacity to overcome it, providing the tools and encouragement needed to shift from surviving to thriving. This podcast serves as a core part of a broader community and resource set, encouraging a consistent, engaged approach to healing.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Anxious Truth - A Panic, Anxiety, and Mental Health Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Regular Emotions ... or Anxiety Recovery Problem? | EP 341 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 25:45
Want to talk about what you heard today? Interact with me and others that understand your experience on the Disordered Community app. https://disordered.fm/community ---- In this episode, we tackle a common trap: viewing…
Anxiety and OCD Are Like Cult Leaders In Your Head! | EP 340 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:38
Want to talk about what you heard today? I'm hanging out on the Disordered Community space. https://disordered.fm/community ---- Living with an anxiety disorder or OCD often feels less like a medical condition and more l…
Anxiety Recovery Questions & Answers | Ep 339 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:42
Want to discuss what you heard today with Drew, Josh Fletcher, and others that share your struggle and experience? https://disordered.fm/community ---- Overcoming an anxiety disorder comes with a TON of questions, so let…
Negative Self Beliefs in Anxiety Recovery | Ep 338 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:52
Want to discuss this episode with me and others that share your experience? https://disordered.fm/community ------- In this episode of The Anxious Truth, we look at why the lessons of floating, mindful acceptance, and ex…
Understanding Mental Compulsions in OCD and Anxiety | EP 337 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:46
Questions about what you've heard today? Want to interact with Drew and other listeners of this podcast? Check out the Disordered Community space. ----- When compulsions are behavioral, like hand washing or door checking…
Anxiety And The Bad Weather Trap | EP 336 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:11
When a blizzard or thunderstorm is in the forecast, do you find your anxiety levels spiking long before the first snowflakes or raindrops fall? You aren’t alone. Many people struggling with anxiety disorders or chronic s…
Anxiety and Fear: Anxiety Disorders Are Just ONE Fear | EP 335 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:09
When you have an anxiety disorder, it can feel like your list of fears and triggers just keeps getting longer. You might have started being afraid of one or two things, but now it seems like everything sets you off. Driv…
Stoicism, Anxiety, and and Marcus Aurelius ... Gone Wrong? | EP 333 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:31
If you're struggling with panic disorder, health anxiety, OCD, GAD, or other anxiety issues you've may have encountered online content that references Stoicism, warrior philosophy, and Marcus Aurelius. The message: maste…
When Coping Skills for Anxiety Go Wrong | EP 332 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:19
Anxious people love coping skills and coping strategies. Everybody loves to cope. But today we're going to talk about how coping can go off the rails and become part of the problem instead of part of the solution. When y…