Welcome to episode 148 with Dr Ben Cave, which is the pen name of a practising general and forensic psychiatrist.
For over 30 years Ben has worked as a prison psychiatrist, community psychiatrist and as a consultant in medium-secure, low-secure and general mental health units.
He is also the author of ‘What We Fear Most’ in which he reflects on a lifetime on the frontline of forensic psychiatry and the extremes of mental illness.
In this episode I chat to Ben about his work, what he does and why he started doing it.
We talk about the more challenging aspects of mental illness and the good and the bad side of diagnosis and we chat about the misconceptions and stigma around mental illness and how that is getting lost in the wider conversation about mental health.
As I’m sure you can imagine, we cover some big topics in this one! Ben was wonderful to speak to and it fascinating and important to learn about the realities of treating some of the most troubled men and women in society.
You can learn more about Ben and his work via his website ben-cave.com.
Instagram @drbencave
Twitter @DrBenCave
You can connect with me on social media @propermentalpodcast or via www.propermentalpodcast.com.
Another great way to support the show and spread the word is to rate, review and subscribe on whatever platform you get your podcasts from.
If you or anyone you know needs to find support in your local area, please go to www.hubofhope.co.uk
Thanks for listening!