Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg Too many mental health challenges and not enough psychiatrists (with Jacob Appel)
38 snips
May 21, 2025 
Jacob Appel, a Professor of Psychiatry and Medical Education at Mount Sinai, discusses the daunting mental health crisis exacerbated by social media and the pandemic. He highlights the critical shortage of psychiatrists and the challenges in suicide prevention due to liability concerns. The conversation touches on the ethical implications of genetic medicine and the impact of the Affordable Care Act on healthcare access. Appel also addresses the complexities of patient autonomy in mental health treatment and the need for more comprehensive systems to support mental well-being.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
End Suicide Liability for Psychiatrists
- Remove suicide liability for psychiatrists to enable authentic risk assessments.
- Hold psychiatrists accountable only for negligence, not outcomes beyond their control.
Punching Light to Help Patient
- Jacob Appel punched a broken light to improve a terminal patient's comfort.
- The act led to disciplinary meetings but was appreciated by the patient.
Choosing Psychiatry or Psychology
- Choose a psychiatrist if you want medication for mental health.
- Choose a psychologist if you want therapy; some patients may need both.