Dr Eric Bender

 Dr Eric Bender is a Psychiatrist and Licensed Therapist who also works with media groups to help accurately portray mental health in media and reduce stigmas. In our conversations we talked about stigma but mostly the future of mental health care. Dr Bender shared how stigmas can come from culture and span generations, leading to shame or taboo when expressing feelings or emotions. He emphasized the importance of understanding mental health and its vocabulary as it allows for people to express and advocate for themselves better. We also looked towards the future of mental health care starting with AI. He said that Ai is sycophantic and doesn't challenge one in the way therapy is supposed to. It also doesn’t allow for a bond to form between the therapist and patient which is important as human connection and vulnerability are key to mental health healing and recovery. For the future Dr Bender pointed out programs that are in place which could be expanded, including peer counselors and free clinics. These programs allow youth to have access to mental health care and break down the barriers that cause fear and uncertainty with it. He also talked of the importance of de-stigmatizing through media and exposure which creates normalcy and comfort with mental health and mental health care.