Reimagining Mental Health in Medicine with Dr. Robert C. Smith

In this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Christine hosts Dr. Robert C. Smith, a University Distinguished Professor of Medicine and Psychiatry Emeritus from Michigan State University. Dr. Smith discusses his journey from a traditionally trained internal medicine doctor to an advocate for integrating mental health care into primary care. He shares his experiences and the development of important works like Smith's Patient-Centered Interviewing and Has Medicine Lost Its Mind. Dr. Smith critiques the prevalent 'mind-body split' in modern medicine, arguing for a bio-psychosocial model that addresses both physical and mental health. He also emphasizes the importance of self-awareness for doctors and provides actionable steps for the public to advocate for better mental health care. The episode ends with Dr. Smith encouraging listeners to visit his website and engage with policymakers to drive change.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Robert C. Smith

00:49 Dr. Smith's Journey in Medicine

03:34 The Mind-Body Split in Medicine

07:59 Bio-Psycho-Social Systems Approach

12:26 Challenges in Modern Medicine

17:41 Personal Reflections and Self-Awareness

23:38 Call to Action and Final Thoughts