Rapport Building

Explicit content warning

01/27/25 • 82 min

In this episode Preston and Margaret explore the complex concept of rapport in healthcare. They reflect on the challenges of building meaningful connections with patients and the impact these relationships have on medical outcomes. From awkward early encounters in medical school to techniques they've developed as psychiatry residents, this episode unpacks what it means to truly connect.

Takeaways:

Rapport Is More Than Liking: Building rapport isn’t just about being liked; it’s about creating trust, safety, and understanding between clinician and patient.

Authenticity Matters: Patients respond to doctors who show up as their authentic selves. Balancing professionalism with humanity is key to trust-building.

Rapport Shapes Outcomes: Research shows that strong patient-clinician relationships lead to better health outcomes, regardless of the treatment modality used.

Tailor Your Approach: Building rapport requires adapting to each patient’s unique personality and background. What works for one patient may not work for another.

Empathy Is a Skill: Empathy takes practice, energy, and intentionality. It's not about agreeing with patients, but about understanding them deeply.

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Watch on YouTube: @itspresro

Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc.

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Produced by Dr Glaucomflecken & Human Content

Get in Touch: howtobepatientpod.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Takeaways:

Rapport Is More Than Liking: Building rapport isn’t just about being liked; it’s about creating trust, safety, and understanding between clinician and patient.

Authenticity Matters: Patients respond to doctors who show up as their authentic selves. Balancing professionalism with humanity is key to trust-building.

Rapport Shapes Outcomes: Research shows that strong patient-clinician relationships lead to better health outcomes, regardless of the treatment modality used.

Tailor Your Approach: Building rapport requires adapting to each patient’s unique personality and background. What works for one patient may not work for another.

Empathy Is a Skill: Empathy takes practice, energy, and intentionality. It's not about agreeing with patients, but about understanding them deeply.

—

Watch on YouTube: @itspresro

Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc.

—

Produced by Dr Glaucomflecken & Human Content

Get in Touch: howtobepatientpod.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Previous Episode

Making it Through Winter: Seasonal Affective Disorder and Winter Mental Health Tips

In this episode Preston and Margaret embrace the season with a deep dive into Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). From the science behind melatonin and serotonin to the cultural and emotional frameworks that shape how we experience winter, this episode covers the biopsychosocial dynamics of seasonal depression. Along the way, they share personal anecdotes, including the surprising benefits of light therapy and reframing winter as an opportunity for growth.

Takeaways:

Light is Power: Exposure to light regulates circadian rhythms and can significantly impact mood. Tools like light therapy boxes are clinically proven to combat seasonal depression.

Medication Matters: SSRIs, bupropion, and melatonin agonists like agomelatine are effective treatments for SAD, with some meds even preventing symptoms when started early.

Embrace Behavioral Activation: Joining activities like winter sports or social groups can create accountability and help maintain mental health during darker months.

Reframe the Season: Viewing winter as a time for creativity, community, or solitude can transform it into a meaningful and enriching period.

Self-Compassion is Key: Feeling tired or less motivated during winter is normal. Practicing self-compassion and acknowledging seasonal changes can reduce guilt and promote well-being.

—

Watch on YouTube: @itspresro

Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc.

—

Produced by Dr Glaucomflecken & Human Content

Get in Touch: howtobepatientpod.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Next Episode

ADHD In the Media

In this episode Preston and Margaret tackle one of the most talked-about topics in mental health today—ADHD. From the historical roots of the diagnosis to the impact of modern social media trends, they explore how our understanding of ADHD has evolved over time. They discuss the challenges of diagnosing ADHD in both children and adults, the role of social media in spreading information (and misinformation), and the real-life impact of the disorder.

Takeaways:

ADHD Has Deep Historical Roots: The first observations of ADHD-like symptoms date back to the 1930s, when stimulants were found to improve focus in children originally treated for other conditions.

Diagnosis Isn’t Always Simple: ADHD symptoms can overlap with anxiety, depression, and other conditions, making proper evaluation and history-taking crucial for an accurate diagnosis.

Social Media: Help or Hinderance? While platforms like TikTok can offer community and validation, they can also contribute to misinformation and oversimplified self-diagnoses.

Early Treatment Matters: Research shows that children who receive appropriate ADHD treatment, including medication, often have better long-term outcomes and lower rates of substance use.

ADHD Is More Than Inattention: The condition impacts executive functioning, emotional regulation, and impulse control, which can affect relationships, careers, and daily life beyond just focusing.

—

Watch on YouTube: @itspresro

Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc.

—

Produced by Dr Glaucomflecken & Human Content

Get in Touch: howtobepatientpod.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices