Anxiety and Depression: From Hopeless to Hopeful
By Jaquel Patterson, ND T
here continues to be an ever- growing incidence of anxiety and depression in the United States. One
in ten individuals suffer from depression and 2-4% of the population suffer from anxiety. Depression accounts for over $23 billion in lost workdays and the diagnosis of depression has risen 47% for younger millennials and early generation Z, with less than 30% receiving treatment.
The current pandemic only further exacerbates symptoms and increases the overwhelm many are feeling. Lifestyle and coping mechanisms are key during the pandemic. Unhealthy eating and alcohol consumption have increased significantly. Stress and overwhelm further deplete im- mune function and importance of social connection is key during this time in maintaining health.
24 Natural Nutmeg - October 2020 Where Do You Start?
What are some of the causes and reasons that contribute to anxiety and depression? The most common causes are stressful life events, faulty mood regulation by the brain, genetic vulnerability, medi- cal problems, social media and external influences. You need to address all factors completely to get to the root cause and underlying reason for illness. A combina- tion of therapy plus treatment is critical for good outcomes.
Which Tests Should Be Run?
There are many natural ways to successfully treat anxiety and depres- sion and move someone from hopeless to hopeful. Naturopathic doctors and functional medicine providers have access to specialty tests to help further address the functioning of neurotransmitters and
adrenal glands. These functional tests help to identify areas that most need support in brain chemistry. For example, urinary neu- rotransmitter tests may identify functioning of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, GABA, and glutamate. This information helps to pinpoint which amino acids, herbals, and nutritional supplements can adequately improve symptoms and bal- ance neurotransmitter functioning.
Additionally, functional tests on adrenal gland functioning is also key, as chronic stress is often a persistent factor for an individual struggling with anxiety. Functional tests for the adrenal gland are able to identify imbalances in cor- tisol, melatonin, DHEA-S, and salivary IgA. This can help to pinpoint if there is excess cortisol levels or depletion and
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