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Most of us think of our teens and 20s as the years when life is full of parties and good times. But it isn’t always fun and games for every 14- to 27-year-old who make up “Generation Z”. Disturbing research shows that teens and young adults are more likely to feel stressed, depressed, or even suicidal compared with millennials when they were the same age. The researchers noted a 71 percent increase in young adults reporting psychological distress and a 63 percent jump in those with symptoms of depression. Among adolescents, the incidence of depressive symptoms jumped by 52 percent. And nearly twice as many in the GenZ population have thought about suicide. And that was before the pandemic! The stress, fear, worry, boredom, and frustration since the arrival of COVID-19 is hitting adolescents and young adults harder than any other age group. According to a survey by the CDC, young adults ages 18-24 are experiencing the highest levels of depression and anxiety, and 25% of them have had serious thoughts about suicide. Aside from the obvious effects of the pandemic, what’s behind the rise in mental illness in young adults? Researchers point to two likely culprits.

2 Biggest Drivers of Mental Health Issues in Young Adults

1. Excessive Tech Use

Being tethered to our smartphones isn’t helping our mental health. Several studies have found that heavy social media use is associated with a greater risk for anxiety and depression, loneliness, feelings of isolation, self-esteem issues, and suicidal thoughts. In a study of over 1 million teens, researchers found that those who had less time screen time and more face-to-face time with friends were happier than those who spent more time on the internet, playing computer games, doing social media, texting, using video chat, or watching TV. Another study from 2018 found that when college students limited social media time to no more than 30 minutes a day for three weeks, they reported significant reductions in depression and loneliness, as well as less anxiety and FOMO (or “fear of missing out”). Tech addiction is real, and teens are particularly vulnerable to it. With the pandemic, tech usage has skyrocketed even higher. One study showed that internet providers have seen increases in usage of 40% to 100% compared to pre-pandemic statistics.

2. Lack of Sleep

Sleep is vital for mental health, and teens need more of it than adults. For optimal cognitive function, teens require about 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night, but less than 9% are getting adequate shut-eye. Research has found a link between a lack of adequate sleep and mental illness in teens. One study that looked at nearly 28,000 high school students found a 38% increase in symptoms of depression and a 58% rise in suicide attempts for every hour of sleep lost. This same study also found that sleep deprivation was also tied to a 23% increased risk for substance abuse. Addiction is often associated with co-existing mental health issues. An online survey from Harvard Medical School about how the pandemic is affecting the mental health of young people found that sleep disruption is the most common symptom. In May 2020, over 75% of young adults experience trouble sleeping. By October, that percentage had dipped slightly to about 72%. Addiction to technology and lack of sleep not only increases the risk of mental illness but can also disrupt the important processes that are taking place in the developing brain. The brain continues developing until a person’s mid-20s, so it’s critical to address issues that could interfere with healthy development. Mental health issues in young people can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we use brain SPECT imaging as part of a comprehensive evaluation to identify any underlying brain health issues. As an essential medical practice, Amen Clinics locations are open and available for in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. According to the National Institutes of Mental Health – 51 percent of the U.S. population will suffer from a mental health issue at some point in their lives. Regrettably, the matter of mental health remains shrouded by misconceptions and harmful stereotypes. Many people with mental health problems feel that the stigma and discrimination they experience from their family, friends, employer, and society itself, makes their symptoms worse and delays the recovery process. Frequently overlooked in the ongoing mental health conversation are pregnant women. How can these women get help for their mental or emotional challenges? The field of perinatal psychiatry is attempting to answer that question.

What is Perinatal Psychiatry?

A relatively new specialty, perinatal psychiatry focuses on the mental health of pregnant women rather than on women who have already delivered their baby. Since mental illness can present differently in pregnancy, it needs to be handled in a specialized manner. The needs of mother and baby must be considered when a mental illness is present. Perinatal treatment methods vary and aren’t always clear-cut. What is clear is the overwhelming need to support expectant mothers with mental health concerns. Sadly, suicide from untreated mental illness is the leading indirect cause of maternal mortality. The field of perinatal psychiatry has provided hope to many struggling mothers who have found relief from their symptoms with the proper treatment. One such success story comes from Dr. Neha Kansara, a psychiatrist at Amen Clinics in Washington D.C., who shares an inspiring story of how she was able to help one of her patients: Sweet, lovely Jane, who normally arrived just in time for her appointment, showed up an hour early. I sensed something wasn’t right. Typically, Jane would be giggling and entertaining my staff, but today she appeared sad. I recognized nervousness the moment our eyes met. “I’m pregnant,” Jane said. She started crying inconsolably. I sat beside her, calm and composed with my hands on her shoulders, providing her with a sense of comfort. “Dr. Neha, you know this is the end and my baby will die again.” Jane suffered from chronic PTSD for repeated childhood sexual and emotional trauma. She was raped by her mother’s boyfriend and was pregnant at the tender age of 13. Facing the ugly complications that came with getting an abortion created fear towards pregnancy. Jane had begun to believe that she could never give birth to a healthy baby. I asked what I could do to help. Jane said, “I want this baby alive. Do you think you can help me?” Having knowledge of the field of Perinatal Psychiatry, I began researching different avenues that would assist a pregnant woman who has suffered through extensive years of trauma. One therapy option that looked promising was EMDR. After a few sessions of EMDR, Jane’s outlook began to improve, and she eventually gave birth to a healthy baby boy.

What is EMDR?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an extensively researched therapy technique that’s been very successful in bringing quick and lasting relief for a variety of symptoms and issues. The focus of EMDR is to resolve or eliminate emotional discomfort by shifting how a memory is triggered in the brain and to help a patient see things in new and less distressing ways. EMDR may aid in reducing stress from painful memories and is particularly useful for people with a history of abuse. Also, EMDR can support people seeking to overcome symptoms of anxiety brought on by alarming or life-threatening experiences. One of the ways EMDR accomplishes this is by helping to remove the emotional charges of traumatic memories.

What Are the Benefits?

EMDR can help people by: • Reducing the frequency and severity of nightmares • Managing the debilitating effects of panic attacks • Improving the quality of sleep • Developing coping mechanisms for stressful situations • Minimizing anger outbursts during elevated incidents • Processing negative beliefs and self-talk • Healing emotional trauma from past experiences • Restoring a positive outlook for the future EMDR is non-invasive, has no side effects and is appropriate for people of all ages. It’s ideal for those who have been unsuccessful in managing their symptoms with medications or therapy and who seek a more natural approach to treatment. EMDR was selected by the armed services as the primary treatment modality for returning veterans suffering from PTSD and other traumas. Additionally, the World Health Organization recommends EMDR for treating patients with PTSD. Individuals considering EMDR don’t need to consult with a medical professional before beginning treatment. Not all services are offered at each Amen Clinics location. Call us today at 888-288-9834 or visit our website to schedule a visit. Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a condition in which children fail to establish healthy bonds with their primary caregivers. It affects children who have received inadequate care from their parents or primary caregivers—typically their mothers before the age of 5. A child might have RAD if there’s nothing neurologically or medically wrong with them, but they still can’t properly form attachments. The child may have difficulties regulating distressing emotions and may have a flat affect (no smiles) during interactions with caregivers. When emotional care and nurturing is withheld from a child during their first few years, it can have a negative impact on the rest of their life. Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a condition in which children fail to establish healthy bonds with their primary caregivers, and it can have a negative impact on the rest of their life.
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Left untreated, RAD can have a negative effect on a child’s behavioral, emotional, physical, and social development. Children with RAD are typically at a higher risk for depression, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, learning difficulties, and oppositional behavior. And 2016 research in Scientific World Journal found that children who aren’t treated for RAD may develop personality disorders when they reach adulthood. Despite the serious effects on a child’s life, many families are either unaware of the problem or never seek help. This makes it difficult to accurately estimate the prevalence of RAD. However, a 2013 study in the British Journal of Psychiatry found that 1.4% of children in a deprived population experienced RAD.

WHAT CAUSES REACTIVE ATTACHMENT DISORDER?

Research shows that RAD can be caused by several factors, including:

SYMPTOMS OF RAD

Children suffering from RAD may exhibit an array of emotional and behavioral symptoms, including one or more of the following signs and symptoms: All of these symptoms may range from mild to severe. Research in a 2018 issue of Attachment & Human Development found that the longer a child was in institutional care before being placed in foster care or with families, the more prolonged and elevated their RAD symptoms were.

RAD, THE BRAIN, AND OTHER PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS

Healthy emotional attachments are necessary for the brain to develop properly, and children with RAD may have abnormalities in the brain. A 2015 study in NeuroImage: Clinical found that children with RAD have 20% less gray matter volume in the visual cortex. The researchers suggest such abnormalities may be associated with the visual emotion regulation impairments seen in RAD. Additional evidence in The Scientific World Journal shows that children with RAD are more likely to have multiple comorbidities. In fact, 85% of those with RAD in this study had another diagnosis. Mental health conditions that may be seen with RAD include:

HOW IS REACTIVE ATTACHMENT DISORDER TREATED?

With proper treatment, it’s possible for RAD children to learn to trust others and have a healthy and fulfilling life. There are two main goals of treating RAD: Treatment for RAD often focuses on both the child and the caregivers. Play therapy, where a child can express their fears and needs in a safe place, is one possible treatment for RAD. Psychotherapy (for the child alone and/or family therapy), social skills interventions, special education, and parenting skills classes are other treatment options. Although there’s no medication to treat the core attachment deficits associated with the condition, medications for co-existing disorders, such as ADD/ADHD, may be beneficial. In addition, making sure the child is eating a healthy diet should be an integral part of any treatment plan, in addition to treating any micronutrient deficiencies with nutritional supplements. In order to ensure that the best treatment plan is put in place, a child (and the caregivers) can also benefit from brain SPECT imaging to identify any undetected head injuries or other types of brain dysfunction that may be contributing to RAD symptoms.

6 TIPS TO HELP RAD KIDS (AND THEIR PARENTS)

If you’ve noticed attachment difficulties in any children who are in your care, seek help right away. The best way to prevent the long-term symptoms of RAD is with early treatment. Typically, the sooner parents or other caregivers get help for their RAD children, the better their chances are for living healthy lives as adults. If you’re struggling with how to handle a family member with RAD, here are some practical strategies that can help.
  1. Get help for your child. The best way you can assist your child with RAD is to recognize that you can’t do everything on your own. Consider getting help from an integrative psychiatrist who takes a whole-person approach to diagnosis and treatment. This can be a huge first step in supporting your child as love alone cannot fix trauma or attachment issues.
  2. Seek help for yourself. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. If your child is struggling, or you’re having difficulty providing care, seek professional assistance to help you better understand your child’s unique challenges and learn how to help manage their symptoms. Getting guidance on how to handle your child during difficult moments can provide tremendous stress relief.
  3. Provide a stable home. An effective way to help children with RAD is to provide a safe and secure home environment. Additionally, at least for the short-term, it might be a good idea to reduce the number of caregivers. Have the most stable, reliable, loving caregiver provide the child with the stability, consistency, and attention they need.
  4. Create a safe environment. Make sure your child is in a place where they won’t be physically, mentally, or emotionally harmed. This includes removing sharp objects, or anything else that could lead to self-harm or harm to others in the family.
  5. Get clued in. One way to respond to your RAD child’s needs is to observe their habits and reactions. Pay close attention to their behaviors for clues to possible triggers. Try to anticipate difficult situations before they happen.
  6. Heal the brain. Having undiagnosed or untreated brain health issues can contribute to more severe symptoms of RAD. Adopting a brain healthy lifestyle can help heal the brain and minimize symptoms associated with RAD.
If you have a loved one who is suffering from any of the symptoms associated with reactive attachment disorder, the Amen Clinics method of integrative psychiatry is here to help. A full evaluation at Amen Clinics includes brain SPECT imaging, cognitive and psychological testing, as well as an assessment of the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors that may be contributing to RAD or co-existing conditions. Emotional attachment issues in children can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make symptoms worsen over time. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. What’s the first thing you think of when you see ODD? “Odd” in all caps, right? What’s odd about Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is how often it’s confused with other mental health conditions. However, even though some of its symptoms overlap with those of other disorders, ODD is its own unique psychiatric diagnosis.

What is ODD?

One of the first words most children learn is “no.” Resisting authority seems to be ingrained in our DNA. Occasional disobedience and talking back to parents is, to a certain extent, normal for kids. However, when these argumentative or challenging behaviors persists over time, a child might be exhibiting the symptoms of ODD. As defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) (5th Edition), ODD is “a pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, or vindictiveness.” People displaying aggressive behaviors for at least 6 months may be exhibiting symptoms of ODD. Some sources estimate that 5% of all children may have ODD.

Symptoms of ODD

• Frequent outbursts/loss of temper • Excessive arguing with adults • Blaming others for their mistakes • Easily annoyed by others • Instigating conflict with others • Ignoring, questioning or resisting established rules • Saying mean or spiteful things when upset • Swearing or using obscene language Other symptoms may include: anxiety, depression, negativity, low self-esteem, learning and conduct disorders and drug or alcohol abuse.

ODD or ADHD?

Since both diagnoses share several the same symptoms (i.e. impulsivity), many medical practitioners have linked ADHD with ODD. Further blurring the lines between the two diagnoses is that an estimated 40 – 65 percent of children with ADHD also develop ODD. It has also been theorized that ODD is a way for kids with ADHD to cope with their emotional and psychological symptoms.

Do Children Outgrow It?

The good news is that roughly half of all preschoolers with ODD outgrow the problem by age 8. The bad news is that while some children with ODD will outgrow certain aspects of the diagnosis, defiance and other negative behaviors may persist into the teen years and even into adulthood. The reality for those struggling with ODD is that some aggressive behaviors may go away with time while others may be lifelong.

Further Complications

Children and teens with ODD may have problems at home, school or work. Those with ODD may also struggle to make and keep friends. ODD can lead to further complications, such as: • Antisocial behavior • Poor school/work performance • Impulse control problems • Substance abuse • Suicide Though there’s no guaranteed method to cure the symptoms of ODD, proper parenting techniques and early prevention can help to improve the situation. If you’re struggling with how to handle a family member with ODD, here are some practical strategies that can help:

Stay Positive

Positive reinforcement is an effective way to treat a child with ODD. Rather than constantly indicating a child’s mistakes, seek out opportunities to acknowledge their good behaviors. Be sure to explain why their actions deserve recognition.

Give Rewards

Show enthusiasm when praising a child for their good behavior. Reward positive conduct and use non-verbal gestures (high fives, hugs) to encourage your child. Always celebrate the little victories.

Don’t Yell

When dealing with a defiant child, it’s important not to fight fire with fire by yelling at them, which will only escalate the conflict. Always exercise self-control and, if needed, take a break from the argument to allow yourself enough time to cool down. Remember that overcontrolling parents breed oppositional behavior in kids. Instead of trying to correct every problem you see, which may create resistance and negative reinforcement, learn to pick your battles.

Be Consistent

Even though kids instinctively find new ways to push the boundaries, always be consistent. Make sure your children know what behaviors are (and aren’t) acceptable and that the rules are fair and uniform for all your kids. Establish clear goals and stick to them.

The Traditional Way of Treating ODD

In the field of psychiatry, the default method is to treat ODD with medications. If that fails to correct ODD symptoms, behavioral modification techniques may be considered. If an ODD child still struggles past these steps, it may be recommended that the child see a family therapist trained in childhood behavioral problems. More extreme measures may include group therapy by a medical staff and hospitalization.

The Natural Way of Treating ODD

The best way to heal the brain is the natural way. At Amen Clinics, we look for the least harmful, most effective way of healing the brain, which typically means treating patients naturally (supplements, nutrition, lifestyle recommendations) rather than with high-powered psychiatric medications. If you or a loved one is suffering from any of the symptoms associated with ODD, our method of integrative psychiatric support can help. Using innovative and personalized care, our outcomes consistently demonstrate improvement for patients—including many who have tried and failed prior treatment. Our Full Evaluation of your biological/psychological/social/spiritual history, coupled with two brain SPECT imaging scans (in concentrating and resting states), cognitive testing, and clinical assessment is designed to address your unique needs and offer targeted treatment options. If you would like to learn more about how brain imaging can provide customized solutions for your needs, call us today at 888-288-9834 or visit us online to schedule a visit.

 

When we grow up under stress, it changes the way we think. All adults begin as children with developing brains, and many find that they may be diagnosed with a condition as an adult that began in childhood.

Dr. Daniel Amen entered this field of study as a child psychiatrist, and has practiced psychiatry by focusing on brain scans to take a look into how different factors, such as stress, physically shape the brain.

Dr. Amen and his wife, Tana Amen, have created the Brain Warrior’s Way podcast to help educate those with mental illness or those helping loved ones with mental illness. There is always hope to improve and overcome symptoms to live a normal, healthy adult life.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa1kLhCpNzE

The Impact of a Parent’s Drug Abuse on a Child’s Mind

Each April is Alcoholism Awareness Month, and on this episode, Dr. Amen discusses the lifelong impact alcoholism of a parent can have on the children.

When it comes to which parent, Dr. Amen explains a family dynamic where alcoholism affects the mother as the primary caretaker. His wife and co-host, Tana Amen, joins him in the discussion.

TANA AMEN: So what I wanted to point out is that family dynamics are so complicated. My parents were divorced, and my half sisters grew up in a house where there was substance abuse, and I think that I ended up with more stability, as bad as it was. There was more stability because my mother didn’t abuse substances.

DR. AMEN: Interestingly in our research and other people’s research on children of alcoholics, if the Dad’s an alcoholic, that’s a big problem. If the Mom’s an alcoholic, it’s a freaking disaster because women are still primary caretakers for children. Not a disaster you can’t fix, and I remember when we first met and I could see the trauma in your brain, remember, when we scanned you, and getting a couple of sessions of EMDR, a specific psychological treatment for trauma, was super helpful for you.

TANA AMEN: Yeah, no, EMDR is amazing. I actually really, really liked it and it sort of helped me unwind some things. I remember meeting you and you saying, “Don’t you think that some of these things are connected?” And I’m like, “Nope!” Not at all, like I was a warrior, I was ready to fight.

DR. AMEN: You’re not gonna talk.

TANA AMEN: Right, I’m ready to fight about it .

DR. AMEN: And you’re not gonna trust, and we’re not gonna feel, and we’re not gonna go there.

TANA AMEN: Not gonna get hurt, not willing to do the hurt thing again.

DR. AMEN: And so it took us a while to work through all of that. You had to break my heart once or twice, but it’s all for the better because we’re closer than we’ve ever been. It’s part of the reason we bring this up, that if you grew up in a hurtful environment, there is healing for you. You are not stuck with the brain you have.

Alcoholic Mother vs Father

In households that follow a traditional nuclear dynamic, a mother with alcoholism can be very detrimental. Mothers who are the primary caretakers and would be responsible for most daily care can induce chronic stress with unexpected outbursts and challenges that children must cope to handle.

Once this child grows into adulthood, their mind has already developed to survive through those traumatic events and their behavior will continue as a pattern throughout life until treated.

EMDR, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, is a type of therapy used to treat PTSD among other conditions, similar to inducing REM sleep. The purpose is to reduce the strength of traumatic memories.

Tana goes on to explain how the trauma still affects her, and how treatment has helped lessen the severity of her symptoms.

Growing Up With Alcoholic Parents & Effects On Child

DR. AMEN: What happens in the brain for the children of alcoholics and other children who’ve been traumatized… those children who grow up with trauma have the same brain as a soldier of war. So, growing up with the trauma, it changed your brain to be more vigilant, to be more watchful.

TANA AMEN: So, to give you an example, we stay a couple nights a week up in Los Angeles. I’ve got my own little nest very protected where we live. So I drive up to Los Angeles and there’s just something about it, it’s like this ground floor, it’s a very nice neighborhood, but I cannot sleep. I’ve got the windows secured, I just can’t explain it, but I can hear every single noise and any noise I hear, even near my daughter’s bedroom, I am up out of bed and I’m over there. And I know that’s because of that past and that’s probably never going to go away. So it does things that change you.

DR. AMEN: But it’s not as bad as it’s been, and over time by working on it, you can feel better and it can last.

TANA AMEN: Oh yeah, I feel more empowered now, that’s the difference. I feel empowered, I don’t feel out of control, but that’s just something that happens when you grow up like that, you’re always aware.

While these traumatic memories still remain, their impact is lessened with treatment. Tana feels empowered and in control of her anxious habits now that she has experienced PTSD therapy to understand her mind and take charge of her life.

There are other types of therapy for treating PTSD as this condition has been studied and treated since its classification in 1980. Dr. Amen also discusses how other past experts have approached symptoms.

DR. AMEN: So, as I began to learn about this, I had no idea there was a whole body of literature already about what’s the psychological impact of people who grow up with chronic trauma. There were three things.

Claudia Black had written a book right about that time and I actually later became friends with her. The book is called “Adult Children of Alcoholics,” and she discusses how children of addicts learn “not to talk,” because we don’t talk about this stuff, “not to trust,” I mean I just married her why are you not trusting me, and then “not to feel.” So they block trusting, talking, and feelings so it comes out in oh so many other ways from panic attacks to depression to suicide to substance abuse for many.

It just completely blew my mind, so I went on to study children and grandchildren of alcoholics and I found they actually had a very high incidence of ADD (attention deficit disorder), but not the kind that responds to stimulants. They had a kind we call “Overfocused ADD”, so they have a lot of ADD symptoms, but in addition, they’re worrying, they’re rigid, they’re inflexible when things don’t go their way, they get upset. In 1994 I actually wrote a book about this called “Healing the Chaos Within” because what I found is a combination of substances to increase Dopamine for the ADD and increased Serotonin from the worrying, it was remarkable.

The way psychiatrists observe their patients’ behavior for treatment has evolved over time, and that is why Dr. Amen has turned to brain SPECT imaging, to take a look at the organ that is experiencing symptoms.

When it comes to children of alcoholics and addicts, it’s all too common for the children to abuse substances early in life as well. It’s very important to put a stop to this cycle, as Tana and Dr. Amen explain how drugs can create steep challenges for adolescents.

TANA AMEN: We’ve got to do a better job of educating them on why not to do drugs and alcohol. It’s not just about like, “Oh, we don’t want you to not, we don’t want you to, you know, not do drugs because of the morality issue”. Yes, there’s all of that involved. That isn’t just the only issue. We’ve got to be educating them about what it’s doing to their development.

DR. AMEN: Right, and most kids don’t really get that their brain is not actually fully developed until they’re 25, and if they go with the early drug use option, it’s actually damaging.

TANA AMEN: It’s affecting their ability to get into the college they want, to get the job they want, their employability.

DR. AMEN: It’s damaging and delaying their development. So, in the addiction world, we often say if you started using drugs when you were fifteen and didn’t stop until you’re 30, well, emotionally you’re still fifteen. Your brain has not fully developed and the brain has windows where it will develop during a certain period and then it won’t develop after that. So, early drug use can actually have lifelong negative implications.

Alcoholic Symptoms in Children

Dr. Amen highlights a very important developmental issue where early substance abuse can affect the emotional maturity of a child, teen or young adult for the rest of their lives. When drug abuse begins in these early years, the individual’s brain doesn’t emotionally mature normally as they age into adulthood.

When the age the brain stops developing is 25 years old, all young adults must understand the impact as it influences the rest of their lives.

Parents of Alcoholic Children

DR. AMEN: When you talk to kids, if you actually teach them to fall in love with their brains, they’re so much better at it. So, if you take concussions and she, this person we’re talking about, had nineteen car accidents. If you take concussions, mix it with drug addictions, you actually have a recipe for suicide. I often tell my patients suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary feeling or process.

TANA AMEN: It’s really important to leave a message of hope here. So this person had really hit, I mean if there is a lower bottom than rock bottom, had hit a lower bottom than rock bottom and we worked with her. So, it was really bad, and so, in working with her I’m like really putting a lot of energy in and working with this person over about a year’s time. What was really fun for me, just recently I spoke with her and she not only is working now, has two jobs, is thriving, and then there were times where I actually questioned, “Is this gonna happen? Are we gonna be able to turn this thing around?” and so all of a sudden it was so much fun for me. Just recently she said to me, “I was going through some of your materials, and the same stuff that I couldn’t comprehend a year ago, I see where I was a year ago and I see where I am now.” And she was stunned. It was just so cool. There’s a hope there.

DR. AMEN: And I talked to her 13-year-old daughter, or 8-year-old-daughter, all the time about protecting their brain and loving their brain.

TANA AMEN: It had to be all of it. We did everything.

DR. AMEN: So if you want to be part of the solution you have to first love your brain and then teach other people how to love theirs.

How to Help Child of Alcoholic Parent Syndrome

In the end, we can always strengthen ourselves to overcome obstacles our brains developed throughout childhood. There is hope to improve your symptoms and take charge of your life again, even after years of emotional trauma, physical trauma and substance abuse.

Call us today at 888-288-9834 or tell us more online for availability at a clinic near you, and watch the video below on the full discussion on how alcoholism can cause childhood trauma in a household.

 

In some ways, we’re all graduates in the class of 2018. We may not be getting a degree or wearing a cap and gown, but as life-long learners about health, we have reflections, revelations, and insights from the 2018 educational journey of life. Commencement speakers across the country are giving graduates advice about life, relationships, finding success, and the keys to true happiness. Their speeches will encourage graduates to follow their dreams, polish their strengths, and embrace their passions as they march to the beat of their own drum and we can all relate to that. Our Amen Clinics founder, Dr. Daniel Amen gave the commencement speech for Vanguard University nearly 40 years to the day he graduated there. In his speech, he discussed the three main things he would tell his 23-year-old self, knowing what he does now.

What Would You Tell Your Younger Self?

This whole topic got us thinking about an interesting question that is worth pondering. If you could go back to your graduation from grade school, high school, or college, and regardless if it was 3, 13, 30 or 50 years ago, what would you say? With the power of your life lessons in hand, what would you tell your younger self on graduation day? What would you emphasize, what would you avoid, and what would you succinctly and simply advise?

Here are 3 things Dr. Amen shared with the audience at Vanguard University as he gave the annual commencement speech:

1. Pray more about your path, relationships, and best ways to make a difference. 2. Always choose passion over money, if you have a way to support yourself. 3. Stop caring what others think of you and do the work God put you on Earth to do.

Never Stop Learning

There are many ways to optimize your brain and your mind. You CAN create a brain healthy life by learning how to love and care for your brain, and by focusing on what you love about your life a lot more than what you don’t. Take what you have learned, develop a brain healthy life and teach it to others. If you, or someone you love, could benefit from an evaluation at Amen Clinics, call our brain health advisors today at 888-288-9834 or tell us more online. Do mass shooters brains look different than non-violent brains? The answer is yes. Our founder, Dr. Daniel Amen, spoke with ABC reporter, Frank Elaridi on the epidemic that we are facing today.

How Do Mass Shooters Brains’ Look Different on a SPECT Scan?

(See images described in video here) First, what appears to be holes in the brain are not actually holes, rather they are areas of low metabolic activity, low blood flow. A SPECT scan is a map of brain metabolism. It shows how well the blood is flowing through arteries and veins in the brain. This is important because the brain must have oxygen and glucose to function (oxygen and glucose are carried to the brain through blood). Thus the holes that appear on a SPECT are not areas of lost brain matter, these are areas of low blood flow therefore impaired brain activity. In each shooter exhibited in the video’s SPECT scans, one had lower blood flow to the pre-frontal cortex which controls forethought, impulse control and focus. One had significant damage to the cerebellum.

Could SPECT Diagnose These Types of People?

Neuroscientists actually know quite a lot about the human brain and the mind it generates. Through 150,000 brain scans over nearly 30 years at Amen Clinics, we have used SPECT scans as maps to make neural connections in thousands of patients. The future of psychiatry will be paved through imaging. Currently, psychiatrists are the only medical specialists who rarely look at the organ they treat. Most continue to make diagnoses the same way they did years ago, based on symptom clusters and clinical observations. There is a better way. SPECT imaging is a clinically valuable tool for looking at brain function to help target treatment.

We Can Help

SPECT helps provide new answers to mental health issues and helps clinicians ask better, more targeted questions; such as about brain trauma, infections, ADD symptoms, seizure issues, or past emotional traumas. If you, or someone you love, could benefit from an evaluation at Amen Clinics, call our brain health advisors today at 888-288-9834 or tell us more online. Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have been increasing at an alarming rate over the past 20 years. As the fastest growing developmental disability, it is estimated that 1 in every 88 births will now be affected – this equates to around 50,000 children every year. Parents, psychologists, and neurologists have been scrambling to come up with strategies to help these children.

What is Autism?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can best be described as a grouping of developmental disorders that present a range of symptoms such as: social and communication difficulties; restricted and repetitive behaviors, interests, and activities; and in some cases, cognitive delays. The autism spectrum includes: • Autism • Asperger syndrome • Rett syndrome • Childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD) • Pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)

Can Going Gluten-Free Help?

Transitioning to a gluten-free diet is one strategy that has been gaining popularity in the United States, as significant improvements in symptoms such as speech and behavior have been noticed in some children when gluten is removed. Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in children with autism and until recently, little research has been done to evaluate if there is a true connection between autism, gluten sensitivity, and celiac disease.

Autistic Children Are More Gluten Sensitive Than Their Siblings

A study evaluated: • Children with autism (with and without GI distress symptoms) • Their siblings without autism, and age-matched, unaffected healthy children as controls The researchers tested for antibodies to gliadin, a class of proteins present in the gluten of wheat and several other grains known for producing immune response in sensitive individuals. The results of the study point to a connection between autism and increased gluten sensitivity. The children with autism showed significantly higher levels of the IgG gliadin antibody as compared to their siblings and unrelated healthy controls.

Gluten Sensitivity & The Brain-Gut Connection

Scientists have hypothesized that autistic children may be more sensitive and allergic to foods containing gluten and casein (milk protein), given the strong correlation between GI disturbances and the severity of autism. Biochemical testing has confirmed that people with autism tend to have higher levels of peptides (gluten proteins) in their urine. It is believed that the incomplete breakdown and excessive absorption of gluten peptides may react with opiate receptors in the brain, leading to neurological changes that dramatically exacerbate the symptoms of autism. Even outside of the autistic community, awareness of gluten sensitivity and celiac disease is becoming more common as people start to investigate why they do not feel well. It is said that anywhere from 6-50% of people may unknowingly experience gluten sensitivity while 1% suffer from true celiac disease. Gluten is poorly digested by the human intestines; this can lead to: • Inflammation • Gut damage • Malnutrition • Neurological disturbances

10 Common Symptoms of Gluten Sensitivity & Celiac Disease

1. Brain fog 2. Fatigue 3. Headaches/migraines 4. GI distress such as: abdominal pain and bloating, gas, queasiness, acid reflux, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea 5. Weight loss or weight gain 6. Depression, irritability, listlessness, and emotional instability 7. Joint pain, tingling, or numbness in the legs, arms, and hands 8. Acne, eczema and other skin rashes 9. Hair loss 10. Hashimoto’s disease and other autoimmune disorders

What Can You Do Now?

A blood test referred to as the celiac panel can help diagnose gluten-related health problems. The test measures your body’s response to gluten by detecting 4 antibodies that your body produces against it. Speak with your primary care physician to arrange for gluten testing. The inexpensive gluten test is simply an elimination diet. If you cut ALL gluten from your diet and your symptoms go away, it’s a good indicator that you have a gluten sensitivity. Some people experience improvements very quickly (such as reduction of pain in the gut), yet for some with extreme sensitivities or celiac disease, it can take 6 months to a year for the lining of the small intestine to heal completely.

We Can Help

If you need help getting started with an elimination diet or getting your children on-board with a gluten-free lifestyle, Amen Clinics can help. Connect with us online or call us at 888-288-9834 today. For the first 4 years of his life, Eric was a fun-loving kid who loved to play catch with his dad and build things with his Legos. When Eric turned 5, though, something changed. All of a sudden, he would fly into a rage, smashing his Legos and throwing his toys at his dad. The young boy also developed a strange tic—jerking his head to one side and shrugging his shoulders. His parents were at a loss. What had happened to their sweet little boy? They took Eric to a psychiatrist, which led to a long journey and a laundry list of diagnoses—ADD/ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and more. By the time they brought Eric to Amen Clinics, the boy had been to 6 different doctors and was taking multiple medications. But they weren’t working. After a full evaluation at Amen Clinics, which includes brain SPECT imaging, lab work, and neuropsychological assessments, a different diagnosis emerged—PANDAS (pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections), which is considered a subset of PANS (pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome). Still considered controversial in traditional medicine, PANS/PANDAS are very real conditions linked to infections that lead to harmful changes in the brain. Controversial in traditional medicine, PANS/PANDAS are real conditions linked to infections that cause harmful brain changes.
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“This is not likely going to be on the radar screen of most mental health doctors and yet it’s a huge problem for the person with it because they’re likely to be misdiagnosed, drugged, or even hospitalized,” says physician Marc Filidei, DO, Director of Integrative Medicine at Amen Clinics.

THE BASICS ABOUT PANS/PANDAS

PANS/PANDAS, which affects an estimated 10% of children diagnosed with OCD or Tourette’s syndrome, is believed to occur when an infection triggers a misdirected immune response that results in inflammation of a child’s brain. In the early days of research on this condition, experts focused specifically on strep infections as a trigger that attacked areas in the front part of the brain. Now, scientists have broadened their investigations and found that many different types of infections may attack the brain and lead to a variety of neuropsychiatric problems. Some of the bacterial or viral infections associated with PANS/PANDAS include: These infections are believed to cross the blood-brain barrier to attack brain tissue. Neuroimaging studies show that PANS/PANDAS tends to impact the basal ganglia of the brain. These large structures deep in the brain are involved in habit formation. According to Dr. Filidei, “If your body is attacking your brain, you can have dramatic problems.” In a video on PANDAS and PANS with Dr. Filidei, he adds, “Personally, I think this goes far beyond kids with OCD. I think there’s a very high likelihood that this same process is going on with a lot of mental health conditions.” In the young boy Eric’s case, his sudden behavioral changes stemmed from a strep infection when he was 5 years old.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF PANS AND PANDAS

The hallmark trait for PANS/PANDAS is sudden acute and the debilitating onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms. These life-changing issues may include: These acute and severe emotional and behavioral changes often don’t go away. They are not temporary. They can stick around.

COVID-19 AND PANS/PANDAS

Although researchers have documented an increased risk of neuropsychiatric disorders related to COVID-19, they are still investigating the virus’ relationship with PANS/PANDAS. A 2021 survey of 670 PANS/PANDAS families attempted to gain a greater understanding of how the pandemic and lockdowns were affecting those with the condition. According to the findings, the percentage of those experiencing increases in the following symptoms were as follows: Emerging research is looking into the possibility that infection with COVID may trigger the onset of PANS. For example, a 2021 study in The Lancet featured case studies of 2 children with PANS whose symptoms started within a few weeks of testing positive for COVID. One of the cases was a 12-year-old boy who developed a compulsion to wash his hands excessively, facial tics, and fears about coming into contact with handles, among other symptoms. The other boy, 13, was diagnosed with COVID and subsequently developed facial and vocal tics, compulsions, hyperactivity, aggressiveness, a lack of appetite, attention problems, and irritability.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS FOR PANS/PANDAS

When diagnosing these conditions, functional brain SPECT imaging, as well as labwork, can be invaluable. On SPECT scans, overall decreased blood flow or a pattern called scalloping are signs of a potential infection. Seeing these patterns on brain scans prompts Amen Clinics physicians to investigate further to determine if underlying infections may be the root cause of a child’s condition. In this case, blood tests for common viral and bacterial infections can be very helpful.

CAN PANS/PANDAS BE TREATED?

The good news is there are treatments that can be effective for PANS/PANDAS. Getting a proper diagnosis is the key to finding the right treatment plan. Treating the underlying infection is a critical step in the process. Other treatment methods include plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), which were shown to be effective in the treatment of PANDAS in a 2015 study in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology. Natural therapies may include changes in diet, reducing exposure to environmental toxins, and learning stress-management techniques. For Eric, treating the infections, improving his diet and gut health, and other treatment strategies were beneficial and helped him return to being the kind, loving youngster his parents knew he could be. The sudden acute onset of neuropsychiatric issues like OCD, anxiety, or aggression can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Ever walk into a room where everyone was intently focused on their handheld devices? Have you ever had a romantic dinner ruined by a date who made it more of a priority to answer text messages rather than engage in a live conversation? Or, have you ever seen people attempting to drive while staring at their smartphone? Of course, you have… Even though technology has improved our lives in profound ways, it has also presented a number of unique challenges. It’s clear that we’re becoming increasingly dependent on technology. But is dependency turning into obsession? And does digital obsession come with a price? Leading cognitive neuroscientists have identified new brain disorders linked to society’s overdependence on technology. These disorders range from separation anxiety over misplacing a device to hearing a phantom ring when no one is calling. Many of the disorders are accompanied by psychiatric issues, including ADD, anxiety, OCD and various types of psychoses. Also, the compulsive need to stay connected to the internet at all times has become a type of addiction to many people. To prevent the negative effects associated with technology-induced disorders, try these six simple steps:

Take a Tech Timeout

It’s not unusual for parents to limit their kids’ TV or tablet time, so why shouldn’t that same rule apply to adults? Establish a time when all devices will be turned off for the remainder of the evening. Not only will this provide a break from calling, texting, browsing the internet and posting content on social media, it will also afford you the opportunity to spend more quality time with friends and family as well as give you a reason to pick up that book you’ve been meaning to finish. Note: When setting aside time for a tech timeout, be mindful of your particular situation and if you should be available to receive emergency calls.

Schedule Weekly Internet Fasts

A great way to curb the adverse effects of digital obsession is to reserve one day of the week (for maximum effect, choose a day you have off from work) for an internet fast. Rather than sitting around staring at a screen all day, spend some time working on a hobby, engaging in physical activity or enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors. You might be surprised at how many things you can do, and how much fun you can have while taking a break from the internet.

Create a Technology Free Bedroom

One of the best ways to avoid the dangers of digital dependence is to remove TVs, computers and other electronic devices from your bedroom. Creating a relaxing environment, free from the distractions of the outside world, may facilitate better sleep, increase intimacy with your partner, and reduce the amount of electromagnetic frequencies (EMF) your body absorbs. EMF radiation damages healthy cells and is known to increase the risk of cancer.

One Screen at a Time

It’s common for people to use more than one form of technology at the same time. For example, a person may browse the internet or make online purchases on a desktop computer, laptop or iPad while talking, texting or tweeting on a smartphone all while watching TV. To prevent your attention from being divided by multiple devices, follow the “one screen at a time” rule. This should aid your ability to focus while also giving your overstimulated brain some much-needed downtime.

Use Your Brain, Not Your Computer

Our reliance on our brains to remember facts and to problem solve has significantly diminished in recent decades. With the advent of Google and Siri, it has become convenient to search the internet for help even before accessing our brains for the answers. Don’t allow the internet to become a cognitive crutch.

Never Talk and Text

Technology can link people from different parts of the world in seconds. While this has opened new avenues of human connection, it frequently places a strain on our relationships with each other when used inappropriately. “Technoference” is now a word that means the interference of technology in couple relationships. One study demonstrated that Technoference lead to lower relationship and life satisfaction. Don’t sacrifice your relationship with people physically close to you. Keep phone and text conversations to a minimum when you are with other people. Use these six tips to reduce your chances of developing a technology based brain disorder and to live in harmony with technology rather than being controlled by it. At Amen Clinics we have spent decades helping people treat their brain and can help you, too. Call us today at (888) 288-9834 or visit our website to schedule a visit.