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Depression is not a single or simple disorder. The sadness or emptiness you experience may be very different than the hopelessness or helplessness someone else feels. But traditional psychiatry doesn’t typically recognize these differences and often gives everyone who is depressed the same diagnosis and the same treatment plan. This will never work because depression is a symptom of many different causes. You need to find the root cause.   Depression is a symptom with many different causes. You need to find the root cause.
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Giving someone the diagnosis of depression is exactly like giving them the diagnosis of chest pain. Why don’t doctors give people the diagnosis of chest pain? Because it doesn’t tell you what’s causing it or what to do about it. It could be from a blocked artery, grief, or heartburn from the pepperoni pizza you ate. There are many biological issues that contribute to depression that psychiatrists, psychologists, and other healthcare providers may miss. Based on the brain SPECT imaging work at Amen Clinics, which has the world’s largest database of functional brain scans related to behavior (over 160,000 scans from 155 countries), as well as clinical experience with tens of thousands of patients over more than 30 years of practice, it has become evident that there are not only multiple causes of depression but also multiple types of depression. Specifically, the neuropsychiatrists at Amen Clinics have identified 7 types of depression and anxiety, which occur together 75% of the time. This blog series will explore each type, including the common symptoms, brain SPECT findings, and effective interventions.

TYPE 2: PURE DEPRESSION

Type 2: Pure Depression results from excessive activity in the brain’s emotional center, the deep limbic system. This type is associated with primary depressive symptoms that range from chronic mild sadness (dysthymia) to the devastating illness of major depression. If you’re struggling with these feelings, you may be one of those people who tries to smile through your depression, or you may be among those who can barely get out of bed. Some of the most famous, creative individuals we’ve scanned, including musical artists, actors, and writers, have overactivity in the deep limbic center. People with this brain pattern tend to be sensitive, deeply feeling, and empathic, which can be channeled in their art.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF TYPE 2: PURE DEPRESSION

Some of the most common symptoms seen in people with Pure Depression include: Although these are the most typical problems associated with Pure Depression, they are not the only ones. At Amen Clinics, patients complain of myriad other depressive symptoms that many people aren’t often aware of.

TYPE 2: PURE DEPRESSION IN THE BRAIN

The SPECT findings that correlate with Pure Depression are markedly increased activity in the deep limbic area at rest and during concentration and decreased prefrontal activity at rest that improves with concentration. Deactivation of the prefrontal cortex at rest and improvement with concentration is a finding that is very common but not always present. In a study of more than 15,000 patients at Amen Clinics, we saw a significant correlation between increased activity in the limbic system and self-reporting of being negative or feeling chronic guilt, having crying spells, and experiencing feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. The limbic system is one of the most interesting and critical parts of being human and is power-packed with functions, all of which are critical for human behavior and survival. The limbic system typically includes the:

INTERVENTIONS FOR TYPE 2: PURE DEPRESSION

In traditional medicine, antidepressants are often prescribed as the first line of defense for depression, but these drugs are not the cure-all many people expect. A 2014 study found that in over 50% of depressed patients, taking antidepressants failed to provide full remission of their symptoms. Unfortunately, treatment-resistant depression is far too common. At Amen Clinics, relying solely on medication for mental health issues (which are really “brain health” issues) is never the solution. Rather, taking a brain-body approach that addresses all the contributing factors of depression is the best way to feel better fast and make it last. There are many alternatives to antidepressants that can help, such as: Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and other mental health issues 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 your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk. What happens when you pop a couple of pain relievers for that headache? According to a new study, it could induce risky behavior. Yes, that everyday over-the-counter acetaminophen (aka Tylenol and Panadol) could make you act uncharacteristically risky. That’s concerning considering this analgesic is used in over 600 medications and is one of the most commonly consumed substances in the U.S. In this 2020 study, which appeared in Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, over 500 participants engaged in an experiment that involved pumping up a balloon on a computer screen. With each and every pump, they earned imaginary money. The overall goal? Earn as much money as possible without popping the balloon, which would cause them to lose all the money. One group of the participants took a single 1,000 mg dose of acetaminophen, while the other group took a placebo. The group that took the pain reliever took more risks, giving their balloons more pumps and ultimately popping their balloons more often. The group that didn’t take acetaminophen was more conservative in the number of pumps, opting to cash out earlier rather than risk losing the money. This task, known as the Balloon Analog Risk Task (BART) is commonly used in scientific studies, and performance on it is predictive of alcohol and drug use, risky sexual behavior, and other types of delinquent behavior. The two groups were also asked to rate how risky they viewed a variety of hypothetical activities on a scale from 1-7 (1 being not at all risky, 7 being extremely risky), such as passing off somebody else’s work as your own, bungee jumping off a tall bridge, driving a car without a seat belt, or betting a day’s wages on a high-stakes poker game. The results on this appeared to be mixed, but the research team concluded that there’s a significant association between taking acetaminophen and taking greater risks. They suggest that the common drug reduces negative emotions associated with taking risks, ultimately making people feel less scared. These findings build on a body of research that shows acetaminophen also reduces hurt feelings and decreases empathy, among other psychological factors. It’s unclear how acetaminophen works in the brain, but brain SPECT imaging offers clues to risky behavior.

Risk-Taking in the Brain

What makes some people want to engage in high-risk activities, such as drug and alcohol use, gambling, extramarital affairs, free climbing (mountain climbing without any safety ropes), and skydiving? SPECT scans of people who are daredevils typically show reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). The PFC is considered the executive part of the brain. It is the most evolved part of the human brain and is involved with focus, forethought, judgment, organization, planning, impulse control, empathy, and learning from mistakes. The PFC helps you think about what you say or do before you say or do it. For example, if you’re having a disagreement with your spouse and you have good PFC function, you’re more likely to give a thoughtful response that helps the situation. If you have poor PFC function, you’re more likely to blurt out something that will make the situation worse. The PFC helps you problem-solve, see ahead of a situation, and through experience, choose among the most helpful alternatives. This is also the part of the brain that helps you learn from your mistakes. Good PFC function doesn’t mean that you won’t make mistakes. Rather, it generally means that you won’t make the same mistake over and over. You’re able to learn from the past and apply its lessons. Impulse control is also heavily influenced by the PFC. The ability to think through the consequences of your behavior and put the brakes on things that are too high risk is essential for effective living. Without proper PFC function, it’s difficult to rein in your impulses, and you’re more likely to give in to unhealthy urges.

Problems with Low PFC Activity

At Amen Clinics, underactivity in the PFC is often seen in people with:

Strategies to Strengthen the PFC

You can strengthen your PFC if it is underactive. Engage in the following strategies to enhance activity in the PFC. Unhealthy risk-taking that negatively impacts your relationships, job or finances, or health 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 your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk. If your child fell down and hurt their arm badly, you’d take them to the ER or an urgent care facility for an X-ray. The images would help the physician diagnose whether or not the arm is broken and would guide the treatment plan. Broken bone? That’ll be at least 6 weeks in a cast. Just a sprain? That’s more likely the “RICE” protocol—rest, ice, compression, elevation. Without imaging, your doctor wouldn’t know whether or not the bone was broken, and if they made the wrong guess, it could lead to prolonged pain for your child or a bone that doesn’t heal correctly and could cause problems for a lifetime. Why are mental health and behavioral health problems treated differently? In traditional psychiatry, mental health professionals typically never look at the organ they treat—the brain. This means psychiatrists and psychologists must guess when making a diagnosis based solely on symptoms. This results in many children being misdiagnosed and treated with the wrong plan. And that leads to unnecessary suffering. At Amen Clinics, which uses brain SPECT imaging as part of a complete evaluation, we see many children who have been previously misdiagnosed. Based on tens of thousands of patients, here are some of the most common misdiagnoses in children.

1. Symptom: Inattention

Commonly diagnosed as: ADD/ADHD Inattention is one of the classic symptoms of ADD/ADHD. When a child has trouble focusing, is easily distracted, or frequently daydreams, parents and clinicians often suspect that it’s due to this common condition. But not all inattention is due to ADD/ADHD. Some of the other causes of inattention include:

2. Symptom: Sadness, negativity, fatigue

Commonly diagnosed as: Depression All kids go through periods where they feel blue or lethargic, but when sadness, negativity, or fatigue last for longer periods of time, it can be diagnosed as depression. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the accurate diagnosis. Some of the other causes of sadness, negativity, and fatigue include:

3. Symptom: Anxiousness, panic, fear

Commonly diagnosed as: Anxiety Anxiety is one of the most common mental health problems seen in children, tweens, and teens. But having anxious thoughts, feeling panicky, or being especially fearful can be related to many other things. Some of the other causes of anxiousness, panic, and fear include:

4. Symptom: Anger, argumentative, disruptive behavior

Commonly diagnosed as: Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) or Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) Some kids never seem to outgrow the “terrible twos.” They remain oppositional, have a short temper, and can explode into a rage, which often leads to a diagnosis of ODD or IED. But there may be other underlying issues at play. Some of the other causes of anger, argumentative, and disruptive behavior include: Inattention, sadness, anxiousness, anger, and disruptive behavior 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 your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk. Think we’re living in an unprecedented time of fear? Consider the following passage from CS Lewis’ Atomic Age from 1948 and replace “atomic bomb” with “COVID-19.” In one way we think a great deal too much of the atomic bomb (COVID-19). “How are we to live in an atomic age (COVID-19)?” I am tempted to reply: “Why, as you would have lived in the sixteenth century when the plague visited London almost every year, or as you would have lived in a Viking age when raiders from Scandinavia might land and cut your throat any night; or indeed, as you are already living in an age of cancer, an age of syphilis, an age of paralysis, an age of air raids, an age of railway accidents, an age of motor accidents.” In other words, do not let us begin by exaggerating the novelty of our situation. Believe me, dear sir or madam, you and all whom you love were already sentenced to death before the atomic bomb (COVID-19) was invented: and quite a high percentage of us were going to die in unpleasant ways. We had, indeed, one very great advantage over our ancestors—anesthetics; but we have that still. It is perfectly ridiculous to go about whimpering and drawing long faces because the scientists have added one more chance of painful and premature death to a world that already bristled with such chances and in which death itself was not a chance at all, but a certainty. This is the first point to be made: and the first action to be taken is to pull ourselves together. If we are all going to be destroyed by an atomic bomb (COVID-19), let that bomb (virus) when it comes find us doing sensible and human things—praying, working, teaching, reading, listening to music, bathing the children, playing tennis, chatting to our friends over a pint and a game of darts—not huddled together like frightened sheep and thinking about bombs (viruses). They may break our bodies (a microbe can do that), but they need not dominate our minds. CS Lewis could have easily been describing life in the current pandemic. The same fears and anxiety people felt about the atomic bomb are replaying today. The atomic bomb isn’t the only example from history that relates to what people are feeling in the pandemic. Look at the following quote: “The hospitals will be stormed, traffic will cease, the homeless will shriek for help, the city will be a pandemonium.” Sound like a description of life today during the pandemic? It’s actually a quote that appears in Erik Larson’s book The Splendid and the Vile from a British military planner about the World War II bombings in London. Other officials during that time predicted that British civilians would sink into undisciplined mobs, widespread panic would take hold, and people would be driven insane, according to research in the Journal of British Studies. To prevent the German bombers from being able to identify cities as targets for air raids, the British government imposed strict blackout restrictions. Citizens covered the windows of their homes and businesses to keep any light from filtering out. Car headlights and streetlights were turned down. And people hunkered down in underground shelters during nighttime air raids. Despite thousands of lives lost and many buildings destroyed during the Blitz, the Brits showed true grit and resilience. They carried on. The overwhelming fears we’re facing today echo those that Londoners felt about the WWII bombings, as well as those that people faced during the atomic age, those people faced when the Black Death plague swept Europe and took the lives of 200 million, and so on and so on. Like so many past generations, we’re facing fears about losing our lives, losing our loved ones, and losing our way of life.

Fear in the Brain

Fear is deeply ingrained in the brain and is a useful emotion in terms of survival. However, when fear is disproportionately high compared to the actual danger at hand or when it is prolonged, it leads to mental health issues such as anxiety. When researchers look at the brains of fearful and anxious people, they often find a number of areas of the brain with heightened activity, including the: Brain SPECT imaging shows that when areas such as these are overactive, people are more likely to be overwhelmed by stressful situations and may have a tendency to freeze or become immobile in their thoughts or actions. If your brain is overactive and you’re filled with fear, anxiety, or panic, you can calm your brain to reduce anxious feelings with a variety of natural therapies, including: In addition to these techniques, you can also benefit from some of the strategies that helped the Brits fear during WWII.

What You Can Learn from the Brits in WWII on Coping with Fear and Anxiety

You don’t have to let fear rule your life or fill you with anxiety, even when you’re faced with dire situations like a war or pandemic. The following strategies that helped British citizens overcome fear and anxiety during WWII can help you today during the pandemic. Take action: During WWII, the British government and its citizens were taking actions every day that provided some sense of control over their situation. The Royal Air Force was carrying out missions, Prime Minister Winston Churchill was firing off memos with red “Action This Day” labels for his staff, and citizens were doing their part to contribute to the efforts. Pandemic strategy: In the face of fears, look for things you can control, no matter how small they may seem. You may not be able to control the virus, but you can take responsibility for your own health by shoring up your immune system, eating brain healthy foods, and exercising to Stay connected: During the Blitz, Londoners huddled together in bomb shelters, building community and a sense that “we’re all in this together.” Unfortunately, this is much harder for people to accomplish with the pandemic. Pandemic strategy: Take advantage of technology to stay socially connected. Video phone calls, online meetings, and virtual events can help you feel more connected to others. Laugh more: The Brits were able to find humor in their situation no matter how dire it was. Pandemic strategy: You may not think there’s anything funny about the threat of COVID-19 or being in lockdown, but you can seek ways to laugh a little. Watch a comedy on TV, watch funny videos on social media, or listen to a humorous podcast. Laughter also supports the immune system, boosts moods, and gives your brain a healthy dose of the feel-good neurotransmitter oxytocin, as shown in a brain imaging study in The Journal of Neuroscience. Develop a sense of purpose: During the war, civilians felt a tremendous sense of purpose in fighting for a common cause. Pandemic strategy: In our fractured society today, it’s hard to find common ground. However, knowing your own purpose in life can give you the resilience to withstand challenging times. According to Dr. Viktor Frankl, a psychiatrist and World War II concentration camp survivor, and the father of Logotherapy, a form of psychotherapy based on the idea that humans are strongly motivated to live with purpose, “We find meaning as a result of responding genuinely and compassionately to life’s challenges.” Frankl believed there were three ways to create meaning: Anxiety, panic attacks, excessive fear, depression, and other mental and behavioral health conditions—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 your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk. Going through emotional trauma or grief—both of which are being experienced by millions of people these days—can leave a lasting imprint on the brain and can cause a laundry list of symptoms. You may feel sad, unable to concentrate, edgy, anxious, or irritable, and may have trouble sleeping. Often, grief is mislabeled as depression, ADD/ADHD, panic disorder, or other psychiatric conditions. And post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which affects many people who experience trauma, is often misdiagnosed as a traumatic brain injury (TBI) because they have overlapping symptoms. This is problematic because if you’re misdiagnosed, psychotropic medications can get in the way of healing and in some cases, can prolong grief and emotional trauma. If you experience lingering symptoms related to trauma or a loss, consider doing grief work before taking medication.

BREAK THE BONDS OF THE PAST

One of the most powerful “feel better fast” techniques to overcome emotional trauma or grief is called “breaking the bonds of the past.” It stems from the belief that negative feelings and behaviors are often based on past memories that are either toxic or misinterpreted. This technique requires only 5 simple steps. One of the most powerful techniques to overcome emotional trauma or grief is called “breaking the bonds of the past.” It stems from the belief that negative feelings and behaviors are often based on past memories that are either toxic or misinterpreted.
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Whenever you have a painful or disruptive memory or feeling, write out the answers to the following questions:
  1. When was the last time you struggled, had the painful or disruptive memory or feeling, or felt suffering? Write down the details.
  2. What were you feeling at the time? Describe the predominant feeling.
  3. When was the first time you had that feeling? In your mind, imagine yourself on a train going backward through time. Go back to the time when you first had the feeling. Write down the incident or incidents in detail.
  4. Can you go back even further to a time when you had that original feeling? Write down the details of the original incident.
  5. If you have a clear idea of the origins of the feelings, can you disconnect them by reprocessing them through an adult or parent mindset, or reframe them in light of new information? Consciously disconnect the emotional bridge to the past with the idea that what happened in the past belongs in the past, and what happens now is what matters.
Here’s an example of how this can work.

HOW A TEEN LEARNED TO LEAVE THE PAST BEHIND

Nate, 15, came to see me at Amen Clinics because he was suffering from panic attacks. He had several episodes a day when he felt like he was choking or drowning. His breathing became shallow, fast, and labored. His heart raced, he broke out in a sweat, and he felt as though he was dying. Nate hated these episodes, and the fear of having them became so overwhelming that he stopped going to school. During his second session with me, I went through the following steps with him.

1. When was the last time you had a panic attack?

Nate said it was the day before. He was eating dinner when all of a sudden, he felt like he was starting to choke. He couldn’t get air, his heart started to race, he was sweating, and felt as though he was going to die.

2. What you were feeling at the time? Describe the predominant feeling.

Nate said he felt as though he was going to die.

3. In your mind, imagine yourself on a train going backward through time. Go back to a time when you first had the feeling that you were going to die.

The teen sat there for a minute and then started to choke. It looked like he was having a panic attack right in front of me. I asked him to breathe slowly and tell me what was going on. He slowed his breathing, wiped his brow, and told me about a time when he was 6 years old. He was sitting at a lunch table at school and accidentally swallowed a plastic wrapper from a candy bar. He started to choke on the wrapper. Initially, no one saw him. He said he started to turn blue. He couldn’t breathe, and no one noticed. He thought he was going to die. After what seemed like an eternity, a teacher saw him and did the Heimlich maneuver on him, dislodging the wrapper. Nate said he had forgotten about the event until now.

4. After he settled down and composed himself, I asked him to go back even further in his mind to see if there was an earlier time when he had the feeling he was going to die.

He closed his eyes and said he remembered a time when he was very young. He was coming out of a very dark place into a place filled with bright lights, lights that felt hot. People were moving around. He felt fear. He couldn’t breathe, and something awful covered his face. He felt as though he was going to die. To my amazement, Nate had just described a birth experience. When he opened his eyes, I asked him if he knew anything about his birth. He said no, no one had ever talked to him about it. I invited his mother to come into the room and asked her about his birth experience. She told me that he was a meconium baby, where the infant’s feces get into the amniotic fluid, which is very dangerous for the newborn. He was born blue and had to be resuscitated by the doctor. His mother said she had never talked about it with Nate. She didn’t want to worry him.

5. Break the bonds of the past through an adult or parent mindset or reframe them in light of new information.

With Nate’s mother in the room, I took him back to both of those times. First, with the birth experience, I had the grown teenage Nate go back and explain to the baby what had happened. The baby was in trouble for a short time, but the doctors helped clean him up so he could breathe normally. I then took him through the candy wrapper incident and had the teenage Nate tell 6-year-old Nate that he is grateful to the teacher who helped him and that he is alive, well, and healthy (and he needed to stop eating candy wrappers). After that session, Nate’s panic attacks disappeared. I saw him a few more times, but essentially disconnecting his present symptoms from the past sensitizing event took care of them.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM BREAKING THE BONDS OF THE PAST?

I have seen this technique work with people who have experienced all kinds of emotional trauma or grief and who are suffering from symptoms, such as panic attacks (like Nate), anxiety, PTSD, alcoholism and other addictions, and even sexual impotence. Be aware that this process can dredge up painful memories. If they don’t go away in a short period of time, seek professional help from a licensed psychotherapist. Emotional trauma, PTSD, and the bothersome symptoms they cause 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 your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk. Kids with behavioral disorders or emotional issues can be so challenging—disruptive, defiant, argumentative, impulsive, inattentive, nervous, negative. Parents know it can be exhausting, frustrating, and stressful. Many parents assume that prescription medication is the only way to improve symptoms that are associated with conditions, such as ADD/ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depression, or autism. But a growing body of scientific evidence shows that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids improves the quality of life and mental health status in children with emotional and behavioral issues. Aa growing body of scientific evidence shows that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids improves quality of life and mental health status in children with emotional and behavioral issues.
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Here’s what the current research reveals about children, mental and behavioral health, and omega-3 fatty acids. First, let’s take a quick look at the basics of omega-3s.

WHAT ARE OMEGA-3s?

Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that children (and adults) need for optimal physical, mental, and cognitive health. There are 2 active compounds in omega-3s: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Children (and adults) need both. Omega-3s are considered essential fatty acids because the human body doesn’t produce them naturally. They can only be derived from food or dietary supplements, such as fish oil.

WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT OMEGA-3s AND BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS

A 2020 study in the Journal of Dietary Supplements involved 942 children ages 6-12 with behavioral disorders, including conduct problems, inattention, nervousness, hyperactivity, trouble concentrating, and learning issues and poor school performance. For the 3-month study, the youngsters were split into 2 groups—one group received supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids while the other group did not. By the end of the study period, children who had been taking omega-3 dietary supplements health status, quality of life, and scores on Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaires improved significantly. The researchers concluded, “Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation alone or in combination with other nonpharmacological treatments is effective in improving children’s mental health.”

WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT OMEGA-3s AND ADD/ADHD

In an analysis of 10 studies in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, researchers summarized 10 trials involving 699 children. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation demonstrated a small but significant effect in improving ADD/ADHD symptoms. EPA dose within supplements was significantly correlated with supplement efficacy. They concluded that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, particularly with higher doses of EPA, was modestly effective in the treatment of ADD/ADHD. A 2017 review of 16 studies found that omega-3 fatty acids improved impulsivity, hyperactivity, attention, visual learning, and working/short-term memory. These are all symptoms often associated with ADD/ADHD.

WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT OMEGA-3s AND MOODS

Although there is an abundance of research on omega-3 fatty acids and depression in adults, the research on children remains sparse but encouraging. In a study in the American Journal of Psychiatry involving 20 depressed children ages 6-12, dietary supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids showed highly significant improvements in depressive symptoms. Omega-3 supplementation produced a large advantage compared with the placebo. In addition, a 2017 study in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health on 38 children ages 11-17 found significant reductions in depressive symptoms in the participants taking omega-3 fatty acids.

WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT OMEGA-3s AND AUTISM

A deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids may be linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children, according to a meta-analysis of 6 trials in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment. These studies showed that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids may improve hyperactivity, lethargy, and stereotypy (movements such as body rocking), which are common in children with autism.

THE HEAVY TOLL OF LOW LEVELS OF OMEGA-3s

Having low levels of EPA and DHA have been linked to mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, as well as suicidal behavior, ADD/ADHD, cognitive decline, and other behavioral and emotional issues. Unfortunately, most Americans have low levels of EPA and DHA. In 2016, Amen Clinics tested the omega-3 fatty acids levels of 50 consecutive patients who were not taking fish oil (the most commonly used source of EPA+DHA) and found that 49 had suboptimal levels. In another study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, the Amen Clinics research team correlated the brain SPECT scans of 130 patients with their EPA and DHA levels and found those with the lowest levels had lower blood flow (the #1 predictor of future brain problems) in the right hippocampus and posterior cingulate (one of the first areas to die in Alzheimer’s disease), among other areas. On cognitive testing at Amen Clinics, low omega-3s correlated with decreased scores in mood. To find out if your child has low levels of omega-3 fatty acids, there is a simple test called the Omega-3 Index. It measures the total amount of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in red blood cells and directly reflects their levels in the brain. The test is a clinically validated biomarker of the health of the brain. Aim for a level above 8%.

BOOSTING OMEGA-3 LEVELS IN CHILDREN

Getting adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids is critical for children. If your child has low levels of omega-3s or simply has behavioral or emotional symptoms, it’s a good idea to increase the intake of this important nutrient. Increase healthy fats. To raise omega-3 levels in children, be sure to include foods in their diet that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as: Try high-quality omega-3 supplements, such as fish oil. At Amen Clinics, the recommended dosage for children is about 800 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily for every 40 pounds of body weight. Look for a ratio of approximately 60/40 EPA to DHA. Your child’s mental, emotional, and behavioral health lays the foundation for their overall well-being and happiness in life. ADD/ADHD, depression, and other emotional and behavioral problems can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, believe in using the least toxic, most effective treatments, including natural solutions.. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for children as well as their parents. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk. In August, former First Lady Michelle Obama revealed on her podcast that “I am dealing with some form of low-grade depression.” She’s not the only one. Pandemic-related depression is sweeping across the nation and around the world. A survey in JAMA Network Open found that the rate of depression symptoms in the U.S. increased more than 3-fold during the COVID-19 pandemic, jumping from 8.5% before the pandemic to nearly 28%. But depression has also been linked to having COVID-19. A 2020 study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease shows that one of the consequences of COVID-19 includes depression, in addition to anxiety, attention problems, obsessive compulsive disorder, memory loss, and more. Another 2020 study appearing in the journal Laryngoscope found that in people with COVID, experiencing a loss of smell and taste was associated with depressed mood and anxiety. New research shows that up to 80% of people with COVID report experiencing anosmia, or the loss of smell. Surprisingly, depression and anxiety were more likely to be found in people with olfactory dysfunction than in those with other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, fever, or cough.

THE SCIENCE OF SMELL AND MOOD

A wealth of scientific research has shown that our sense of smell and our moods are intertwined. For example:

SENSE OF SMELL AND EMOTIONS IN THE BRAIN

The area of your brain involved with smell (olfactory cortex) is located near your limbic system (the brain’s emotional centers), including the hippocampus, which is involved with mood and memory. These areas tend to deteriorate and die together. Not only is the loss of smell associated with depression, but it is also linked to memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. Having trouble smelling peanut butter, lemon, strawberries, or natural gas is associated with a higher incidence of significant memory problems, according to research. Scoring poorly on a smell test is considered a warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease later in life. If you experience a diminishing sense of smell or the sudden loss of your ability to identify scents, it may be a sign of trouble. Take note of any other health symptoms (fever, cough, fatigue) that may be related to COVID-19, and take stock of your emotional well-being and memory to see if you notice any changes. Be sure to make an appointment with a healthcare professional.

SMELL THE ROSES

To improve your sense of smell, give your sniffer a daily workout. There is evidence that repeated exposure to certain odors can improve the ability to smell. In a study from Aristotle University in Greece, 111 patients with anosmia repeatedly trained their sense of smell twice a day using 4 odors (phenyl ethyl alcohol, eucalyptol, citronellal, eugenol).  After 8 weeks, compared to a control group, participants noticed significant improvement that lasted up to a year. If you have this issue, put your nose to work. Certain scents have also been found to improve mood and ease depression. Essential oils that support healthy moods include lavender, chamomile, rose oil, lemon, and jasmine. Depression, memory loss, and other mental health issues 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 your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk. How would you feel if you had to wait 10 years or longer to get an accurate diagnosis of a medical problem like cancer, heart disease, or liver disease? It seems unconscionable. Unfortunately, that’s what happens to more than one-third of people with bipolar disorder, according to research in the Journal of Affective Disorders. It takes a decade or more for them to get diagnosed. And the average length of time to get a bipolar disorder diagnosis is 7.5 years, according to other research in the same journal. An astounding 69% of people with bipolar disorder are initially misdiagnosed. Getting an inaccurate diagnosis leads to treatment that is not only ineffective but that can also make the condition worse. It’s one of the reasons why bipolar disorder can be so destructive and can ruin your life. Imagine taking medicine for a heart condition for years and then finding out you actually had cancer. Why is bipolar disorder so hard to diagnose? There are several reasons, but first, let’s take a closer look at the condition.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a cyclic mood disorder that includes both manic episodes and depressive episodes. These episodes are associated with dramatic changes in moods, energy levels, and activity. Manic episodes are characterized by: Depressive episodes are associated with:

5 Reasons Why Bipolar Disorder is So Often Misdiagnosed

1. It often starts with depressive symptoms.

One of the reasons why this condition is so often misdiagnosed is because the first signs are often depression rather than mania, according to a review in the journal Psychiatry. This means many people seek treatment for depression and are often prescribed antidepressants, which aren’t effective for bipolar disorder. As a result, nearly 40% of people with bipolar disorder are initially diagnosed with depressive disorder.

2. Co-occurring mental health conditions.

Among people with bipolar disorder, 62% also meet the clinical criteria for ADD/ADHD, according to a study in Clinical Psychology. Anxiety disorders, panic disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, social phobias, eating disorders, and some personality disorders are also seen with bipolar disorder. In children and adolescents, bipolar disorder may also co-exist with oppositional defiant disorder and other conduct disorders.

3. Co-existing substance abuse.

Adding to the difficulty of getting an accurate diagnosis is the common abuse of alcohol or drugs among people with bipolar disorder. Some studies have noted that in people with the condition as many as 69% abuse alcohol and up to 60% abuse drugs. Substance use can cause symptoms that are similar to those seen in bipolar disorder, including emotional highs and lows and major swings in energy levels.

4. Hidden brain injuries.

At Amen Clinics, the global leader in brain health, brain SPECT imaging reveals that many people who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder have signs of undetected traumatic brain injury. Head trauma can cause many of the same symptoms seen in bipolar disorder. Among patients at Amen Clinics, healing the brain can be beneficial in decreasing those symptoms.

5. Medication isn’t the only option.

In the traditional medical and psychiatric community, bipolar disorder is generally treated with medication. The psychiatrists and physicians at Amen Clinics are not opposed to medication, but it should never be the only thing you do for your condition. Adopting brain healthy habits—including healthy nutrition, exercise, lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, and helpful forms of therapy— in addition to medication (when necessary) can be powerfully beneficial components of an effective treatment plan for bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder—as well as ADD/ADHD, anxiety, and other mental health issues—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 your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk. During the pandemic, divorce rates have soared by 34%, according to a recent survey. Newlyweds married less than 5 months have been the hardest hit, with twice as many seeking a divorce compared to 2019. And with the pandemic, job losses, and stay-at-home orders, it took only 3 weeks for marriages to fall apart. How’s your relationship holding up with the stacked stresses we’re all facing these days? Have your marital issues become more glaring? Have you tried marriage counseling but haven’t achieved the changes you were hoping for? There are many experienced therapists and counselors who offer solid strategies to improve relationships. With some couples, however, one or both parties can’t seem to follow their recommendations even though they love their partner and want to save the marriage. What’s the problem? It may be due to brain dysfunction. Therapists and counselors don’t look at the brain, so it’s impossible to know if underlying problems in the brain are contributing to marital discord and preventing one or both parties from following their advice. Amen Clinics partners with thousands of therapists and counselors, performing brain SPECT imaging on couples who aren’t making progress in counseling. The scans often reveal areas of the brain that are either overactive or underactive, contributing to problems. Based on the Amen Clinics database of over 160,000 brain scans, here are the 5 most common brain regions where abnormal activity levels can sabotage a relationship. Here are the 5 most common brain regions where abnormal activity levels can sabotage a relationship: Prefrontal cortex, Anterior cingulate gyrus, Deep limbic system, Basal ganglia, Temporal lobes.
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The 5 Most Common Brain Regions Where Abnormal Activity Levels Can Sabotage A Relationship

1. Prefrontal Cortex (PFC) Problems in Relationships

Located behind the forehead, involved in impulse control, judgment, forethought When the PFC is underactive, people tend to be impulsive in what they say or do, often causing serious problems in relationships. People with a “sleepy” PFC are the type who blurt out hurtful comments without thinking (“You look like you’ve gained weight.”). In some cases, they may impulsively have extramarital affairs without thinking about the consequences of their actions. They may also have trouble paying attention to their partner. Expressing thoughts and feelings can be difficult, causing their partners to complain about a lack of meaningful conversation in the relationship. Sleepy PFC types may have trouble staying on task and finishing projects, following through on commitments, or completing chores, which irritates partners. Being late is also common as is an unconscious tendency to be conflict seeking or to look for problems when none exists. At Amen Clinics, this is called the “let’s have a problem game,” and it can destroy relationships. What their partners say: “She never pays attention to me.” “He says such mean things, it really hurts my feelings.” Optimize it: The nutritional supplement rhodiola, green tea, a higher protein diet, and physical exercise can boost activity in the PFC. When the PFC is optimized, people are able to think before they say or do things and they learn from their mistakes. And they are less likely to seek out conflict, tension, or turmoil. This makes for a more peaceful relationship.

2. Anterior Cingulate Gyrus (ACG) Problems in Relationships

Runs lengthwise through the deep parts of the frontal lobes, acts as the brain’s gear shifter Where there is too much activity in the ACG, people tend to be rigid, inflexible, and unbending—“It’s my way or the highway.” They may have obsessive or compulsive tendencies and when things don’t go their way, they may get very upset. Partners of people with an overactive ACG often describe them as uncooperative, difficult, or argumentative. That can be challenging for any relationship. These people don’t like change or trying new things, so spouses can feel like they’re stuck in the same old routine. They also worry a lot, hold onto grudges, can’t let go of past hurts, and are unforgiving of perceived wrongdoings. This means their partners are constantly being reminded about something they did long ago. What their partners say: “She brings up issues from years and years ago.” “He can never say he’s sorry.” Optimize it: The nutraceuticals 5-HTP and saffron and a diet higher in complex carbohydrates can help calm an overactive ACG. When the ACG is optimized, people tend to be more flexible and adaptable, even with the normal ups and downs of relationships. They’re more able to forgive the mistakes of others and can let go of past hurts.

3. Deep Limbic System Problems in Relationships

Located near the center of the brain, involved in setting a person’s emotional tone When the limbic system is overactive, there is a tendency toward depression, negativity, and distance from others. They may have trouble bonding with their partner. These people are experts at noticing what’s wrong, including their partner’s flaws, which is usually not helpful. They aren’t playful, don’t feel sexy, and may shy away from sexual activity due to a lack of interest. Low energy levels and low motivation are common in these people, which can put a damper on a relationship. What their partners say: “He doesn’t want to be around other people.” “She’s so negative, it’s hard to be around her.” Optimize it: Physical exercise, aromatherapy, and natural supplements like saffron, DL-phenylalanine, SAMe, and L-tyrosine can be effective in balancing activity in the limbic system. When the limbic system is optimized, people tend to be more positive and better able to connect to their partner. They’re more likely to have better energy and are more playful and interested in sexual activity. Their positive attitude makes them more attractive to others.

4. Basal Ganglia Problems in Relationships

Located toward the center of the brain surrounding the limbic system, involved with integrating feelings, thoughts, and movement When the basal ganglia are overactive, there is a tendency toward anxiety, panic, fear, and tension. People often have decreased sexual interest because their bodies tend to be wrapped in tension, such as backaches, headaches, upset stomach, and other physical complaints. They often don’t have the physical or emotional energy to feel sexy or sexual. Most of their memories are filled with anxiety or fear. They can be conflict-avoidant, which can result in relationship problems building up until they seem insurmountable. They have a tendency to be people-pleasers, so they may take on too much responsibility in a partnership then develop feelings of resentment. And they tend to wear out their partners with the constant fear they project. What their partners say: “He predicts the worst possible outcomes to situations.” “She’s so uptight.” Optimize it: Hypnosis, meditation, relaxation training, and the nutritional supplement GABA can help calm overactivity in the basal ganglia. When this region is optimized, people tend to be calmer, more relaxed, and have a more hopeful outlook. Their bodies tend to feel good, making them freer to express their sexuality. And they’re able to deal with conflict in an effective way and speak up for themselves so there is more equal footing in the relationship.

5. Temporal Lobe Problems in Relationships

Located underneath the temples and behind the eyes, involved in mood stability, reading social cues, memory, and language When the temporal lobes aren’t functioning properly, people tend to have memory struggles—forgetting anniversaries, birthdays, and other important things that can make loved ones feel neglected and unloved. They often have emotional ups and downs, and it can be hard for a partner to deal with the mood swings. They tend to be temperamental and have problems with anger and can lash out over seemingly small things. This means significant others often feel like they have to walk on eggshells around them. They may take things the wrong way or misread the emotions of others, which can lead to conflict. What their partners say: “I feel like I’m always waiting for him to lose his temper.” “She’s so moody I never know who I’m going to wake up to.” Optimize it: A higher protein diet, anger management, and music therapy can help balance the temporal lobes. When the temporal lobes are optimized, people tend to be more stable emotionally, which helps foster stability in relationships. They tend to have accurate memories and are able to read emotional cues. And they have better control over their temper, which makes everyone around them less on edge. At Amen Clinics, it has been noted that when relationships are crumbling, it’s often because both individuals have brain health issues. When your partner’s brain health issues conflict with your own trouble spots, it can create big problems. Looking at the brains of both people is often beneficial and sometimes very surprising. Marital conflict and relationship issues, anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, and other mental health issues can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your relationships and mental well-being are more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your situation worse. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for couples, families, and individuals. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk. Have you ever experienced trauma? Were you physically, emotionally, or sexually abuse? Have you been subjected to intense stress, such as surviving a fire, flood, or assault? Were you the victim of bullying at school? Or maybe you’re being traumatized by the coronavirus pandemic? Emotional trauma tends to activate the limbic or emotional centers of the brain. When trauma is severe or prolonged—think of the months-long pandemic—your brain’s emotional centers can get stuck. In some people who experience trauma, the brain gets “stuck in overdrive,” making you feel anxious, fearful, and sleepless. This can develop into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a condition that affects 3.5% of U.S. adults, but that may affect far more people due to the pandemic. In some people who experience trauma, the brain gets “stuck in overdrive,” making you feel anxious, fearful, and sleepless.
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In other people who experience trauma, the emotional brain becomes overwhelmed and shuts down. It’s like your brain is “stuck off,” leaving you feeling depressed, flat, tired, and confused. In some people who experience trauma, the brain gets “stuck off,” leaving you feeling depressed, flat, tired, and confused.
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If you’ve experienced emotional trauma, your brain may be stuck too. Take a moment to assess whether your symptoms are more in line with a brain that’s stuck in overdrive or a brain that’s stuck off.

WHAT IMAGING SHOWS ABOUT BRAINS THAT ARE STUCK

Understanding what’s happening in the brain is critical in terms of getting help for your symptoms. Here’s why. People with PTSD are often misdiagnosed with traumatic brain injury (TBI) because the 2 conditions share many overlapping symptoms. Similarly, people with trauma-related depression may be misdiagnosed with ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, or even dementia. Getting misdiagnosed means you may be given a treatment plan that isn’t right for your brain. It can stimulate a brain that’s already stuck in overdrive, making you feel even more anxious and on edge. Or, it may further calm a brain that’s already stuck off, making you feel more numb, exhausted, and disoriented. Functional brain SPECT imaging can help. A pair of brain imaging studies from Amen Clinics (published in Plos One and Brain Imaging and Behavior) shows that emotional trauma can leave a lasting imprint on your brain. The study in Plos One found that people with PTSD showed increased in the limbic regions, cingulum, basal ganglia, insula, thalamus, prefrontal cortex, and temporal lobes. And both studies showed that SPECT imaging can distinguish PTSD from TBI with high accuracy. With trauma-related depression, it’s important to differentiate from other mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, as well as other conditions like ADD/ADHD or dementia. Looking at the brain can help you get a more accurate diagnosis.

BALANCE YOUR EMOTIONAL BRAIN

The good news is that if your brain is stuck—either in overdrive or off—you can get it unstuck. And there are many natural ways to help you do it. If your emotional brain seems to be stuck in overdrive, you can calm it with the following: If you feel shut down, you can activate your brain with: When your brain gets unstuck, you’ll be able to move beyond past emotional trauma and feel happier, more motivated, and more at peace. PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues 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 your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk.