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10 Out of the Box Therapies for Mental Health Issues

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Looking for options beyond medication? Explore 10 alternative mental health therapies proven to support brain health and lasting well-being.

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10 Out-of-the-Box Alternative Therapies for Mental Health

For many people living with neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADD/ADHD or mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, treatment often begins with prescription medication or weekly talk therapy. While these approaches can be effective, they don’t work for everyone.

That’s why more patients—and the providers who care for them—are exploring alternative mental health therapies that take a more personalized, whole-brain approach. Decades of brain imaging at Amen Clinics have shown that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to conditions rooted in the brain.

Alternative mental health therapies are approaches that go beyond—or work alongside—medication and traditional talk therapy

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Every brain functions differently, and effective treatment should reflect those individual patterns. By combining innovative technologies with targeted lifestyle strategies, alternative therapies can help address underlying brain imbalances and support lasting improvement—especially for those who haven’t found relief with standard care.

In this blog, we introduce 10 out-of-the-box therapies designed to help you move toward better mental health with greater clarity and confidence.

Why Medication and Traditional Psychotherapy Don’t Work for Everyone

Sometimes, the decision to consider alternative mental health therapy stems from frustration. Not due to lack of effort, but because traditional treatments can fail to help.  Here are some of the most common reasons why traditional treatment options may fall short: 

Why Medication Doesn't Work for Everyone

  • Biological and genetic variability: Based on unique genetics and biology, different people metabolize medicine differently. That explains why a drug can work for one person and be ineffective or cause side effects for another. 
  • Type and severity of the condition: Some conditions happen to be severe, and even though medication is important, it may not address underlying causes or alleviate symptoms on its own. 
  • Side effects and adherence: Some patients experience unpleasant side effects that cause them to stop taking their medication. Some side effects can also reduce the effectiveness of the medicine. 
  • Brain differences. Common disorders like anxiety, depression, and ADD/ADHD manifest in different ways. Clinicians at Amen Clinics have noted seven distinct types of ADD/ADHD, and seven distinct types of anxiety and depression.

Each type requires a tailored approach. For example, a medication that works wonderfully for one type of ADD/ADHD may exacerbate symptoms for another type of ADD/ADHD. Knowing type helps clinicians develop the right plan.

What Are Alternative Mental Health Therapies, and Are They Safe?

Alternative mental health therapies are treatment approaches that complement or go beyond talk therapy or medication. They are based on neuroscience and scientific evidence. 

These therapies can improve your emotional regulation, enhance brain function and build resilience. When providers are able to understand the brain and treat it as a whole system, recovery can be faster and lasting.  

10 Out-of-the-Box Alternative Therapies for Mental Health Issues

Here are 10 of the most powerful therapies worth exploring:

1. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

This non-invasive treatment involves breathing concentrated oxygen in a special pressurized chamber to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

HBOT helps with brain health in several ways, including boosting blood flow and healing the brain after a concussion or other form of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Brain SPECT imaging shows that low blood flow and TBIs have been associated with depression, ADD/ADHD, substance abuse disorder, suicidality, and more.

Related: 11 Ways to Benefit from the Healing Power of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

This psychotherapeutic technique can be especially helpful for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or people who have experienced emotional trauma.

According to research, EMDR involves the use of eye movements or other forms of alternate hemisphere stimulation to eliminate the emotional pain associated with traumatic memories.

Related: What is EMDR therapy

3. Irlen Screening

People who have ADD/ADHD, TBIs, learning disabilities, autism, or other mental health disorders may benefit from screening and treatment of Irlen Syndrome.

This condition is a visual processing problem in which certain colors irritate the brain. Treating this issue has been found to improve focus, reduce anxiety, and boost mood, among other benefits.

4. Neurofeedback

People who have ADD/ADHD, TBIs, learning disabilities, autism, or other mental health disorders may benefit from screening and treatment of Irlen Syndrome.

This condition is a visual processing problem in which certain colors irritate the brain. Treating this issue has been found to improve focus, reduce anxiety, and boost mood, among other benefits.

5. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS)

This interactive treatment uses biofeedback to help you strengthen and retrain your brain.

Using computer technology, the brain receives real-time feedback about its brain wave activity. This feedback essentially teaches the brain to strengthen patterns linked to focus, calm, and emotional control, and reduce patterns associated with stress, anxiety, or inattention.

Ongoing research suggests that therapies like neurofeedback may help regulate your brain activity and potentially reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression.

Related: Neurofeedback for ADHD and Anxiety: A Natural Brain-Based Approach That Lasts

6. Bright Light Therapy

This interactive treatment uses biofeedback to help you strengthen and retrain your brain.

Using computer technology, the brain receives real-time feedback about its brain wave activity. This feedback essentially teaches the brain to strengthen patterns linked to focus, calm, and emotional control, and reduce patterns associated with stress, anxiety, or inattention.

7. Aromatherapy

According to research, certain scents are known to have therapeutic effects, including lavender to help with calming anxiety and supporting mood. Additionally, studies show that ylang ylang promotes calmness and peppermint supports alertness and memory.

The stimulating effects of jasmine can be beneficial for mood, research suggests.  And eucalyptus is well known for its invigorating and uplifting qualities, promoting relaxation, mental clarity, and stress relief, according to research.

8. Nutritional Supplements

Nutritional support can be instrumental in supporting better mental health with much fewer side effects than prescription medication. For example, one of the best supplements for mood is saffron, which has an abundance of research behind it. Knowing your brain type can help you find the supplements that are most beneficial for your needs.  

Brain SPECT imaging reveals areas of the brain that are overactive or underactive and to identify your brain type. Nutraceuticals can be very instrumental in helping to support more balanced brain activity, which translates to better brain function and mental health.

9. Dietary Changes

Many psychiatrists and primary care physicians neglect to inform patients that food can be like medicine or a poison when it comes to mental health. The foods you consume can worsen your psychiatric symptoms or lessen them.

At Amen Clinics, some of the biggest success stories we have come from patients who have changed their diets based on the recommendations from our brain health nutrition coaches.

Generally, a diet low in refined sugar, processed foods and refined carbohydrates—and rich in fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, fermented foods, and healthy fats—supports healthy brain function and a stable mood.  

Other beneficial dietary changes may include going gluten-free, avoiding pesticide-laden foods, and eliminating artificial food coloring like red dye 40.

10. Weight Control

Few professionals in the fields of psychology and psychiatry have made the connection between unhealthy weight issues, mental illness, and cognitive dysfunction.

However, an important brain imaging study on 20,000 patients at Amen Clinics shows that as your weight goes up, the physical size and functioning of your brain go down. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can be a powerful alternative to prescription medication.

Who Benefits from Alternative Mental Health Therapies?

Alternative mental health therapies can largely benefit the following categories of individuals:

  • People who haven’t experienced full relief from traditional talk therapy or medication. 
  • Individuals with treatment-resistant conditions, like ADD/ADHD, chronic anxiety, depression and mood disorders
  • Patients with a history of head trauma, even traumatic brain injury.
  • People who have experienced side effects after using medication and prefer to minimize pharmaceutical use. 
  • Younger children, teenagers, or adults who may need a holistic approach and personalized care

What to Expect During Treatment at Amen Clinics

At the start of your treatment at Amen Clinics, you can expect a thoughtful and well-structured approach that looks beyond your symptoms. Your experience begins with a comprehensive evaluation, as your clinician takes time to gather details about your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle habits, and past treatment experiences. 

What follows is brain SPECT imaging, where the scan reveals the overactive or underactive areas of your brain. This is a highly personalized appointment that clearly explains what may be contributing to your challenges. 

Next, you get a customized treatment plan from your clinician that may include alternative therapies, nutrition and supplement guidance, targeted lifestyle changes, and therapeutic support. You’ll also have ongoing check-ins, progress monitoring, and some adjustments to your treatment plans as your brain function improves. 

Supporting Your Healing Journey with Lifestyle Changes

There are choices you make that can enhance the effectiveness of alternative therapies and support your long-term wellness plan. Here are key lifestyle areas where you have the power to make a difference in your well-being:

Nutritional upgrades –  Consume and abundance of brain-healthy foods mentioned already, and avoid processed foods, alcohol, and sugar. The goal is to have highly nutritious, balanced meals to support healthy blood sugar levels, which helps your brain function and mental health.

Manage stress effectively – Practice stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, journaling, and gratitude practices, as well as gentle daily routines that build calm and stability. 

Better sleep habits – Prioritize healthy sleep by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, limiting screens before bed, and addressing sleep disruptions and disorders. 

Regular physical activity – Engage in exercises to boost your blood flow to the brain, improve your mood and focus, and support overall cognitive health.

Healthy daily structure – Aim to have a balanced daily routine. Take breaks to prevent burnout and overwhelm. Be sure to make time for rest, hobbies, and meaningful connections.

Begin Your Brain-Focused Healing Journey

The brain has an incredible capacity to adapt and heal. The right alternative therapies geared to improving your brain health provide a path to improved mental health.

It’s critical to work in partnership with a qualified mental health professional or medical doctor before making any broad changes, especially to your medication or diet, and prior to starting with nutritional supplements.

FAQ About Alternative Therapies for Mental Health

Alternative mental health therapies are approaches that go beyond—or work alongside—medication and traditional talk therapy. Many are grounded in neuroscience and focus on improving brain function, reducing inflammation, and supporting emotional regulation, focus, and resilience in a more personalized way.


When used appropriately and guided by trained professionals, many alternative therapies are considered safe and evidence-based. It’s important that they’re chosen based on an individual’s health history, symptoms, and brain function rather than used randomly or without professional oversight.

These therapies can be especially helpful for people who haven’t found full relief with medication or psychotherapy, those with treatment-resistant conditions, individuals with a history of head injury, or anyone looking for a more holistic and personalized approach to mental health care.

Amen Clinics embraces both conventional and alternative approaches by first understanding how each person’s brain functions. Through brain SPECT imaging and comprehensive evaluations, clinicians create customized treatment plans that may include medication, therapy, alternative treatments, nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle strategies—ensuring care is tailored to the brain, not just symptoms.

Traumatic brain injuries, treatment-resistant disorders, and other mental health conditions can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we provide personalized, science-backed treatment plans designed to target the root causes of your symptoms. Our 360-approach includes brain SPECT imaging, clinical evaluations, innovative therapeutic techniques, medications (when necessary), and holistic lifestyle recommendations to promote the health of your brain, body, and mind. Speak to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.

Amen Clinics

Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.
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  2. Xia, Z., Yang, P. Y., Chen, S. L., Zhou, H. Y., & Yan, C. (2024). Uncovering the power of neurofeedback: a meta-analysis of its effectiveness in treating major depressive disorders. Cerebral Cortex, 34(6), bhae252. DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhae252
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Divorce is a painful, stressful, and oftentimes traumatic event in the lives of those affected by it. When two people divorce, it commonly leads to anxiety and depression not only for the spouses but also for any children involved. Many people reach out to friends and family to help them work through the pain and learn to live with what has happened. Some seek help from a mental health therapist. This is a normal part of the grieving and recovery process. For some individuals, however, the trauma that they have endured from their divorce reaches so deep it can’t be healed through talk therapy alone. In some cases, it can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For some individuals, the trauma that they have endured from their divorce reaches so deep it can’t be healed through talk therapy alone. In some cases, it can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
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WHEN THE PAIN OF DIVORCE PERSISTS

Talk therapy isn’t always enough to help a person heal from the emotional trauma of divorce. This was the case for Jane, a 56-year-old woman who had divorced from her husband 18 years earlier. Even though she had seen more than one mental health counselor, she was still suffering from the wounds of her divorce. It felt as if no time had passed at all. “I had been suffering from a lot of anxiety, depression, and nagging, repetitive thoughts since then,” said Jane when she visited Amen Clinics for a more complete evaluation. “Those old tapes played over and over in my head.” Jane had seen multiple mental health therapists over the years, trying to get to the root of why she couldn’t move past the pain of her divorce nearly two decades later. She felt stuck in life, unable to move forward with her life even though she desperately wanted to heal. Jane had already tried talk therapy as well as emotion focused therapy (EFT)—also called emotionally focused therapy—without getting the results she wanted. “If they had told me that to feel better, I should stand on my head and spin around,” Jane said, “I would have given that a try as well!”

HOW DIVORCE CAN LEAD TO PTSD

Finally, one of Jane’s therapists recommended looking at her pain through a new lens and suggested that she might have PTSD. Most people think that PTSD only occurs to military veterans who have seen combat, but that’s not the case. There are many nonviolent causes of PTSD. PTSD is associated with severe anxiety following a traumatic event, although it is not considered an anxiety disorder, according to experts. PTSD symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, emotional numbness, insomnia, and, in Jane’s case, uncontrollable thoughts about the event. PTSD can be a complex and sometimes confusing disorder. While two people may experience the same exact trauma, it isn’t a guarantee that both will later suffer from PTSD. Certain risk factors such as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), past trauma, and a family history of clinical depression may make a person more susceptible to the disorder. As soon as Jane’s therapist suggested that she might have PTSD, she immediately began researching the disorder on her own. Most people affected with PTSD spend years trying to come to terms with the traumatic event that happened to them. “I consider myself a lifelong learner (meaning I read a lot) and so after coming across Dr. Amen on my local PBS channel, I ordered his books and read them all,” said Jane. “They made a lot of sense, so I investigated his clinics and what could be done for PTSD.” That’s when Jane decided to contact Amen Clinics and schedule an appointment. Jane’s comprehensive evaluation included a deep dive into the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of her life. She also took a sophisticated neuropsychological test that assesses cognitive, emotional, and intellectual functioning. In addition, she underwent a brain SPECT scan. This functional brain-imaging technology measures blood flow and activity in the brain. It shows areas of the brain with healthy activity, as well as areas that are either working too hard or not hard enough. Like most people with PTSD, Jane’s SPECT scan showed overactivity in several brain regions, including the following: Seeing her brain scans helped Jane understand that her PTSD symptoms were not due to some personal failure, but rather related to biological issues in her brain. This knowledge helped minimize the shame and guilt she felt for not being able to move past her divorce. Based on all of these assessments, Jane was diagnosed with PTSD related to her divorce.

NEUROFEEDBACK THERAPY FOR PTSD TREATMENT

As part of a personalized treatment program, Jane began neurofeedback therapy sessions and quickly began to feel relief. Neurofeedback is a non-invasive treatment that provides moment-to-moment feedback on physiological functioning. Several scientific studies have found that neurofeedback is beneficial for PTSD. Some research suggests that certain forms of neurofeedback should be part of standard treatment for trauma survivors. It focuses specifically on the central nervous system and the brain. This means that while the patient is experiencing an emotion, feedback is given about their physical systems such as heart and respiratory rates. This connection is then used to teach the patient about control while at the same time fostering a better understanding of the impact of their emotions on their physical selves. “I could notice gradual changes in my racing thoughts and depression,” said Jane. “But the real winning component in doing feedback is that I became anxiety-free.” Jane, who is now in recovery from PTSD, said it best, “It is such a gift to be free from all of those symptoms and to be relaxed and looking forward to life.” If you’re suffering from emotional trauma related to a divorce or breakup, it may be worth investigating if neurofeedback can help you regain emotional well-being. PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues 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. Content updated from previous publish date. Our brains are hubs of electrical activity. At any moment of the day or night, electrical impulses are sparking signals between neurons, allowing communication that enables us to live our lives. When the brain is healthy, the electrical activity keeps the proverbial lights balanced, so various regions can communicate quickly and effectively. When the brain isn’t operating optimally, electrical activity can flicker, fade, or intensify. In some people, this is associated with ADD/ADHD symptoms such as inattention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, distractibility, and procrastination. The good news is, that you can retrain the brain to balance electrical signaling and improve ADD/ADHD symptoms with a non-invasive therapy called neurofeedback. You can retrain the brain to balance electrical signaling and improve ADD/ADHD symptoms with a non-invasive therapy called neurofeedback.
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For anyone who is looking for natural ADD/ADHD treatments other than stimulant medication, neurofeedback may be beneficial, offering benefits that continue to persist well beyond each treatment session. And while stimulants are associated with a number of side effects, such as irritability, anxiety, headaches, decreased appetite, stomachaches, and trouble sleeping, neurofeedback has none of these negative side effects.

WHAT IS NEUROFEEDBACK?

Simply stated, neurofeedback, also called brainwave biofeedback, is a noninvasive therapy that measures brainwave activity in real time to help a person modulate brainwaves to achieve a desired brain state. There are 5 main types of brainwaves:
  1. Delta waves: very slow brainwaves, seen mainly during sleep
  2. Theta waves: slow brainwaves, seen during daydreaming and twilight states
  3. Alpha waves: brainwaves seen during relaxed states
  4. SMR (sensorimotor rhythm) waves: brainwaves seen during states of focused relaxation
  5. Beta waves: fast brainwaves seen during concentration or mental work states
Basically, neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that lets people gain control over brain processes that are typically involuntary. By learning greater self-regulation over brain functions, people can optimize brain patterns until they become automatic. Neurofeedback allows adults and children to retrain their brain function to address certain mental health symptoms, such as ADD/ADHD, and achieve improvements in behaviors, emotions, and learning.

BENEFITS OF NEUROFEEDBACK

According to research in Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, people who have engaged in neurofeedback therapy have reported numerous benefits, including

RESEARCH ON NEUROFEEDBACK FOR ADHD

For decades, clinicians have been reporting the effectiveness of this natural and non-invasive process for treating ADD/ADHD. A growing body of research confirms that neurofeedback can be effective for ADD/ADHD, as well as other psychiatric, behavioral, and learning disorders. Studies point to neurofeedback as a promising treatment for issues such as depression, addictions, schizophrenia, insomnia, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, anxiety, and memory problems. The American Academy of Pediatrics has approved neurofeedback as a “Level 1: Best Support” intervention for childhood ADD/ADHD. This indicates that adequate studies with sufficient sample sizes have been completed showing that neurofeedback is an effective and safe treatment for ADD/ADHD. For example, a quantitative review published in 2020 looked at systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and multi-center randomized controlled trials. It concluded that neurofeedback is a well-established treatment protocol with remission rates of 32%-47% and results are sustained after 6-12 months. One systematic review of 9 studies appearing in a 2021 issue of the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that neurofeedback therapy resulted in improvements in behavior, sustained attention, and impulse control in individuals with ADD/ADHD. Another systematic review in a 2019 issue of European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry reported positive effects on hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.

HOW DOES NEUROFEEDBACK WORK?

Neurofeedback therapy takes place in the presence of a qualified professional and involves EEG technology and a computer.
  1. Getting equipped. Neurofeedback sessions typically begin by outfitting the patient with a cap, headband, or helmet that is equipped with electrodes that are attached to the scalp. These sensors evaluate the brain’s electrical signals and brainwave patterns and transmit the information to a computer.
  2. Participating in a computer-based activity. During the session, the patient—child, teen, or adult—may be asked to play a video game, watch a movie, or engage in some other activity using the computer screen. A trained therapist monitors the activity and maps your brainwave patterns in comparison to the optimal state the patient is attempting to achieve.
  3. Getting feedback. In real-time, the computer provides cues to the patient on how the brain is functioning. These cues allow the patient to respond in ways that help the brain reach the desired state. If the patient gets distracted, the computer provides feedback encouraging the patient to re-focus their attention on the activity.
  4. Earning rewards. When the brain responds in the desired way, the computer software delivers on-screen rewards.
  5. Repeating sessions. To gain long-lasting benefits, neurofeedback therapy involves multiple sessions. The number you (or your child) will need depends on your condition and individual needs.

LASTING BENEFITS OF NEUROFEEDBACK FOR ADD/ADHD

Over time, children and adults with ADD/ADHD can literally retrain their brains to function more optimally, and naturally. Neurofeedback therapy is powerful, in part, because the patient becomes an active part of their healing by gaining more control over their own physiological processes. ADD/ADHD and other mental health issues 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. Content updated from previous publish date. Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also called attention deficit disorder (ADDD) is a national health crisis that continues to grow. Even though it is now being diagnosed more frequently than ever, it remains one of the most misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and incorrectly treated illnesses of our day. Prescription medication is the traditional default treatment for ADD/ADHD, but it is NOT the only treatment. There are many ways to manage this condition without medication. Here are 5 natural solutions for ADD/ADHD you need to know. Prescription medication is the traditional default treatment for ADD/ADHD, but it is NOT the only treatment. There are many ways to manage this condition without medication.
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THE PROBLEM WITH ADD/ADHD MEDICATIONS

Medication is one of the most common treatment methods for people with ADD/ADHD. About 62% of kids ages 2-17 with ADD/ADHD take medication for the condition, according to statistics in a 2018 study. Among adults with ADHD, the rate of those taking medication hovers around 33%. Kids and adults are often put on powerful stimulant medications in short office visits without any biological information. While medication may help some people with the condition, it doesn’t help everyone, and it can make some people worse. Taking medication for a mental health issue such as ADD/ADHD should never be the first or only thing you do. Healing ADD/ADHD requires a more comprehensive approach that includes a host of natural solutions.

ADD/ADHD TREATMENT WITHOUT MEDICATION

Here are 5 effective interventions that can help ADD symptoms without using medication:

1. Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback is a specialized treatment that uses advanced computer technology to help balance and optimize the brain. During each session, you (or your child) play a video game using just your brain. It’s a fun, interactive, and engaging treatment that helps strengthen and retrain the brain to achieve a healthier, more focused state. Using real-time displays of brain activity, neurofeedback for ADD/ADHD helps you learn how to regulate your own brain function.

2. Nutrition

A nutritional intervention can be especially helpful for those with ADD/ADHD. A higher-protein, lower-carbohydrate diet that is relatively high in healthy fats can be beneficial in reducing symptoms. This diet has a stabilizing effect on blood sugar levels and helps with both energy levels and concentration. Unfortunately, the Standard American Diet is filled with some of the worst foods for ADD/ADHD. Many popular food items, including high-glycemic snacks and treats lower dopamine levels in the brain and make it harder to concentrate. Dopamine is typically low in people with ADD/ADHD and eating foods that decrease it further can have a negative impact on symptoms.

3. Ask Yourself, “Then What?”

For anyone with ADD/ADHD, the two most important words in the English language are: “Then what?” In other words, “If I do this, then what will happen?” and “If I say this, then what will happen?” For example, “When I eat 3 chocolate doughnuts, skip the gym, get really drunk on the weekends, or call my husband a jerk, then what will happen? Do any of these behaviors help me achieve what I want for my life or help me with my goals?” Clearly, they do not! According to research in the book The Longevity Project, the people who live longest and achieve great success are the most conscientious. They know what they want and then they act in consistent ways over time to get it. This can be a unique challenge for those with ADD/ADHD because they often struggle with impulse control. Put up these two words where you can see them every day: Then what? and practice using them.

4. Exercise

Physical activity increases blood flow to all parts of the body, including the prefrontal cortex in the brain, which is particularly beneficial to those with ADD/ADHD. In people without ADD/ADHD, concentration typically increases blood flow and activity in the prefrontal cortex. However, the brain SPECT imaging work at Amen Clinics shows that when people with this condition try to concentrate, activity in this area of the brain decreases, making it harder to stay focused. Exercise also increases the availability of serotonin in the brain, which has a tendency to calm hyperactivity. At Amen Clinics, the psychiatrists have seen a direct relationship between the level of exercise a person gets and the severity of their ADD/ADHD symptoms. In general, aerobic exercises that get the heart pumping and cause you to break a sweat are best for people with ADD/ADHD. Play a recreational sport like table tennis, basketball, or pickleball. Swim, ride a bike (always wear a helmet to protect your brain), or simply walk at a fast pace for 30 to 45 minutes 4-7 days a week.

5. Meditation

Decades of research have shown that meditation can calm stress, enhance brain function, and benefit those with ADD/ADHD. Learning to meditate is easy—even kids can do it. Whether at home or at work, find a quiet spot where you can sit comfortably, then gently close your eyes and focus on your breathing. When your thoughts drift away (which they will), simply draw your attention back to your breathing. Start with just a few minutes and work up to 10, 15, or 20 minutes if you can. Make a meditation practice part of your life and watch your brain function improve.

FINDING NATURAL SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR ADD/ADHD TYPE

Did you know that ADD/ADHD is not just a single and simple disorder? The brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics—more than 225,000 brain scans—has helped identify 7 types of ADD/ADHD. Each type has unique symptoms and requires a targeted treatment plan. Giving everybody with ADD/ADHD the same treatments invites failure and frustration. Knowing your type (or your child’s type) is critical to finding the natural solutions that work most effectively for you. ADD/ADHD and other mental health issues 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. Perhaps you’re one of the many people worldwide who, at the midpoint in your journey of life, have found yourself suddenly “within a forest dark, for the straightforward pathway had been lost,” to quote the great Italian writer Dante Alighieri. If so, the question before you may be: Are you depressed, or are you just having a midlife crisis? It’s not uncommon for anyone between the ages of roughly 40 and 60 to experience uncomfortable feelings associated with one or both. Finding the answer may require navigating a bit of nuance, for while depression can serve as a handmaiden to a midlife crisis, that is not always the case. In fact, the two states are not one and the same. While a midlife crisis is a form of identity crisis that calls for a jolt of new thinking, depression is a brain-based condition that may require comprehensive treatment.
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WHAT IS DEPRESSION?

Depression is a brain-based disorder, which can be characterized by some or all of the following symptoms: It’s not a state that anyone should have to endure, unaddressed, whether at the midpoint in life or at any other age. Decades of clinical practice at Amen Clinics have shown that treatments, including talk therapy, physical exercise, diet, natural supplements, bright light therapy, neurofeedback, and medication (when necessary), may be beneficial for depressive symptoms. Additional treatments include transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy, an FDA-approved treatment that does not involve drugs and is non-invasive. The brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics has also found that depression is not one single or simple disorder; there are multiple types. Knowing your type of depression can be helpful in finding the most effective treatments for you.

WHAT IS A MIDLIFE CRISIS?

By contrast, a midlife crisis is a form of identity crisis in which a person judges their own life path and selfhood as inadequate. It may feature a creeping or sudden: If depression is part of the bargain, then the treatment methods cited above can help. But addressing the thoughts driving a midlife crisis may call for some counterintuitive thinking to help you refresh your perspective.

RETHINKING YOUR LIFE IN A MIDLIFE CRISIS

“The death dragon,” as Dr. Amen puts it, “is always with us. As a psychiatrist for 40 years now, I’ve seen midlife crises over and over and over again.” To wrangle with this inner “mental” dragon, Dr. Amen urges patients not to shy away from the prospect of their own demise, but to face it head-on, as he did when he was in college. At that relatively young age, Dr. Amen wrote out the script to his own funeral and has used it to guide his life ever since. “I reverse-engineered my life,” Dr. Amen says, citing the pioneering work of psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross as an inspiration. “She said it is the denial of death that is responsible for people living empty, purposeless lives because when you think you are going to live forever you don’t take care of the things you must do today.” By contrast, people who live as though they could die imminently tend to live in the moment, he says. Those who address their midlife crises—and their mortality—head-on can launch themselves into a golden era of renewed passion and transformation. The period of reassessment during that fabled midpoint can produce change that is both surprising and welcome. Long is the list of artists and innovators whose most fertile periods began later in life. The famed chef Julia Child made her television debut at age 51 after publishing her first cookbook at age 49. Bram Stoker published his masterwork “Dracula” at age 50.

HOW TO OVERCOME A MIDLIFE CRISIS

To reassess at the midpoint of life consider taking some of the following actions: Above all, stick it out. While several studies have described the despair that besets many people between the middle years of 40 to 60, other research has found that people over the age of 60 say they’ve never felt better. Depression and other mental health issues 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. The human brain is the most amazing organ in the universe with billions of neurons communicating with each other every second of every day. To spark this connectivity, rapid electrical impulses stimulate the brain’s neurons into action. The brain is constantly humming with electrical activity, and in fact, it is estimated that the brain generates about 12-25 watts of electricity. But just like a light bulb can flicker, the brain doesn’t always operate optimally. Emotional trauma, stress, lack of focus, anxiety, depression, memory problems, and more are associated with brain problems. Fortunately, there is a well-researched, non-invasive, medication-free treatment that can help. It’s called neurofeedback, and it allows you to optimize your brain to enhance emotional, behavioral, and cognitive health. Neurofeedback allows you to optimize your brain to enhance emotional, behavioral, and cognitive health.
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WHAT IS NEUROFEEDBACK?

Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that helps you learn to retrain your brain in real-time. This technique is based on the brain’s electrical activity and involves the use of an encephalogram (EEG) to assess brainwave activity. Brainwaves are created from the electrical activity of large collectives of neurons communicating with each other, similar to the way a school of fish swims in a wavelike fashion in the ocean. Brainwaves offer valuable information regarding overall brain function, such as stress levels, emotions, and thinking patterns. Scientists have identified the following 5 primary brainwave frequencies: Neurofeedback provides an interactive way to attain a healthier, more balanced state of mind depending on your needs. Whether you need to activate your brain or calm it down, neurofeedback can help you do it. The changes it produces in the brain are long-term.

BENEFITS OF NEUROFEEDBACK

People who have undergone neurofeedback have reported improvements in numerous aspects of life. A 2016 review on the science supporting neurofeedback points to evidence showing benefits such as: Because neurofeedback provides so many benefits, it can be helpful for people of all ages whether it is being used as a solo therapy or as an adjunct to a comprehensive treatment plan.

NEUROFEEDBACK FOR PSYCHIATRIC ISSUES AND MORE

Decades of research point to benefits of neurofeedback for a variety of psychiatric, cognitive, and behavioral issues, including: Other clinical issues that have been found to have positive benefits from neurofeedback include behavioral disorders, phobias, schizophrenia, sleep problems, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

HOW NEUROFEEDBACK WORKS

Neurofeedback is a unique therapy in that you play an active role in the process to heal and optimize your brain. This technological treatment centers around the use of advanced computer technology, specifically, a computerized video game that you play using your mind. Electrodes placed on the scalp measure your brainwave activity as you play the game. When your brainwaves reach the desired state during game play, you get on-screen rewards. If brainwaves aren’t where they should be, the computer acts as a coach to help you reach the optimal state. The training helps you learn to self-regulate your brain, and the benefits last long after the session ends. Gaining better control over your own brain function can be helpful in so many aspects of daily life, including at work, at school, at home, and in relationships. Anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, which offers neurofeedback therapy, 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. Feeling more depressed and anxious these days? Join the club. The numbers of people feeling blue and nervous are skyrocketing. In fact, research shows that from August 2020 to February 2021, the percentage of American adults reporting symptoms of major depressive disorder or an anxiety disorder jumped from 36.4% to 41.5%. For most people, it’s a double whammy as anxiety and depression occur together 75% of the time, according to brain SPECT imaging findings at Amen Clinics.   Anxiety and depression occur together 75% of the time, according to brain SPECT imaging findings at Amen Clinics.
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To overcome low moods and anxiousness, many people turn to antidepressants or anti-anxiety pills, or both. But prescription medications aren’t the only way to decrease depression and anxiety. Here are 10 science-backed natural solutions that can boost moods and calm anxiety.

10 NATURAL WAYS TO HELP ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

1. Eat more veggies and fruits.

Mom was right when she told you to eat your veggies. A 2020 systematic review concluded that higher consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with greater overall mental health, including improvements in both depression and anxiety.

2. Eliminate processed and artificial foods.

You have to eat right to feel right. This means ditching unhealthy, fake foods that drive depression and anxiety. A 2019 French study found that as consumption of ultra-processed foods go up, so does depression. Research in Nutritional Neuroscience suggests there is a link between the artificial sweetener aspartame and several neurophysiological symptoms, including anxiety and depression.

3. Say “om.”

A Johns Hopkins review of existing scientific research shows that meditating for 30 minutes a day has beneficial effects on symptoms of both anxiety and depression.

4. Practice prayer.

Prayer can have a powerful and long-lasting effect on depression and anxiety. According to a 2012 study, depressed and anxious people who participated in an intervention involving 1-hour prayer sessions for 6 weeks saw a significant reduction in their symptoms as well as an increase in optimism. Even more promising, the positive improvements were maintained a year after the completion of the prayer intervention.

5. Breathe.

You may be aware that deep breathing promotes relaxation and reduces stress, but did you know it can also improve depression and anxiety? A 2016 study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that a yogic breathing practice helped fight treatment-resistant depression (people who did not respond fully to medication treatment), and it also lowered anxiety symptoms. This breathing technique centers on alternating between slow, calm breaths and fast, stimulating breaths.

6. Kill the ANTs.

Automatic negative thoughts (ANTs) infest your mind and fuel blue moods, anxiousness, and stress. Whenever you feel sad, mad, nervous, or out of control, write down what you’re thinking. Then, use an elegantly simple yet powerful strategy to challenge your thoughts developed by Byron Katie and ask yourself, “Is it true?” Chances are, you’ll find that these intrusive thoughts aren’t true at all.

7. Get moving.

Physical activity lifts moods and eases anxiousness. Research in the International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine points to exercise as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate depression and as an effective alternative treatment for anxiety disorders.

8. Add saffron to your daily supplements.

Scientific evidence supports the use of nutraceuticals to promote healthy moods and relaxation. One supplement that has positive effects on both anxiousness and depression is saffron, according to a 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis. The review authors suggest that “saffron could be an effective intervention for symptoms of depression and anxiety,” however, they add that more trials are necessary.

9. Optimize omega-3 levels.

Another key nutritional supplement that does double duty is omega-3 fatty acids. A 2018 study in JAMA Open Network found that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids improves symptoms of clinical anxiety. Similarly, findings from a 2019 meta-analysis point to the beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids on symptoms of depression. You can check your omega-3 levels by taking the Omega-3 Index blood test.

10. Try neurofeedback.

Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback that assesses brainwave activity in real-time and helps you gain control of your brainwaves to reach a desired brain state. A 2017 review shows that neurofeedback has the potential to treat both depression and anxiety. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues 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. By Amar Chakra, MD While many professions consider attention-deficit disorder (ADD), also known as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a straightforward condition to treat, the nuances of this common condition are extremely complex. Prescription stimulants and nutritional supplements are commonly used in the treatment of the disorder, but they are not the only solutions. Outside of medications and nutraceuticals, there are a number of technological tools and interventions that are beneficial for most individuals with ADD/ADHD.

Here are 6 ways technology can help in the diagnosis and treatment of ADD/ADHD.

1. Brain SPECT imaging

Have you ever wondered why some individuals respond incredibly well to stimulant medications or supplements, while others seem to become more anxious, depressed, or irritable? SPECT imaging shows that ADD/ADHD is not one thing, that there are a variety of brain patterns associated with it. The brain imaging work at Amen Clinics has helped identify 7 types of ADD/ADHD, including classic, inattentive, over-focused, temporal lobe, limbic, anxious, and the “ring of fire.” These individual types of ADD/ADHD require their own unique treatments to achieve optimal results. Getting the right diagnosis is the key to getting the most effective treatment plan.

2. Neurofeedback

This non-invasive form of biofeedback has been shown to improve attention in those with ADD/ADHD. With neurofeedback, individuals learn to train their brains to produce healthy brainwave patterns, activating areas that need greater stimulation and calming areas that are overactive.

3. Exercise apps

Aerobic exercise helps boost blood flow and dopamine in the brain, which has been shown to help with impulsivity, a common symptom seen in people with ADD/ADHD. Using any type of fitness app that enhances motivation to exercise or tracks fitness goals can be beneficial.

4. Diet trackers

Individuals with ADD/ADHD tend to function better when adhering to a diet that is higher in protein and healthy fats and lower in carbohydrates. However, the impulsivity that is common in this condition often makes people mindlessly reach for foods that exacerbate symptoms. Using any of a number of diet apps to track daily consumption may help these people be more mindful of what they eat and stick with their healthy eating plan.

5. Meditation apps

Studied extensively for decades, meditation can improve focus and helps balance the brains of those with ADD/ADHD. There are several apps that can help build a meditation practice, including Insight Timer, Headspace, and 10% Happier. Encourage those with ADD/ADHD to try a few different apps to find one they like best.

6. Calendar reminders, alerts, and notes apps

People with ADD/ADHD have a tendency to be late for appointments and typically have trouble with organization. Having sticky notes scattered everywhere or having a messy desk means people will likely have a hard time finding important documents and reminders. To help those with this condition stay on time and get organized, recommend online calendar apps and notes apps. Getting alerts on the phone or notifications on a computer screen about upcoming appointments and meetings can be so helpful on a daily basis. And using a notes app helps disorganized people keep everything in one place for easy retrieval.

About the Author: Amar Chakra, MD, Amen Clinics Atlanta

Dr. Amar Chakra is a board-certified psychiatrist at Amen Clinics with a special interest in childhood and adult ADD/ADHD, as well as child and adolescent sports psychiatry, cross-cultural psychiatry, and early-onset psychosis. To make an appointment with Dr. Chakra or to make a referral, contact us at 888-288-9834 or on our website here. Joey, age 9, struggled with hyperactivity, restlessness, impulse control problems, inattention, and distractibility. His pediatrician had suggested trying a couple of different medications but Joey’s mother was interested in trying alternative treatments first. She had heard about our work with neurofeedback and wanted an alternative to medication. Joey did neurofeedback twice a week and we quickly began seeing significant changes, including less hyperactivity and longer ability to focus. After he stopped the neurofeedback he continued to do well in school and at home.

WHAT IS NEUROFEEDBACK?

Neurofeedback is a specialized treatment that uses advanced computer technology for balancing and optimizing your brain. It is a fun, interactive and engaging treatment that helps you strengthen and retrain your brain to a healthier, more focused state. Using real-time displays of brain activity, you can learn how to self-regulate your brain function. Monica, age 17, came to the clinic for problems with anxiety, worrying, temper outbursts, poor school performance, and oppositional behavior. She had been in psychotherapy for two years, which seemed to help her temper problems but not her oppositional behavior or school performance. Additionally, she had tried two different medications but she did not like the side effects. When she learned about neurofeedback she liked the idea of learning how to control her own brain. We did neurofeedback twice a week and within the first month she noticed less worrying. By the end of 6 months she felt more focused, less anxious, and overall more cooperative, which her family validated. Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of neurofeedback to improve many conditions including:

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NEUROFEEDBACK?

Patients report enhanced memory and focus, decreased impulsivity and anxiety, better mental clarity, more restful sleep, improved mood, and a host of other benefits after using neurofeedback without side effects! In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics named neurofeedback a “Level 1: ‘Best Support’ intervention for ADD/ADHD, on par with medication.” The effects and benefits of training last long after the training itself has stopped. Because the brain has actually learned (or relearned) a more efficient way of performing, it will continue in this way as new pathways in the brain are created, thus making lasting change the path of least effort.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

With neurofeedback, YOU become an active part of your brain’s healing.  You will play a video game using just your brain—it’s fun! Here’s how it works: electrodes are placed on your head to measure electrical activity in your brain (this is painless, non-invasive, and safe for people of all ages). Then, you will play some games that require concentration. At the same time, you will be able to view your brain activity on a computer monitor. A clinician will show you how to interpret the activity: which patterns mean your brain is engaged and which patterns mean your brain is less engaged. You CAN change your brain and change your life. Amen Clinics can help. To learn more about neurofeedback strategies or to schedule an appointment, contact the Amen Clinics Care Center today at 888-288-9834.