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Change your brain, change your life. It’s the concept Daniel G. Amen, MD, first introduced in his mega-bestselling book of the same name. The idea of improving brain health to help overcome symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, memory problems, and more has inspired millions of people around the world to adopt better daily habits. The result for many of them? Feeling happier, calmer, more focused, and sharper. But they often wonder just how much the brain can physically improve in a short amount of time. That’s what Jeff Wittek, a superstar YouTuber with over 3 million subscribers, wanted to know. And it’s why he got a follow-up brain SPECT scan 6 months after his first one. It revealed some very interesting findings.

JEFF WITTEK: BEFORE-TREATMENT BRAIN SCANS

In 2020, Wittek experienced a terrible accident in a stunt gone wrong that not only left him with serious injuries to his eye and face but also had a negative impact on his mental health. It left him feeling depressed, anxious, and lost. In May 2021, Wittek visited Amen Clinics and filmed an episode of Scan My Brain. During the visit, the YouTuber had a brain SPECT scan to evaluate his brain function and find out why his mental health was suffering. His brain scan showed that the accident had damaged his brain by reducing blood flow, especially in the frontal lobes, and had increased activity in the emotional and anxiety centers of the brain. Low blood flow in the frontal lobes is associated with problems with forethought, judgment, decision-making, and impulse control. Too much activity in the emotional brain is linked to depression and anxiety. He walked away from the consultation with recommendations to improve his anxiety and to heal depression after a head injury and started implementing them in his life. In an effort to improve his brain health and his psychological well-being, Wittek engaged in hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), started taking nutritional supplements, and began killing the ANTs (automatic negative thoughts) that infested his mind. How much would it help, he wondered?

JEFF WITTEK: AFTER-TREATMENT BRAIN SCANS

Fast forward 6 months. Wittek returned to Amen Clinics for a follow-up SPECT scan to evaluate his progress. In a new episode of Scan My Brain, he says he feels happier and is doing much better. These days, he rates his mood as an 8 out of 10 (on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being best) compared to a 4 just half a year ago. Even better, he says his brighter moods are shining through in his YouTube videos and getting better responses from his viewers. After 6 months of following Dr. Amen’s brain-healthy recommendations, Wittek’s whole outlook has shifted. “I wake up with a purpose…a sense of this is what life’s about more than just stupid jokes,” says Wittek. “I’m still going to do the stupid jokes, but I feel like I’m back to myself.” After 6 months of following Dr. Amen’s brain-healthy recommendations, YouTuber Jeff Wittek says, “I feel like I’m back to myself.”
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Wittek says one of Dr. Amen’s recommendations has been particularly helpful. “Something you said to me last time stuck with me, and I’ve been using it, and I think it’s really helped me out,” he says. Wittek’s talking about killing the ANTs. He says he’ll hear something that in the past might have gotten him riled up, but now he recognizes the thought is just an ANT. “I don’t waste my energy on something that’s out of my control,” he says. Instead, he takes that energy and tries to use it in a productive way. Feeling better is one thing. Wittek wanted to see if his brain was better too. His follow-up SPECT scans didn’t disappoint. The overactivity in the emotional and anxiety centers of the brain was much calmer, which is associated with less depression and anxiousness. In his frontal lobes, where blood flow was too low on his previous scan, the blood flow had improved, which is linked to better decision-making, judgment, and planning.

WITH THE BRAIN, THERE’S ALWAYS ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT

Even though Wittek’s brain function showed improvement, there is room for further optimization. Wittek admits to a few bad habits that aren’t helping his brain, such as smoking marijuana and boxing. If he can curtail these habits, it will help his brain heal even faster, according to Dr. Amen. The most surprising thing Wittek has experienced in his post-accident journey back to brain health and mental health is how people have reacted to his story. After sharing the truth about his injuries and his efforts to get healthy, he has become a motivational and inspirational figure to people. It’s not something he ever anticipated. In fact, he admits, “I used to make fun of those guys… but it’s given me a purpose.” With a purpose and a plan, brain health is more attainable than ever. And as follow-up brain SPECT scans show, it can happen quickly when you stick to the recommendations. Getting a follow-up SPECT scan can often provide the motivation needed to stay on track and keep improving. Depression, anxiety, head injuries, 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. Do you struggle to pay attention? Have trouble retaining important information? Put off big projects in favor of menial tasks? You may think this sounds like attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is also called attention-deficit disorder (ADD). But ADHD isn’t the only cause of attention problems. A host of other issues can sometimes be at the root of inattention, forgetfulness, and procrastination.     ADHD isn’t the only cause of attention problems. A host of other issues—such as anxiousness, stress, or lack of sleep—can sometimes be at the root of inattention, forgetfulness, and procrastination.
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That’s what chef and wellness expert Radhi Devlukia-Shetty discovered when she visited Amen Clinics with her husband Jay Shetty. The couple wanted to see their brain SPECT scans so they could learn how to optimize their brains for ultimate health and well-being. In an episode of Scan My Brain with Daniel Amen, MD, Devlukia-Shetty says that her mind can be very creative, but structure, attention, and focus can be difficult. She has trouble starting on projects unless there’s a deadline approaching. In addition, she says that “names won’t stay in my mind” and wants to improve her recall. Although these are some of the characteristics seen in people with ADHD, the wellness influencer’s brain scan and psychological assessment did not indicate this condition. According to Dr. Amen, when people who don’t have ADHD but who experience issues of inattention, forgetfulness, or procrastination, there are likely other issues at play.

INATTENTION AND ANXIOUSNESS

In some cases, anxiousness can get in the way of paying attention, processing memories or tackling a big project. On brain SPECT scans, anxiousness is often associated with a “busy brain”—meaning there is heightened activity in the brain’s emotional centers. People with a busy brain tend to overthink things, feel restless, and can have trouble concentrating. In addition, anxiousness can interfere with the memory-making process, making it harder to recall people’s names, what’s on your grocery list, or the details of that vacation you took as a teenager. When it comes to working on a complex project, such as creating a new product, writing a book, or delivering a speech, anxiety can throw you off track. Having trouble making decisions, which is common among anxious people, can make it hard to know where to start. And when a project is so big that it makes you feel angst, you’re more likely to put it off rather than diving in. These issues may resemble symptoms of ADHD even though they are unrelated to the condition.

HOW STRESS IMPACTS FOCUS

We live in a stressful world. For some people, that stress builds up and impacts brain function in a negative way. This can lead to symptoms—such as restlessness, distraction, and inattention—that look like ADHD but have nothing to do with the disorder. Having chronic stress also negatively impacts areas of the brain involved in memory formation. In some people, however, a little bit of stress can be a powerful motivator. Take Devlukia-Shetty, for instance. She says she performs best when under pressure. “When there’s a deadline, I can get things done and focus,” she says.

MOOD ISSUES AND CONCENTRATION

The energetic and bubbly Devlukia-Shetty does not grapple with low moods, but many people who do struggle with blue moods have trouble concentrating. Depression is linked to focus problems, forgetfulness, low motivation, and low energy—all issues also seen in ADHD.

THE SLEEP-ATTENTION CONNECTION

Sleep issues can have a powerful impact on the ability to pay attention, learn new things, or recall facts and events. For Devlukia-Shetty, who’s a good sleeper, this isn’t an issue. For others, however, not getting enough shut-eye produces ADHD-like symptoms. A lack of adequate sleep decreases blood flow to the brain, which disrupts concentration and memory while lowering energy and motivation.

WHAT’S STEALING YOUR ATTENTION?

Discovering what’s behind an inability to pay attention or focus is the key to finding the right solutions. Anxiousness, stress, low moods, and disrupted sleep can all contribute to inattention, forgetfulness, and procrastination. Brain SPECT imaging, which looks at how the brain functions is one way to gain a better understanding of what’s causing your symptoms. ADHD, 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. As a society, we tend to look down on mental health problems and focus solely on the negative aspects of these issues. One psychiatrist at Amen Clinics says that’s the wrong approach. In fact, according to Daniel Emina, MD, in some instances, it’s better to think of specific challenges as superpowers. In an episode of Scan My Brain with Derek Clark, a motivational speaker known as the “Rapping Dad,” Dr. Emina explains why people with certain psychiatric issues are like superheroes. Before delving into this superhero concept, let’s look at how Clark went from being an emotional wreck to finding his superpowers.   In a session with Derek Clark, a motivational speaker known as the “Rapping Dad,” Dr. Emina explains why people with certain psychiatric issues are like superheroes.
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How Trauma Ignites the Emotional Brain

As a child, Clark experienced horrific abuse and emotional distress prior to being abandoned at age 5. Growing up in the foster care system, he struggled with extreme anxiety, had learning disabilities, displayed aggression, and couldn’t concentrate. Filled with emotional stress, he withdrew from reality. Psychological assessments left him misdiagnosed and labeled in ways that negatively impacted his self-esteem. For many years, Clark lived with anger, bitterness, resentment, rage, and sadness related to his upbringing. In 2021, Clark wanted to see how that childhood emotional trauma may have affected his brain, so he visited Amen Clinics for a brain SPECT scan. SPECT is a functional brain imaging tool that looks at blood flow and activity. SPECT reveals 3 important factors about the brain—areas with healthy activity, too little activity, and too much activity. Like many people who experience trauma, Clark’s SPECT scan showed increased activity in the emotional centers of the brain. Overactivity in this brain region makes people more vulnerable to anxiety, depression, panic attacks, negativity, worry, and obsessive thoughts. Seeing his brain scan helped Clark gain a better understanding of himself. He says it’s like “I’ve been emotionally fighting against my brain—fighting my thoughts, fighting my worries, fighting my stress, fighting my anxiety.” That’s how many trauma survivors feel as if they’re battling their automatic thoughts and feelings.

Turning Pain into Purpose

At age 16, when Clark was still mired in angst, he saw two kids doing a rap battle and was instantly enthralled. “I have to do this,” he thought. Rapping became a way for him to express himself and get his anger out in an artistic fashion. The creative outlet helped him turn his life around and change his outlook on life. By the age of 21, he discovered how to “divorce his story and go from a victim mindset to feeling like a victor.” Going to therapy helped him build a psychological toolbox that allowed him to strengthen his emotional fortitude and gain better control over his anxious thoughts, anger, and emotions. This set the stage for him to connect with other trauma survivors and become a motivational and inspirational speaker on the topics of childhood trauma and resilience. He’s also an author of 7 books and his viral rap videos have over 250 million views. These days, Clark likes to call himself a “hope dealer, not a dope dealer.” At times, Clark channels his powerful emotions into his work, losing himself in what he calls the “Derek Zone.” When he’s working on a book, for example, he can write for 16-18 hours a day. That’s what Dr. Emina says is one of Clark’s superpowers.

Turn Emotional Challenges into Superpowers

According to Dr. Emina, people with an overactive emotional brain like Clark’s are like superheroes. They have an ability to feel things—the good and the bad—more richly and more deeply. They can also be highly motivated and persistent. “They have a superpower, but they have to learn to control it,” says Dr. Emina. “In those superhero movies, in the first half of the movie, the soon-to-be hero initially doesn’t know how to control their superpower. They’re shooting lasers out of their eyes, blowing things up, and breaking things. Learning to control your emotional brain can be like that.” But at a pivotal point in the movie, they discover their true power, their true self, and learn to harness it for good. Just as Clark was able to gain control of his emotions and turn his pain into purpose, you too can access the tools needed to harness your superpower and make it work for you instead of against you. Engaging in psychotherapy and optimizing brain health will help you attain the emotional control you want, so you can unleash your superpowers in a positive way. Emotional trauma 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. He’s a #1 New York Times bestselling author, host of the On Purpose podcast, and has over 28 million followers on Facebook alone. Jay Shetty, a former monk, spreads his unique brand of inspiration by talking about mental wellness and finding your purpose in life. While living as a monk, he learned to train his brain to overcome negativity, manage his thoughts, strengthen his empathy, and more. In general, these practices enhance overall brain function. As someone who advocates the importance of self-awareness, however, Shetty wanted to know even more about his own brain. That’s why he visited psychiatrist and brain health expert Dr. Daniel Amen at Amen Clinics to get a brain SPECT scan. SPECT measures blood flow and activity in the brain and reveals areas of the brain with healthy activity, low activity, or too much activity. “I’m at a place in my life where I don’t want to be irresponsible about my own health and well-being, and if I can see my brain and see what I can improve, this is the best place to come for brain health,” says Shetty in an episode of Scan My Brain at Amen Clinics.

SCREENING FOR BRAIN HEALTH

As Shetty explains it, most people would think if you’re getting a brain scan, it must be because something’s wrong. But the former monk sees things differently “I’m doing really well,” he says, “but why would we not be curious [about our brain].” Shetty’s attitude is gaining momentum as more people realize that the brain is a physical organ that runs our lives, and it deserves far more of our attention. The medical community advocates regular screening and scanning of so many parts of the body—the heart, breasts, and colon—but it ignores the brain that runs them all. This is changing. At Amen Clinics, which has built the largest database of functional brain scans related to behavior, more and more highly successful, well-adjusted people like Shetty are getting scanned. But they aren’t doing it to overcome specific mental health challenges or cognitive issues. Instead, they’re looking at it as a way to prevent any future problems and to provide a roadmap to brain optimization and peak performance.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR BRAIN TYPE

Brain imaging studies reveal that not all brains are alike. In fact, after reviewing over 170,000 brain scans, the psychiatric team at Amen Clinics has identified 16 different brain types. Each brain type has unique strengths and challenges that influence the way you think, act, and interact with others. Your brain type plays a role in how you perform at work, how you get along in relationships, how you parent your children, and so much more. Knowing your brain type gives you key information about the best ways to optimize your brain, including the types of food to eat, the nutritional supplements to take, and the lifestyle changes that will have the biggest benefit for your brain and your life. Take our Brain Health Assessment to find your brain type. The notion that our brains are “not all the same” resonates with Shetty. “The idea that all of our bodies, brains, and minds are so different and react differently to the same things is still very new,” says the former monk. He thinks it’s time to say goodbye to the one-size-fits-all approach our society generally takes toward solving problems, including issues that are medical, mental, or spiritual. Shetty says there’s a better way. “Providing a more personalized, specific approach—whether it’s meditation or fasting or whatever it may be—is important.”

THE BRAIN OPTIMIZATION SOLUTION

Even if you already have a good brain, you can make it better. When your brain is optimized, it means brighter moods, better focus, and greater clarity—now and in the future. Strengthening your brain now can help you prevent cognitive decline, reduce the risk of developing issues like anxiety or depression, and give you the tools you need to cope with life’s stressors. Add it all up and it leads to more success, a stronger ability to achieve your goals and a bigger dose of happiness. We could all use that! The health of your brain 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. Having bipolar disorder can make you wonder who is the real you. Is it the manic you who is full of big ideas and energy? Or is it the depressed you who can barely crawl out of bed in the mornings? Anyone who suffers from this condition knows that dramatic mood swings can make you feel like a different person from day to day. That’s how actress and singer Talia Jackson describes what having bipolar disorder feels like. Best known for her role in Netflix’s Family Reunion, Jackson says one of her biggest issues is “the back and forth of never knowing who I am.” In an episode of Scan My Brain with Dr. Julie Brush, a doctor of naturopathy at Amen Clinics, she says she also struggles with panic attacks, “horrible anxiety,” “awful frustration,” and anger. It’s a lot to cope with. Jackson wanted to have her brain scanned to gain a better understanding of herself and who she is.

IS THERE A BIPOLAR IDENTITY?

Jackson is one of an estimated 4.4% of Americans who will experience bipolar disorder in their lifetime, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. This condition, which used to be called manic-depressive illness, is characterized by extreme changes in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out everyday tasks. With bipolar disorder, people often cycle from manic episodes to depressive episodes. Manic episodes are associated with abnormally elevated mood, heightened energy, grandiose ideas, and in some people, delusions, and hallucinations. On the downside, depressive episodes come with persistent negativity, decreased energy, loss of interest in usually pleasurable activities, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Researchers have noted that this can lead to issues with identity. In a 2020 issue of the Journal of Personality, researchers write: “These experiences confront people with bipolar disorder with a subtler and more chronic struggle related to self and identity.”

THE CONSEQUENCES OF BIPOLAR IDENTITY ISSUES

Along with the challenge to find an identity, people with bipolar disorder also have trouble with self-esteem. The 2020 study mentioned above shows that for those with the condition, self-worth is often linked to goal attainment. This leads to instability in terms of self-esteem, as it rises and falls with perceived successes and failures. A 2009 study in The British Journal of Psychiatry found that over the course of one week, daily self-esteem scores fluctuated more widely among those with bipolar depression compared with healthy controls. A lack of clear self-identity has negative consequences. Findings in the journal Self and Identity show that inconsistencies in self-concept are associated with decreased life satisfaction and a lower sense of well-being. This is further evidenced by the fact that 20-60% of people with bipolar disorder (especially when it goes untreated) attempt suicide at least once in their lifetime, according to a 2019 review in Medicina.

HOW A BIPOLAR DISORDER DIAGNOSIS INFLUENCES IDENTITY

Being diagnosed with bipolar disorder can spark an identity crisis. A diagnosis can make you feel like your life story has suddenly changed, causing you to reevaluate your sense of self. For some people, a diagnosis is a positive step that helps you understand who you are and find effective treatment. For others, it’s a label that invites shame and stigma. Educating yourself about the condition and gaining an understanding that it is a brain-based disorder rather than a character flaw or personal weakness can be beneficial. The brain imaging work at Amen Clinics shows people with bipolar disorder and other mental health issues that their problems are medical, not moral. It also decreases shame and guilt and encourages understanding and forgiveness among family members. Most of all, it elevates hope and provides valuable information to help find the least toxic, most effective treatment plan.

FINDING A BALANCE WITH BIPOLAR DISORDER

With a targeted, comprehensive treatment plan, people with bipolar disorder can find more balance in their lives and a greater sense of self. That’s what Jackson is hoping for. Her SPECT scan, which can be seen in the video of her session at Amen Clinics, showed abnormal activity in various brain regions. Seeing her brain scan helped her understand that her issues have biological roots. “That is so relieving to me, because I know I’m not insane,” the actress says. On the right treatment to improve blood flow and activity levels in the brain, better balance can be achieved. People with bipolar disorder can experience more stable moods, energy levels, and activity patterns, which help lead to a clearer sense of identity and greater self-esteem. Bipolar disorder, 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. At face value, Nikki Leigh appears to have it all. A bright and attractive actress, model, and host of the Positivity Time podcast, Leigh boasts nearly 5 million followers on Facebook. But she wasn’t always so popular. In fact, in a revealing episode of Scan My Brain, Leigh admits that when she was in junior high, she was bullied. “I had no friends and felt super alone,” she tells Dr. Daniel Amen, founder of Amen Clinics, in the video. “I had people beat me up.” She tried desperately to get the people who didn’t like her to change their opinion of her and become friends, but it didn’t work. The bullying eventually got so intense that Leigh fell into depression. “I told my mom one day that I just didn’t want to live anymore, and she broke. I didn’t realize why, but I learned later on that her dad committed suicide,” she says. Leigh’s brain SPECT scan showed overactivity in the emotional centers of the brain. Based on the Amen Clinics database of over 170,000 brain scans, the diamond-shaped pattern seen on Leigh’s scan is common in people with mood issues, anxiety, and worry. Based on the Amen Clinics database of over 170,000 brain scans, overactivity in a diamond-shaped pattern in the emotional centers of the brain is common in people with mood issues, anxiety, and worry.
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Can being unpopular in school lead to mental health problems later in life? The research is heartbreaking.

THE MENTAL AND PHYSICAL COSTS OF UNPOPULARITY

Being unpopular can have devastating impacts on mental wellness, according to a decades-long study appearing in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. At the outset of this study in 1966, Swedish researchers asked 12,500 6th graders to choose the 3 classmates they liked working with best. The kids who were named by 7 or more of their classmates were deemed “favorites.” On the other end of the spectrum, students who were named by only one of their peers were considered “peripheral” and those who weren’t chosen by any of their schoolmates were categorized as “marginalized.” When the children turned 50 years old several decades later, the researchers analyzed hospitalizations based on their peer status categories. The children considered peripheral or marginalized were more likely to have been hospitalized for physical or mental health issues. For example, men and women who had been in the marginalized group were approximately twice as likely as those in the favorites groups to have received inpatient care for mental health and behavioral disorders, including alcohol or drug abuse. Adults who were marginalized as children were also more likely to have died by suicide and to have a range of lifestyle-related diseases, such as heart disease or diabetes. Another study out of Sweden in 2012 re-confirmed that being unpopular in school can make you unhappier and unhealthier later in life. In this research published in Plos One, middle-aged adults who had been unpopular in high school were more likely to have medical problems, including obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and poor cholesterol ratios. By age 43, those who had been ostracized as teens had a higher risk of having metabolic syndrome, which is a combination of all of these conditions. Although this study only looked at physical health consequences, it’s important to note that these medical issues also increase the risk of psychiatric issues. For example, being obese carries a greater risk of depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, agoraphobia (fear of going out), and addictions. Being overweight is also associated with untreated ADD/ADHD and lower self-esteem. Research in the American Journal of Public Health also shows that among women, increased body mass index (BMI) is linked to a rise in suicidal thoughts. Similarly, diabetes can take a devastating toll on mental well-being. Anxiety and depression are 2-3 times higher in patients with diabetes than in the general population, according to a 2016 study and a 2018 study. Findings from a 2015 study show that people with diabetes are also at greater risk for eating disorders, such as binge eating. Feeling stressed from these findings? Take heart that even if you weren’t part of the popular crowd at school, you can overcome the health and psychological problems associated with being socially isolated. It starts with your mindset.

ADOPTING A MORE POSITIVE MINDSET

For Nikki Leigh, opening up about her difficult school days and starting a podcast called “Positivity Time” has helped her deal with the depression and suicidal thoughts she used to feel. On the podcast, she routinely expresses gratitude and shares random acts of kindness with her listeners. Leigh naturally gravitated to focusing her energies on being more upbeat, but there is science to explain why her strategy can be so helpful. Positivity bias training is a proven practice that can help you overcome negativity, low self-esteem, and other issues, even if they were embedded in your psyche during your formative years at school. Positivity bias training basically means actively seeking out the positive in life—noticing what you like more than what you don’t like, showing gratitude, and changing the way you think. With these techniques, you have the potential to emerge from decades of feeling bad about yourself due to your school experience. And when you feel happier and more self-confident, you are also more likely to adopt healthy habits that will further enhance your body and brain. It’s a win-win situation. Depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, 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. Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, as the saying goes. Not in the case of your brain. A diamond-shaped pattern of overactivity in the brain’s emotional centers is actually a sign of trouble. On brain SPECT imaging scans, the diamond pattern is associated with emotional trauma that has pushed the brain into overdrive. The diamond pattern is one of the findings noted on the brain scans of Rachel Hollis, entrepreneur and author of the bestselling Girl, Wash Your Face and Girl, Stop Apologizing. She recently sat down with Dr. Daniel Amen for an episode of the Scan My Brain video series to discuss her SPECT scan at Amen Clinics. When he asked Hollis about past emotional trauma, she revealed a horrific experience with her brother who had schizophrenia and depression. “When I was 14, my brother committed suicide,” says Hollis, who found his lifeless body in their home. “I couldn’t understand what I was looking at. My brain could not process what I was looking at.” Extreme emotional trauma like this can contribute to the diamond brain pattern. A diamond-shaped pattern of overactivity in the brain’s emotional centers is actually a sign of trouble. On brain SPECT imaging scans, the diamond pattern is associated with emotional trauma that has pushed the brain into overdrive.
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EMOTIONAL TRAUMA AND THE DIAMOND BRAIN

Amen Clinics has conducted several brain SPECT imaging studies on trauma survivors, including a 2015 study in Plos One, and the scans show significantly increased activity in the limbic, or emotional, areas in a pattern that looks like a diamond. The affected brain areas are: In some people, the right lateral temporal lobe is also overactive. This area of the brain is involved in reading the intentions of other people. When activity here is excessive, people can misread cues from others.

Healthy “Active” Brain SPECT Scan              

The most active areas are in the cerebellum at the back of the brain.
 

Diamond Pattern SPECT Scan

Diamond pattern shows increased activity in the anterior cingulate (top of diamond), basal ganglia/amygdala (middle), and thalamus (bottom).
  Problems commonly seen in people who have suffered emotional trauma and who have the diamond brain pattern include: For Hollis, it’s as if her emotional brain is on fire. “I have a really hard time controlling my emotions,” she says. “It’s affecting my ability to be productive and to do my work well and to be the kind of mom I want to be and the kind of human I want to be.”

GETTING THE RIGHT DIAGNOSIS AFTER EMOTIONAL TRAUMA

Whenever you go through emotional trauma or grief it can leave a lasting imprint on the brain, as is seen with the diamond pattern. In order to properly heal the brain, it is critical to get the right diagnosis. Symptoms of PTSD (emotional trauma) often overlap with those seen in traumatic brain injuries (physical trauma), such as anxiety, depression, irritability, headaches, and insomnia. Although the symptoms are the same, the treatments for these conditions are very different. In fact, treating PTSD as if it were a TBI or vice versa can actually make people worse. This is why neuroimaging studies are so important if conventional treatments for your symptoms are ineffective. In 2015, Amen Clinics published 2 studies in Brain Imaging and Behavior and Plos One on more than 21,000 patients, including veterans, demonstrating that SPECT can distinguish between PTSD and TBI with high levels of accuracy. In addition, grief is often mislabeled as depression, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, panic disorder, and other psychiatric conditions. If grief is misdiagnosed, psychotropic medications can get in the way of or even prolong recovery.

HEALING FROM EMOTIONAL TRAUMA AND THE DIAMOND BRAIN

Even if emotional trauma has contributed to overactivity in the brain in a diamond pattern, there is hope for healing. One powerful psychological treatment that can help people overcome emotional trauma is called EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). This non-invasive therapy is based on research suggesting that experiencing trauma can change the way the brain processes information, causing events to get “stuck” in the brain’s processing center. EMDR is designed to eliminate the emotional charges associated with traumatic memories. Scientific studies show that EMDR therapy can be beneficial for trauma survivors and that it can work more quickly than traditional psychotherapy. A 2014 review of studies found that 3 sessions of EMDR therapy led to relief from PTSD symptoms in 84%-90% of individuals who had experienced a single traumatic event. The positive effects of EMDR can be amplified when combined with other therapies, such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes that help calm an overactive brain. Emotional trauma, PTSD, 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. Raven-Symoné gained a reputation as one of the greatest child stars of all time by appearing in the Cosby Show and Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper. As an adult, she continued to make audiences laugh with That’s So Raven and many other comedy series and movies. But in a revealing episode of Scan My Brain, she opens up to Dr. Daniel Amen about the depression, anxiety, and irritability in her life. There are times when she goes inside her brain and can’t say a word or express herself. She calls it “burritoing.” What a great term for something that so many people with depressive disorder experience. It’s when you want to wrap yourself up and hide from the world. How can you tell if you’re struggling with “burrito syndrome?” Look for these signs. “Burritoing”—what a great term from actress Raven-Symoné for something that so many people with depressive disorder experience. It’s when you want to wrap yourself up and hide from the world.
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5 SIGNS YOU HAVE “BURRITO SYNDROME”

1. You turn into a hermit.

When you sink into a low mood, do you retreat from your loved ones? When they try to offer support or ask you to talk about what you’re feeling, do you tend to shut them out? Isolating yourself and withdrawing from friends and family is one of the most common symptoms of mood disorders. Shutting yourself off in your home or in your bedroom if you live with others increases feelings of depression. The more alone you feel, the more depressed you are likely to feel.

2. You sleep too much (or too little).

Major depressive disorder often comes with sleep issues. You may find yourself sleeping more than usual—cocooning in bed and taking numerous naps throughout the day. Or you may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, tossing and turning all night. In fact, an estimated 75% of depressed people suffer from insomnia, according to a study in Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience. Still, you may be seeking solace by wrapping yourself up in your blankets in bed to try to get the sleep you need.

3. You have no energy.

In addition to sleep issues, you may lack any “get-up-and-go” energy. Forget things like going out to dinner with friends, you may not be able to motivate yourself to go to the mailbox or to head to the kitchen to make meals. And that low energy level may contribute to why you have a hard time collecting your thoughts, talking to anyone, or expressing yourself.

4. You have aches and pains.

Depression can manifest with physical symptoms like back pain, joint pain, or headaches. In fact, 85% of people with chronic pain also suffer from severe depression, according to findings in a 2017 study in Neural Plasticity. Other research suggests the biological connection between these conditions may lie in the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine, both of which influence mood and pain. When you feel achy and uncomfortable, it doesn’t make you want to venture out of your “burrito.”

5. You snap at others.

When you’re all wrapped up in your own misery, it can lead to anger and irritability. A 2013 study in JAMA involving 536 depressed people found that 54.5% of them expressed overt anger and irritability. If loved ones try to coax you out of your isolation, you’re likely to lash out at them. This can lead to people avoiding you, which contributes to your social isolation.

6 WAYS TO OVERCOME DEPRESSION AND “BURRITO SYNDROME”

1. Reconnect.

Take it slow. If you live with others, start by simply saying hi or good morning. If you live alone, send a text to someone you care about. It can be as simple as an emoji.

2. Develop a healthy sleep routine.

Getting the sleep you need is so important. Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day. Get into the habit of winding down in the evening by turning off your electronic devices a few hours before bedtime. Avoid alcohol and caffeine and practice relaxation activities, such as taking a warm bath, listening to soothing sounds, or reading (nothing stress-inducing though).

3. Get out of your pajamas.

To help regain your energy, get dressed every day. Even if it just means trading your PJs for sweatpants, making the effort to get out of your sleeping attire can change your frame of mind.

4. Get moving.

You may feel achy, but physical exercise is a proven pain reliever. Start small with just a few minutes a day of walking, yoga, or swimming. If you find it hard to motivate yourself, ask a friend to be your exercise buddy. Knowing someone else is counting on you can be encouraging.

5. Breathe.

If you’re feeling irritable and want to snap at someone, take a moment and breathe deeply. Inhale for 3-4 seconds, hold it for 1 second, then exhale for twice as long as your inhale. This can very quickly calm tension.

6. Seek treatment for depression.

Getting the treatment you need is the most important step you can take for your mental health. Be sure to look for a provider who understands that depression is not just one thing. The brain imaging work at Amen Clinics has shown there are 7 types of depression and anxiety and each type needs a targeted treatment plan. Depression, anger issues, 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.

“No one has ever grown up in the history of humanity like Justin Bieber. No one has ever been that famous worldwide in an era of social media where every year of your adolescence you were the most Googled person on the planet.” 

In Justin Bieber’s new docuseries, “Seasons,” that’s how his manager Scooter Braun describes what it was like for the superstar to grow up in the public eye. The “Baby,” “Sorry,” and “Love Yourself” artist was discovered at age 13 and shot to instant fame, becoming the world’s biggest YouTube sensation, a social media phenom, and an international chart-topper.

Despite his enormous talent and the adulation that came with fame, he faced some serious struggles like so many people do. “Being human is challenging for everybody,” he says in the docuseries. “We’re all struggling to some degree. We all have our individual pains, and fears and anxieties, worries.” Justin knows this only too well because while his career was soaring, his personal life was spinning out of control into anxiety, depression, and addiction. And his brain was under assault.

Drugs, Rock ’n’ Roll, and the Adolescent Brain

The adolescent brain is a remarkable work in progress, with billions of connections called synapses being created at lightning-fast speeds, and an important process called myelinization underway. With myelinization, brain cells are coated with a protective sheath that increases the brain’s processing speeds. The process begins at the back of the brain and works its way forward, with the prefrontal cortex (the area involved in impulse control, forethought, judgment, and empathy) the last area to gain the protective covering, usually around a person’s mid-20s.

Certain things like alcohol, drugs, and even fame can disrupt this important process. A brain imaging study appearing in the Journal of Psychiatric Research showed that heavy marijuana use among young adults and adolescents may affect normal brain development. The study found brain abnormalities in areas involved with decision-making, memory, and executive functions—the regions in the front of the brain that are the last to undergo myelinization.

Substance use and fame at a young age can also disrupt the reward system in the adolescent brain. In a healthy brain, whenever we do something enjoyable, it’s like pressing a button in the brain to release a little bit of the neurotransmitter dopamine to make us feel pleasure. Pushing these pleasure buttons too often or too strong reduces dopamine’s effectiveness. Eventually, it takes more and more excitement and stimulation to feel anything at all.

In the YouTube docuseries, Justin reveals he started smoking marijuana when he was just 13. Then he moved on to harder substances, including a mind-numbing cocktail of cough syrup (hydrocodone) mixed with alcohol and prescription medication. The concoction was so potent, his security team would creep into his room in the middle of the night to check his pulse and make sure he was still breathing. With the substance abuse and all those screaming fans, Justin’s reward system was getting worn out. He was addicted not only to the drugs but also to fame. And he was in a downward spiral.

It became so overwhelming for him that he canceled the final dates of his “Purpose” world tour in 2017, and the media announced that he was having issues and it seemed like he was “falling into another dark place.” They were right.

What Justin Bieber’s Brain Scan Showed

In Episode 5 of the docuseries (which is currently available on YouTube premium), Justin reveals that he has been coming to neuropsychiatrist and brain imaging expert Dr. Daniel Amen at Amen Clinics for 5 years for help with the issues he’s been struggling with.

Justin bravely opened up to Dr. Amen about the trauma and instability he experienced in his childhood, his addictions, and his anxiety and depression. To find the root causes of his issues, he underwent brain SPECT imaging. SPECT measures blood flow and activity in the brain and shows 3 things: areas with healthy activity, too much activity, or too little activity.

Before coming to Amen Clinics, Justin had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, a condition that is often misdiagnosed. In fact, 57% of people diagnosed with bipolar disorder don’t actually have the condition, according to a 2008 study from researchers at Brown University. Justin’s brain scans showed something other than bipolar disorder, and it changed the course of his care. You can see more about what his brain scans revealed in the episode.

Justin’s Journey to Healing

Drawing on our brain imaging work and the latest neuroscience, Justin made the commitment to get on a path to better brain health. To help heal his brain, the young man started doing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), a noninvasive treatment that involves breathing 100% pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. The increased oxygen is picked up via the bloodstream and transported to damaged tissues to facilitate the healing process.

HBOT has been used to improve many issues including, but not limited to:

Justin has told Dr. Amen that he loves HBOT therapy so much he got a hyperbaric chamber for his home, and he uses it on a daily basis.

When Dr. Amen informed Justin how important nutrition and supplementation is if you want to change your brain and heal your mind, the musical artist cleaned up his diet and also started doing IV nutrient therapy on a regular basis. IV therapy provides more potent doses of important nutrients than oral supplements, and because it bypasses the digestive system you get 100% absorption without any gastrointestinal issues.

HBOT and IV therapy are only part of the brain-based plan that has been helping him cope with the anxiety, depression, and other issues he faces.

The artist has subsequently received a diagnosis of Lyme disease, a bacterial infection that can lead to a vast array of neuropsychological symptoms, including:

With a comprehensive treatment plan in place, the superstar feels like he’s on the right track to healing and getting back to the creative music-making process and performing that feeds his soul. He says it’s because he’s “in a good headspace… a better headspace.” We would say, it’s really all about being in a better “brainspace.”

At Amen Clinics, we take a unique brain-body approach to diagnosis and treatment that includes brain SPECT imaging, as well as laboratory testing to check physical health, and other important factors that could be contributing to symptoms of depression. By getting to the root cause of your symptoms, we can create a more effective, personalized treatment plan for you.

If you want to join the tens of thousands of people who have already enhanced their brain health, overcome their symptoms, and improved their quality of life at Amen Clinics, speak to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk.

Anita Avedian is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (License # LMFT 38403) and has been practicing psychotherapy since 1996. She opened her practice in 2001 and has grown her work into a therapy group practice called Avedian Counseling Center. Anita has offices in Sherman Oaks, Hollywood, Glendale, Woodland Hills, and Pasadena. Her specialties include working with relationships, anger, social anxiety, general anxiety, and addictions. She also has been certified as a Thought Field Therapist (TFT) and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), both of which she integrates into her practice. Anita is the Executive Director of Anger Management 818 and Avedian Counseling Center with 8 locations throughout the Greater Los Angeles area. Websites for both Centers are www.AvedianCounselingCenter.com and www.AngerManagement818.com.

Outside of therapy, Anita offers a monthly anger management certification program to counselors. Anger Management Essentials is an approved National Anger Management Association (NAMA) model which is used for anger management certification. Moreover, Anita is an Authorized NAMA Trainer and Anger Management Supervisor for certifying anger management specialists. She is a Certified Anger Management Specialist IV and a Diplomat Member of NAMA. She authored Anger Management Essentials, a workbook for aggression, which has been translated into Spanish, Armenian, and Hebrew.  Anita is the co-Founder of the California Chapter of NAMA which is the California Chapter of Anger Management Providers, and the Founder of Toastmasters for Mental Health Professionals. Anita appeared on Good Day LA discussing Road Rage and has appeared in several reality shows, including Vanderpump Rules, offering therapy.

When Anita came across Amen Clinics and learned about how their Brain Health Coaching program can help to improve brain health, she was intrigued. Not only did she go through the training, but she has referred several clients to Amen Clinics Los Angeles in Encino, CA, and has collaborated care with Dr. Jay Faber.

“I have referred several clients to Amen Clinics, and so far, not only have they really liked working with Dr. Jay Faber, but they have benefited from the supplements and the Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber treatments. Initially, the supplements may not be the right dose, however, Dr. Jay Faber adjusts the dose based on what’s needed, and within weeks, he has helped many clients improve by going from instability to feeling more grounded. Of course, not every treatment will work for every client, however, the treatments thus far have shown to be helpful.”

“Dr. Faber gave an insightful presentation to the California Association of Anger Management Providers (CAAMP) entitled, “Raging Bull: How Do We Help The Brain Tame The Anger” found on the CAAMP Event website.”

To learn more about our Brain Health Coaching Certification Course visit our course website or contact our course manager at 877-350-0271 or at BHCCC@AmenUniversity.com.

Anita Avedian, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Anita Avedian, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist,
Executive Director of Anger Management 818 and Avedian Counseling Center

AvedianCounselingCenter AngerManagement818