As a preschooler, Jarrett was hyperactive, impulsive, and restless. He also talked incessantly, interrupted others, and had trouble with focus. His doctor diagnosed him with ADD/ADHD and put him on stimulant medications, a standard treatment option. But the medicine didn’t work. In fact, it made him worse.
The little boy’s mother took him to another doctor, who prescribed a different stimulant, but it didn’t improve his symptoms either. Eventually, Jarrett saw 5 doctors and tried 5 stimulant medications for ADHD. None of them helped.
Instead, they led to rollercoaster mood swings and intense rages. At home, the youngster punched holes in the walls and frightened his siblings. At school, he had trouble making friends. And his teachers warned his mother that Jarrett would never amount to much and urged her to lower her expectations.
In time, his behavior became so disruptive that his physician recommended antipsychotic medication. Why didn’t the standard ADD/ADHD treatment work for Jarrett? Years later, a brain scan revealed why.
In treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also called attention-deficit disorder (ADD), medication is often a first line of defense. In some cases, it can be a lifesaver. For others, like Jarrett, the drugs can exacerbate symptoms. Why don’t stimulants work for everyone with ADD/ADHD? That’s just one of 9 questions about ADD/ADHD medications answered here.
In some cases, ADHD medication can be a lifesaver. For others, like Jarrett, the pills can exacerbate symptoms. Why don’t stimulants work for everyone with ADD/ADHD?
Current research shows that stimulant medications increase activity in areas of the brain such as the prefrontal cortex. Brain-imaging shows that people with ADD/ADHD typically have low activity in the prefrontal cortex, especially during concentration. This means the harder people with ADD/ADHD try to pay attention, the harder it gets.
Stimulant medications also increase levels of important neurotransmitters, such as dopamine. People with ADD/ADHD tend to have low levels of dopamine, which is involved in motivation, mood, memory, and attention.
How can stimulant medication help people with ADD/ADHD?
Research shows that stimulant medications can improve ADD/ADHD symptoms in approximately 70% of adults and 70%-80% of children. Improvements in symptoms include:
Increased concentration
Increased impulse control
Increased empathy
Increased motivation
Decreased hyperactivity and restlessness
Decreased distractibility
Decreased irritability
Decreased conflict-seeking behavior
In general, these medications can improve performance at school, at work, at home, and in relationships.
What are some of the most common stimulant medications currently available?
Stimulants are the most common form of medication prescribed for ADD/ADHD. The majority of stimulants are either amphetamines or methylphenidates.
Amphetamine and amphetamine salt combinations: These are available under the brand names Adderall, Adzenys, Dexedrine, Dynanavel, Evekeo, ProCentra, Vyvanse, and Zenzedi.
Methylphenidate-based products: These are sold under the brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana, Focalin, Jornay, Metadate, Methylin, Quillivant, and Quillichew.
Why don’t stimulant medications work for everyone with ADHD?
ADHD medication that works for one person may not work for another. In part, this is because the brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics clearly shows that the condition isn’t just one thing. Brain SPECT scans shows there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD, and medication needs to be targeted to your ADD type.
SPECT is a functional brain-imaging technology that measures blood flow and activity in the brain. It reveals areas of the brain with healthy activity, too much activity, and too little activity.
Stimulant medications tend to work better in people who have too little activity in certain brain regions. In people who have overactivity in the brain, they can make things worse.
Take Jarrett, for example. Jarrett’s brain SPECT scan showed dramatic overactivity in a pattern the physicians at Amen Clinics call the “Ring of Fire.”
Overall increased activity:
Ring of Fire ADHD
Using stimulants on an overactive brain is like pouring gasoline on a fire. Published brain-imaging research at Amen Clinics shows that stimulants make the Ring of Fire brain pattern worse in 80% of people.
How long does the medication last?
These drugs come in short-acting and long-acting formulas.
Short-acting (immediate release): These medications typically last up to 4 hours. In some people, however, they may last only 2.5 hours or up to 6 hours. They are designed to be taken as needed throughout the day.
When short-acting products wear off, people may experience rebound effects. This can include a significant drop in energy levels and moods and a sharp increase in hunger. Based on the experiences of tens of thousands of ADD/ADHD patients at Amen Clinics, Adderall tends to last longer than Ritalin and is gentler as it wears off.
Long-acting (extended release): Slow-release preparations are designed to take once a day. Some last approximately 8 hours while others may last up to 16 hours. In clinical practice, the slow-release form of Ritalin is known as being somewhat erratic. The slow-release forms of Dexedrine, Adderall and Vyvanse seem to be somewhat more reliable.
What is the usual dosage?
When it comes to these medications, everyone is different. Some people require only one dose per day, while others need to take it 5 times per day. Other individuals do best with larger doses of stimulants.
Take note that the proper dosage often has nothing to do with a person’s body weight or age. Finding the most effective dose can require some adjustments.
What side effects are associated with ADHD medication?
Common side effects of stimulant medications include:
Lack of appetite
Trouble falling asleep
Headaches or stomachaches
Irritability or crankiness
Crying or emotional sensitivity
Staring into space
Loss of interest in friends
Be aware that some people may experience mood swings and subtle changes in personality. These side effects typically go away in about 1-2 weeks. If they persist, it means a change in medication may be necessary.
Less common side effects include:
Tics (such as eye blinking, throat clearing, or head jerking)
Rapid pulse or increased blood pressure
Nervous habits (such as skin picking, stuttering, or hair pulling)
It’s important to note that early studies revealed concerns that stimulants might stunt growth. However, newer long-term studies have found that taking stimulants for ADHD does not result in changes in adult height.
In addition, the side effects of having untreated ADD/ADHD are generally more significant than those associated with medication. Untreated ADD/ADHD is associated with increased risk for depression, school dropout, substance abuse, financial problems, divorce, and incarceration.
How long do stimulant medications need to be taken?
Every individual is different. Some people benefit from taking ADD/ADHD medication for just a few years while others may need it for many years.
What are some alternatives to taking stimulant medications for ADHD?
There are many natural ways to help ADD/ADHD, including lifestyle changes and nutritional supplements. For Jarrett, this involved nutraceuticals to calm overactivity in the brain, regular exercise, adequate sleep, a higher-protein lower-carb diet, goal setting, and more.
Over time, Jarrett experienced significant improvement in his behavior. The temper outbursts subsided, he started making the honor roll at school, and he had an easier time making friends. His life completely turned around.
If Jarrett had never gotten that brain scan, no one would have known that his brain was overactive. If he had just kept trying different stimulant medications, his future likely would have been very different.
SEEKING TREATMENT FOR ADD/ADHD
If you or a loved one has ADD/ADHD, it’s critical to discover your type to find the most effective solutions. Make an appointment with a mental health professional who understands that this is a brain-based disorder that has multiple types.
Brain imaging with SPECT can be helpful in determining which treatments will work best. This means you can find the right solutions more efficiently, which means faster healing.
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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here.
Recent statistics reveal that we’re in the midst of a mental health crisis that’s hitting young people especially hard. The rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidality are skyrocketing in children, adolescents, and young adults. Many experts blame the pandemic for this, but emerging research suggests that something else may also be driving it—an important brain network called the default mode network (DMN).
The DMN is activated when your brain is at rest, which is why it is often referred to as the resting brain. This blog will reveal what you need to know about DMN, how it impacts mental health, why young people are particularly vulnerable, and how you can enhance your resting brain.
Many experts blame the pandemic for the rise in mental health problems in young people, but emerging research suggests that something else may be behind it—an important brain network called the Default Mode Network (DMN).
The default mode network is one of 8 brain networks that connect functionally to regulate our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. These networks are:
Default mode network: The DMN controls the brain’s passive internal state and is activated during rest or sleep. It is considered part of the resting brain or subconscious brain.
Central executive network: The CEN is involved in high-level cognitive functions, such as decision-making and problem-solving. It is also associated with staying focused on goals and being engaged with tasks that involve memory and external activities.
Salience network: This network plays a role in attention and switches between the CEN and DMN, determining which network is activated at any given time. It’s also involved in regulating emotion and pain.
Sensory motor network: The SMN processes sensory inputs, converts them into electrical signals, and then triggers a physical response.
Visual network: Responsible for sight and visual processing, this network helps translate the external world into something understandable.
Limbic network: This brain system is responsible for emotion, fear, and memory.
Dorsal attention network: This network allows you to stay focused on a specific task while filtering out other external distractions.
Ventral attention network: Responsible for switching attention between tasks and reacting to unforeseen incoming cues, this network is critical in our daily lives.
HOW THE DEFAULT MODE NETWORK FUNCTIONS WITH OTHER BRAIN NETWORKS
While many of the brain networks are involved in active, goal-oriented tasks, the DMN is typically activated when the brain is at rest or sleeping. It kicks into gear when you’re daydreaming, using your imagination, or evaluating ideas.
The DMN is especially active when you’re engaged in some form of internal thought. For example, the DMN plays a major role in reminiscing about happy memories, envisioning a future event, or empathizing with a friend who is struggling with a problem.
Any time you aren’t actively involved in mental tasks that command your attention, your default network takes over. It coordinates with other brain networks and brain regions to passively process sensory inputs, internal feelings, and the emotions of others.
It has a unique relationship with the central executive network. When the CEN is activated to perform goal-oriented tasks, the DMN decreases in activity. Once that important task is completed, the CEN can power down while the DMN takes over. It’s as if your brain goes on autopilot. The salience network acts like the air traffic controller, switching between these two networks as needed.
Experts view the CEN and DMN as the most dominant of all the brain networks. These brain areas need to work in balance for optimal function and mental well-being. When there’s an imbalance in brain function, it can have major consequences in terms of mental health.
THE DEFAULT MODE NETWORK AND MENTAL HEALTH
Humans aren’t born with a fully functioning default mode network. It develops throughout childhood. Common kid-friendly activities—such as daydreaming, napping, and running around the playground—promote DMN activity.
In our technologically driven society, however, this development is being disrupted. Kids aren’t getting enough physical activity or sleep, and they rarely let their minds wander. Instead, they’re constantly using smartphones, texting, playing video games, and scrolling on social media. These all require continuous active attention from the CEN.
One study found that 50% of teens feel addicted to their devices, and that was in 2016. The number is likely much higher now. Newer research confirms that screen addiction among kids and adolescents is real. This is bad news for the DMN, as studies have shown that addictions continually suppress activity in this brain network.
How does this impact mental health? Research shows that dysfunction in the DMN has been associated with various brain health and mental health issues, such as:
The memory issues are important to note because a study in Frontiers in Neuroscience found that DMN dysfunction is one of the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
HOW TO ENHANCE THE DEFAULT MODE NETWORK
Although dysfunction of the default mode network is likely becoming more common due to increased reliance on digital devices, it isn’t necessarily permanent. Adolescents and adults can enhance the DMN in a variety of ways, including:
Exercise:
Be sure you and your child are getting physical activity on a regular basis. Get your family involved in recreational activities like table tennis or pickleball that get you moving. You can also simply walk at a fast pace (like you’re late for an appointment) for 30-45 minutes.
Sleep:
Getting adequate sleep is critical for kids and adults. To promote relaxation, consider taking natural supplements, such as 5-HTP, GABA, and magnesium. In addition, turn off cell phones, tablets, and video games at least an hour before bedtime.
Meditation:
Research shows that mindfulness meditation increases connectivity between the DMN, central executive network, and salience network. Getting started is easy, and there are several simple meditations that even kids can do.
Digital detox:
Do yourself, your children, and your DMN a favor and ditch your devices with a digital detox. Taking a break from all that active concentration can let the mind wander and reactivate the DMN.
Psychotherapy:
Various forms of therapy can help you and your kids learn how to overcome digital addictions, so you can enhance the DMN.
Antidepressants:
Some studies have found that taking antidepressant medication can normalize DMN function.
Psychedelics:
Emerging research suggests that psychedelics modulate the connectivity of the DMN in potentially positive ways. More research is needed to understand the possible side effects of this form of treatment. In addition, it is critical to understand that psychedelics should only be administered by a mental health professional in a clinical setting.
By following these suggestions, you may be able to improve function in the default mode network, which may enhance mental health and well-being. With children and adolescents, it’s important to introduce opportunities that let their central executive network calm down so their resting brain can take over.
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 888-288-9834or 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.
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:
Delta waves: very slow brainwaves, seen mainly during sleep
Theta waves: slow brainwaves, seen during daydreaming and twilight states
Alpha waves: brainwaves seen during relaxed states
SMR (sensorimotor rhythm) waves: brainwaves seen during states of focused relaxation
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Earning rewards. When the brain responds in the desired way, the computer software delivers on-screen rewards.
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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here.Content updated from previous publish date.
Do you have one of the estimated 1 in 36 children in the U.S. who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)? If you’re the parent of a child with ASD, you know that an autism diagnosis is life-changing for your child, for you, and for your entire family. Autism is associated with deficits in social skills, communication, and the ability to form and maintain friendships. Kids with autism may have rigid thinking, may be hypersensitive to sensory stimuli, and may have limited interests. This can change the family dynamic and create unexpected challenges for parents and siblings. This blog will help you understand the latest science on what causes autism and how can you manage it.
If you’re the parent of a child with ASD, you know that an autism diagnosis is life-changing for your child, for you, and for your entire family.
ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s behaviors and ability to communicate, learn, and relate to others. Autism is not one single thing; it has many faces. Just look at a classroom full of autistic children, and you will see that they are not all alike.
31% have an intellectual disability
Boys are diagnosed with autism at 4 times the rate of girls
In about one-third of kids with autism, it is common to experience normal development in the first year of life and then to regress in the second year of life.
WHAT CAUSES AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER?
Scientists have yet to pinpoint a specific cause for autism, however, they have discovered numerous contributing factors.
Genetics: Autism is often attributed to genetics, but the increasing rate of the condition shows that genetics cannot be the sole cause. In fact, a 2019 study found that genetics accounts for only 10-20% of autism cases. It’s important to note that genetic variations don’t directly cause ASD. Rather, some genetic variations predispose a child to develop ASD if exposed to certain environmental stressors.
Environmental stressors: Infections, inflammatory events such as immunizations, and exposure to environmental toxins like mold or industrial chemicals are environmental stressors that are associated with increased risk of autism. In addition, the increased use of prescription medications, including antibiotics, can cause harmful changes to gut bacteria. And kids with autism are more likely to have gut health issues. Research shows that the wide use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) in babies causes oxidative stress in the developing brains of young infants, which is associated with autism.
IVF treatment: Some studies have found a link between certain fertility treatments, such as IVF, and ASD symptoms, but the research is mixed.
Premature birth: Research has found that the chances of an autism diagnosis is 3.3 times greater in those born prematurely. pre-
Advanced paternal age: According to research, advanced parental age is considered a risk factor for ASD.
The scientific community continues to search for causes of autism and may find additional contributing factors in the future.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN FOOD AND AUTISM SYMPTOMS
Food can play a critical role in the severity of autism symptoms. Processed foods that are full of preservatives, pesticides, artificial colors and flavorings, and other chemicals may contribute to autism and can exacerbate ASD symptoms, according to a 2019 study. Foods that lack fiber promote the overgrowth of destructive bacteria, which may influence behavior. On the other hand, emerging research shows that consuming organic foods that are high in fiber and healthy fats may help.
Some foods can make autism worse. For example, many children with autism may have a sensitivity to gluten and dairy, which can trigger immune responses associated with autoimmune disorders. Removing dairy and wheat products from the diet can significantly reduce GI problems and other symptoms.
IMPROVING SOCIAL SKILLS IN AUTISM
Children with ASD have difficulty with social skills, and as a result, they are more likely to be bullied in school. They tend to be sensitive to scents, noise, bright lights, and powerful emotions. To help manage these issues, follow these tips:
Seek school accommodations. Speak with your school administrators about accommodations or individualized education plans for your child. Smaller classroom sizes, for example, may be beneficial.
Find pleasant sensory stimuli. Some kids with autism feel better while wearing headphones to reduce irritating noises. Others enjoy touching something with a texture they like. Find what works for your child.
Try occupational therapy. Kids with ASD often exhibit emotional immaturity and have difficulty dealing with life’s stress. Occupational therapy can provide guidance in developing emotional skills, tolerating change, delaying gratification, and coping with setbacks.
Try the “Theory of Mind.” Autistic children have a hard time understanding that other kids and adults see things differently than they do. This can make them uninterested in things that are important to others. You can practice the Theory of Mind by asking your child what they think other people are thinking.
Stick to routines. Kids with ASD tend to do better with routines and advance notice of any changes.
Seek professional help. Going to a mental health professional who understands the role of the brain in ASD can be helpful for both children with autism and their parents. You can learn proven strategies to improve ASD symptoms, help your child reach their potential, and reduce friction in your home life.
IMPROVING QUALITY OF LIFE IN AUTISTIC CHILDREN
Remember that managing autism symptoms is a daily practice that requires consistent effort. By following these strategies on a regular basis, you may be able to help your autistic child experience significant improvements in their everyday life.
Autism, ADD/ADHD, and other brain-based 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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a powerful form of psychotherapy that can help people identify and replace negative or harmful patterns of thinking and behaving. Decades of research and clinical practice show it can be beneficial for a wide range of mental health conditions.
“Cognitive behavioral therapy is a wonderful therapy,” says Dr. Vernon Johnson, a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist at Amen Clinics. “A lot of people might liken it to a kind of talk therapy, but it’s really so much more.”
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a powerful form of psychotherapy that can help people identify and replace negative or harmful patterns of thinking and behaving.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is an action-oriented type of therapy that focuses on the way people think (cognitive) and act (behavioral).
CBT helps people become aware of harmful thought patterns that negatively impact behavior.
CBT guides them to adopt more helpful ways of thinking and behaving.
CBT helps people develop better coping skills to handle challenging situations.
“We have these long-term follow-up studies where we followed patients for over 30 years,” says Dr. Johnson. “It’s amazing that cognitive behavioral therapy is found to be one of the greatest treatment options in terms of offering long-term lifelong benefits.”
A wealth of research shows that CBT is one of the most effective forms of therapy. In fact, some research shows that CBT is as effective as antidepressant medication and its effects are longer lasting.
CBT can also be beneficial in helping people deal with:
CBT involves a range of practical strategies to help people change their thinking and behavior patterns.
For example, therapists work closely with people to help them recognize their automatic negative thoughts (ANTs). They also provide specific techniques to help individuals challenge those unhelpful thoughts.
“CBT is really teaching us how to process our own thoughts, especially to identify negative and intrusive thoughts that might trigger anxiety symptoms,” says Dr. Vernon. “As we deal with those negative thoughts, it helps us break them down, analyze them, and do our own critical review of each thought.”
By learning how to identify, question, and change negative thinking patterns, people often feel more positive. And symptoms frequently improve more quickly than with other types of psychotherapy.
Treatment with CBT also involves changing unhelpful patterns of behavior. CBT strategies that target behavioral modification include:
Facing fears head-on
Engaging in role playing to learn how to handle challenging situations
Learning relaxation techniques to help calm the mind and body
Depending on an individual’s needs, cognitive behavioral therapy may include some or all of these techniques.
USING CBT TO CHALLENGE AUTOMATIC NEGATIVE THOUGHTS
At Amen Clinics, the physicians have identified 9 types of ANT species that contribute to anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, and other mental health issues.
All or Nothing—believing that everything is either all good or all bad
Less Than—comparing yourself to others and feeling less than others
Just the Bad—focusing only on what’s bad in people or situations
Guilt Beating—thinking in words like should, must, ought, or have to
Labeling—attaching negative labels to others or to yourself
Fortune Telling—predicting the worst outcome in situations even though you have little or no evidence to support that thought
Mind Reading—believing you can tell what other individuals are thinking even though they haven’t told you
If Only and I’ll Be Happy When—when you argue with the past and long for the future
Blaming—blaming others or circumstances for your problems
These ANTs can fuel mental health problems, lead to emotional distress, cause relationship problems, and get in the way of your success.
Getting to know the types of ANTs that live inside your head is an important step in learning how to eliminate them.
COMMON CBT SELF-HELP TOOLS
Cognitive behavioral therapy treatment also goes beyond the mental health professional’s office. You will be expected to take an active part in your therapy. Together with your therapist, you will work to find the most effective self-help strategies for your needs.
Self-help techniques include:
Spend time writing down the unhelpful thoughts that cause distress. Reflect on them and think of positive thoughts that are more helpful.
Goal setting. Pinpointing your goals can be very helpful in changing your thinking and behavior. When you know what you want in life you can ask yourself if your behavior is helping you achieve those goals.
Changing your self-talk. Start listening to how you talk to yourself. When you use negative or critical self-talk, make it a point to replace them with supportive words.
Challenging your automatic negative thoughts. Psychologists call this thought recording. This is a proven tool to eliminate the ANTs and improve rational thinking, according to research. This involves a simple exercise in which you write down your ANT, identify the ANT type, and ask yourself 5 questions. These life-changing questions are:
Is it true?
Is it absolutely true with 100% certainty?
How do I feel when I believe this thought?
How would I feel if I didn’t have this thought?
Turn the thought around to its exact opposite and ask is this new thought true?
Exposure therapy. Make a list of situations that cause fear and anxiety for you. Starting with the ones that seem the least fear-inducing to you, begin gradually facing these situations. With time, these situations will cause less anxiety. After you successfully face one fear, move on to the next one. Research has found that exposure therapy improves symptoms in 80%-90% of people with phobias.
By putting these self-help techniques into everyday practice, you can learn to be your own therapist. This is a very empowering aspect of CBT. Ultimately, CBT can reduce stress and anxiety, boost moods, enhance motivation, and strengthen confidence and self-control, among many other benefits.
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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here.Content updated from previous publish date.
Your brain controls your entire life and everything you think, say and do. It’s the most important organ in your body… but how much do you really think about it? And if you do think about it, do you really know how to take care of it? After more than 3 decades of clinical practice, psychiatrists, integrative medicine (also known as functional medicine) physicians, and brain health experts at Amen Clinics have seen many bad brain habits. Unfortunately, some of the most common brain mistakes negatively impact success at work; damage relationships; lead to issues like memory loss, cognitive decline, depression, and anxiety; and ultimately, ruin lives. How many of these brain mistakes are you making?
Some of the most common brain mistakes negatively impact success at work; damage relationships; lead to issues like memory loss, cognitive decline, depression, and anxiety; and ultimately, ruin lives.
Here are the top 10 biggest mistakes people make when it comes to the brain:
1. Not caring about your brain
Being oblivious about the health of your brain is one of the worst mistakes you can make. It means you don’t think about the consequences of your thoughts and actions or how they influence your brain health, cognitive performance, or mental well-being. If you want to be happy, productive, and effective in your daily life—now and years in the future—you must love and care for your brain.
2. Letting kids put their brains at risk
It only takes one head injury to change the course of a child’s or teenager’s life forever. Don’t let kids play contact sports, and don’t make the mistake of thinking helmets protect their brains. They are designed to protect against skull fractures, but they do not necessarily prevent damage to the brain, such as abnormal activity or decreased blood flow. You need to protect their developing brains.
3. Poisoning your brain
Drinking too much or using drugs (even some prescription medications), smoking (or vaping), consuming excessive caffeine, and exposure to environmental toxins all reduce brain blood flow and activity, which negatively affects cognitive abilities as well as moods. Alcohol is NOT a health food!
4. Low-fat diets
The brain is 60% fat and its 100 billion nerve cells have membranes that are lined with essential fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids support and enhance your brainpower. Low cholesterol is associated with homicide, suicide, depression, and autism.
5. No clear goals to help the brain achieve
Without specific goals to help you guide your behavior, you’re more likely to fall into negative patterns that are harmful to the brain. Setting goals and working to achieve them provides a sense of accomplishment. With goals, your life becomes more conscious, and your energy is directed in healthy ways.
6. Too much screen time
Constantly checking your email, scrolling through your social media feed, and bingeing on Netflix are activities that hijack your brain. And the research is compelling: As video game and technology usage goes up, so do obesity and depression. Limit screen/device time to no more than 30 minutes a day. This may be hard for kids and teens, but it can make a huge difference, especially if they struggle with focus and attention, or if they have ADD/ADHD.
7. No new learning
When you stop learning, your brain starts dying. And it puts you at increased risk for memory problems. Your brain is like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets! Your brain needs a constant stream of new challenges, adventures, sights, and skills to remain active over time.
8. Not seeking help for mental health issues or memory problems
Did you know that it takes an average of 11 years from the time mental health symptoms arise until a person gets treatment, according to the National Alliance on Mental Health? Untreated mental health problems can devastate your life and increase the chances of job failure, divorce, unhappiness, and even suicide. Similarly, dementia processes start in the brain decades before symptoms appear. Early detection with brain SPECT imaging gives people the opportunity to address these issues during the early stages—when treatment is likely to be most effective.
9. Believing every negative thought you have
ANTs are those pesky “automatic negative thoughts” that pop up in your brain automatically and ruin your day. Left unchallenged, they will take over your thoughts and increase the levels of stress hormones circulating through your body, which lowers your brain reserve, increases anxiety, impacts your moods, and puts you at greater risk for age-related cognitive decline.
10. Not caring for the brains of your loved ones
Did you know that the health of your family and friends is one of the strongest predictors of longevity? A friend is someone who helps their loved ones be successful, while an accomplice is someone who helps them maintain their bad habits. Be a friend to the people you love and spread the word about brain health.
STOP MAKING MISTAKES REGARDING YOUR BRAIN HEALTH
When you discard the 10 bad brain habits and replace them with strategies that boost brainpower, you lay a foundation for success in all aspects of life. Learning to love and care for your brain and seeking help for any brain-based mental health issues early can turn your life around.
Depression, anxiety, aggression, 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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. Content updated from previous publish date.
Estrogen is primarily known as one of the main hormones involved in a woman’s menstrual cycle. But this neurohormone also has a strong influence on moods, emotions, and cognitive function. When estrogen is in balance with other hormones, such as progesterone, women tend to feel happy, energetic, and motivated. When there is too much estrogen in relation to progesterone, it’s a different story. This is called estrogen dominance, a condition that can make you feel anxious, depressed, irritable, and forgetful.
When a woman has too much estrogen in relation to progesterone, it’s called estrogen dominance, which can make you feel anxious, irritable, and forgetful.
During a woman’s typical 28-day menstrual cycle, estrogen and progesterone rise and fall. When hormones are balanced, estrogen gently rises and falls twice during a cycle, while progesterone rises and falls once. In simple terms, estrogen levels are higher during the first 2 weeks of a woman’s cycle. Progesterone levels are typically higher during the second half of her cycle.
The female body produces three kinds of estrogen: estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3).
Estrone (E1) is the main estrogen women’s bodies make after menopause.
Estradiol (E2) is the primary form of estrogen that is produced during a woman’s reproductive years. It is the strongest estrogen and supports healthy moods and cognitive function.
Estriol (E3) is the main form of the hormone that is produced during pregnancy.
HOW ESTROGEN AFFECTS THE BRAIN AND MENTAL HEALTH
Estrogen affects the brain and your mental well-being in many ways. For example, research shows that estrogen influences the production of neurotransmitters, such as:
Serotonin: This brain chemical is involved with mood, sleep, and flexibility. It also helps you to be open and adaptable to change.
Dopamine: This unique transmitter helps with motivation, focus, and staying on task while supporting the brain’s ability to remember things.
GABA: This is the brain’s chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. GABA’s primary role is to reduce brain cell excitability and slow down the firing of neurons. Too much stimulation can cause anxiety, insomnia, and seizures, while too little nerve cell firing can cause lethargy, confusion, and sedation.
Glutamate: This brain chemical is involved in memory and learning.
Other studies have found that estrogen is involved in modulating activity in the hippocampus. This brain region is critical for healthy moods and memory.
WHAT IS ESTROGEN DOMINANCE?
When there are higher levels of estrogen in relation to progesterone, it is called estrogen dominance. This changes the normal monthly hormonal ups and downs into dramatic highs and lows. This interferes with several brain processes and can make you feel sad, anxious, or irritable.
Estrogen dominance is also associated with a drop in It can progesterone and GABA, which can lead to trouble sleeping. Lack of quality sleep comes with a host of unwelcome consequences.
ESTROGEN DOMINANCE SYMPTOMS
Estrogen dominance can lead to a laundry list of symptoms. This hormonal imbalance is associated with:
These symptoms of hormonal imbalance can be mild, moderate, or severe.
WHAT CAUSES ESTROGEN DOMINANCE?
There are several reasons why estrogen levels may become elevated, including:
Your body produces too much estrogen
Your body doesn’t break down estrogen effectively
Your body doesn’t adequately flush out excess estrogen
Many things can contribute to the buildup of excess estrogen, such as:
Stress: Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which reduces progesterone levels. This leads to an imbalance with too much estrogen compared to progesterone.
Alcohol intake: When you drink alcohol, your liver has to work hard to process them. This decreases your liver’s ability to metabolize estrogen.
Exposure to xenoestrogens: Environmental toxins that mimic estrogen can increase the likelihood of estrogen dominance. These toxins include BPAs and phthalates, which are present in plastics and many personal care products.
Obesity: Fat cells secrete estrogen. The more fat cells you have, the more estrogen is released. Research shows that being obese is associated with an increased risk for estrogen dominance.
Gut dysbiosis: Good bacteria in the gut help flush out excess estrogen. When there is an imbalance in gut bacteria, however, it can lead to an accumulation of excess estrogen.
Poor liver function: Your liver is responsible for breaking down (metabolizing) estrogen and flushing it from your body. If your liver isn’t functioning optimally, estrogen levels can increase. A lack of dietary fiber or low magnesium levels may be a factor in low liver function.
DIAGNOSING ESTROGEN DOMINANCE
If you’re struggling with symptoms of estrogen dominance, you may want to have your healthcare provider test your estrogen levels. Doctors can test all 3 types of estrogen to see if your levels are off.
Based on these results and your symptoms, your doctor can recommend a treatment plan. When treating estrogen dominance, a good place to start is with lifestyle modifications.
TREATING ESTROGEN DOMINANCE
Many lifestyle changes can help reduce estrogen levels and improve your quality of life. Here are 6 natural strategies to treat estrogen dominance.
Lower stress:
Getting a handle on stress can be very helpful in reducing cortisol and estrogen levels. Start a stress-reduction practice that includes strategies like meditation and havening.
Limit or eliminate alcohol:
Cutting back on wine, beer, and cocktails can improve your liver’s ability to break down estrogen.
Reduce exposure to xenoestrogens:
When possible, buy organic foods. Skip plastic containers and use glass instead. Go through your cupboards and throw away household cleaners and personal care products that contain harmful chemicals.
Reduce body fat (if needed):
Lowering your body fat can reduce the amount of estrogen secreted by fat cells. Check with your healthcare provider to find a healthy plan to lose fat while still getting enough of the important nutrients your body needs.
Support gut health:
Improve your gut health by taking probiotics.
Eat a high-fiber diet:
Dietary fiber can improve the function of your liver, so it can metabolize estrogen more effectively.
By making these lifestyle changes, you may be able to reduce excess estrogen levels. When you achieve hormonal balance, it can improve your moods, memory, and energy.
If estrogen dominance symptoms—such as depression, anxiety, forgetfulness, or brain fog continue—it’s a good idea to seek help from an integrative medicine (functional medicine) professional. Look for someone who understands how neurohormones affect brain function and who takes a comprehensive brain-body approach to treatment. With a professional who will get to the root causes of your symptoms, you are more likely to find the most effective treatments.
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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. Have you missed an important appointment, more than once recently? Do you often misplace items, unable to recall where you left them? Do you frequently search for words that used to come quickly and naturally? These are signs of memory loss. They can be very disconcerting when you experience them firsthand or observe them in another person. If you are worried about symptoms of memory loss—or the development of Alzheimer’s disease in yourself, a friend, or a family member, you’ll be interested to learn of promising new research involving hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).
A study found hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) increased blood flow to the brains of participants experiencing early signs of Alzheimer’s disease by up to 23% and showed 16.5% improvement in cognitive performance and memory.
For example, one new study revealed dramatic improvements using an HBOT protocol for elderly patients with cognitive decline. Increased cerebral blood flow from HBOT helped to alleviate two of the most recognized biological hallmarks in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
The study’s compelling findings and earlier research suggest that HBOT may provide a way to slow or possibly even reverse this most common form of dementia affecting more than 6 million Americans. Here’s what you need to know about HBOT and Alzheimer’s disease.
BASICS ABOUT ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. It is characterized by changes in memory, cognition, and behavior. Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, which is rare and accounts for less than 10% of cases, can occur as early as one’s 30s, 40s, 50s, and early 60s. However, for most people with Alzheimer’s, symptoms begin to appear in their mid-60s, which is called late-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
It is progressive. Symptoms eventually grow severe enough to interfere with functional daily living. The cause is not entirely clear, but scientists believe it is probably a combination of age-related changes in the brain, along with genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Here’s where it gets interesting—and how lifestyle factors and interventions can make a difference. Changes begin to happen in the brain long before the initial signs of memory loss appear.
WHAT ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE DOES TO THE BRAIN
Consider that our brains have roughly 100 billion neurons. Each neuron may be connected to up to 10,000 other neurons, transmitting signals to each other via as many as 1,000 trillion synapses! Healthy neuronal function is essential for thinking, learning, and memory, as well as for sensing the world through vision, hearing, scent, and taste.
Of course, a certain amount of brain nerve cells get damaged or destroyed and replaced every day. However, if large numbers of these nerve cells get damaged or die, the brain does not function as well. We may experience memory glitches, personality changes, difficulties carrying out daily activities, and other signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
Research points to several biological factors responsible for the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Among them is the buildup of protein fragments called beta-amyloid in the spaces between nerve cells, as well as twisted fibers of another protein called tau within the nerve cells. Research also indicates vascular dementia as a factor. It’s caused by a number of conditions that impede cerebral blood (i.e., heart disease,stroke, and high blood pressure, as well as diabetes and obesity).
CAN ALZHEIMER’S BE SLOWED BY INCREASING BLOOD FLOW?
Slowing and preventing Alzheimer’s by increasing cerebral blood flow is an exciting new area of research. Indeed, a 2021 study noted that reductions in cerebral blood flow of 10-20% were a common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease that showed early in the brain disorder’s progression—and suggested increasing blood flow as a method of treatment.
Here at Amen Clinics, research has also shown that brain SPECT imaging can identify the abnormally low blood flow pattern of Alzheimer’s disease up to 9 years before Alzheimer’s symptoms begin to present. This is very hopeful in terms of prevention.
HOW HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY MAY HELP IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
While the term hyperbaric oxygen therapy may sound a little daunting, in reality, it is a non-invasive, safe, and easy treatment. An individual lies flat in a comfortable, pressurized chamber and breathes 100% pure oxygen. This allows the lungs to take in up to 3 times more oxygen than with normal breathing, quickly increasing blood flow and delivering more oxygen to the body’s tissues.
HBOT has most commonly been used for decompression sickness and to counter carbon monoxide poisoning. It can be very beneficial in speeding wound healing too, as the body requires greater amounts of oxygen to heal damaged tissue. It has also been used effectively in instances of traumatic brain injury, according to research.
In terms of slowing or preventing Alzheimer’s disease, it’s HBOT’s effect on cerebral blood flow bringing greater oxygen to the brain that makes the difference. Here at Amen Clinics, before-and-after brain SPECT imaging studies of people who have undergone HBOT show dramatic improvement in cerebral blood flow.
RESEARCH ON HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
In 2019, research was conducted on an Alzheimer’s patient specifically using HBOT. After weeks of undergoing 50-minute HBOT, dramatic improvements were experienced and reported by the patient—specifically, improvements in memory and concentration, sleep, conversation, appetite, ability to use the computer, motor skills, more good days than bad days, resolved anxiety and decreased disorientation and frustration.
Additionally, PET imaging showed a 6.5-38% global improvement in brain metabolism (resulting from blood flow delivering more oxygen and glucose to the brain tissue). The researchers suggested HBOT as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.
A 2020 study sought to examine the HBOT effects on patients with Alzheimer’s
and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). The patients were treated with 40 minutes of hyperbaric oxygen for 20 days. Results showed the treatment significantly improved the cognitive function of the patients compared to controls and improved oxygenation to brain tissue. The researchers concluded that HBOT may be a “promising alternative therapy for Alzheimer’s disease and aMCI.”
In a 2021 review analysis, researchers analyzed more than 391 clinical and experimental studies published over a 40-year period to examine the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying HBOT and its effectiveness in treating Alzheimer’s disease. They concluded by advocating the use of HBOT for treating Alzheimer’s disease.
The most promising research on HBOT and Alzheimer’s (first mentioned above) was conducted at Tel Aviv University and published in the journal Aging late in 2021. Notably, the study sought to address not only the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease but also the core pathology and biology responsible for its development.
The first stage of the study, produced on an animal model, proved conclusively through the examination of brain tissues that a specific HBOT protocol boosts vascular function and the creation of new blood vessels, prevents the deposit of new amyloid plaques on the brain cells, and leads to the removal of existing amyloid plaque deposits.
In the second phase of the study, HBOT protocol effects were examined in elderly patients (above age 65) suffering from cognitive decline (with particular attention on memory loss)—early indicators of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
Remarkably, the study found hyperbaric oxygen therapy increased blood flow to the brains of study participants by up to an astounding 23%, which helped to alleviate vascular dysfunction and amyloid burden. Additionally, it showed marked improvement in participants’ cognitive performance and memory by 16.5%.
This compelling body of research clearly suggests HBOT may be an effective treatment to slow or reverse the drivers of Alzheimer’s disease. It’s no surprise then that more research is currently underway.
For example, in 2022, a new clinical trial began to further research the role of vascular dysfunction and neuroinflammation in participants in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease and how hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help to slow or reverse the disease progression.
Memory loss and other symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and traditional 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. So many things can damage our brains, such as excessive drug or alcohol use, health conditions like diabetes or heart disease, infections like Lyme disease or Covid, and of course head injuries. And these can all have a negative impact on our memory. If you’ve been bad to your brain, if you have health issues, or if you’ve experienced traumatic brain injuries—even mild ones—you may be wondering if there’s any hope for your brain and memory. In fact, some of the most common questions the psychiatrists at Amen Clinics hear are, “Am I stuck with the brain I have?” and “Is my memory gone for good?” That’s what Olympic boxer Tony Jeffries wanted to know when he visited Amen Clinics for a brain scan.
Some of the most common questions the psychiatrists at Amen Clinics hear is, “Am I stuck with the brain I have?” and “Is my memory gone for good?”
In an episode of Scan My Brain, Jeffries says, “If you asked me what I did yesterday, it would take a good 5 minutes to really think about what I did.” Now retired from the ring, the boxing entrepreneur, who is the co-owner of Box ’N’ Burn Gyms, was hoping a brain SPECT scan could help him find targeted ways to optimize his brain and enhance his memory so he can perform at his highest level. SPECT, which measures blood flow and activity in the brain, offers a picture of how the brain is functioning and shows areas that could benefit from optimization.
COMMON WAYS THE BRAIN AND MEMORY GET DAMAGED
Head injuries
Getting in a car accident, falling off a bike, or getting punched in the head causes damage to the brain and can lead to memory problems. Most people don’t get hit in the head as many times as Jeffries, who had 106 career fights. Jeffries estimates he’s had 7 or 8 concussions and has been hit 40,000-50,000 times. You don’t have to experience that level of repetitive trauma to have memory loss. Decades of research show that traumatic brain injuries—even mild ones—are a major cause of memory problems, but few people make the connection between the injury and forgetfulness.
In evaluating Jeffries’, Dr. Jay Faber, one of the psychiatrists at Amen Clinics, compares his brain SPECT scans to those “we might see in people who fall downstairs… play soccer and take a lot of hits to the front of the head… or who’ve been in a minor car accident.”
Excessive drug or alcohol use
Drugs and alcohol are toxins that damage the brain and increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. On SPECT scans, heavy drinkers and drug users often have a pattern called scalloping, which makes the brain appear to have a bumpy surface. This is a sign of overall low blood flow, which is associated with memory problems and is the #1 brain-imaging predictor of future Alzheimer’s disease. A study at Johns Hopkins found that people who drink every day have smaller brains, and when it comes to the brain, size matters! A study at Amen Clinics analyzing 62,454 brain scans found that marijuana accelerates brain aging, making it the equivalent of 2.8 years older. In this study, blood flow was decreased the most in the right hippocampus, an area commonly involved with Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss of all types.
Health conditions that affect blood flow
The brain uses 20% of the blood flow in your body, and any physical condition that decreases blood flow impacts the brain and memory. Heart disease and diabetes are two common health problems that impact blood flow, which harms the brain. Having a heart attack significantly increases the risk for future memory problems, and so does diabetes. Research has found a link between the abnormal insulin levels seen in diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline. The connection is so strong, some researchers are calling Alzheimer’s “Type 3” diabetes.
Infections
Infectious diseases are a major cause of memory problems and dementia, but they remain overlooked in the medical and psychiatric community, according to an editorial in JAMA by an international consensus group of 33 scientists. Brain SPECT imaging shows that Lyme disease is associated with overall low blood flow and scalloping. One of the most common complaints among people with Lyme disease is brain fog, including memory issues. Similarly, brain-imaging research on COVID, which is also associated with brain fog, reveals that the infection can cause inflammation in the brain.
HEALING THE BRAIN AND MEMORY
Healing after head injury
One of the most exciting things to come out of brain-imaging research is the fact that putting the brain in a healing environment offers the potential for improvement after a head injury. Even for Jeffries who has been punched in the face thousands of times, there is the ability to increase blood flow and optimize activity.
Among several recommendations for Jeffries, Dr. Faber suggested hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), which uses pure oxygen to accelerate the healing process. In light of the scalloping seen in Jeffries’ brain, Dr. Faber explains that with HBOT, “we increase the oxygen concentration and atmospheric pressure, and it pushes oxygen across the blood-brain barrier and helps support these areas to get them smooth again.”
Like many people who see their brain scan, Jeffries thinks it’s a game changer. He says, “It gives me hope that I can improve that part of my brain, and I’ll be able to focus better and
have a better memory and ultimately live a better life. Without having the scans and without talking to the doctor and finding this stuff out I would never know what was going on, but
now I know.”
Healing damage from alcohol and drugs
To rehabilitate the brain and strengthen memory, it is best to eliminate alcohol and drugs. Alcohol is not a health food, as it is commonly portrayed. And marijuana is not innocuous. If necessary, seek a professional from someone trained in addiction treatment to stop drinking or using drugs.
Healing from health conditions
If you have heart disease or diabetes, it’s time to get serious about your health. To boost blood flow exercise regularly, limit caffeine, and engage in meditation or prayer. To manage diabetes, maintain a healthy weight and eat a low-glycemic diet.
Healing from infections
One of the first steps to overcoming chronic infections that affect the brain and memory is getting an accurate diagnosis. Work with an integrative (also called functional) medicine doctor to get to the root cause of your memory issues. Treating the underlying infection can be beneficial in boosting brainpower and improving memory.
When you put your brain in a healing environment, you give it the foundation it needs to operate at a more optimal level. Taking stock of where you are in terms of brain health can help you take the next step to a healthier brain and better memory.
Memory loss, addictions, and other brain and 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 888-288-9834or visit our contact page here. When it comes to psychotherapy, are you a “no, never” person? Do you feel that your problems are not serious enough to require therapy? Do you think seeking help is weak or indulgent? Is a therapist simply a paid friend? If you answer yes to any of these questions, you may be carrying some misconceptions about what psychotherapy is, who it is designed to help, and what kind of problems it can help address. Here are some of the biggest misconceptions about psychotherapy. Don’t let them stand in the way of your own well-being.
Mental health experts report that often the clients they see in therapy are mentally healthier than those who fear the stigma of seeking help for counseling.
Therapy indeed can critically and successfully address a number of serious mental health issues, but that’s not all. Psychotherapy benefits all types of people seeking solutions for a wide range of everyday life challenges, helping to improve quality of life, enhance self-esteem, and foster greater overall well-being.
Of course, therapy helps to address mental crises, tragic losses, and trauma—as well as common mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD), and other mental health disorders.
However, you may be surprised to learn the broad range of issues therapy can also help.
For instance, at Amen Clinics, the top reason people seek psychotherapy is to help in dealing with people in their lives who won’t go to therapy!
Feelings of loss are hard to process on one’s own. Psychotherapy can be particularly supportive to people experiencing loss and grief—whether that’s the end of a relationship, a divorce, the loss of a loved one, or a life-changing medical issue.
Therapy is immensely practical for problem-solving too. For example, it can help individuals to address unhealthy patterns in relationships, reduce negative self-talk, improve self-esteem, acquire better strategies for handling stress, be better parents, reach life goals, or get needed support during times of transition. The bottom line is nothing horrible has to happen for someone to seek therapy to feel better.
2. A Couple of Therapy Sessions Will Fix the Issue
With the exception of one-session exposure therapy, which can be effective in helping to alleviate specific phobias, therapy is a process that generally takes a dozen or more sessions to be effective. There is no quick “fix” for lasting change. That’s the good news and the bad news. Therapy focuses on root causes and that takes time.
The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that certain types of psychotherapy take a moderate duration (12 to 16 weekly sessions of roughly 50 min each) to show clinically significant improvements. About 50% of people who undergo 15-20 sessions report meaningful improvement. However, for people with co-occurring conditions and more complex issues, longer treatment (12-18 months) may be needed.
The length of your therapy is something you decide with your therapist. While some people come for a few months to work on a particular issue, others may stay in therapy for extended periods to continue to learn and grow in a therapeutic setting, even after the initial problem that motivated them to start therapy has been addressed. Some types of psychotherapy, such as psychoanalysis, are designed for a prolonged process in order to explore unconscious drivers of behavior and family patterns.
3. People Who Go to Therapy Are Weak and Unstable
For some people, especially those who value being “strong” and self-sufficient, going to therapy is seen as a failure. They judge people who need therapy as weak and unable to manage their problems—or worse, they think they are crazy.
In reality, the opposite is true. Mental health experts report that often the clients they see in therapy are mentally healthier than those who fear the stigma of seeking help for counseling! Those who seek therapy are resourceful and far from weak. Undergoing the transformative therapeutic process requires strength, honesty, humility, and courage.
Trusting a mental health professional, having the willingness to take a hard look at your thoughts and behaviors, and being prepared to be challenged in a safe environment to make adjustments that may improve your life, signals strength, intelligence, and sanity.
Taking care of one’s mental health is good for your overall health, too. The mind-body connection is now well accepted by western medicine. The APA reports that emotional problems can show up as physical symptoms and vice-versa.
4. All Psychotherapy Is the Same
Psychotherapy, also called “talk” therapy or just therapy, is not one thing. There are many types of psychotherapy, and it may take a few tries to find a therapist who uses the methods that work for you.
For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people notice and change negative, unhelpful (and untrue!) thoughts, as well as behavior. Since distressing thoughts tend to increase anxiety and depression, helping to quell them is of great therapeutic benefit. On the other hand, interpersonal therapy (IPT), much like it sounds, focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and developing social skills as a way to decrease distress.
Other forms of psychotherapy include dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), psychoanalytic therapy, and humanistic therapy. DBT is particularly beneficial to people who hold rigid ideas by helping them to see other perspectives. Psychoanalytic therapy helps to uncover unconscious thoughts that may be affecting current behaviors, emotions, and perceptions. Humanistic therapy focuses on how you perceive yourself and your world, and how these views may affect your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
A skilled therapist may incorporate one or more of these types of psychotherapy, depending on the needs of the individual. Additionally, there are innovative types of therapy that can be useful with specific issues such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or hypnosis, which can help people to feel calm and relaxed.
5. A Therapist Is a Paid Friend
It is true that a therapist should be someone you trust, and hopefully, someone whose company you enjoy—which may make them feel like a friend, but they are quite different.
A psychotherapist (psychiatrist, psychologist, counselor, or social worker) is a professional who has undergone rigorous clinical training and testing. They are bound by a strict code of ethics, which requires them to keep your best interests the priority.
Unlike a friendship, your relationship with your therapist is not a two-way street. In fact, your therapist will not disclose very much information about themselves. And when they do share anything personal, it will likely be shared to help your growth. Their aim is to keep the focus on you and your goals.
You can discuss issues with a therapist that may not be suited for a friend to hear, as a therapist is trained to listen to your deepest concerns and skillfully detect unhelpful thoughts and patterns. They provide undivided attention, support, and a more objective perspective of your situation. They use science-based techniques to help you to make healthier choices in your life.
While a friend may offer a good ear, a skilled therapist can help you to transform your life—and they do. Psychotherapy has been shown to help roughly three-quarters of the people who try it.
6. You’ll Lie on a Couch and Talk to Therapist Who Takes Notes
We’ve all seen it in movies and television: A therapist sits quietly and without emotion, listening and taking notes while the client lies on a couch staring up at the ceiling and talking.
This is not therapy. Your therapist may have a couch, but you will not be lying on it!
More likely you will face each other while you sit on a couch, and they sit in a chair with no obstructions between you—kind of like a comfortable living room setup.
Psychotherapy is a relationship and a dialogue. The seating arrangement and distance between a professional and a client are designed to facilitate open communication. A skilled therapist may even ask if the distance is comfortable for a client, and they rarely take notes during a session. They are highly present and attentive.
7. Therapy Is for Women Only
It is true that women are more likely to seek therapy, and it is likely because there’s less stigma around women seeking help. Indeed, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), reports that of the 20% of U.S. adults experiencing mental illness in 2019, about 50% of the women received mental health care, while only around 37 % of men did.
Unfortunately, research indicates that many men still associate seeking help for a psychological or emotional problem with shame and weakness. However, men can benefit greatly from therapy—especially because they have fewer places to go for emotional support.
According to Statista, an estimated 12.1 % of U.S. men received mental health treatment or counseling in 2021 (and 21.4 % of women). While fewer men seek therapy, it can and does very much help men who are brave enough to try it!
8. Not Many People Go to Therapy
While most of us will happily share if we are working with a professional for other aspects of health (such as a trainer, physical therapist, or body worker), we only tell a trusted few, if anyone, that we go to therapy. Even though there’s much less stigma around therapy today, people are still reluctant to tell people they go, which may give a false impression that few people work with a therapist.
Yet, data reveals that millions of people do. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in a national survey, found that 9.5% of American adults worked with a therapist or counselor in 2019. That’s nearly 33 million people! What’s more, the survey was pre-pandemic. The number of people seeking therapy today is likely much higher.
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.
