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While there is more awareness than ever before about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), mental health professionals and researchers are still discovering its long-term effects on the brain and body. In 2010, researchers began taking note of a greater risk of dementia in war veterans with PTSD when a study showed they had double the risk than veterans without PTSD. Today, researchers are seeing the correlation between PTSD and dementia, even in the general population. The connection between dementia and PTSD serves to underscore the importance of recognizing PTSD and getting proper treatment as early as possible. People with PTSD face a 61% higher risk of dementia. The connection between dementia and PTSD serves to underscore the importance of recognizing PTSD and getting proper treatment as early as possible.
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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PTSD

Approximately 3.5% of U.S. adults suffer from PTSD, and an estimated 1 in 11 will be diagnosed with the condition at some point during their lifetime. Although most people think the condition primarily affects military veterans or first responders, it can affect virtually anyone—any nationality, occupation, or ethnicity—adult or child. There are two types of diagnoses given to people based on symptoms that stem from significant emotional and/or physical trauma: PTSD and complex PTSD (CPTSD). PTSD may develop after a single traumatic event that is life-threatening (even if it is just perceived to be) in the person who experiences it. Most of us are familiar with these traumatic events; However, what has received more attention in recent years is Complex PTSD.  It evolves from prolonged trauma that goes on for months or years and from which rescue or escape seems impossible. Examples of CPTSD are childhood sexual, emotional, and physical abuse, as well as neglect, and related maltreatment. Symptoms of PTSD include the following: If you identify with 4 or more of them, it’s a good idea to get a consultation with a mental health professional. Sufferers of PTSD are more likely to engage in self-destructive behavior such as drinking too much or driving too fast. They are also more vulnerable to suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

PTSD AND DEMENTIA: WHAT THE RESEARCH SHOWS

A fascinating study published in January 2020 in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry revealed a bidirectional relationship between PTSD and dementia. It reviewed 25 articles and found that PTSD in mid-life increased the risk for late-life dementia. Similarly, it found that having Alzheimer’s disease or vascular dementia later in life was associated with a greater risk of delayed development of PTSD or a worsening of symptoms related to the condition. Additionally, a diverse 2020 meta-analysis published in the British Journal of Psychiatry analyzed findings from 13 studies conducted on 4 continents, including data from nearly 1.7 million people, including war veterans and the general population. It found that PTSD was associated with a significant risk for all-cause dementia. Specifically, the researchers found that people with PTSD faced a 61% higher risk of dementia. Interestingly, PTSD was higher in the general population compared to veterans. The researchers attributed this discrepancy potentially to greater awareness and treatment for PTSD among war veterans. The researchers were unclear about how PTSD raises dementia risk. However, they hypothesized that hypervigilance and recurrent re-experiencing of trauma might engage stress-response activity in the brain, and withdrawal from socializing could negatively impact cognition and resilience.

5 STRATEGIES TO HELP HEAL PTSD

These newer studies confirm that PTSD is a strong risk factor for dementia. If you’ve experienced trauma or could identify with more than 4 of the PTSD symptoms above, don’t worry as you can heal and protect your brain. By addressing your PTSD now and adopting a brain healthy lifestyle, you’ll increase the chances of maintaining your memory and cognition as you grow older. Here are 5 strategies for healing from PTSD and Complex PTSD.

1. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy

EMDR therapy is a special psychotherapeutic technique that has been shown in studies to be an effective treatment for people who have been emotionally traumatized. It is believed that traumatic events can prevent the brain from processing information as it normally does, which results in these events getting “stuck” in the brain’s information processing center. EMDR therapy uses eye movements or other alternate hemisphere stimulation to remove the emotional charges of these “stuck” traumatic memories. Researchers believe the therapy activates mechanisms in the brain that help you process memory and distressing emotions.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Developed in the 1990s, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be effective for kids, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma. This therapy aims to help trauma survivors overcome anxiety, depression, anger, self-harm, and more. It helps a person change unhelpful patterns of thinking, behavior, and emotions.

3. Meditation

Do not underestimate the healing power of meditation, specifically Loving Kindness Meditation (LKM). Research has shown many benefits from LKM, which focuses on developing feelings of goodwill, kindness, and warmth toward others. Reducing symptoms of PTSD and depression, as well as increasing positive feelings are just some of the many benefits researchers, have noted.

4. Brain-Healthy Habits

Brain-healthy habits mean eliminating lifestyle factors that harm your brain while increasing activities that boost your brain health. For example, drugs, alcohol, brain injuries, obesity, sleep apnea, hypertension, smoking, too much sugar, and unhealthy fats are all examples of what hurts your brain. Eating colorful fruits and vegetables rich in polyphenols and good-for-you fats found in avocados and walnuts helps to protect your brain. Getting regular exercise, keeping stress levels down, enjoying 7-9 hours of sleep a night, and engaging in brain-healthy activities are also all good for your brain.

5. Supplements and Medication

Taking nutritional supplements like fish oil can be beneficial for overall brain health. In some cases, medication may be helpful, especially when used in conjunction with other therapies. Taking any of these measures to heal from PTSD will not only help protect your memory from decline later in life, but it will also benefit your brain health, your body, and your overall well-being right now. PTSD, dementia, and memory 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. Does your child have difficulty containing their emotions, exhibiting explosive bouts of anger, or crying? Do you have a teen struggling with excessive anxiousness, depression, or suicidal thoughts, or who engages in self-harm or dangerous, impulsive behavior? Or do you have trouble managing your own emotions, to the point of losing jobs, friends, or romantic partners? These are signs of emotional dysregulation, also called affect dysregulation.     Emotional dysregulation can be devastatingly destructive to relationships, family life, school life, work life, and overall well-being.
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WHAT IS EMOTIONAL DYSREGULATION AND WHAT CAUSES IT?

Defined as an incapacity to manage emotional responses well or to keep them within an acceptable range of typical emotional reactions, emotional dysregulation is believed to affect roughly 5% of the population. It can be devastatingly destructive to relationships, family life, school life, work life, and overall well-being. Although it is more commonly seen amongst children and adolescents, it can persist into adulthood. Emotional dysregulation is not a disorder in itself, but it often plays a central role in a number of mental health conditions. Research suggests affect dysregulation may have a variety of causes including:

EMOTIONAL DYSREGULATION IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

A child’s capacity to regulate their emotional state and emotional responses positively impact their family, peers, academic success, and long-term mental well-being, as well as their ability to successfully navigate life as they grow into young adults. It’s a critical component of development. Yet, some children struggle to manage their emotions. They may experience difficulty registering emotions, responding with emotions that are appropriate to a given situation or regulating emotional responses in social interactions. Signs of emotional dysregulation in early childhood may include: Adolescents may cry more intensely than what is appropriate to a situation or have angry outbursts for no justifiable reason. They can show aggression towards themselves or others, or they may exhibit impulsive behavior that involves harmful risk-taking. They may swing between emotional extremes—blissfully happy one moment and deeply depressed the next. Overall, emotionally dysregulated adolescents have trouble interacting socially and often show marked signs of behavioral issues, especially at school. All of these symptoms are magnified in teens, and it can be alarming for parents. Their anger destroys relationships. Fear can manifest as debilitating anxiety or panic attacks. Sadness can turn to excessive crying, extreme depression, and self-harm. Behavior becomes extreme and risky: They might drive too fast, spend all their money, possibly shoplift, start smoking or drinking and be promiscuous without using protection.

EMOTIONAL DYSREGULATION AND MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS

Emotional dysregulation is often a precursor to or a major symptom of a number of mental health disorders, research suggests. It has been linked to: For example, up to 80% of children with ADD/ADHD report problems with emotional dysregulation, according to experts. It can also manifest in those with ADD/ADHD as socially inappropriate behavioral responses to strong emotion, which is compounded by guilt and shame. In adolescents, research indicates that eating disorders and other compulsive behavior is believed to be a strategy to manage affect dysregulation. It’s important to seek assessment so that mental health disorders can be treated along with emotional dysregulation since they are so closely linked.

CHILDHOOD TRAUMA AND EMOTIONAL DYSREGULATION

Research suggests that children and adolescents who experience childhood trauma are twice as likely to develop a mental health disorder. It also predisposes them to attachment disorders. And as it turns out, it may increase their risk of emotional dysregulation too. Indeed, they are all interrelated. This may be because of the neurobiological impact of trauma on brain function. When a child experiences trauma—ranging from neglect to physical abuse—the brain is affected. One brain SPECT imaging study in Plos One on trauma survivors found increased activity in the limbic system, which is considered the emotional center of the brain. Another study in Neuropsychopharmacology examining trauma-exposed teens found compromised function of the prefrontal cortex (involved in emotion regulation and impulse control) and amygdala (involved with fear and the encoding of emotional events), in addition to difficulty regulating emotions. Invalidation of a child’s experience or feelings is another form of relational trauma. This occurs when a person’s emotional expressions are dismissed, neglected, or criticized by caregivers. Research suggests there may be a generational aspect involved in emotional dysregulation. A study in the Journal of Child and Family Studies found that parents with this trait are more likely to disregard their adolescent’s emotionality, resulting in greater odds that their offspring will also develop problems managing emotions. Hence, adults must check for affect dysregulation in themselves.

AFFECT DYSREGULATION IN ADULTS

Adults need emotional regulation just like children and adolescents. A high degree of emotional regulation in adults is associated with higher levels of well-being, disposable income, and socioeconomic status, according to research in the journal Emotion. Conversely, emotional dysregulation can lead to a lifetime of struggles including problems with interpersonal relationships, trouble with academic performance, and the inability to function effectively in a job or at work. For adults, emotional dysregulation may manifest as a big emotional response that is overblown to the situation at hand. Dysregulated adults also have trouble calming down after an emotional trigger, as well as a tendency to avoid difficult feelings and to focus on the negative. They may exhibit impulsive behavior surrounding out-of-control feelings of fear, sadness, frustration, and anger. An emotionally dysregulated adult may have difficulty discerning what they are feeling when they get upset. Strong emotions may feel so confusing, overwhelming, or riddled with guilt, a dysregulated person often has trouble making decisions or controlling their own behavior.

SOLUTIONS FOR BETTER EMOTIONAL REGULATION

There’s hope for both children and adults with affect dysregulation. If you recognize emotional dysregulation in your child or yourself—or both, it’s important to seek the help of a mental health professional. Once it is identified and a comprehensive assessment is made to identify root causes, emotional regulation techniques can be learned and related mental health—and brain health—disorders can be addressed. Research in Frontiers in Psychology showed improvement in emotional regulation with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, hypnosis, and meditation.  Neurofeedback also has been shown to support emotional regulation in patients with PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health disorders, according to a 2019 study in Neuroimage. Additional tools and strategies are available to treat past trauma, brain injuries, and related mental health issues. Finding the root causes of affect dysregulation is the key to discovering the most effective solutions. Problems with emotional dysregulation 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, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Euphoric highs. Debilitating lows. The ups and downs of living with bipolar disorder can be so challenging. But is medication the sole solution? Although prescription medication can be helpful and may be necessary in some cases, it is not the only way to address bipolar disorder, which affects roughly 5.7 million Americans. This complex brain disorder—which is associated with dramatic changes in moods, energy, and activity levels—does not have just one single cause. Instead, multiple risk factors contribute to the condition. Addressing these risk factors with nondrug therapies and lifestyle changes can be powerfully effective in managing symptoms of bipolar disorder. Before exploring these natural strategies, it’s necessary to understand the risk factors for bipolar disorder. Note: If you are currently taking medication for bipolar disorder, do not stop taking it without speaking to your healthcare provider first. Non-drug therapies and lifestyle changes can be powerfully effective in managing symptoms of bipolar disorder.
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DO YOU KNOW THE RISK FACTORS FOR BIPOLAR DISORDER?

Researchers have been working for decades to uncover the underlying causes of bipolar disorder and have discovered a variety of physical, emotional, psychiatric, and lifestyle factors that may increase risk. Among them are the following: Looking closely at some of these risk factors has revealed the following methods of treatment that involve no medication at all.

5 NATURAL WAYS TO ADDRESS BIPOLAR DISORDER

1. Trauma and Stress: Relax the Stress Response

Emotional trauma experienced in childhood and periods of extreme stress (such as the death of a loved one, disability, or divorce) trigger the body’s built-in fight-or-flight stress response (also referred to as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal or HPA axis). In normal circumstances, when the stress response is triggered by a threat, real or perceived, the HPA axis ensures a swift response through the release of stress hormones. When the threat has passed, the stress response turns off. Yet studies have shown that trauma and extreme/chronic stress keep the HPA axis turned on. Constant firing of the stress response can cause HPA axis dysfunction, which increases the risk for bipolar disorder and/or bipolar episodes. Research suggests that targeting HPA axis dysfunction is one strategy to improve the outcomes of bipolar disorder, and the following non-drug options are aimed at doing just that. EMDR and CBT for Trauma The stress response and stored memories of trauma can be addressed with therapeutic techniques. Research indicates that cognitive behavioral therapy may help to reduce symptoms of emotional trauma, as well as reverse the underlying biology of the disorder within the brain. Additionally, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), a special psychotherapeutic technique, has been shown in studies to be an effective treatment for people who have been emotionally traumatized. Stress Reduction Of course, stress reduction offers another potential line of treatment as it calms the stress response. The following activities reduce stress markers in the body:

2. Substance Abuse, Mental Health, and Medical Issues: Address Comorbidity

Adding to bipolar disorder’s complexity, it’s common for those affected by it to have co-existing substance abuse problems, mental health issues, or medical problems. Co-occurring conditions can exacerbate manic and depressive episodes. One study examining nearly 400 bipolar cases found as many as 69% abused alcohol and up to 60% abused drugs. Cannabis use was identified in a 2015 review as a risk factor for bipolar disorder that may cause or exacerbate manic episodes. Some medical experts believe that substance abuse can also lead to changes in the brain that may contribute to the development of bipolar disorder. There are numerous mental health disorders that present with bipolar disorder as well. A study in Clinical Psychology found that 62% of those with bipolar disorder also meet the clinical criteria for ADD/ADHD.  Anxiety disorders, panic disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, social phobias, eating disorders, and some personality disorders are also seen with bipolar disorder. In children and adolescents, bipolar disorder may also co-exist with oppositional defiant disorder and other conduct disorders. Obesity, migraine headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, and asthma are examples of medical issues that are common with bipolar disorder. Address Comorbidities Whether it is substance abuse, another mental health disorder, or a medical issue, bipolar disorder and/or the episodes can be avoided or reduced by properly addressing these co-occurring conditions. Seek the proper professional care and commit to making the lifestyle changes necessary to resolve them.

3. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)/Concussions: Heal Your Brain

If you’ve had a head injury, you’re at higher risk of developing bipolar disorder, according to a 2016 review. In fact, one study found that people with a prior TBI were 28% more likely to develop bipolar disorder. Heal Your Brain If you’ve been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and have experienced a head injury or suspect you may have had a concussion in the past, have your brain examined. At Amen Clinics, brain SPECT imaging reveals that many people who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder have signs of undetected traumatic brain injury. Interestingly, head trauma can cause many of the same symptoms seen in bipolar disorder. In either case, healing the brain can be beneficial in decreasing the symptoms. You can help heal your brain and address bipolar disorder symptoms by adopting a brain-healthy lifestyle. This includes healthy nutrition, regulated sleep, moderate exercise, lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, and helpful forms of therapy, including neurofeedback which has been shown to be beneficial in healing brain injuries in a 2017 study.

4. Sleep Disturbances: Regulate Your Sleep

Disturbed sleep may affect or trigger bipolar episodes. An ongoing study, following 1,100 individuals with bipolar disorder found that a lack of quality rest appears to impact the severity of manic and depressive episodes, particularly in women with the condition. Dysregulation of the sleep/wake cycle (circadian rhythms) can exacerbate manic and depressive episodes in those affected by bipolar disorder as well. Regulate Your Sleep Practicing healthy sleep habits and incorporating methods shown to regulate the sleep/wake cycle are excellent ways to keep bipolar disorder in check. Sleep tips include powering down digital devices at least an hour before bed; keeping the same sleep/wake times; avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which can disturb sleep; listening to a relaxing meditation before bed; keeping your room cool and dark. Supplementing with melatonin can help reset the sleep/wake cycle especially when traveling through different time zones.

5. Gut Health Issues: Support a Healthy Microbiome

A growing body of evidence is showing that mood disorders may be related to changes in the gut microbiome. A recent study following bipolar patients discharged from hospitalization for manic episodes showed a significantly lower incidence or rehospitalization after taking probiotics for 24 weeks than those who did not. Support a Healthy Microbiome Supporting a healthy microbiome by eating plenty of prebiotic foods (inulin fiber-containing foods that feed the good bacteria in your gut such as garlic, leeks, asparagus, and bananas) and fermented foods (foods containing healthy bacteria such as kimchi, yogurt, and kefir) is another way to reduce the risk of bipolar disorder episodes. Taking probiotic supplements can help too, as well as following a brain-healthy diet with loads of vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and lean meats.

PULL EVERY LEVER

Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder, it is highly treatable and can be managed effectively, especially if every lever of treatment is pulled. Of course, a treatment plan should be tailored to the individual under the care of a medical professional. Bipolar disorder and related 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 our society opens up again following the pandemic, feelings of social anxiety are understandably on the rise. Adolescents and teens are heading back to the classroom after months and months of online learning. Adults are returning to offices after working from home for a lengthy period. And social gatherings are making a comeback—from dinner parties to weddings to large-scale concerts and sporting events. It all adds up to increased anxiousness about socializing. For some people, it’s debilitating. When uncomfortable anxious feelings persist or intensify, it’s a sign of trouble. When you routinely avoid meeting new people or your fears and worries interfere with daily life, it’s an indicator of social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia. When you routinely avoid meeting new people or your fears and worries interfere with daily life, it’s an indicator of social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia.
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Social phobias are the most common form of phobia, affecting an estimated 15 million adults in the U.S. Social anxiety disorder involves intense self-consciousness in social situations and worry that others are watching and judging you. This can disrupt everyday activities and makes it challenging to develop and maintain friendships and relationships.

WHAT IS SOCIAL ANXIETY DISORDER?

Social anxiety disorder is a mental health condition that involves intense and irrational fears of being criticized or judged, debilitating anxiousness, and deep shame or embarrassment. These distressing emotions are so strong they interfere with everyday living and get in the way of relationships, school, and career success. Ultimately, they can keep you from reaching your potential in life. How does this differ from ordinary shyness? Depending on personality types, some people are less outgoing and more reserved than others. People who are shy may prefer solitary hobbies and working independently, however, shyness doesn’t negatively impact their life. For those with social anxiety, even routine situations—such as eating in front of others, asking for directions, or using a public restroom—can ramp up feelings of angst.

SYMPTOMS OF SOCIAL ANXIETY

There are many physical, psychological, and behavioral signs and symptoms of social anxiety disorder. Physical symptoms include: Psychological symptoms include: Behavioral symptoms include: These symptoms may range from mild to severe, and people with social phobia may experience only some of them.

WHAT CAUSES SOCIAL ANXIETY?

As is the case with many other mental health conditions, social anxiety is believed to be caused by a combination of biological and environmental factors.

CONSEQUENCES OF UNTREATED SOCIAL PHOBIA

When social anxiety disorder remains untreated, it can have devastating consequences in important areas of your life. It can negatively impact your relationships and family life, your career, schoolwork, and overall happiness. In particular, untreated social phobia can lead to: If you have social anxiety, you may also have co-occurring mental health conditions, such as other types of anxiety, depression, personality disorders, schizophrenia, or eating disorders.

OVERCOMING SOCIAL ANXIETY DISORDER

If you have social anxiety disorder, there is hope for healing. Taking a comprehensive bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach to treatment is important. By addressing all of these areas of your life, you will be better able to overcome social anxiety. Social anxiety, other types of anxiety or phobias, 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. If you have anxiety or experience panic attacks, you probably think it’s all in your mind. If you’re like most people, you likely assume it’s psychological or emotional issues that are causing the problem. In many cases, however, the root cause lies in the biology of your brain. Head trauma—even mild head injuries that don’t make you lose consciousness and aren’t diagnosed as a concussion—are a major factor in the development of psychiatric illnesses, including anxiety disorders and panic disorder. Head trauma—even mild head injuries that don’t make you lose consciousness and aren’t diagnosed as a concussion—are a major factor in the development of psychiatric illnesses, including anxiety disorders and panic disorder.
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Having multiple head injuries puts you at increased risk. Just ask Tyler Fernengel, a professional BMX rider who has had over 20 concussions during his extreme biking career. In one of those accidents, the 25-year-old’s bike broke in half and he did a face plant, damaging his orbital socket and cheekbone. Although the visible harm to his face healed, other internal, psychological issues worsened. “The main issue is severe anxiety,” Fernengel says to Amen Clinics naturopath Dr. Kabran Chapek in an episode of Scan My Brain. “The absolute worst and hardest thing I had to go through,” the pro BMX rider says, happened when he was mid-conversation with some friends. “Out of nowhere, I couldn’t remember what I was trying to say. I went into a full-body panic.” He says it was like an out-of-body experience, something psychiatrists call depersonalization or dissociation. Could it be related to all those crashes he experienced? And could your anxiety, panic attacks, and other issues be associated with head injuries from your past? Consider that brain SPECT imaging, which measures blood flow and activity in the brain, shows that 40% of Amen Clinics patients have prior head trauma. Surprisingly, many of them don’t recall getting hurt.

HIDDEN EFFECTS OF HEAD TRAUMA

When Dr. Chapek showed Fernengel his brain SPECT scan, he pointed out the aftereffects of all those head injuries. A healthy brain SPECT scan shows full, even, symmetrical activity. Fernengel’s, on the contrary, revealed numerous areas of low blood flow, a flattened effect on the frontal lobes, and a scalloping or bumpy appearance that’s associated with exposure to toxins. Dr. Chapek called it “one of the worst brains I’ve seen in a 25-year-old.” Your brain doesn’t have to be one of the worst, and you don’t have to have sustained 20-plus concussions to experience brain-related conditions like anxiety, panic disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A single head injury or a series of sub-concussive repetitive blows to the head from activities like heading a soccer ball can be enough to create changes in the brain that make you more vulnerable to mental health conditions.

HEALING THE BRAIN AND OVERCOMING ANXIETY AFTER HEAD TRAUMA

In providing a comprehensive treatment plan for Fernengel, Dr. Chapek explained that “when it comes to the brain, it’s seldom one thing.” There are typically multiple factors involved. It’s common for head trauma to be combined with stressful life events, a chaotic upbringing, unhealthy daily habits, and/or substance use—all of which ramp up the likelihood of problems. Fortunately, decades of neuroscience research show that the brain can change through neuroplasticity. And the Amen Clinics database of over 300,000 brain scans from tens of thousands of patients confirms that even if you’ve been bad to your brain, you can make it better. Here are some tips to help put the brain in a healing environment and calm anxiousness and panic. Anxiety, panic disorder, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. The human brain is the most amazing organ in the universe with billions of neurons communicating with each other every second of every day. To spark this connectivity, rapid electrical impulses stimulate the brain’s neurons into action. The brain is constantly humming with electrical activity, and in fact, it is estimated that the brain generates about 12-25 watts of electricity. But just like a light bulb can flicker, the brain doesn’t always operate optimally. Emotional trauma, stress, lack of focus, anxiety, depression, memory problems, and more are associated with brain problems. Fortunately, there is a well-researched, non-invasive, medication-free treatment that can help. It’s called neurofeedback, and it allows you to optimize your brain to enhance emotional, behavioral, and cognitive health. Neurofeedback allows you to optimize your brain to enhance emotional, behavioral, and cognitive health.
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WHAT IS NEUROFEEDBACK?

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

BENEFITS OF NEUROFEEDBACK

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

NEUROFEEDBACK FOR PSYCHIATRIC ISSUES AND MORE

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

HOW NEUROFEEDBACK WORKS

Neurofeedback is a unique therapy in that you play an active role in the process to heal and optimize your brain. This technological treatment centers around the use of advanced computer technology, specifically, a computerized video game that you play using your mind. Electrodes placed on the scalp measure your brainwave activity as you play the game. When your brainwaves reach the desired state during game play, you get on-screen rewards. If brainwaves aren’t where they should be, the computer acts as a coach to help you reach the optimal state. The training helps you learn to self-regulate your brain, and the benefits last long after the session ends. Gaining better control over your own brain function can be helpful in so many aspects of daily life, including at work, at school, at home, and in relationships. Anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, which offers neurofeedback therapy, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Feeling more depressed and anxious these days? Join the club. The numbers of people feeling blue and nervous are skyrocketing. In fact, research shows that from August 2020 to February 2021, the percentage of American adults reporting symptoms of major depressive disorder or an anxiety disorder jumped from 36.4% to 41.5%. For most people, it’s a double whammy as anxiety and depression occur together 75% of the time, according to brain SPECT imaging findings at Amen Clinics.   Anxiety and depression occur together 75% of the time, according to brain SPECT imaging findings at Amen Clinics.
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To overcome low moods and anxiousness, many people turn to antidepressants or anti-anxiety pills, or both. But prescription medications aren’t the only way to decrease depression and anxiety. Here are 10 science-backed natural solutions that can boost moods and calm anxiety.

10 NATURAL WAYS TO HELP ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

1. Eat more veggies and fruits.

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

2. Eliminate processed and artificial foods.

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

3. Say “om.”

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

4. Practice prayer.

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

5. Breathe.

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

6. Kill the ANTs.

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

7. Get moving.

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

8. Add saffron to your daily supplements.

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

9. Optimize omega-3 levels.

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

10. Try neurofeedback.

Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback that assesses brainwave activity in real-time and helps you gain control of your brainwaves to reach a desired brain state. A 2017 review shows that neurofeedback has the potential to treat both depression and anxiety. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Can you be a happy-go-lucky type of person for most of your life and then fall into depression in mid-life or beyond? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Stress is a constant in modern-day life. Deadlines at work, tension in relationships, mounting debt—they all cause stress. But what about when tragedy is added to the mix? Like a loved one is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, a marriage crumbles, or a pandemic hits. Or do all of them happen at once? When serious setbacks in life are piled on top of everyday stressors, it can be too much to bear, and even typically cheerful people can become depressed. When serious setbacks in life are piled on top of everyday stressors, it can be too much to bear, and even typically cheerful people can become depressed.
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WHEN A SUNNY OUTLOOK SINKS INTO DEPRESSION

This is the situation that actress (“General Hospital” and “The Bold and the Beautiful”) and producer Lilly Melgar found herself in recently. In an episode of Scan My Brain, she explained to clinical psychiatrist Jay Faber, MD, that she’d been through the proverbial wringer in the last few years. After a challenging marriage during which she felt like she was in constant fight-or-flight mode, she lived through what she called “an unnecessarily chaotic divorce.” The experience did a number on her nervous system, leaving her feeling exhausted and drained. As if that wasn’t enough, the night before the pandemic lockdown began in 2020, her former husband took his own life. A month later, Melgar’s father was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, but she couldn’t be with him due to the quarantine. Not long after that, her beloved dog died too. It was one tragedy after another. It was all too much for Melgar, who says she used to be a happy person by nature. Her usual sunny disposition and drive disappeared, and she says, “I discovered depression, insomnia, and lack of motivation.” To see how the compounded grief and stress were affecting her brain, Melgar visited Amen Clinics for a brain SPECT scan. She was hoping for answers to help her overcome the pain and sadness.

STRESS AND GRIEF IN THE BRAIN

Emotional trauma and stress impact the brain in many ways. In many people, stacked stresses, pain, and loss are associated with overactivity in the emotional centers of the brain. Among other findings, that’s what Melgar saw on her own brain scan—overactivity in the basal ganglia, anterior cingulate gyrus, and thalamus (part of the deep limbic system).

HOW TO CALM AN OVERACTIVE BRAIN

As Dr. Faber explained to Melgar, with the right strategies, it is possible to calm an overactive brain. Some lifestyle changes that promote calm include: Emotional trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Most kids are scared of monsters—the kind that hide under the bed or in the closet at night. For some youngsters, however, monsters aren’t figments of their imagination. They are real people who do horrible things and change the trajectory of a child’s life. Just ask Hannah Brown, the star of season 15 of The Bachelorette and the winner of the 2019 season of Dancing With the Stars. In an episode of Scan My Brain, she tells Daniel Amen, MD, about a terrifying ordeal that happened when she was just 7 that changed her outlook on life, made her fearful, and led her on a path to depression. For some youngsters, monsters aren’t figments of their imagination. They are real people who do horrible things and change the trajectory of a child’s life.
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WHEN TRAUMA FUELS FEAR, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION

In the Scan My Brain episode, Brown reveals a traumatic event that changed her life. It happened when she was only 7 years old, but she vividly remembers the day her aunt and cousins were brutally murdered. Brown’s aunt and uncle were kind people who believed in giving people a second chance in life. They had hired a former inmate who had been jailed for a nonviolent offense and who was on work release to work on their home and became friendly with him. Some time later, he started using drugs and needed money. Brown’s aunt got a call from him, and she invited him over. She made tea for him, but then saw him rummaging around in her purse. An altercation ensued, and her aunt and two young cousins were killed. As a child, all Brown knew of the story was that someone had gone into their home and “hurt” her extended family and that they were now in heaven. Just that bit of knowledge scared her. “I was terrified as a kid. I thought someone was going to come in. I wasn’t scared of monsters. I was scared of a person,” she says. It wasn’t until years later that Brown pieced together what really happened on that fateful day. In the meantime, other things added to the trauma she experienced. At age 11, she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest forms of cancer. She underwent surgery to have an egg-sized tumor removed, and fortunately, the cancer had not spread to other organs. Brown eventually fell into depression and sought treatment to try to feel better. “I had never been to a psychiatrist, but I’m on medication,” she tells Dr. Amen in the episode. As Dr. Amen explains to her, 85% of psychiatric drugs are prescribed by non-psychiatrists—primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants—in brief, office visits. One study shows that 72% of antidepressant prescriptions are accompanied by no diagnosis in the medical charts. It’s no wonder these medications often fail, he says. Despite her newfound celebrity, Brown continues to be haunted by dark days. That’s part of what prompted her to visit Amen Clinics to get a brain SPECT scan. She was hoping it would give her clues to why she feels the way she does and why she acts the way she does.

THE BACHELORETTE’S BRAIN SCAN

Among the findings on Brown’s brain scan, which can be seen in the Scan My Brain episode, was a pattern of overactivity that is commonly seen in people who have experienced trauma. At Amen Clinics, this is referred to as the diamond pattern, and it is often associated with worry, anxiousness, and sadness. This helped Brown understand why she felt depressed. The good news for Brown and for anyone who has suffered from trauma or depression is that there are strategies that can help calm brain activity. Some beneficial strategies include: For Brown, balancing her brain is now a priority. In addition, becoming an advocate for mental health and sharing her story to help others and give them hope, is giving her own life purpose. She hopes that’s one step in the direction to greater happiness and fulfillment. Depression, 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. Bipolar disorder has been making headlines recently as a growing number of celebrities and influencers—including singers Halsey and Bebe Rexha—reveal their diagnoses with the condition that affects nearly 6 million Americans. Despite the increased awareness of the disorder, the condition that used to be called manic-depressive disorder remains shrouded in myths and misinformation. Most people think bipolar disorder is a singular condition with a fixed set of symptoms—manic episodes that alternate with depressive episodes in a cyclical pattern. While that may be true for many people with the disorder, it isn’t so for everyone who has bipolar disorder. In fact, there are multiple types of bipolar disorder and the symptoms experienced depend on which type you have. The most common and most serious forms of the condition are bipolar I and bipolar I. What are the differences between these subtypes of bipolar disorder? To clear up the confusion, this blog will outline the main characteristics of each type.

WHAT IS BIPOLAR I?

Bipolar I is characterized by the presence of mania and may or may not include depressive episodes. During manic episodes, people feel abnormally energized, euphoric, and full of confidence. It is common for people in the throes of a manic episode to come up with lots of grandiose ideas, start several big projects, and skimp on sleep. Common signs of mania include: With mania, behaviors can be so exaggerated that they disrupt daily life. People with bipolar I may impulsively buy expensive items they can’t afford, have sex with a colleague in the office during working hours, or engage in criminal activities. In some instances, mania may be so severe that a person requires hospitalization or suffers severe consequences, such as being injured, attempting suicide, getting arrested, being fired, being suspended from school, and more.

WHAT IS BIPOLAR II?

People with bipolar II typically experience both emotional highs and low moods that can occur in a cyclical pattern. However, the biggest difference between bipolar I and bipolar II is that episodes of elevated moods in bipolar II aren’t as intense as those in bipolar I and don’t reach the level of mania. Mental health experts call these episodes in bipolar II “hypomanic.” The biggest difference between bipolar I and bipolar II is that episodes of elevated moods in bipolar II aren’t as intense as those in bipolar I and don’t reach the level of mania.
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During hypomanic episodes, you may feel a surge of energy, self-esteem, and productivity, but it usually doesn’t prevent you from handling everyday tasks and it isn’t likely to land you in trouble at work, at school, or with the law. People who are experiencing a hypomanic episode may seem like the life of the party—full of ideas, confidence, and high energy.

DEPRESSIVE EPISODES IN BIPOLAR DISORDER

There can be a downside to the manic or hypomanic episodes seen in bipolar I and bipolar II, respectively. These emotional highs may be followed by periods of depression that can last weeks or months. Symptoms of depressive episodes in bipolar disorder include: In both bipolar I and bipolar II, depressive episodes occur more often, are longer in duration, and are more debilitating than manic or hypomanic episodes. Results from a study in the journal Bipolar Disorders show that people with bipolar I spend 3 times as much time in depressive episodes compared with manic periods. For those with bipolar II, nearly 4 times as much time is spent in a depressed mood compared with hypomanic episodes.

GETTING DIAGNOSED WITH BIPOLAR I OR BIPOLAR II

To be diagnosed with bipolar I, a person must have experienced at least I manic episode with or without a depressive episode. For a bipolar II diagnosis, there must be at least one hypomanic episode and one depressive episode. However, because the symptoms of hypomania are more subtle, it can be more challenging to get a definitive diagnosis of bipolar II. What may complicate diagnosis even further is the fact that people struggling with both forms of bipolar disorder typically seek help related to the depression they experience. As a result, people with this condition may be misdiagnosed with major depressive disorder. In fact, research shows that 12% of people with hypomania initially received a diagnosis of depression. People with bipolar disorder may also be misdiagnosed with ADHD or schizophrenia since there is some overlap in symptoms with these conditions. Brain SPECT imaging can be beneficial in getting an accurate diagnosis because it is helpful in identifying brain activity patterns associated with various conditions. SPECT, when included as part of a comprehensive evaluation, can help rule out other possible conditions or causes for symptoms, such as substance abuse.

TREATMENT FOR BIPOLAR DISORDER

There is hope for people who are struggling with either bipolar I or bipolar II. With a clear diagnosis, a targeted treatment plan can put you on a path to manage your condition. The most effective treatment plans for bipolar disorder take a multi-pronged approach and may include psychotherapy, nutritional supplements and medication, lifestyle changes, and more. Bipolar disorder 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.