When asked, Most individuals find themselves locked in the ‘mad, sad, glad’ triad and really struggle to identify and feel many other feelings. Take a moment now & think to yourself, What am I feeling? When was the last time you really sat to think about how you were feeling & how those feelings occurred in your body.

See the feelings wheel: The Emotion Wheel: What It Is and How to Use It (positivepsychology.com)

The Tao of Fully Feeling incorporates reclaiming our feelings by focusing on ourselves & what we have control over. It also allows us to center ourselves in the fullness & richness of our feelings without numbing. It can often be a long journey back to our own feelings but the value is tremendous. We can help guide you here at STA. There are many things that block our ability to feel; being too busy, substances, over eating, compulsively worrying about others problems, etc.. Sound familiar?

We often get stuck in ‘fight or flight’ instead of living in a fully mindful place. We get trapped in blame and the hustle & bustle of keeping up with everyone else instead of taking time to fall into mindfulness practices such as yoga, meditation, journaling, recovery meetings, walking in nature. When we are not able to sit fully in our feelings, We are also unable to set boundaries, communicate our truth to others and also to fully live in the vessel of our bodies.

If you’d like to read more, please find the attached article: Pete Walker, M.A. Psychotherapy (pete-walker.com)

If you or someone you know is looking to learn about feeling more fully, please reach out today. We have many individual & group therapists and we look forward to helping you!

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The post What is the “Tao of Fully feeling”? appeared first on Specialized Therapy.

Functional medicine is a systems-based approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of disease, rather than just treating symptoms. It recognizes that each person is unique and takes into account their genetics, environment, lifestyle, and other factors that can impact their health. By understanding the underlying imbalances and dysfunctions in the body, functional medicine practitioners can develop personalized treatment plans that address the whole person, not just their respiratory symptoms.

Here are some ways that functional medicine can help asthma:

Identifying and addressing food sensitivities: Many people with asthma have underlying food sensitivities that can trigger inflammation in the body and worsen respiratory symptoms. By identifying and eliminating these trigger foods, functional medicine practitioners can help reduce inflammation and improve lung function.

Balancing gut health: The gut and the lungs are intimately connected, and imbalances in the gut microbiome can contribute to asthma symptoms. Functional medicine practitioners can assess and treat gut dysfunctions, such as dysbiosis or leaky gut, to improve overall health and reduce asthma symptoms.

Reducing oxidative stress: Asthma is a direct result of increased oxidative stress, which can damage cells and tissues in the body. Functional medicine practitioners can recommend antioxidant-rich foods and supplements, such as vitamin C and glutathione, to help reduce oxidative stress and improve lung function.

Addressing nutrient deficiencies: Many people with asthma are deficient in key nutrients, such as magnesium and vitamin D, which can impact lung function and increase inflammation. Functional medicine practitioners can assess nutrient levels and recommend targeted supplements to help optimize overall health and reduce asthma symptoms.

Managing stress: Stress can trigger asthma symptoms in some people, and chronic stress can contribute to inflammation and immune dysregulation. Functional medicine practitioners can recommend stress-reduction techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness, to help manage stress and improve overall health.

Overall, functional medicine offers a comprehensive and personalized approach to asthma management that can help reduce symptoms and improve overall health. By addressing the underlying imbalances and dysfunctions in the body, functional medicine practitioners can help people with asthma achieve better respiratory health and quality of life. If you have asthma and are interested in exploring functional medicine as a treatment option, it is important to work with a qualified and experienced functional medicine practitioner who can develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and health goals.

If you are struggling to get to the bottom of your health concerns and are ready for a root cause approach to finally feel your best, contact The Functional Medicine Center for Personalized Care, LLC (www.FxMedCenters.com) at 201-880-8247 or Specialized Therapy Associates at 201-488-6678 for our Integrative Mind-Body Health services and set up an appointment with our Functional Nutrition experts.

References:

Slader CA, Reddel HK, Jenkins CR, Armour CL, Bosnic-Anticevich SZ. Complementary and alternative medicine use in assthma: who is using what? Respirology. 2006 Jul;11(4):373-87. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1843.2006.00861.x. PMID: 16771907.

McClafferty H. An overview of integrative therapies in assthma treatment. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2014 Oct;14(10):464. doi: 10.1007/s11882-014-0464-2. PMID: 25149166.

Lee KD, Shim SY. Anti-Inflammatory Food in Assthma Prepared from Combination of Raphanus sativus L., Allium hookeri, Acanthopanax sessiliflorum, and Dendropanax morbiferus Extracts via Bioassay-Guided Selection. Foods. 2022 Jun 27;11(13):1910. doi: 10.3390/foods11131910. PMID: 35804727; PMCID: PMC9265937.

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There are a variety of reasons why someone might engage in gaslighting behavior. Some people do it intentionally, as a way to manipulate or control others. Others may do it unconsciously, as a way to defend themselves or to avoid taking responsibility for their own actions. In some cases, people who engage in gaslighting may have a personality disorder, such as narcissistic personality disorder, which can involve manipulation and a lack of empathy for others.

Gaslighting is not a healthy or acceptable behavior, and it can have serious negative consequences for the person being gaslighted, as well as for the relationships and trust within a family or group. If you are experiencing gaslighting or other forms of manipulation, it’s important to seek support and to learn healthy ways of communicating and interacting with others.

One of the most famous examples of gaslighting is in the 1938 play “Gas Light” by Patrick Hamilton. In the play, a husband named Jack manipulates his wife, Bella, into believing that she is losing her mind. He does this by dimming the gaslights in their home, but denying that he is doing so when Bella brings it up. This causes Bella to doubt her own perception and memory, and she begins to believe that she is going mad.

The term “gaslighting” comes from this play, and it has been used in psychology and popular culture to refer to this type of emotional abuse. Gaslighting can happen in many different relationships, including romantic partnerships, family relationships, and even friendships. It can also happen in the workplace, with a boss or coworker manipulating an employee into doubting their abilities or value to the company.

The effects of gaslighting can be devastating for the victim. They may begin to doubt their own memories, beliefs, and perceptions, which can lead to feelings of confusion, anxiety, and low self-esteem. In severe cases, victims of gaslighting may develop mental health conditions such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Gaslighting can occur for a variety of reasons. It is often a tactic used by someone who wants to gain power or control over another person. They may use gaslighting as a way to manipulate the other person into doubting their own perceptions and memories, which can make them more susceptible to the manipulator’s influence. In some cases, gaslighting may be a result of a person’s insecurities or lack of self-esteem. They may use gaslighting as a way to deflect blame or to avoid being held accountable for their actions.

Gaslighting can also occur in relationships where one person is abusive or controlling. The abuser may use gaslighting as a way to manipulate their victim and to maintain control over them.

It’s important to note that gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse, and it can have serious psychological consequences for the person being gaslighted. If you suspect that you or someone you know is being gaslighted, it’s important to seek support and help. If you or anyone you know is being gaslit or need help, please contact Specialized Therapy Associates at 201-488-6678 for our Mental-health related services. Our highly experienced team of mental health specialists are here to help you heal and assist with your mental-health related issues.

Written by: Dr. Lynda R. Fabbo

References

Sweet, P. L. (2019). The sociology of g-lighting. American Sociological Review, 84(5), 851-875.

Tormoen, M. (2019). G-lighting: How pathological labels can harm psychotherapy clients. Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 0022167819864258.

HARRIS, D. M., & MACNEILL, D. N. (2021). Gaslighting 2: Victimhood and learned helplessness.

The post Gaslighting: What it is and Why it occurs first appeared on Specialized Therapy.

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The Hippocampal Pathway:

One of the most well-studied pathways of neurogenesis occurs in the hippocampus, a brain region associated with learning and memory. In this pathway, neural stem cells located in the hippocampus differentiate into new neurons that integrate into existing neural circuits. The process is regulated by a variety of factors, including growth factors, neurotransmitters, and environmental stimuli.

The Sub-ventricular Zone Pathway:

Another pathway of neurogenesis occurs in the sub-ventricular zone, a region located in the walls of the lateral ventricles of the brain. In this pathway, neural stem cells differentiate into new neurons that migrate to the olfactory bulb, where they integrate into the neural circuits involved in smell perception. The process is regulated by a similar set of factors as the hippocampal pathway, including growth factors, neurotransmitters, and environmental stimuli.

Regulation of Neurogenesis:

The pathways of neurogenesis are tightly regulated by a variety of factors. Growth factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), play a critical role in promoting the survival and differentiation of new neurons. Neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin, can also influence the generation and migration of new neurons. Additionally, environmental factors, such as physical exercise and enriched environments, have been shown to enhance neurogenesis.

Implications for Brain Health:

The discovery of adult neurogenesis has opened up new possibilities for treating brain injury and neurodegenerative disorders. For example, researchers are exploring ways to enhance neurogenesis in the hippocampus to improve learning and memory in aging populations. Additionally, neurogenesis may play a role in recovery from brain injury and stroke, as new neurons can help to replace damaged or lost neural circuits.

Neurogenesis is a complex process that occurs throughout an individual’s lifespan and is regulated by a variety of factors. The hippocampal and subventricular zone pathways are two well-studied routes of neurogenesis, and both are influenced by growth factors, neurotransmitters, and environmental factors. Understanding the pathways of neurogenesis and their regulation is critical to developing new treatments for brain injury and neurodegenerative disorders.

If you or anyone you know is suffering from sleeping disorders, chronic mental illness like depression, anxiety, delusional episodes, etc., neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, alcohol addiction, brain trauma, cognitive deficiency, or undergoing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, please contact Specialized Therapy Associates at 201-488-6678 or The Functional Medicine Center for Personalized Care, LLC (www.FxMedCenters.com) at 201-880-8247 for our Integrative Mind-Body Health services which can greatly help you with holistic mind-body healing.

References:

Ming GL, Song H. Adult neurogenesis in the mammalian brain: significant answers and significant questions. Neuron. 2011;70(4):687-702.

Doetsch F. A niche for adult neural stem cells. Curr Opin Genet Dev. 2003;13(5):543-550.

Park H, Poo MM. Neurotrophin regulation of neural circuit development and function. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2013;14(1):7-23.

Zhao M, Momma S, Delfani K, et al. Electrical signaling in control of adult neurogenesis. Prog Neurobiol. 2008;84(5):348-359.

Van Praag H, Kempermann G, Gage FH. Neural consequences of environmental enrichment. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2000;1(3):191-198.

The post The Pathways of Neurogenesis: A Scientific Exploration of Brain Cell Regeneration first appeared on Specialized Therapy.

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The workplace can be a source of stress for many employees. Deadlines, performance evaluations, conflicts with colleagues, and other work-related stressors can take a toll on mental health. The American Psychological Association reports that workplace stress costs the U.S. economy billions of dollars annually in lost productivity and healthcare costs.

Therefore, it’s important for employers to recognize the impact of workplace stress on their employees’ mental health and take steps to reduce stressors. This can include offering mental health resources, such as an employee assistance program (EAP) or access to mental health professionals. It can also mean creating a workplace culture that prioritizes mental health, such as offering flexible work arrangements, promoting work-life balance, and encouraging employees to take breaks and prioritize self-care.

Strategies for Improving Mental Well-being in the Workplace

Both employers and employees can take steps to improve mental well-being in the workplace. Here are some strategies to consider:

Promote open communication: Encourage open communication between employees and management. Employees should feel comfortable talking to their supervisors about any mental health concerns they have, without fear of negative consequences. Employers can create a safe and supportive environment for employees to discuss mental health concerns by providing resources and training on mental health issues.

Encourage self-care: Encourage employees to prioritize self-care, such as taking breaks, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities they enjoy outside of work. Employers can provide resources and support for employees to practice self-care, such as offering mental health days or wellness programs.

Create a positive work environment: A positive work environment can go a long way in improving mental well-being. Employers can create a positive work environment by fostering a sense of community and teamwork, recognizing employee achievements, and providing opportunities for growth and development.

Provide mental health resources: Employers can offer mental health resources, such as an employee assistance program (EAP) or access to mental health professionals. This can provide employees with the support they need to manage work-related stressors and other mental health concerns.

Encourage work-life balance: Encourage employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance by offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work or flexible hours. This can help employees manage their workload and prioritize their mental health.

Reduce stigma: Reduce stigma surrounding mental health by educating employees about mental health issues and encouraging open communication. Employers can provide training on mental health issues and promote mental health awareness campaigns.

Mental health is a critical component of overall health and well-being, and it’s important for employers and employees to prioritize mental health in the workplace. Employers can take steps to reduce workplace stressors, promote mental health resources, and create a positive work environment. Employees can prioritize self-care, communicate openly with their supervisors, and seek out mental health resources when needed. By working together, employers and employees can improve mental well-being in the workplace and create a healthier, more productive workforce.

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Neurotransmitters and Depression

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that help to transmit signals between nerve cells in the brain. They play a crucial role in regulating mood, emotion, and behavior. Several neurotransmitters have been linked to depression, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. Low levels of serotonin have been associated with depression, and many antidepressant medications work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. A study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that people with depression had lower levels of serotonin in their cerebrospinal fluid than healthy individuals.

Dopamine is another neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating mood and motivation. Low levels of dopamine have been linked to depression and anhedonia, which is the inability to experience pleasure. A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that people with MDD had lower levels of dopamine in their brains compared to healthy individuals.

Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in the body’s stress response. Low levels of norepinephrine have been associated with depression and anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that people with depression had lower levels of norepinephrine in their brains compared to healthy individuals.

Hormones and Depression

Hormones are chemical messengers that are produced by the endocrine glands and play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions. Several hormones have been linked to depression, including cortisol, estrogen, and testosterone.

Cortisol is a hormone that is released in response to stress. Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which have been associated with depression. A study published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry found that people with depression had higher levels of cortisol in their blood than healthy individuals.

Estrogen is a hormone that is important for reproductive function in women. It also plays a role in regulating mood, and low levels of estrogen have been linked to depression. A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that women with depression had lower levels of estrogen than healthy women.

Testosterone is a hormone that is important for reproductive function in men. It also plays a role in regulating mood, and low levels of testosterone have been linked to MDD. A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that men with MDD had lower levels of testosterone than healthy men.

Inflammation and Depression

In recent years, research has also focused on the role of inflammation in depression. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to infection or injury. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a range of physical and mental health disorders, including MDD.

Studies have found that individuals with depression have elevated levels of inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-1 (IL-1), have also been linked to depression.

The exact mechanisms by which inflammation contributes to depression are still being studied. However, it is believed that chronic inflammation can lead to changes in neurotransmitter and hormone levels, as well as affect brain structure and function.

Treatment Options

Understanding the biochemical factors associated with MDD has led to the development of various treatment options. Antidepressant medications work by targeting neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Hormone replacement therapy may be beneficial for women with depression who have low levels of estrogen. Anti-inflammatory medications may also be useful for people with this disease who have high levels of inflammation.

MDD is a very complex mental disorder that can arise due to various factors, including genetic, environmental, and biochemical. Neurotransmitters, hormones, and inflammation all play a crucial role in regulating mood and can contribute to the development of depression. Overall, the biochemistry of depression is complex and multifaceted, with many different factors involved in its development and treatment. However, by understanding the role that neurotransmitters, hormones, inflammation, and the gut microbiome play in depression, we can develop more effective treatments and interventions for this debilitating mental illness.

If you or anyone you know is suffering from chronic mental illness like depression, anxiety, delusional episodes, etc., neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, alcohol addiction, brain trauma, cognitive deficiency, or undergoing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, please contact Specialized Therapy Associates at 201-488-6678 or The Functional Medicine Center for Personalized Care, LLC (www.FxMedCenters.com) at 201-880-8247 for our Integrative Mind-Body Health services which can greatly help you with holistic mind-body healing.

References:

Gold PW, Machado-Vieira R, Pavlatou MG. Clinical and biochemical manifestations of dep: relation to the neurobiology of stress. Neural Plast. 2015;2015:581976. doi: 10.1155/2015/581976. Epub 2015 Mar 24. PMID: 25878903; PMCID: PMC4387963.

Lee CH, Giuliani F. The Role of Inflammation in Dep. and Fatigue. Front Immunol. 2019 Jul 19;10:1696. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01696. PMID: 31379879; PMCID: PMC6658985.

Remes O, Mendes JF, Templeton P. Biological, Psychological, and Social Determinants of De: A Review of Recent Literature. Brain Sci. 2021 Dec 10;11(12):1633. doi: 10.3390/brainsci11121633. PMID: 34942936; PMCID: PMC8699555.

Slavich GM, Sacher J. Stress, sex hormones, inflammation, and major depressive disorder: Extending Social Signal Transduction Theory of Dep. to account for sex differences in mood disorders. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2019 Oct;236(10):3063-3079. doi: 10.1007/s00213-019-05326-9. Epub 2019 Jul 29. PMID: 31359117; PMCID: PMC6821593.

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A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study aimed to clarify which cognitive functions are positively affected by intake of L-theanine was conducted in 2018. The subjects were Japanese men and women aged 50–69 years. A test named Mini Mental State Examination-Japanese version was conducted among these individuals before and after the administration of L-Theanine.

The Mini‐Mental State Examination (Folstein 1975), or MMSE, is a simple pen‐and‐paper test of cognitive function based on a total possible score of 30 points. It includes tests of orientation, concentration, attention, verbal memory, naming and visuo-spatial skills.

The study found that the participants performed exceptionally well after they were administered L-Theanine. Cognitrax, a computerized testing system designed to measure and monitor brain performance was used to measure cognitive function. Evaluations were performed before the intervention, after a single dose of L-theanine, and after 12 weeks of regular intake. The single dose of L-theanine significantly reduced the reaction time of attention tasks (Stroop test, Part 1), and it increased the number of correct answers and decreased the number of omission errors in working memory related tasks (4-Part continuous performance test, Part 4). The study concluded that, L-Theanine may contribute to improving attention, thus enhancing working memory and executive functions. Many related studies similarly report that L-Theanine enhances brain function.

Another study was designed to evaluate the effect of L-Theanine on attention and reaction time response in 18 normal healthy University student volunteers. In accordance with preliminary analysis of the manifest anxiety scale (MAS), the subjects were divided into two groups referred to as high anxiety propensity group and the minimal anxiety propensity group. Both groups received L-Theanine (200 mg/100 ml water) and placebo (100 ml water) in a double blind repeated measurement design protocol.

Assessments were performed for 15–60 min after consumption under a relaxed condition upon exerting an experimentally induced visual attentional task as well as audio response tests. Additional, self-reports of anxiety as State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were characterized after the experiments. However, Alpha bands electroencephalographic activity and heart rate were recorded throughout the trial.

The results clearly demonstrated the significant enhanced activity of alpha bands, descending heart rate, elevated visual attentional performance, and improved reaction time response among high anxiety propensity subjects compared to a placebo. This clearly indicates that L-Theanine not only reduces anxiety and heart rate but also enhances cognitive abilities. The results evidently demonstrated that L- Theanine clearly has a definitive effect on attention performance and reaction time response in normal healthy subjects, that are prone to have high anxiety.

Given that L-Theanine is a relaxant, it is directly or indirectly involved at the neurochemical level and thus it is impacted by a number of neurotransmitter systems, wherein the major target may include glutamate, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine, and serotonin.

Meanwhile, if you or anyone you know is suffering from chronic anxiety and panic disorders, please contact Specialized Therapy Associates at 201-488-6678 or The Functional Medicine Center for Personalized Care, LLC (www.FxMedCenters.com) at 201-880-8247 for our Integrative Mind-Body Health services which can greatly help you with holistic mind-body healing.

References:

Baba Y, Inagaki S, Nakagawa S, Kaneko T, Kobayashi M, Takihara T. Effects of l-Theanine on Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged and Older Subjects: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study. J Med Food. 2021 Apr;24(4):333-341. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2020.4803. Epub 2021 Mar 22. PMID: 33751906; PMCID: PMC8080935.

Folstein MF, Folstein SE, McHugh PR: ‘Mini-mental state’: A practical method for grading the cognitive state of patients for the clinician. J Psychiatr Res 1975;12:189–198

Haskell CF, Kennedy DO, Milne AL, Wesnes KA, Scholey AB: The effects of L-theanine, caffeine and their combination on cognition and mood. Biol Psychol 2008;77:113–122

Higashiyama, A., Htay, H. H., Ozeki, M., Juneja, L. R., & Kapoor, M. P. (2011). Effects of l-theanine on attention and reaction time response. Journal of Functional Foods, 3(3), 171–178. doi:10.1016/j.jff.2011.03.009 10.1016/j.jff.2011.03.009

The post L-Theanine: The relaxant that improves brain function, reduces anxiety and enhances cognitive abilities first appeared on Specialized Therapy.

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What are Psychoactive Hallucinogens?

Psychoactive compounds or psychedelics are known to induce hyper-realistic hallucinations. The “trip” however, is more than just a random high. Research suggests that hallucinogens like Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms, DMT, and LSD can rearrange and rewire neural pathways. Brain mapping images of individuals on psychedelics clearly show the brain light up like never seen before. Distinct regions of the brain which do not necessarily work together, are seen to operate in coordination with one another under the influence of psychedelics. In fact, psychoactive compounds are experiencing somewhat of a renaissance today, and more and more people in the field of science are asking: could it be possible to treat mental illness with these compounds?

To answer that question, we need to define psychedelics first. Psychedelic substances are defined as “classic serotonergic hallucinogens” as they directly interact with the 5-HT system, primarily acting as 5-HT2A receptor agonists. However, the mechanism of action is way more complex than previously thought, and they also bind to 5HT1A, 5HT2B, 5HT2C, 5HT6, and 5HT7 receptors with variegated neurological, physiological, and psychological implications.

What effect do these psychoactive compounds have on the brain?

5-HT receptors are associated with the release of neurotransmitters like Serotonin, Dopamine, Acetylcholine, etc., that tremendously affect mood, behavior, libido, sleep patterns, and sensory modulations. Consequently, functional imaging studies show that psychedelics massively increase the processing of sensory information and induce altered integration of sensory perceptions. This creates a novel experience for the user. However, psychedelics alter information processing systems within the cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical feedback loops. LSD and psilocybin enhance overall interaction between sensory and somatomotor brain networks while decreasing communication among associative brain regions, including large-scale brain networks (such as the Default Mode Network). In fact, LSD, Psilocybin, and DMT vastly increase functional connectivity between the thalamus and sensory-somatomotor cortical regions.

One of the signature features of psychedelics is an alteration in visual perception. These have repeatedly been associated with a reduction in α oscillations, particularly over posterior parieto-occipital brain areas. This suggests that psychoactive compounds greatly enhance the excitability of the visual pathway. However, the most fascinating fact about psychedelics is that they are capable of permanently changing/rewiring neural connectivity and creating novel neural connections which can massively affect/alter behavior permanently. Could this somehow help people with mental illness?

Treating mental illness with psychoactive hallucinogens

Data from double-blinded clinical studies suggest that Psilocybin, commonly found in magic mushrooms, greatly reduces cluster headaches, anxiety, anorexia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and substance abuse. However, people with chronic mental illness almost often tend to suffer from neurological or psychological loops they fail to break away from. Since psychedelics are capable of creating novel connections between neurons in the brain and can rewire the neural network, the patients could break away from ruminating and destructive thought processes.

Psychedelics like DMT, Psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD can enhance associative learning, a cognitive function that is greatly impaired by neuropsychiatric disorders like Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Studies suggest that psychedelics like LSD, DMT, and Psilocybin can greatly assuage symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder, PTSD, major depression, suicidal behavior, chronic anxiety, panic attacks, schizophrenia, and chronic insomnia. Some studies suggest that Psilocybin could even help patients with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease regain brain function. Lisuride, a non-hallucinogenic structural analog of LSD, exhibits antidepressant properties in several clinical studies. MDMA has been shown to have a significantly positive effect on PTSD patients. Overall, the pattern among numerous clinical studies is quite obvious. They all report that psychedelics in general can massively decrease the symptoms associated with mental health problems in the participating population.

In 2023, we are getting closer every day to when psychedelics could soon be approved by the FDA. Oregon has already approved the use of psilocybin starting January 1st, 2023. It is only a matter of time before the general population can legally explore the healing potentials of psychoactive compounds. However, the secret to success is micro-dosing.

Meanwhile, if you or anyone you know is suffering from mental illness, neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, alcohol addiction, brain trauma, cognitive deficiency, or undergoing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, please contact Specialized Therapy Associates at 201-488-6678 or The Functional Medicine Center for Personalized Care, LLC (www.FxMedCenters.com) at 201-880-8247 for our Integrative Mind-Body Health services which can greatly help you with holistic mind-body healing.

Reference:

Carhart-Harris RL, Goodwin GM. The Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelic Drugs: Past, Present, and Future. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2017 Oct;42(11):2105-2113. doi: 10.1038/npp.2017.84. Epub 2017 Apr 26. PMID: 28443617; PMCID: PMC5603818.

De Gregorio D, Aguilar-Valles A, Preller KH, Heifets BD, Hibicke M, Mitchell J, Gobbi G. Hallucinogens in Mental Health: Preclinical and Clinical Studies on LSD, Psilocybin, MDMA, and Ketamine. J Neurosci. 2021 Feb 3;41(5):891-900. doi: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1659-20.2020. Epub 2020 Nov 30. PMID: 33257322; PMCID: PMC7880300.

Fuentes JJ, Fonseca F, Elices M, Farré M, Torrens M. Therapeutic Use of LSD in Psychiatry: A Systematic Review of Randomized-Controlled Clinical Trials. Front Psychiatry. 2020 Jan 21;10:943. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00943. PMID: 32038315; PMCID: PMC6985449.

Vargas MV, Meyer R, Avanes AA, Rus M, Olson DE. Psychedelics and Other Psychoplastogens for Treating Mental Illness. Front Psychiatry. 2021 Oct 4;12:727117. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.727117. PMID: 34671279; PMCID: PMC8520991.

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Although Ketamine’s antidepressant mechanism of action is still being thoroughly studied, it is an antagonist of the glutamate receptor subtype that is widely expressed in the central nervous system. (CNS). In addition, it also serves as the mTORC1 pathway activator. N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor or NMDAR is a G-protein coupled receptor, and it plays crucial roles in synaptic plasticity and memory formation within the brain. mTORC1 pathway is responsible for translational processes that regulate cell growth and proliferation.

Ketamine has recently shown promising research in the treatment of certain psychiatric conditions such as bipolar disorder, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicidal ideation, and substance abuse disorder. Due to its euphoric, dissociative, and hallucinogenic properties, ketamine abuse has led to its strict regulation and availability. However, in several clinical trials, Ketamine is largely effective in patients with treatment-resistant depression. In fact, Ketamine seems to work within 40 minutes of administration, and sub-anesthetic dosage can slowly help patients in therapy recover from severe symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD). Most studies agree that Ketamine has curative anti-depressive properties when administered in sub-anesthetic doses.

Although Ketamine could induce manic episodes in patients with bipolar disorder, case studies and open-label trials suggest that Ketamine when administered non-intravenously can be safe and effective for treating bipolar disorder. Additionally, studies also found that Ketamine treatment has a massive impact on suicidal ideation. Patients with suicidal thoughts were administered sub-anesthetic doses, and effects were observed within 4 hours of treatment. The single dose of Ketamine largely decreased suicidal ideation among the patients while also reducing suicidal tendencies for up to a week. However, long-term efficacy is yet to be determined. Overall, Ketamine has been shown to generate anti-suicidal thought processes irrespective of its anti-depressive properties, which itself is a significant breakthrough!

Besides having a significant curative impact on depression, suicidal behavior, and bipolar disorder; Ketamine was also studied for its impact on social anxiety disorder and general anxiety disorder. Six studies that used Ketamine on their patients found that Ketamine when administered at certain doses greatly reduced general anxiety and social anxiety among the participating patients. Surprisingly, patients who initially responded to Ketamine treatment continued to be in remission even after three months of the initial treatment with some help from maintenance treatment. However, the treatment also found that higher doses (1mg/kg) of Ketamine had the most anxiolytic effect although this could induce drug dependency.

A few studies conducted among USA military personnel and other PTSD patients also show promising results. Ketamine largely exhibited relief from PTSD episodes and physical symptoms in a majority of the participants. Additionally, sub-anesthetic doses were also seen to have a promising impact on people with OCD.

While psychedelics have already made a comeback in 2023, it is only a matter of time before FDA-approved treatment approaches with Ketamine and other psychoactive substances become a reality. When it comes to Ketamine, under sub-anesthetic doses, the drug undeniably has curative effects on several mental health disorders.

if you or anyone you know is suffering from mental illness, neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, alcohol addiction, brain trauma, cognitive deficiency, or undergoing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, please contact Specialized Therapy Associates at 201-488-6678 or The Functional Medicine Center for Personalized Care, LLC (www.FxMedCenters.com) at 201-880-8247 for our Integrative Mind-Body Health services which can greatly help you with holistic mind-body healing.

References:

De Gregorio D, Aguilar-Valles A, Preller KH, Heifets BD, Hibicke M, Mitchell J, Gobbi G. Hallucinogens in Mental Health: Preclinical and Clinical Studies on LSD, Psilocybin, MDMA, and K. J Neurosci. 2021 Feb 3;41(5):891-900. doi: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1659-20.2020. Epub 2020 Nov 30. PMID: 33257322; PMCID: PMC7880300.

Mandal S, Sinha VK, Goyal N. Efficacy of therapy in the treatment of depression. Indian J Psychiatry. 2019 Sep-Oct;61(5):480-485. doi: 10.4103/psychiatry.IndianJPsychiatry_484_18. PMID: 31579184; PMCID: PMC6767816.

Walsh Z, Mollaahmetoglu OM, Rootman J, Golsof S, Keeler J, Marsh B, Nutt DJ, Morgan CJA. K for the treatment of mental health and substance use disorders: comprehensive systematic review. BJPsych Open. 2021 Dec 23;8(1):e19. doi: 10.1192/bjo.2021.1061. Erratum in: BJPsych Open. 2022 Jan 18;8(1):e29. PMID: 35048815; PMCID: PMC8715255.

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Both anxiety and stress affect the sympathetic nervous system. Upon activation, the sympathetic nervous system releases cortisol and adrenaline. Since adrenaline and cortisol coordinate stress responses, the evolutionary instinct of “fight or flight” kicks in. Many evolutionary biologists believe that anxiety and other emotional disorders could be a direct consequence of evolutionary mismatch.

An evolutionary mismatch occurs when a particular trait that was beneficial to an organism that originally evolved in a particular environment long ago, becomes redundant in a differing environment. For instance, our ancestors were hunters and gatherers whose survival depended on being watchful in the wild. We have changed our lifestyle, diet, and occupations over millions of years and have become more sedentary. Hence, the intense watchful stress response is no longer a necessity that tends to creep up even when one might be far from actual danger. Evidently, studies have shown that anxiety is more common in people with a sedentary lifestyle.

Regardless, if you are suffering from anxiety, certain medications, diet and lifestyle changes, and cognitive-behavioral interventions could benefit you enormously. Here are some breathing tips that would certainly help you calm your nerves:

Diaphragmatic Breathing and 4-7-8 breathing: Placing a hand on your chest and another on your stomach, inhale slowly through your nose and count to 3. Now, keep the air in your lungs and mentally make a count to 3 again. After this, exhale very slowly as you make a count to 5. Take your time with the process. Familiarize yourself with your surrounding and your sensory organs, and make sure you exhale for a longer period contrary to the inhale. Repeat 4-5 times.

The above breathing exercise is a slight variation of the original 4-7-8 breathing technique by Dr. Andrew Weil. According to the 4-7-8 technique, you should first exhale and empty your lungs of any resting air. Now, breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds. Next, hold your breath for 7 seconds and then exhale vigorously for 8 seconds until all the air is out of your lungs. You should repeat this 4-5 times each session and consider two-three sessions a day. Since diaphragmatic breathing and the 4-7-8 technique are incredibly effective, you should start feeling better immediately.

Yogic Breathing (Pranayama) and Guided Meditation: The ancient practice of Yoga is the perfect tool to ensure absolute mind-body health. Yoga strengthens the core, improves stamina, fortifies the cardiovascular system, and helps in weight loss by improving the rate of metabolism (BMR). As a result, Yoga enhances focus, attention, and awareness, reduces stress/anxiety, and brings mental calm and clarity to those who practice regularly. Pranayama, an ancient yogic breathing technique often fashioned as a lengthened exhale, equal breathing, and alternate nostril breathing can relieve stress and anxiety if practiced regularly. Much like the 4-7-8 and diaphragmatic breathing techniques, Pranayama has three distinct stages: inhalation, retention, and exhalation.

Someone who meditates regularly, often has to match the breathing rate to one’s heartbeat. During guided meditation, one learns to be aware of their surroundings, sensory organs, and inhale long, deep breaths while following progressive exhalation strategies. Guided meditation definitely helps with reducing the symptoms of acute stress and anxiety.

If you or anyone you know have been troubled by constant stress and anxiety, please reach out to us. Contact The Functional Medicine Center for Personalized Care, LLC (www.FxMedCenters.com) at 201-880-8247 or Specialized Therapy Associates at 201-488-6678.

Ishtiak Ahmed Chowdhury

References:

Bystritsky A, Khalsa SS, Cameron ME, Schiffman J. Current diagnosis and treatment of anxiety disorders. P T. 2013 Jan;38(1):30-57. PMID: 23599668; PMCID: PMC3628173.

Islam, M. R., & Chowdhury, I. A. (2017). Identification and Characterization of the Epidemiological risk factors of Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus. Asian Journal of Applied Science and Engineering, 6(3), 135-142. Available at: https://journals.abc.us.org/index.php/ajase/article/view/1105

Jiang L, Cao Y, Ni S, Chen X, Shen M, Lv H, Hu J. Association of Sedentary Behavior With Anxiety, Depression, and Suicide Ideation in College Students. Front Psychiatry. 2020 Dec 11;11:566098. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.566098. PMID: 33424653; PMCID: PMC7793895.

Price JS. Evolutionary aspects of anxiety disorders. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2003 Sep;5(3):223-36. doi: 10.31887/DCNS.2003.5.3/jprice. PMID: 22033473; PMCID: PMC3181631.

Website: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324417#how-to-do-it

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