What’s Fueling Our Mental Health Crisis and How Can We Fix it? | Dr. Jaquel Patterson

Mark Hyman

Aug 14, 2024

Episode description

Did you know that inflammation could be the hidden culprit behind the skyrocketing rates of mental illness? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jaquel Patterson to discuss one of today's most pressing issues: the alarming rise in mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. We explore the connection between mental health, inflammation, and immune function, shedding light on post-COVID mental health challenges, brain inflammation, and the impact of environmental factors.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • The mental health impacts observed post-COVID, highlighting the exacerbation of pre-existing conditions and new onset issues.

  • The connection between brain inflammation and mental health disorders, emphasizing the role of chronic inflammation in conditions like depression and schizophrenia.

  • The impact of environmental toxins on mental health.

  • The potential benefits of sauna therapy for reducing inflammation and improving mental health.

  • Functional medicine strategies for treating mental health disorders, including dietary changes, nutrient supplementation, and lifestyle modifications.

View Show Notes From This Episode

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Episode description

Did you know that inflammation could be the hidden culprit behind the skyrocketing rates of mental illness? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jaquel Patterson to discuss one of today's most pressing issues: the alarming rise in mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. We explore the connection between mental health, inflammation, and immune function, shedding light on post-COVID mental health challenges, brain inflammation, and the impact of environmental factors.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • The mental health impacts observed post-COVID, highlighting the exacerbation of pre-existing conditions and new onset issues.

  • The connection between brain inflammation and mental health disorders, emphasizing the role of chronic inflammation in conditions like depression and schizophrenia.

  • The impact of environmental toxins on mental health.

  • The potential benefits of sauna therapy for reducing inflammation and improving mental health.

  • Functional medicine strategies for treating mental health disorders, including dietary changes, nutrient supplementation, and lifestyle modifications.

View Show Notes From This Episode

Get Free Weekly Health Tips from Dr. Hyman

Sign Up for Dr. Hyman’s Weekly Longevity Journal

This episode is brought to you by Rupa Health, ARMRA, Thrive Market, and Fatty15.

Streamline your lab orders with Rupa Health. Access more than 3,500 specialty lab tests and register for a FREE live demo at RupaHealth.com.

Save 15% on your first order of ARMRA Colostrum and unlock the power of 400+ functional nutrients. Just visit TryARMRA.com/Mark or use code MARK.

Head over to ThriveMarket.com/Hyman today to receive 30% off your first order and a free gift up to $60.

Fatty15 contains pure, award-winning C15:0 in a bioavailable form. Get an exclusive 10% off a 90-day starter kit subscription. Just visit Fatty15.com and use code DRHYMAN10 to get started.

Mindsip insights from this episode:

Incorporate sauna use to enhance brain health and reduce inflammation

Using a sauna regularly can lower inflammation markers like CRP in the body and has even been shown in long-term studies to reduce the risk of mental health issues, including schizophrenia. This is an easy lifestyle habit that supports brain health and overall wellbeing.

Incorporate curcumin to enhance stress resilience

Adding curcumin (from turmeric) to your diet can increase your ability to handle stress by about four and a half times, according to recent research. It works by lowering inflammation, which is linked to better mood and mental health.

Incorporate colorful fruits and vegetables to combat anxiety

Eating more colorful fruits and vegetables, especially those rich in flavonoids like berries and citrus, can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. A diverse, plant-rich diet supports better mental and physical health.

Boost magnesium intake for better brain function and mood

About 80% of people may not get enough magnesium, a mineral crucial for brain function, focus, and mood. Magnesium helps balance brain chemicals and can be boosted through diet or supplements.

Support gut health with probiotics for improved mood

A healthy gut with plenty of good bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium is linked to lower rates of anxiety and depression. Probiotics, fermented foods, and fiber-rich diets can help support a happier, healthier mind.

Fill nutrient gaps to boost brain health and mood

Most Americans are missing key nutrients like iron, magnesium, zinc, B vitamins, and vitamin D, which are vital for brain health and mood. Filling these gaps with food or supplements can make a big difference in how you feel.

Reduce screen time to restore brain balance and emotional regulation

Technology and social media provide constant dopamine hits, which can dysregulate your brain, increase anxiety, disrupt sleep, and make emotional regulation harder. Cutting back gradually on screen time can help restore balance.

Engage in forest bathing to lower inflammation and boost mood

Spending time in nature, also called 'forest bathing,' can significantly reduce inflammation in the body and improve mood. This simple practice helps your mind and body recover from stress.

Prioritize joyful activities to enhance mental health

Doing things that bring you joy, like dancing, hiking, or hobbies, boosts your brain's feel-good chemicals and supports mental health. Making time for fun and connection is as important as diet or exercise.

Adopt ketogenic and Mediterranean diets to support brain health

Diets like the ketogenic and Mediterranean (including the MIND diet) have shown benefits for brain health, especially in supporting people with conditions like schizophrenia and dementia. These diets focus on healthy fats, lots of plants, and minimizing processed foods.

Utilize lab tests to uncover root causes of brain fog and anxiety

Lab tests for inflammation, nutrient levels, and gut health can uncover hidden reasons for brain fog, anxiety, or depression. Addressing these root causes often brings significant improvement without just relying on medication.

Build supportive communities to combat loneliness and enhance well-being

Loneliness is a major risk factor for mental health struggles. Building and maintaining a supportive community—through group therapy, social activities, or simply connecting with others—can dramatically improve well-being.

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