For so long, there has been a misconception that physical health and mental health reside in separate spheres. However, there is a bidirectional relationship between the two. For example, have you noticed increased irritability when you are hungry or haven’t had enough sleep? After eating certain foods, do you feel lethargic, “blah,”, or even anxious? And did you know that about 90% of serotonin (the neurotransmitter believed to help regulate mood and social behavior, appetite and digestion, sleep, memory, and sexual desire and function) are produced in the gut? Lifestyle behaviors such as living a sedentary life, making poor food choices, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, and living with chronic high levels of stress can all contribute to our mood, exacerbating depression and anxiety.

 

In addition to our therapeutic work, we will identify areas in your lifestyle that can be improved. I’ll help you find ways to manage stress better and cultivate meaningful relationships. We’ll also look at ways to improve your sleep patterns, eating habits, and physical activity. Although prescribing fitness and nutritional regimens are not within my scope of practice, I incorporate psycho-education in these areas and will refer you to registered dietitians and nutritionists or other wellness coaches when needed. I believe that working from a collaborative and holistic approach is optimal for long term progress.