MENTAL WELLNESS

Taking a look at the causes of a patient’s depression or anxiety as a function rather than just a code in a book is very important. Depression and anxiety can be caused or worsened by many factors, including:

• As people age, their brains slow down, from the front to the back. As this happens, there can be a decline in concentration, mood changes, sleep disturbances and increased anxiety.
• Lack of sleep is another major contributor and exacerbator of many mental conditions. Getting the proper amount and quality of sleep can improve mental outcomes.
• Gut health. About 80% of the body’s serotonin – the neurotransmitter that is a major contributor to mood and sleep – is produced in the intestinal lining. Certain bacteria in the gut can either cause or alleviate many mental symptoms by improving the serotonin levels. In fact, giving a probiotic is now first-line therapy for depression.
• Lack of exercise. Physical activity is yet another piece of the puzzle, as exercise has also been shown to improve many mental conditions.

Read more about mental illness.

As a minimalist and realist in medicine, Dr. Cas works to find the right balance between prescribing medication and utilizing other types of effective treatment. For example, there is technology available that can optimize patients’ neurologic function through magnetic stimulation.

By allowing the brain to function optimally, with all neurons talking to each other, Dr. Cas has seen his patients enjoy improved sleep, concentration and mood. Optimizing neurotransmitters can also reduce the need for pharmaceuticals.

Hear from Dr. Cas’ patients.

Chronic disease has been steadily increasing over the last 70 years, despite the fact that the use of prescription medication is at an all-time high. Each year, billions of dollars are spent on medications to manage preventable illnesses and the complications they create.

There has also been a consistent decline of testosterone in men and more cases of endometriosis and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) in women. Many times, hormonal issues like these are due to environmental toxins such as mold, heavy metals and pollution. Certain chemicals, like BPA, can also cause hormonal disruption.

Bottom line: Something is going on and it isn’t good. It is going to take a fresh approach to medicine to change the trend of increasing disease and medication use.