From morning walk.
The Relationship Between Sex Hormones & Mental Health Conditions, COMT, MAOA, High Copper, NMDA, RCCX Theory, 21-Hydroxylase & Why Our Personalities May Change Over Our Lifetime
In previous newsletters, I’ve explored many root causes of brain-related symptoms, none of which operate separately from our hormones. In this edition, I’ll focus on the influence of key sex hormones—estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone—on neurotransmitters. I’ll also examine how hormonal fluctuations throughout our lives affect our mental health and personality. Although hormonal experiences vary widely, there are notable patterns among individuals born female and those born male. The relationship between hormones and neurotransmitters is highly complex, so I’ll be simplifying some aspects for clarity. To begin, I’ll provide a brief overview of the role specific neurotransmitters play, which you can reference as needed.
0 Comments
Amygdala, RCCX Theory, CAPS Profile & 'Wired For Danger," Neuroplasticity, MCAS, EHS, CFS, POTS, CIRS, Mold Toxicity, Limbic System Retraining Programs For Adults & Children
Our limbic system, often referred to as the "lizard brain," plays a critical role in keeping us safe. However, when it’s overactive, it can make us feel perpetually unsafe. In a previous discussion, I explored how the autonomic nervous system (ANS) triggers fight, flight or shutdown responses when we sense danger. Although the ANS operates mainly outside the brain, it communicates closely with the limbic system. In this newsletter, I’ll cover:
Substance & Behavioral Addictions Beyond Dopamine and the "Addictive Personality," the Role of Methylation, Attachment, Trauma, Social Isolation & Problems Regulating Emotions
“Addiction” - a compulsive, chronic, physiological, or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity having harmful physical, psychological, or social effects and typically causing well-defined symptoms (such as anxiety, irritability, tremors, or nausea) upon withdrawal or abstinence.” : a compulsive, chronic, physiological or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity having harmful physical, psychological, or social effects and typically causing well-defined symptoms (such as anxiety, irritability, tremors, or nausea) upon withdrawal or abstinence
Addictions like other health conditions, is multifactorial, emerging from a combination of underlying root causes. In this newsletter, I’ll explore:
The impact of attachment disruption, trauma, emotional dysregulation, social isolation and methylation on addictive behavior 
Data, Contributing Factors, Undermethylation, When Strengths Relate to Vulnerabilities, Self Reliance, a Medical Culture That Keeps Physicians From Seeking Help & What Can Be Done
It’s easy to overlook that medical professionals are vulnerable to stress, burnout, and both physical and mental health issues. Despite the expectation that they remain well, physicians experience higher rates of depression, and the rate of physician suicide is twice that of the general population. In this newsletter, I’ll explore how biochemical and environmental factors play a role in both the strengths and vulnerabilities of doctors. While the focus is on physicians, much of what I’ll discuss also applies to other medical professionals and caregivers.
Key topics include:
Why Love is Not Enough, Cultural Differences, Nazi Parenting Manual, Cycle of Abuse, Narcissistic Family Dynamic, Family Stress, Poor Quality Day Care, Screen Media
By Courtney Snyder, MD In a recent newsletter, I explored how our early attachment experiences—particularly those within our first three years—shape our autonomic nervous system, stress responses, sense of self-worth, expectations of others, and worldview. While we may not consciously “remember” these early years, the experiences of our infant and toddler selves live on in our neurophysiology. They influence how we handle stress, regulate emotions, connect with others, and perceive ourselves.
Our culture often frames early life experiences in simplistic terms: either all good or all bad. We tend to think, "We were either abused, raised in an institution or foster care, or we weren't. Our parents either loved us or they didn't."
In this newsletter, I’ll delve deeper into:
Around 25% of people may be susceptible to mold toxicity, a surprisingly prevalent cause of various brain symptoms, such as brain fog, fatigue, depression, anxiety, mood swings, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic, and even psychosis. Mold toxicity can also be a hidden factor in conditions like pyrrole disorder, candida overgrowth, and copper-zinc imbalances, all of which can contribute to neurological and psychiatric symptoms.
Mold toxicity should be considered a potential cause when college students develop new mental health issues after being exposed to mold in their dorms or apartments. It can also lead to various chronic physical health problems, including autoimmune conditions. Based on my experience, mold toxicity is the most frequent cause of mast cell activation syndrome.
Jerry Parker, a Certified Indoor Environmental Consultant (CIEC) and Certified Microbial Remediator (CMR), has been a great resource to me both personally and professionally, providing valuable insights into the environmental factors related to mold. He owns Environmental Solutions Group, LLC, a company that has been serving residential and commercial clients for over 20 years. Jerry is now preparing to launch a new educational and consulting platform, 4 Indoor Air Quality LLC.
In this newsletter and video podcast, Jerry and I explore:
In a future episode, Jerry and I will delve into mold prevention with a specific focus on the interior of our homes. 
By Courtney Snyder, MD
The Zinc Link, Skin Symptoms of Common "Roots" of Brain Symptoms, Acne Treatment & Thinking Holistically. Skin conditions are frequently observed in individuals with brain-related disorders. Most discussions about this connection suggest that one condition might cause the other. For example, it is commonly believed that the stress of dealing with a skin condition can lead to depression and anxiety — a logical conclusion. Conversely, the stress of a mental health condition may elevate stress hormones or cause inflammation, resulting in skin symptoms, which also makes sense. In this podcast, I will explore the idea that skin and brain symptoms often share common underlying causes — with one key root in particular. By "brain symptoms," I mean conditions like depression, anxiety, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), brain fog, inattention, hyperactivity, mood swings, psychosis, and cognitive decline.
I will cover:
This episode aims to shed light on how these interrelated factors contribute to both skin and brain symptoms, helping you better understand the importance of identifying and addressing the common roots.
Understanding Smart Meters and EMF Exposure: Insights from Eric Windheim
Eric Windheim, BA, BBEC, EMRS, RFSO, is a Certified Electromagnetic Radiation Specialist and Building Biology Environmental Consultant. As the founder of Windheim Solutions, he specializes in inspecting, testing, and remediating harmful electromagnetic fields (EMFs). In this episode, we explore the topic of smart meters—digital devices that measure real-time electricity usage and wirelessly transmit this data to utility companies. Smart meters are also sometimes used for gas and water monitoring.
Smart meters primarily emit radio frequencies, one of the four harmful types of electromagnetic fields, alongside electric fields, magnetic fields, and dirty electricity. EMF exposure has been linked to a variety of brain symptoms, such as insomnia, memory issues, irritability, depression, personality changes, inattention, fatigue, confusion, headaches, tinnitus, dizziness, numbness, and tingling.
Problematic EMFs impact the brain in multiple ways, contributing to oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, immune system disruption, hormonal imbalances, microbiome disturbances, and compromising the blood-brain barrier. EMFs can even elevate blood sugar levels. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to reduce exposure. In this newsletter: Eric shares:
We discuss:
Whirling Dervishes - paper, ink Courtney Snyder
By Courtney Snyder, MD
Woman Plans the Universe Laughs. Usually, the universe knows best. While editing a podcast conversation on EMF exposure (specifically Smart Meters) to share with you, a thought crossed my mind: "It’s been a very left-brain few weeks, filled with discussions on high blood sugar, cognitive decline, Alzheimer's, and the Walsh nutrient protocols. Shouldn't I balance it out with a right-brain topic?" Despite this realization, I pushed forward—until the universe intervened and prevented my computer from uploading the video. So, in the spirit of balance, I’m sharing a poem instead—from my right brain to yours. 
From the Walsh Research Institute’s original data.
By Courtney Snyder, MD
Symptoms, Traits, Testing, and Treatment. I recently had the pleasure of joining Annika Taylor, a holistic health practitioner, on the Nourished By Nature: Mind Body Wellness Podcast. After sharing my journey into holistic psychiatry and defining what it means, Annika and I explored the following topics:
We also discussed a recent finding by Dr. Walsh that undermethylation is on the rise in the population, while overmethylation appears to be decreasing. Related Resources: Annika Taylor - nourishedbynature.com Walsh Research Institute For links to specific topics address see links in the description above. 
By Courtney Snyder, MD
This newsletter is for educational purposes and not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. In this newsletter and podcast episode, I focus on the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s. Because this condition starts prior to the onset of symptoms, and because having almost any psychiatric condition appears to raise our vulnerability, many of the tools mentioned relate to other brain symptoms and conditions as well. “What we call Alzheimer's disease is actually a protective response to a wide variety of insults to the brain: inflammation, insulin resistance, toxins, infections, and inadequate levels of nutrients, hormones, and growth factors.” - Dale Bredesen, MD (The End of Alzheimer’s Program: The First Protocol to Enhance Cognition and Reverse Decline at Any Age)
In this newsletter, I’ll discuss:
Resources mentioned:
By Courtney Snyder, MD
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease that involves the gradual death of brain cells, leading to the loss of brain tissue. The changes in the brain that lead to Alzheimer’s dementia can start up to 20 years before symptoms appear. This is crucial because emerging research and clinical experience in functional medicine suggest that many of the contributing factors can be influenced before symptoms progress. In this newsletter and podcast episode, I’ll explore:
In the next episode, I’ll delve into mainstream treatments and explore functional, integrative, and holistic approaches that target blood sugar regulation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and even mold and candida as potential contributors. Mentioned Resources: Other Related Newsletters: Medical Disclaimer: This newsletter is for educational purposes and not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating (if you are a practitioner). Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.
In this video and podcast episode, I dive into pyrrole disorder, a common nutrient imbalance linked to various brain-related conditions affecting both adults and children. Elevated levels of Hydroxyhemopyrrolin-2-one (HPL) in the urine, often referred to as “pyrroles,” have been connected to conditions such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism, ADHD, learning disorders, substance use disorders, and even violent behavior.
In this discussion, I cover:
This episode is essential for understanding the role pyrrole disorder plays in mental health and how addressing it can lead to significant improvements in well-being. Related Resources
To receive these posts in your mail box each week, you can subscribe right here....
Medical Disclaimer: This newsletter is for educational purposes and not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment for either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating (if you are a practitioner). Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.
By Courtney Snyder, MD
Since I covered candida in a previous podcast episode, this newsletter will focus on the factors that can make overcoming candida overgrowth challenging. But first, for those less familiar, here's a quick introduction: Candida is the most common fungus in the microbiome, and several factors, such as antibiotic use, can trigger its overgrowth in the gastrointestinal tract. Common symptoms include brain fog, fatigue, anxiety, depression, mood swings, insomnia, carbohydrate cravings, and gastrointestinal issues, especially constipation. Children with candida overgrowth are often diagnosed with ADD.
Assessment can be done through blood, urine, or stool testing; I prefer urine organic acid testing, which measures yeast metabolites. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications or herbal remedies and a low-carbohydrate diet, as candida thrives on sugar and carbs. While dietary changes and antifungal medications are sufficient for some, candida can remain a persistent challenge for many.
I wasn’t aiming for a list of 10 this time, but somehow, it still turned into one… 
The many underlying and overlapping factors are considered in functional medicine.
By Courtney Snyder, MD
The Benefits, Risks, and How to Improve Functional Medicine. What is Functional Medicine? Functional Medicine is an integrative, biology-based approach that promotes healing and wellness by focusing on the biochemically unique aspects of each patient, utilizing individually tailored interventions to restore balance. This approach seeks to understand the fundamental physiological processes, environmental factors, and genetic predispositions that affect health and disease, addressing the root causes. In Functional Medicine Psychiatry, these interventions aim to promote healing and wellness for individuals experiencing brain-related symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, mood swings, fatigue, brain fog, hyperactivity, cognitive impairment, social communication deficits, and psychosis.
In this Newsletter, I’ll explore:
By Courtney Snyder, MD
If you’re like I was, you might feel both drawn to and resistant to starting a meditation practice. My many attempts to begin and then stop were less about meditation itself and more about not prioritizing self-care. For many of us, learning to sit still in silence—and often in solitude—can be challenging. Our minds may chatter nonstop about things we’d rather not confront: the to-do lists, worries, ruminations, irritations, regrets, "should haves" and "shouldn't haves," "what ifs," things we said or did, things others said or did, judgments, and even judgments about those judgments. Our attachment to how we believe things should be is a significant part of our suffering.
All forms of meditation aim to guide our minds (and bodies) away from day-to-day thoughts and into the present moment. Since the sights and sounds around us often distract our minds, most meditation practices involve removing these stimuli by sitting in a quiet place with our eyes closed.
Even in a quiet setting, the mind will wander, especially in the beginning. This is why many meditation practices encourage us to focus on something—like our breath, a phrase, or an image. The goal is to gently bring our attention back to this anchor whenever we notice the mind drifting. If you’re interested in starting a meditation practice, don’t let the variety of options make you think there is a "best" or "right" way to meditate. The best meditation practice is the one that makes you think, “Okay, I could see myself doing that.” The right way is simply to begin. The common thread in all meditation practices is learning to be present. To do this, we use something to anchor us in the moment. What differentiates various types of meditation is simply the anchor that is chosen. 
By Courtney Snyder, MD
I look forward to the day when reducing exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) becomes as standard as other basic health practices, such as getting enough sleep and exercise, managing stress, and limiting or avoiding sugar. In the meantime, I hope to convince you in this newsletter why reducing EMF exposure is a smart choice for your improving and maintaining your health. I’ll cover:
As you’ll see, these vulnerabilities often overlap with those associated with brain conditions and chronic complex illnesses.
When I refer to “EMF,” I’m focusing on the more concerning types: radio frequencies, magnetic and electric fields, and dirty electricity. For simplicity, I’ll discuss these collectively, though much of the latest research emphasizes radio frequencies (such as those from cell phones, WiFi, and SMART or wireless technology). 
By Courtney Snyder, MD
Typically, with two-part newsletters, I first explain how a "root" cause contributes to brain symptoms and then, in the follow-up, discuss actionable steps. However, because the topic of Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) can be anxiety-provoking for some, and there is already a lot of alarming content in functional medicine, I decided to begin with practical ways to assess and reduce EMF exposure. In the next newsletter, I'll dive into the research on how EMF impacts the brain and other parts of the body, the factors that increase susceptibility to EMF hypersensitivity, and strategies to lower that susceptibility.
EMF exists on a spectrum that includes ultraviolet (UV) light, visible light, infrared, and more. In this newsletter, I am focusing on:
Most of the interventions I’ll cover are related to radio frequencies (RF), which are increasingly prevalent and considered the most harmful. 
A tree that I fell in love on my morning walks while we lived in Florida.
By Courtney Snyder, MD
10 Ideas for Increasing Mental Clarity, Energy, and a Sense of Calm. In the last newsletter, we explored how our hormonal stress response can activate mast cells and microglial cells and disrupt neuronal communication leading to symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, depression, anxiety, mood swings, and in some cases, hallucinations. We live in an increasingly inflammatory world—with more toxins, disruptions to the microbiome, and societal pressures from marketing and media. At the same time, factors that naturally lower stress and reduce inflammation—such as human connection, silence, solitude, and time in nature—are becoming scarce.
The good news is that we have choices. Supporting brain health and overall well-being is about returning to the basics of our humanity—the practices we naturally crave and that help restore balance. In this newsletter, we’ll focus on how to reconnect with these essentials to reduce stress and inflammation for better mental health.
cut paper, ink - Courtney Snyder
By Courtney Snyder, MD
While rarely discussed in psychiatry, our ability to accept the inevitable uncertainty of life is crucial to our overall well-being. In this newsletter, I will explore:
|
Courtney Snyder, MDFor anyone experiencing brain symptoms. This blog (and weekly newsletter) is your guide to demystifying root causes and learning about surprising paths to healing. From a holistic - functional adult and child psychiatrist dedicated to helping people heal and thrive. Categories
All
Archives
October 2024
|
RSS Feed