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Mast cell activation causes high immune reactivity to a range of triggers, resulting in a range of physical symptoms. Though mast cells are not in the brain, they communicate with inflammatory cells in the brain and can play a role in brain-related symptoms, including intermittent brain fog, panic, hopelessness, fatigue and for some psychosis. Those who’ve struggled with this treatable condition often see many specialists before finding their answers and getting to the root causes.
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They say it takes at least twenty years for medical research to make its way into medical schools and clinical settings. Oxidative stress - the depletion of our inherent antioxidants, has been found in a number of studies, to be especially high in those with autism. Though not addressed in conventional psychiatry at this time in history, we do have a number of ways to lower oxidative stress. Reasons this should be considered part of a more comprehensive treatment plan, is because doing so can decrease the likelihood of comorbid symptoms and conditions, decrease the need for psychotropic medication and prevent the accumulation of other health conditions down the road. COMT and MAOA are genes that code for enzymes that help with breakdown of catecholamines - our stress neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine. Particular variants on these genes can result in a slowing in the clearance of these neurotransmitters. When someone is under emotional or physiologic stress, this can look like insomnia, restlessness, high anxiety hyperfocus, obsessional thinking, and for some paranoia and psychosis. Treatment involves addressing the “stressor,” to decrease the catecholamines being generated, but can also involve nutrient and dietary interventions to help clear catecholamines. Such variants are why some people will become very “activated” when under stress. One of the most common nutrient imbalances in children (and adults) with brain-related symptoms is undermethylation - a methyl-folate imbalance. The Walsh Research Institute found that 85% of children diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder and 98% of those with autism spectrum disorder were undermethylated. Other common symptoms in children (most children don’t have all of the symptoms) include perfectionism, obsessive compulsive traits, including (skin picking and nail biting), and/or phobias. As with adults, we address this nutrient imbalance using targeted nutrients and dietary recommendations.
"Left Brained," Undermethylation & Attachment.
In this reel, I discuss reasons we can have over-functioning of our left hemisphere and under-functioning of our right hemisphere.
Research, Support & Resources for Parents
As concerns around children, teens, social media, and screen use continue to grow, including the recent lawsuit against Meta and YouTube/Google, I wanted to bring together some of the current research on how technology may affect child development, emotional well-being, and mental health. More importantly, this episode is meant to offer support, practical perspective, and helpful resources for parents who are trying to navigate technology in a more intentional way at home. In this episode, I discuss:
Referenced Resources Boston Children’s Digital Wellness Lab Assessing and Lowering EMF Exposure EMF and the Brain As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions. Until next time, Courtney
In this brief episode, I explore the connection between aging and oxidative stress. Oxidative stress plays a major role in accelerating the aging process, contributing to chronic illnesses, including conditions that affect the brain, and draining our energy, mental clarity, and overall quality of life.
Our left brain often tries to manage and control the body and the natural processes of life. Meanwhile, the right brain encourages us to stay present and connected to our embodied, finite time on this planet. Rather than obsessing over the idea of "anti-aging," it may be more helpful to think about how we can reduce oxidative stress-and to do so without creating additional pressure or tension. In this episode, I reflect on:
In upcoming episodes, I will go deeper into ways to limit harmful exposures and support the body's antioxidant and detoxification systems. As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions. Until next time, Courtney 
In this episode of the Holistic Psychiatry podcast, I discuss panic attacks, exploring their physiological, neurological, and emotional underpinnings. I discuss the heightened sensitivity of the brain’s alarm system, the role of neurotransmitters, hormonal influences, and the impact of inflammation and biotoxins. I’ll emphasize the importance of being curious about the nature of panic attacks..
Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Understanding Panic Attacks 03:07 Physiological Factors Behind Panic Attacks 06:00 Neurotransmitters and Panic Disorder 08:52 The Role of Hormones in Panic Attacks 12:07 Inflammation and Panic Attacks 14:53 Mast Cells and Panic Responses 18:06 Biotoxins and Their Impact on Panic 21:00 Limbic System Dysfunction and Panic 24:11 The Autonomic Nervous System’s Role 26:45 Emotional Stressors and Panic Attacks As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions. Until next time, Courtney 
In this episode, I wanted to turn us back to more of the humanity and heart of our healing and thriving and step away from the science and left-brain information that I'm often sharing.
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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
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