Undermethylation, High Activity at the NMDA Receptor, Glutamate, "Weak Memory Extinction," Walsh Research Institute, PANS & PANDAS, Candida, Mold & Other Biotoxins, Histamine, Estrogen
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a severe mental health condition characterized by persistent intrusive thoughts and compulsive, repetitive behaviors that can be highly time-consuming. It affects approximately 80 million people globally, including 2-4% of the U.S. population—or about 1 in 100 individuals. The impact of OCD is profound, not only for those experiencing it firsthand but also for their loved ones. Beyond the distress caused by obsessive thoughts and compulsions, individuals often grapple with feelings of shame and significant loss—loss of meaningful or enjoyable thoughts and activities, as well as valuable time that could be spent connecting with others or engaging in fulfilling pursuits.
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Dr. William Walsh's Comprehensive Theory (Explaining the Cause of Bipolar, the Reason For Switching From Mania to Depression & Treatment Implications) Shared at the Society of Neuroscience
This past week, I had the privilege of attending the Advanced Course for Walsh-Trained Practitioners. Over 1,200 practitioners from 75 countries have been trained in the Walsh approach. For those unfamiliar, the Walsh Research Institute, founded by Dr. William Walsh, has analyzed the nutrient levels of more than 30,000 individuals experiencing brain-related symptoms. Their findings reveal a surprisingly small set of recurring nutrient imbalances—such as low zinc, elevated copper, high pyrroles, and methylation irregularities—that frequently appear. Addressing these imbalances has led to significant, and sometimes dramatic, improvements in individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, panic, obsessions, compulsions, inattention, brain fog, hyperactivity, autism, dementia, psychosis, and mood swings. However, bipolar disorder presents a unique challenge due to its alternating neurotransmitter states between mania and depression. More than nine million Americans are currently diagnosed with bipolar disorder, a serious condition often associated with substance abuse, financial or legal difficulties, strained relationships, instability at work or school, and an increased risk of suicide attempts or suicide. The course of the illness typically begins with an acute onset, progressing to recurrent episodes of mania and depression that often worsen in severity over time. In this post, I will describe bipolar disorder and use Dr. Walsh’s Comprehensive Theory of Bipolar Disorder—recently presented at the Society for Neuroscience—to explain:
Attachment, Microbiome, Undermethylation, Low Zinc, Oxidative Stress, Mold Toxicity, Mast Cell Activation, RCCX Theory, Upper Cervical Instability, Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity, Left & Right Brain
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” ― Lao Tzu In this episode, I share my personal journey through illness and healing and how it has influenced my approach as a holistic psychiatrist. My hope for everyone listening is that your pursuit of health, happiness, or whatever it is you’re seeking brings you to a place of peace—and inspires a desire to support others on their own journeys. 
While Staying Calm & Carrying On
In the previous newsletter, I explored sources of toxins and their effects on brain health and development. This time, I want to focus on practical strategies for reducing exposure. Notice I say reduce—because it’s impossible to eliminate exposure entirely. Accepting this can be a relief, especially for those prone to perfectionism. If you’re just beginning this journey, feel proud of starting. There’s no need to dwell on what you haven’t done yet—after all, negative thinking isn’t exactly detox-friendly. For me, lowering toxin exposure has been a gradual, step-by-step process. Early on, I made a conscious effort to avoid overwhelm and not attempt everything at once. While I’ve studied many of the most researched toxins and their health impacts, I focus primarily on actionable steps to limit exposure. This lets me live life without becoming preoccupied with the risks. Some of the most extensively studied toxins (as of my latest review) include:
Additionally, electromagnetic fields (EMFs), while not classified as toxins, function as toxicants with similar effects on the body and brain. I’ve previously shared tips for assessing and minimizing EMF exposure as well. Reducing exposure is about progress, not perfection. Let’s focus on what we can do to safeguard our health without letting fear take over. 
Cut paper, ink on paper
And, Why the Brain is a Good Barometer of "Oxidative Stress."
I recently came across a funny reel showing a man navigating his day while we hear his inner thoughts. He tries to prepare a healthy snack but keeps getting interrupted by his inner voice pointing out potential toxin exposures – from the packaging to the water to the fruit’s skin. In the end, he gives up and settles for a bag of chips. Is it possible to reduce our exposure to toxins (and support detoxification) without becoming consumed by fear? I believe it is. We can approach this serious topic with balance, doing our best while accepting that perfection isn’t realistic. Rachel Carson captured this sentiment well in her book Silent Spring (1962): “If we are going to live so intimately with these chemicals, eating and drinking them, taking them into the very marrow of our bones – we had better know something about their nature and their power.” In this post, I want to explore the nature and impact of the chemicals and heavy metals we encounter. Specifically, I’ll cover:
Why Resistance Training & Other Muscle Building Activities Are Good For The Brain & The Prevention of Dementia.
Likely you’ve heard about the importance of muscle strengthening in the prevention of bone health. What is less known, however, is the relationship between the health of our muscles and the health of our brain. In this newsletter, I’ll address:
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
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
Protecting Our Brain Early Starting With Understanding the Role of Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, Insulin Resistance, a Potential Microbial Presence & APOe4 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. 
By Courtney Snyder, MD
10 Situations to Consider Copper...Tantrums/Rage, ADHD, Postpartum Depression, Panic & More I'm always eager to share insights on high copper levels, both from what I’ve learned from Dr. William Walsh, PhD, and from my own clinical experience. Copper overload is a common contributor to brain-related symptoms. It's relatively easy to treat, and addressing it can significantly improve a person's quality of life, as well as the lives of those around them. I've previously discussed copper overload in a blog post and podcast episode, this newsletter will focus on the conditions or situations where I often suspect high copper levels. Since copper overload rarely occurs in isolation, I’ll also explore how it interacts with other underlying root causes, such as low zinc, pyrrole disorder, and even mold toxicity. |
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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