Anxiety: Neurofeedback and Hemp Seed Oil
It has been estimated that approximately 40 million adult Americans suffer from generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. Based on these estimates from the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, this means that approximately 1 in 5 people will develop some type of anxiety condition sometime in their lives. These numbers are staggering, making it the most common mental illness in the United States.
There are many causes of anxiety disorders may be caused by environmental factors, medical factors, genetics, brain chemistry, substance abuse, or a combination of these. It is most commonly triggered by the stress in our lives.
In our clinic we address several of these possible factors. First we analyze genetics and look particularly at the MTHFR, COMT, MAO and GAD snps. Through proper personalized nutrition these can be minimized or neutralized.
Next we address environmental exposures and levels of toxicity, heavy metal, chemical as well as bacterial or viral overload.
With regards to stress we employ techniques to balance the sympathetic nervous system or the “fight or flight”, with the parasympathetic nervous system, rest and digest. We teach you methods to stimulate the Vagus nerve and help your body deal with stress.
Therapy can also be an important intervention with chronic stress and anxiety. We work with a team of therapists to guide you through this process.
It is important to manage anxiety from a metabolic standpoint, with diet and lifestyle recommendations. We have found that some adaptogens like Ashwaghanda or polypehnols can prove to be beneficial.
Recent research also suggests that hemp seed oil might be an alternative to some of the medications to relieve emotional distress.
Finally we incorporate Neurofeedback. Simply stated this has been by far the best therapeutic intervention we have employed with our anxiety patients. While the patient comfortably watches a movie, Neurofeedback will change the brain wave activity lowering it from a high beta pattern to more of a relaxed alpha state.
If you are experiencing anxiety and are looking for a comprehensive alternative, than call our office at 805 482-0723.
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