As a naturopathic doctor, I am often asked about the connection between hormones and mental health. It’s clear that there is a significant interaction between the two, with imbalances in hormones often leading to symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.
Hormones play a crucial role in regulating brain function, mood, and overall mental well-being. When our hormones are in balance, we feel good, focused, and emotionally stable. However, when there is an imbalance, it can lead to a host of mental health issues.
One common hormone imbalance that can impact mental health is estrogen dominance. This occurs when there is too much estrogen in relation to progesterone, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, mood swings, and depression. Therapies such as homeopathy, botanical medicine and bio-identical hormones, which are identical in structure to the hormones produced by our bodies, can help rebalance estrogen levels and improve mental health symptoms. Low progesterone can be a consequence of estrogen dominance, however, low progesterone levels are also seen in peri-menopausal/menopausal females as a result of decreasing hormone production. Low progesterone levels have a tremendous impact on mood. This occurs due to progesterone interacting with GABA receptors in the brain, affecting mood, anxiety, and sleep.
Similarly, thyroid hormones are also closely linked to mental health. Hypothyroidism, or an under-active thyroid, can lead to symptoms of depression, fatigue, and brain fog. By supplementing with botanical medicine and/or thyroid hormones, we can correct the imbalance and improve mental health symptoms.
In addition to bio-identical hormones, there are also a variety of supplements that can support hormone balance and improve mental health. For example, omega-3 fatty acids are known to reduce inflammation in the brain and support neurotransmitter function, leading to improved mood and mental clarity.
Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola can help regulate stress hormones and support the adrenal glands, which play a crucial role in hormone production. By supporting the adrenals, we can improve hormone balance and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
It’s important to note that hormone and mental health are interconnected, and addressing hormone imbalances can have a significant impact on mental well-being. As a naturopathic doctor, I work with my patients to identify hormone imbalances and develop a personalized treatment plan using bio-identical hormones and supplements to restore balance and improve mental health.
If you are struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, I encourage you to consider the role that hormones may be playing in your symptoms. By addressing hormone imbalances through bio-identical hormones and supplements, you can support your mental health and improve your overall well-being. If you would like to learn more, call (702) 258-7860.
Dr. Erica Soria