Brain & Mental Health | Ep 1923 Highlights | Phil In The Blanks Podcast
Brain & Mental Health: Understanding the Link
Introduction
In a recent episode of the popular podcast “Phil in the Blanks,” Dr. Daniel Amen and Dr. Corey J. Yeager discussed the link between brain health and mental illness. Dr. Amen, a leading psychiatrist and brain health expert, introduced the idea that most psychiatric problems are not mental health issues, but rather brain health issues. This shift in perspective has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach mental health and ultimately lead to the end of mental illness.
The Problem with the Term “Mental Illness”
Dr. Amen expressed his dislike for the term “mental illness,” arguing that it shames and stigmatizes individuals who are struggling with their mental health. Instead, he suggests that we view these issues as brain health issues, recognizing that the brain is the source of our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By reframing mental health challenges in this way, we can approach them from a more compassionate and understanding perspective.
The Role of Brain Health in Mental Health
Dr. Amen’s extensive research, which includes over 160,000 brain scans from people across 150 countries, has led him to believe that many psychiatric problems are the result of brain health issues. Factors such as traumatic brain injury, diet, hypertension, diabetes, and mold exposure can significantly impact the functioning of the brain and contribute to mental health challenges such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, addictions, and more.
The Paradigm Shift
Dr. Amen argues that the current approach to mental health, which predominantly relies on psychology and psychotherapy, is not enough. While these interventions are essential, they should be seen as complementary to optimizing the physical functioning of the brain. He calls for a new paradigm that prioritizes brain health alongside traditional psychological approaches. By ensuring the brain is functioning optimally, individuals can better engage in psychotherapy and find lasting relief from their mental health challenges.
The Role of Imaging-Guided Therapy
Dr. Yeager, an internationally recognized neuro-radiologist, discussed the innovative use of imaging-guided therapy in the treatment of mental health conditions. This non-invasive procedure, known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), uses targeted magnetic impulses to regulate the brain’s natural default mode network. This therapy has shown remarkable efficacy in treating depression and anxiety, with over 80% of those receiving treatment reporting significant improvements.
The Benefits of Imaging-Guided Therapy
Compared to traditional TMS, which requires daily treatments for an hour over 30 days, imaging-guided TMS offers a breakthrough in efficiency. With this new approach, treatment sessions last only three minutes, and individuals can receive up to five treatments per day for five consecutive days. The condensed treatment duration and higher concentration of magnetic impulses have significantly improved the efficacy of TMS, making it a more accessible and effective option for those struggling with mental health challenges.
The Importance of Emotional Health
Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman, a psychotherapist and New York Times best-selling author, emphasized the significance of emotional health and well-being. She highlighted the importance of asking oneself the right questions and examining the narratives we tell ourselves. By practicing self-reflection and curiosity, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their emotions and thought patterns, leading to personal growth and improved well-being.
Reframing Pain and Discomfort
Dr. Yeager spoke about the value of reframing pain and discomfort as opportunities for growth and learning. This shift in perspective allows individuals to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for personal development instead of avoiding it. By recognizing that pain and discomfort often precede breakthroughs and achievements, individuals can approach challenges with resilience and greater self-awareness.
The Need for Emotional Health Education
Both Dr. Yeager and Dr. Gottman stressed the importance of teaching emotional health skills in schools. By incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques into the curriculum, students can learn valuable tools for managing anxiety, depression, and stress. This early education can provide a foundation for emotional well-being throughout life, preparing individuals to cope with adversity and navigate the complexities of relationships.
Conclusion
The discussion on the “Phil in the Blanks” podcast highlighted the interplay between brain health and mental health. By recognizing the impact of brain health on mental well-being and integrating innovative therapies such as imaging-guided TMS, we have the potential to transform the way we approach and treat mental illnesses. Additionally, by emphasizing emotional health education and providing individuals with the tools to navigate their emotions, we can empower them to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
