I’ve just started working with a patient with severe depression – and conventional medication isn’t shifting her experience. My process as a “health detective” starts with taking a whole-of-life perspective on the person – and this uncovered a couple of clues: the patient has been prescribed high-dose folic acid long term (post-cancer) the patient has…
The new Disney movie “Inside Out” gives a great insight into the interplay of our emotions – one of which is sadness. Sadness is a real and useful part of our lives WHEN it’s in balance, and I feel that it is important to allow sadness – but not to let it rule the roost….
I’ve been getting referrals recently from psychologists treating stubborn cases of anxiety and depression. Counselling and medication just isn’t working well enough for some of their clients. Physiologically, everything appears to check out OK. We’ve known for years that B group vitamins are helpful with depression, however research has recently identified that there’s a sneaky…
I’ve always been concerned that western medical practitioners are quick on the draw with their prescription pads and I had further evidence in a recent consultation with a toddler who had been prescribed ongoing stomach medication from infancy to deal with chronic reflux. The prescription was from a specialist, not just a GP. On inquiry,…
Did you know that 90% of our cells are microbes, tiny creatures living in us and on us? We are their environment – and in return they keep us healthy. We live in symbiosis with them. Sometimes our life styles stress that environment – anxiety, antibiotics and over-processed food change the environment those microbes live…
‘Disconcerting’ can definitely be an understatement when it comes to Menopause. Navigating this new territory can provide numerous challenges, more easeful for some than others. Sometimes just identifying an odd array of symptoms as being attributed to menopause can bring understanding and calm. Other times, addressing disturbances with a number of approaches can help. One…
‘Feel good’ hormones enhance our well-being on a daily basis. These neurotransmitters are found in our brain as well as through our body. Food does it; exercise does it; sex does it: substance abuse does it; singing does it; and giving and receiving massage does it too. Oxytocin and dopamine are chemicals our bodies produce…
Naturopaths have been using nutritional supplements and herbs to support patients with depression for centuries, so it was really interesting to hear that medical research is starting to catch up with us. Last week Melbourne and Queensland Universities announced that they have teamed up to study a super pill – with five natural supplements known…
GPs have huge time and stress problems. I have the time to listen. I’ll take the time to listen. Difficult accents, subtle symptoms, something ‘not quite right’ – I want to help you find answers that your GP may not have time to explore. I can help you put your finger on the “it” that…
As a patient advocate and complementary medicine practitioner, I work with a lot of doctors. When you think about it, they’re pretty amazing people.