Finding Genius Podcast

How can identifying pathogens make a difference in evidence-based treatment? By examining the genome, researchers may be able to identify and fight the current threat more effectively by diagnosing first. Listen in to learn: What MiQLab Accomplishes How to convince clinicians to prescribe only what is necessary How many tests are currently available Dr. Jack Regan, CEO of LexaGene, shares his work identifying the future biothreats the human and veterinary population may face.  While biothreats may seem like a pending threat for the developing world, there may be a broader goal. By examining the genome, MiQLab can assist point-of-need genetic testing for contaminants without an infected individual present. It can also be incredibly challenging for clinicians to diagnose individuals facing health issues and complications properly. However, by assisting with evidence-based medical care, adequate care can be recognized for patients with as little invasiveness as possible. Visit lexagene.com/miqlab/ for additional info. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/30PvU9C  

At eight years old, Rachael Siddoway was hiding knives from her mom so she wouldn’t commit suicide. She was trying tirelessly to be emotionally strong so her mom could depend on her. And she was blaming herself when she thought she’d failed. Press play to hear more about Siddoway’s experience, and learn: What it’s like to live closely with a parent who has bipolar disorder, and how to maintain a wonderful relationship despite this How Siddoway's childhood was in many ways enriched by her mom’s mania What three elements are critical to managing mental illness, particularly bipolar disorder Siddoway is the author of An Impossible Life, a book in which she debuts her mom’s life with bipolar disorder, and her journey into a state of healing through dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), medication, and support groups. In today’s show, Siddoway gives listeners a peek into her book and her life as a whole, illustrating her challenging and interesting childhood, explaining one of the most difficult aspects of living closely with someone who has a mental illness, and sharing how she has managed to navigate the ups and downs while keeping a positive relationship with her mom and her own mental health intact. Learn about the other books in The Impossible Series at https://animpossiblelife.com/. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/30PvU9C

“One of the things that has been a driving force in my work is that I want to help other people accept themselves, and accept other people; to have compassion and understanding for themselves and other people,” says Ellen Forney. Press play to learn about her work and discover: What it’s like to have bipolar disorder, and why it can be so difficult to treat The importance of sleep in dealing with mental illness What the mammalian diving reflex is, and how it can induce a state of calmness during periods of high stress and strong emotions Ellen Forney is a speaker, artist, and author of the New York Times Best Seller, Marbles: Mania, Depression, Michelangelo, and Me: A Graphic Memoir, in which she depicts her struggle with bipolar disorder. Having received the diagnosis shortly before turning 30 and after several acute episodes of mania and depression, Forney spent the following four years struggling to find a sense of stability within herself and the world. Instead of just telling readers which tools and practices she has found useful on her journey through bipolar disorder, Forney details them with graphic images and explains in detail how others can implement them in their own lives. Sleep, medication, eating well, doctors, mindfulness, meditation, exercise, routine, coping tools, and support system: these are the things that Forney says are critical for her and many others who struggle with mental illness. Tune in to learn more about her life and book. Check out Marbles, and the companion book, Rock Steady: Brilliant Advice From My Bipolar Life. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/30PvU9C

How can recognizing the root causes of mental illness make a difference? If we learn to solve the initial problems, some trauma may be healed. Listen up to learn: Why people tend towards depression and anxiety How regressive behavior tends to prey on victims of depression Where to seek help The author of Undoing Depression, Richard O'Connor, joins the conversation to share his insight regarding the causes and possible solutions for depression and anxiety. While many people tend to assume prescriptions are the only solution to their struggle with depression, it may not be the case. Instead, by finding the root cause and identifying the issues, we may be able to begin chipping away at the mental health crisis. After people begin to grow healthier, they begin to realize the internal negative dialogue does not control their lives. By growing more mindful over time, we may finally be able to gain control of our own mental health. For additional resources, visit undoingdepression.com. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/30PvU9C

Can fungi provide solutions we have not before thought possible? Well, through natural chemistry, they may offer benefits far beyond the range of our imagination. Press play to learn: The chances that your prescription is a natural medication One of the logistical issues surrounding natural medicine How a natural treatment is discovered and developed Nick Oberlies, a Distinguished Professor of Chemistry at The University of North Carolina Greensboro, shares his expertise as a natural chemist and his work surrounding fungi. Many people have been affected personally or have heard stories of the difficulties surrounding the world of typical pharmaceuticals and their side effects. Fortunately, there has been a push to seek treatments from the natural world, including exceedingly promising results from a range of fungi. One of the most promising results from medicinal fungi is its cancer-fighting capabilities, especially in cases where surgery may be necessary. However, more investment is required in research, development, and accessibility to natural medicine to become truly viable. Visit https://chem.uncg.edu/oberlies/ for more information. Episode also available on Apple Podcast: http://apple.co/30PvU9C

Can genetic testing help diagnose mental health disorders? Genetic and body chemistry testing may hold the key to diagnosis and treatment in many cases of eating disorders and various other conditions. Listen up to learn: The deadliest mental health disorder The goal of making patients believe they have a problem How the current situation has affected those that suffer from eating disorders.  James M. Greenblatt, a Functional Psychiatrist, Orthomolecular Hall of Fame Inductee, Author, and Founder of Psychiatry Redefined, shares his vast experience treating and diagnosing mental health disorders. Eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia are some of the harshest and most devious illnesses in the realm of mental health. Sadly, they can be challenging to treat and even harder to diagnose or show a tendency towards. Since anorexia is a brain-based illness, it has been firmly proven to be caused by genetics and issues in brain chemistry, rather than how it used to be blamed on one's surroundings or upbringing. Fortunately, this revolution in understanding allows for a gain in efficacy in the treatment and even more so in proper diagnosis, helping to avoid any tragic circumstances. To learn more, visit https://www.jamesgreenblattmd.com. Episode also available on Apple Podcast: http://apple.co/30PvU9C  

“It ends up coming down to this: there are certain things that make us worse, emotionally and physically, and certain things that make us better, emotionally and physically; they go together, and they are consistent over time,” says Carrie Wrigley. Tune in to learn more about Wrigley’s perspective and discover: The #1 thing that doesn’t work for combating anxiety and depression Why cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) might not be the first place to start for those struggling with their mental health Whether we were born with innate skills for overcoming anxiety and depression Carrie Wrigley has been a clinical social worker for over three decades, and has been teaching classes on coping with anxiety and depression for over two decades. She’s also the author of Your Happiness Toolkit: 16 Strategies for Overcoming Depression, and Building a Joyful, Fulfilling Life, and Your Happiness Toolkit Workbook, both of which include the strategies Wrigley has found most helpful over the course of her personal and professional life. At little to no cost, the strategies in these books are practical and straightforward, and have proven successful for countless people who struggle with mental and overall health.   Action, feeling, positivity, learning, and creativity: according to Wrigley, these are the five easiest strategies for us to adopt, because they already exist within us—even if it doesn't seem like it. She discusses each in detail, and also touches on the more complex strategies that should come later in the process of healing. Press play to hear the full conversation, search for her books anywhere online, and visit https://carriewrigley.com/ for more information and resources. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/30PvU9C

Why does self-harm rear its head in teens struggling with their mental health? While it is difficult to truly understand, facing these issues and helping those who suffer from it to heal is vital. Listen up to learn: What makes cutting appealing How PTSD can play a role in self-harm The warning signs that may appear  Dr. Lisa Machoian, an author and psychologist, shares her work helping younger generations cope with their mental health and heal from the root causes of self-harm. Much stigma surrounds the act of self-harm, and through this misunderstanding, the issue can often be misconstrued or exacerbated. Since so many teens suffering from depression or anxiety often resort to self-regulation methods such as these, it is crucial to understand the underlying reasons. Thankfully, self-harm has become better understood and treated over time, but there is still much work to do in supporting those amid these issues. If you or someone you know is struggling with matters surrounding self-harm, it is imperative to seek support or provide support if you notice the signs in those around you. For more information, search for The Disappearing Girl: Learning the Language of Teenage Depression on our engine of choice. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/30PvU9C

Can exercise really help anxiety and depression? For a wide array of reasons, even a quick jog may help someone struggling with their mental health more than you may think. Listen in to learn: How to start on your exercise and mental health journey Why a jog can influence your anxiety or depression If journaling may help your process Nita Sweeney, the Author of Depression Hates a Moving Target, shares her journey handling her mental health by reclaiming her physical health. While there is a wide range of medications available for severe depression or anxiety, they may not be the best option for every individual coming to terms with their mental health. Instead, physical activity like running or jogging can have profound benefits as an alternative or in concert with prescription medication. However, one of the cruelest aspects of anxiety and depression can be the challenges one faces when trying something new or the significant fear of failure. Despite this, even getting off of the couch and outdoors to attempt can be the first step on your path to remedying your mental health. Visit nitasweeney.com for more information. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/30PvU9C

What is natural mental health? While overlooked by many, there are alternative solutions that can help outside the world of pharmaceuticals and in a more holistic context. Listen up to learn: Why focusing on food can make a significant impact What can be observed in a patient beginning certain medications Practical and helpful lifestyle measures Henry Emmons, an author and integrative psychiatrist, shares his work in natural mental health and ensuring patients find the mental health goals for which they search. While there are countless options in the world of medicine when attempting to diagnose and treat mental health issues, mental fitness is achievable outside of that world as well. With outside factors like micronutrients and various stressors, there are often alternative options to holistically address a patient's mental health. Even if medication is the right choice for a patient, which is often the case, minding the nutrition and activity of the patient is also highly beneficial. However, it is crucial to keep the holistic context in mind since it can provide further and lasting benefits to improve a patient's mental fitness and lifestyle patterns. Visit naturalmentalhealth.com for more resources. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/30PvU9C