Understanding the surge in mental illness: a root cause analysis

My Dear Reader,

As a psychiatrist who has practiced for over four decades, I am able to recall an era where mental illnesses only affected a small minority of our population. Throughout the years of my public school education and then into my college and medical school years, I cannot recall a single fellow student who was hospitalized for mental health concerns.

In recent decades, we've witnessed a disturbing rise in the incidence and prevalence of mental illness. From depression and anxiety to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, the rates of these conditions have skyrocketed.

Why?

As a practitioner of Root Cause Psychiatry, I aim to delve deep into the underlying factors contributing to this trend. This blog explores various root causes, each playing a pivotal role in brain health, and examines why mental illness has become a modern epidemic.

The Impact of poor diet on gut health and brain function

Dysbiosis and leaky gut syndrome

Our modern diet, rich in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats, has led to widespread dysbiosis—an imbalance in the gut microbiota. This imbalance often results in leaky gut syndrome, where the intestinal lining becomes permeable. Harmful substances, such as toxins and undigested food particles, leak into the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation that can affect the brain.

Insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction

Poor dietary habits also contribute to insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes. Insulin resistance impairs the brain's ability to utilize glucose efficiently, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and a rise in oxidative stress markers. These changes disrupt brain function and contribute to the development of mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety.

Environmental toxins: xenobiotics and brain health

Xenobiotics from water and food supply

Our environment is increasingly contaminated with xenobiotics—chemicals foreign to the body. These toxins, found in our water supply and processed foods, accumulate in our cells, disrupting endocrine and neurological functions. Chronic exposure to these substances can lead to cognitive impairments and mood disorders, highlighting the urgent need for cleaner, safer food and water sources.

Autoimmune conditions and brain inflammation

Dysregulated immune system

The rise of autoimmune conditions reflects a dysregulated immune system, which also impacts brain health. Autoimmune diseases can cause chronic inflammation in the brain, contributing to neuropsychiatric symptoms. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis and lupus are often accompanied by depression and cognitive dysfunction, underscoring the link between immune health and mental well-being.

Evolutionary mismatch: abandoning the hunter-gatherer diet

Genetic makeup and modern diet

For hundreds of thousands of years, humans thrived on a hunter-gatherer diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This diet shaped our genetic makeup. The rapid shift to a diet high in processed foods and sugars is at odds with our evolutionary biology, leading to metabolic and neurological disorders that contribute to mental illness.

Infectious diseases and immune function

The role of COVID-19

Infectious diseases, including COVID-19, have highlighted the importance of a well-functioning immune system. Gut dysbiosis weakens immune defenses, making individuals more susceptible to infections. The neurological and psychological sequelae of COVID-19, often referred to as "long COVID," include depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairments, illustrating the intricate connection between infection, immunity, and mental health.

Social media, polarization, and mental health

Impact of social media

The pervasive use of social media has transformed the way we interact, often for the worse. Social media platforms can amplify feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and anxiety. Moreover, political figures who polarize societies and individuals contribute to heightened stress and mental health issues. The constant barrage of divisive content can lead to chronic stress, exacerbating underlying mental health conditions.

The role of nature and sunlight

Inadequate time outdoors

Spending time in nature and exposure to sunlight are crucial for mental health. These activities boost serotonin levels and promote the production of vitamin D, essential for brain function. Modern lifestyles, which limit outdoor activities, contribute to the rising incidence of mood disorders. The therapeutic effects of nature are well-documented, yet increasingly overlooked in our technology-driven lives.

Poor sleep patterns and blue light exposure

Blue light and sleep disruption

Excessive use of smartphones and computers, especially at night, exposes us to blue light, disrupting our circadian rhythms and sleep patterns. Poor sleep is a significant risk factor for mental illnesses, including depression and anxiety. The physiological stress from sleep deprivation affects neurotransmitter balance and brain function, creating a vicious cycle of mental health decline.

Loss of the "average expectable environment"

Rapid technological change

The rapid pace of technological change has altered the "average expectable environment" that humans have adapted to over millennia. This shift has led to increased stress, social isolation, and a sense of instability. The erosion of community and traditional support systems has left many individuals feeling disconnected and anxious, further fueling the mental health crisis.

Decline in trust in authorities and institutions

Erosion of trust

The decline in trust in governments, religious institutions, and professional bodies has significant psychological repercussions. Trust is a cornerstone of societal stability and personal well-being. As trust erodes, individuals may experience increased anxiety, hopelessness, and cynicism. This pervasive mistrust can exacerbate feelings of isolation and contribute to mental health disorders.

Conclusion:

Addressing the rising incidence of mental illness requires a holistic approach that tackles these root causes. As practitioners of Root Cause Psychiatry™, we must advocate for dietary reforms, environmental protections, and lifestyle changes that align with our evolutionary biology. Promoting mental health involves not only treating symptoms but also addressing the underlying factors that contribute to brain health.

By exploring these factors in each individual patient through the use of cutting-edge genetic and other types of laboratory testing, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the root cause drivers of emotional suffering for each individual, and then a detailed and comprehensive treatment protocol to mitigate the effects of each root cause.

By understanding and mitigating these root causes, we can develop more effective strategies to combat the mental health crisis. It is imperative that we take a proactive stance in promoting wellness, fostering resilience, and restoring balance in our patients' lives. The future of mental health depends on our ability to see the bigger picture and address the complex interplay of factors affecting brain health.