Mental Health Facts

• Anxiety and depression are commonly a result of psychological stress
• Women are twice as likely as men to experience depression.
• The onset of depression usually occurs in early adulthood.
• A unipolar disorder involves depression only and is more common than bipolar disorders.
• Panic attacks are associated with agoraphobia, which is a fear of being out in the open or leaving home.
• Agoraphobia usually occurs following a panic attack and may cycle into depression.
• Neurotransmitters are natural brain chemicals that influence our mood and behaviour.
• Vitamins and minerals are required for the correct conversion and balance of neurotransmitters in the brain such as tryptophan, serotonin and dopamine.
• Serotonin is a neurotransmittor. 
• Low concentrations of serotonin are strongly associated with mood disorders, depression and suicide.
• Protein, fat and carbohydrate content, can influence cognitive ability, mood, and energy levels.
• Skipping meals can cause low blood sugar levels resulting in tiredness, irritability and confusion.
• Low levels of folate have been associated with depression.
• Research indicates that omega-3 may influence serotonin effectiveness in the brain.
• Depressive symptoms are significantly higher among people who eat fish infrequently.
• Omega 3's must be derived from foods because the body cannot produce its own supply.
• Fish (particularly deep sea fish) are an excellent source of omega 3's.
• It is believed that ancient diets had close to equal ratios of omega 3's and omega 6's. 
• Modern Western diets have a ratio of about 1:25.
• Herbs like St John's wort are beneficial in mild to moderate cases of depression. 
• In trials involving 15,000 St John's wort users, it was proved to be as effective as the antidepressant drugs, including Prozac.
• A qualified naturopath can liase with your GP and provide therapies to help with mild to moderate depression and anxiety.
• Moontides offers referrals for counselling, psychotherapy and support groups.
• Seeking help for mental health is often the hardest step to take. It is also the most important step. 
• If you are concerned about your mental health, speak with a Moontides Naturopathic Case Manager or your GP about a referral to a counsellor or psychotherapist.