FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE Q & A
What is functional medicine?
Functional medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on addressing the root cause of health conditions, rather than merely treating symptoms.
Functional medicine uses evidence-based practices to gather information about an individual’s genetic makeup, biochemical function, underlying medical concerns, lifestyle, and other factors for the purpose of diagnosing health conditions and providing treatment that leads to greater overall health and well-being.
How can functional medicine improve my mental health?
The chemical makeup of your brain is complex; many factors influence it, including your genes, nutrition, lifestyle habits, endocrine system, and more.
Functional medicine can address the unique way that a mental health condition presents in each individual patient, and provide long-term relief of symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
Functional medicine has many benefits, such as:
- Improves response to medication and other treatments
- Reduces medication side effects
- Enhances sleep
- Reduces stress
- Boosts immunity
Functional medicine can help you feel stronger and more robust. Feeling better physically improves your mood and promotes balance in your brain and other systems in your body.
Which mental health conditions can functional medicine address?
Functional medicine can address a variety of mental health conditions, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
At North Shore TMS, Dr. Carlsen uses research-based techniques to improve your overall health and reduce your symptoms tailored to your physical needs, life circumstances, and personal preferences.
What is involved in functional medicine?
Dr. Carlsen designs functional medicine treatment plans using a multidisciplinary approach to meet your unique needs. Your custom treatment plan may include:
- Comprehensive evaluation with advanced diagnostic and genomic testing
- A personalized treatment plan with lifestyle interventions, supplements, nutrition recommendations and food plan, FM nutritionist collaboration, individualized educational material
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
- Psychotherapy
- Ketamine Therapy
- Light therapy
North Shore TMS also offers genetic testing, which can provide information about how your body absorbs nutrients and responds to medication. Genetic testing helps Dr. Carlsen provide the best possible treatment for your brain and body.
If you suffer from a mood disorder or another type of mental health condition, you can learn more about how functional medicine provides safe, personalized treatment by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Carlsen. Call North Shore TMS today, or make an appointment online.