Naturopathic Anxiety Treatment

A Holistic Approach to Managing Anxiety

The Prevalence of Anxiety in Canada

It is estimated that at least one in ten Canadians suffer from anxiety

But based on my experience in clinical practice for the last ten years, these numbers are conservative at best

I’d say at least 50% of the population is dealing with anxiety at a level that is disrupting their quality of life, and in many cases making them sick. I am unfortunately treating patients with anxiety many times a day, every day.


Thankfully, there area good deal of evidence-based naturopathic approaches to treating anxiety and mental health issues.

Symptoms of Anxiety

There are a number of different kinds of anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and social anxiety disorder however the most common symptoms of anxiety include:

Panic or fear
Feeling nervous or agitated
Excessive worrying
Difficulty falling or staying asleep
Sweaty, cold hands or feet Irritability or anger
Heart palpitations or racing heart
Restlessness
Nightmares
Shortness of breath
Obsessive thoughts

U N D E R S T A N D I N G   T H E  T R I G G E R S   O F   A N X I E T Y

What Causes Anxiety?

Some forms of anxiety are constant, some intermittent, some have situational triggers, some do not. Typically, the cause can be one or a few of the following:
Trauma
Stress
Genetics
Hormonal imbalance
Hyperthyroidism
Certain medications such as amphetamines, caffeine, hypothyroid medications, depression medications, to name only a few (this is by no means an exhaustive list!)
The good news is, that there are MODIFIABLE things which will exacerbate anxiety that can be addressed, such as:
Blood sugar imbalances
Neurotransmitter imbalances
Omega 3 fatty acid deficiencies
Vitamin D deficiency
B12 deficiency
Hormone imbalances
Food sensitivities
Over consumption of caffeine

A   S T E P - B Y - S T E P   J O U R N E Y   T O   B A L A N C E D   H E A L T H

What Are Some Examples of Anxiety Treatments?

First and foremost, a thorough investigation screening for the aforementioned causes / exacerbations and risk factors is performed. Depending on the individual case, any number of treatment plans could include any of the following:

Pure Methylcobalamine (B12) injections
These injections are suitable for those who cannot do IV Therapy or whom are not candidates.
Nutrient supplementation (case dependent)
B12, vitamin D, omega 3 fish oil.
Botanical medicine
There are many herbs to address mood, and they should be prescribed ONLY by a Naturopathic Doctor or master herbalist, because there are drug/herb interactions that can occur. However when prescribed properly there are a number of herbs that have been studied and proven to be effective, and absolutely will do the trick for many patients.
Meditation
Dr. Smith regularly refers patients into various types of meditation programs and also utilizes Muse in her practice.
Food Sensitivity Testing
As mentioned above, blood sugar imbalances can even outright cause anxiety, so education around how to eat to keep blood sugar stable (protein, protein, protein, healthy fat, healthy fat) is crucial in the process of resolving or reducing anxiety.
Thyroid Function
When your thyroid is not able to do its job, you can feel anything from anxiety to crippling fatigue to ongoing illness.
Progesterone
Bioidentical progesterone, which is extremely safe, is a remarkable anxiolytic. In fact, often women develop anxiety right around perimenopause when all women start to experience the symptoms of low progesterone. This must be used however only IF this is a contributing or causal factor, and must be prescribed by an ND or MD who is specializes in this area of women’s health.

THE PROCESS

How to get started

Your journey towards a balanced, vibrant life begins with a choice—a choice to prioritize your health and well-being. Let's explore together how natural hormone treatment can unlock your fullest potential.

01

BOOK A CONSULTATION

If you're on the fence about jumping into your naturopathic health journey, feel free to book a free 10-minute consultation call with me. 

02

PERSONAL ASSESSMENT

Your initial health assessment is your first appointment which is one hour. We will discuss your medical history, family medical history, lifestyle, discuss your goals, review any lab work you may have sent ahead of time, do a deep dive on your concerns and order lab work if necessary. Then I provide a comprehensive strategic plan which may include nutrition and exercise changes, herbs or supplements, and hormone replacement therapy or other prescriptions as indicated and referrals if indicated.

03

FOLLOW UP APPOINTMENTS

In your follow-up appointments, we will go over any changes you have noticed and make adjustments accordingly to your plan, and do refills as required.  These visits vary in length and this depends on what is requried.