46. Mental health struggles and hope for the trial/error issues for those taking medication

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Genetic Testing is changing the game and can change your life if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental illnesses.

If you're feeling trapped in a cycle of trial and error with mental health medications, trying medication after medication without finding the relief you desperately need, then you are not alone! It can be incredibly disheartening to put your hope and trust in a medication, only to experience frustrating side effects or little improvement in your symptoms. Despite your best efforts, you may be left feeling discouraged and hopeless, wondering if there is a better way to manage your mental health. But fear not, because genetic testing in mental health medication management offers a breakthrough solution that can finally provide the personalized approach you've been searching for.

My special guest on this episode is my sister, Kristina Hall

Kristina has struggled with depression and anxiety for over 22 years and assumed that her life would never get better. She felt like she had tried all the meds out there including Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, Welbutrin, Prozac, and all the other SSRIs. However, after a suggestion from her therapist, she chose to have genetic testing done. Through this she realized she was on the wrong medication and her body didn't metabolize those meds well. This key unlocked the door to personalized medication that works with her specific genetic makeup.

If you or someone you know has struggled with their mental health, get ready to take notes. This episode will give you hope and be a starting point for you to discuss with your doctor.

Laziness is a symptom of a bigger problem, and a lot of the time it is a mental health issue. - Melissa Batt

In this episode, you will learn how genetic testing paves the way for customized and effective mental health medication strategies with less trial and error. Through a simple and non-invasive cheek swab, you can learn how your genetic makeup determines how your body breaks down the chemicals in the medications. We also talk about the stigma on those who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar and other mental health struggles and share resources you may find helpful if you are struggling or supporting someone who is struggling.

Transformative role of genetic testing
Genetic testing provides an invaluable tool in determining tailored treatment approaches for mental health issues. It aids in identifying the medications that a person can efficiently metabolize based on their genetic makeup. This can lead to effective mental health treatments, maximize the benefits of medications, and potentially reduce adverse drug reactions.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• GENESIGHT® (linked here) is the specific testing Kristina had done. It seems to focus more on mental health medications that are commonly prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other psychiatric conditions.

• PGx (linked here) is the test that Melissa had done mentioned at the beginning of the show. This test also gives you information related to dozens of other areas not related to psychological issues such as opioid withdrawal, pain management, overactive bladder, sleep disorders, gastrointestinal, diabetes, dementia, Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, anesthesia, antifungals, HIV, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, NSAIDS, Vertigo disorder, seizure disorders, COPD and gynecology. It also gives you specific details related to the MTHFR variant.

• If you are local to Corbin, Kentucky. Melissa loves Mary Rollins at Heartstrings Mental Health, PLLC in London. You can find out more about this office here.

• To find more support for yourself or loved ones, look for your local NAMI office here. https://www.nami.org

• And, remember whether it is for suicide prevention or just to talk with someone who will listen, you can always dial 988 and get connected with someone 24/7.

Disclaimer: Melissa Batt is a Christian life & business coach. She is not a physician. She only speaks of her experiences. Her opinions are her opinions alone and should not be taken as medical advice. Please reach out to your doctor for guidance and next steps. Never stop taking a medication without being under the supervision of your healthcare provider.

Whether it is you struggling or a loved one, you do not have to go through this alone. Book a consult and let's chat: https://calendly.com/melissabattcoaching/30min

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