Stress Management and Emotional Wellbeing

In today’s society where life is becoming more complicated and fast paced, stress, depression and other mental illnesses are sadly on the increase. Like many other disease processes, various underlying factors can be involved in the development of mental illness such as nutritional and hormonal imbalances, poor blood sugar control, insomnia, environmental and hereditary factors as well as alcohol and recreational drug use. Depression can also be associated with pre existing conditions such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, HIV and certain types of cancer.

For patients presenting with mood changes, Kathleen will consider dietary and lifestyle habits and signs and symptoms of sub optimal nutrition and then works to correct nutritional imbalances that may be associated with altered neurotransmitter production. For many of patients with altered mood, improving digestive function and energy production may so be indicated along with reducing chronic inflammation. Kathleen will also discuss the patients sleep cycle and provide information re the importance of sleep hygiene and meditation techniques.

In many cases Kathleen will work in conjunction with other health care professionals such as GPs, psychologists, psychiatrists and hypnotherapists to support her patients with mental health concerns to ensure they receive the best care possible.

Kathleen McFarlane is a compassionate and caring Naturopath who believes that real health cannot be achieved until all aspects of ourselves (physical, mental and emotional) are in balance.