5 ways a Clinical Psychologist can help with Hormone imbalance.

Hormones are chemicals messengers that exist in our bodies as part of the endocrine system. They are chemical messengers, making it possible for the cells in various sections of our body to communicate with each other. Hormones perform different functions and convey different messages as each one serves a patient purpose and has a unique composition.

When hormones are not-balance, it can express itself as variety of symptoms. Mental health symptoms be one of the manifestations of a hormonal imbalance. The connection between hormones and mental health is often missed and not recognised . Understanding the relationship between the hormones and mental health can help people understand the presenting issues. 

The Connection Between Hormones and Mental Health 

The connection between mental health and hormones is that they directly correlate. Hormones like cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, have the ability to make us feel stressed out. When people are stressed out, they will likely have higher levels of cortisol. This hormone impedes chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, which help regulate sound mood, sleep, and digestion. 

While the hormone cortisol can be helpful too much of it can lead to health complications. disorders can manifest as a result of too much cortisol, but physical conditions may arise as well.

Can Hormone Imbalance Cause Depression and Anxiety? 

Yes, hormone imbalance can lead to anxiety and depression. The body is a machine with many moving channels that work independently and together all at the same time. When levels of hormones are imbalanced, it may manifest as depression and anxiety . At the time, individuals may not understand that they have irregular hormone levels. They might just feel restless, irritable, constantly fatigued, or just have a low mood overall. It’s important to recognize when your body and mind feel off as it can signal a larger problem. A hormone imbalance can result in larger health complications, meaning it’s important to seek mental health attention at the first symptoms.  

Healthy Habits to Regulate Hormones and Mental Health 

Making sure that you practice healthy habits can help keep hormones balanced and improve the production of triggers that that worsen the hormone imbalance symptoms. A few simple steps that can be practiced daily will help regulate hormones and mental health.

Relax

Stress  can be difficult to manage and affect our health. Choosing stress resilience techniques are important to keep hormones balanced, Meditating for twenty minutes a day may be ideal As one continues to meditate regularly, one will be able to regulate their emotions more easily. Mindfulness is another practice that can bring one’s attention to present-moment without judgement. During therapy with a clinical psychologist you can develop this skill. 

Exercising Consistently 

Exercising every day, even if it’s just for a bit each day, can help regulate hormones. Cortisol in particular is a hormone that can become higher during hormonal imbalances than necessary without regular exercise. Adrenaline is another. When you exercise it lowers the levels by releasing them at the time of exercising. 

Endorphins, like dopamine, increase from exercise as well. The body rewards the brain for exercising within its limits. As exercise has many forms, you can choose one that makes you happy instead of making you feel like you’re doing a chore. 

Therapy 

Research shows that therapy has the power to improve symptoms of depression and anxiety using tools that can help individuals practice healthy skills and reduce stress and increase feeling positive in their lives. 

There are different forms of therapy that a clinical psychologist can provide such asCognitive Behaviour Therapy ( CBT) may suit someone or Mindfulness . There is a therapy option that works for each individual which can help them combat both physical and mental issues and meet their potential. 

Sleep Hygiene 

Sleep Hygiene is more involves practices that keep you physically well, which means sleep. Specifically, sleep hygiene is the practice of setting yourself up for the best night’s rest. Limiting screen time 3 hours before bed and keeping activities mellow right before bed can help. 

Other ways to improve sleep hygiene are to exercise each day, keep activities in bed to sleep (versus being on your phone), as well as going to bed and waking up at the same time. Our circadian rhythms influence hormone levels, making it all the more important to get a good sleep routine.  

Eat a Healthy

A diet full of unprocessed food, leafy greens low in sugar, high fibre and can keep hormones at the levels they need to be.

Foods with vitamin D are particularly helpful to keep your mood at optimal levels. Research suggests that individuals who have a vitamin D deficiency are more likely to suffer from mood disorders. Fatty fish, eggs, and mushrooms can add a little more vitamin D to your diet.