The incidences of brain disorders are on the rise. Not only do one in eight senior citizens develop Alzheimer’s these days, but one in eight children are diagnosed with brain developmental disorders, including autism and ADHD.

The global prevalence of dementia has been estimated to be as high as 24 million, and it is predicted to double every 20 years until 2040.

Anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive thinking, learning disabilities, and depression are much more prevalent today, while “garden variety” symptoms of poor brain health – sleep disorders, brain fog, generalized anxiety, moodiness, lack of focus – have become so common that they are considered as a normal response to everyday living.

The increase of prescription drugs used to “treat” these issues illustrates the limits of the medical model to address the root cause of brain disorders, as well as the degree to which people of all ages are suffering.

Mental health, or the lack of it, has a significant impact on one’s productivity, enjoyment of life, earning capacity, marriage, academic achievement, and parenting skills.

Many people accept their struggle and blame genetics, upbringing, and lifestyle. Others experiment with a variety of therapists and meds. And some, frustrated by dead ends, resort to altering reality with addictions – drugs, alcohol, gambling, sex, work, internet, exercise, eating disorders.

At Balance Atlanta, Dr. Caroline helps patients find the root cause of poor brain function. Armed with a detailed case history and lab test findings, she will create a program to enhance mental and physical healing.  Functional medicine complements, but does not replace, the work clients may already be engaged in with their therapist.

Clients who take healing to the next step often include chiropractic adjustments and BrainCore therapy to optimize proper communication within the nerve system. This three-way approach is offered only at Balance Atlanta.

There are so many factors that affect brain health: male and female hormone levels; chemicals made by the gut called neurotransmitters, which aid in regulating mood; thyroid disorders; a high stress/sedentary lifestyle; vitamin and mineral deficiencies; previous head injuries; poor glucose metabolism; sensitivities to chemicals, heavy metals, gluten; allergies to specific additives and foods.

By “looking under the hood” to determine these potential irritants, we are minimizing the mystery of mental health by discovering opportunities for a better quality of life, now and in the future.

Signs and symptoms often associated with brain dysfunction:
  • Loss attention and concentration
  • Mental fatigue
  • Difficulty learning new things
  • Need for caffeine and sugar to stay alert
  • Memory loss
  • Difficulty sleeping or fitful sleep
  • A change in handwriting
  • Confusion about dates, passage of time
  • Difficulty finding words while speaking
  • Personality or mood changes
  • Difficulty with directions or visual memory
  • Difficulty remembering events
  • Difficulty calculating numbers
  • Noticeable changes in energy level throughout day
  • Hypersensitivities to touch or pain
  • Difficulty making decisions or planning events
  • Dizziness, nausea, clumsiness
  • Nervousness, restless mind
  • Compulsive behaviors
  • Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness
  • An inability to finish tasks or turn off mind
  • Feeling angry for minor reasons
  • Jumpy, irritable, panicky
  • Feelings of worry, paranoia, dread
  • Difficulty feeling pleasure
  • A decrease in creativity and comprehension
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