Anxiety
Functional Medicine for Anxiety in Portland
Let’s begin your journey on a positive note. Your anxiety is not forever.
You can be free of its grasp and live with happiness, hope, and joy. I’ve got you, and I’m here to help. My name is Dr. Tanya Hudson, and I’m a functional medicine practitioner specializing in anxiety. I know anxiety well. I struggled with it for years, experiencing stomachaches, insomnia, chest pain, and more.
But the dragon no longer lurks in my life because of the lifestyle changes I have made to strengthen my body and mind. I have learned the importance of consistency and continue these life-changing habits today. I am going to share my knowledge with you so you can also break free from anxiety. This is my life’s passion.
If you’re ready to embrace a functional medicine approach to anxiety, then start the new patient application process.
“Nothing can bring you peace but yourself.”
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
What Does Functional Medicine for Anxiety Look Like?
I know how difficult it can be to begin healing anxiety, which is why I want to put your mind at ease when it comes to my process. Remember, I will be with you every step of the way, and you won’t be rushed to make decisions or make major life changes on the fly. Instead, my functional medicine approach empowers Portland patients to gain control over thier health through education and practical guidance.
Your First Visit
During your initial visit, I want to hear your story, including your family history, and symptoms, so that I can develop a plan specifically for you. No two patients are identical, and you deserve a care plan that fits your individual needs and goals. You won't be rushed. Your story matters.
Lab Testing
I will decide if any lab testing is appropriate, such as hormone panels, adrenal function and neurotransmitter assessments, GI function, and blood work for nutrient levels and thyroid function. I can refer you to some great Portland labs.
Personalized Wellness Plan
This functional medicine approach is crucial to get to the cause of your symptoms and develop a plan that is successful. We will also begin the discussion of key lifestyle factors that will calm your emotional brain, activate your vagus nerve, and strengthen your gut microbiome. We will build a foundation for health so that you not only find calm and peace, but also amazing physical health. Let’s reach for the stars! And finally, I will suggest key nutrients and herbs that are safe, effective, and proven to reduce anxiety, and promote calm, without scary side effects.
At each visit, we will continue to fill your backpack with the tools you need to get you to the top of the mountain (AKA a place of peace, happiness, and joy).
Through our work, you will find a deeper connection to your purpose, a renewed sense of happiness, and optimism for the beautiful future that lie ahead.
Let’s begin….
Complete the inquiry form to get started or
call the office at 503-547-7657.
The mountain is calling.
Common Causes of Anxiety
Anxiety is a complex mental health condition that can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetic, environmental, and psychological. Part of the functional medicine and naturopathic approaches to anxiety involves getting to the root cause. The root cause of anxiety is different for everyone. Before you start functional medicine for anxiety, consider whether or not these causes might apply to you:
Genetics
A family history of anxiety disorders can increase the risk of developing anxiety. Certain genes may predispose individuals to be more susceptible to anxiety disorders.
Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), can contribute to anxiety. These chemicals play a crucial role in regulating mood and emotions.
Stress
High levels of chronic stress, whether from work, personal relationships, financial issues, or major life events, can trigger or exacerbate anxiety. The body's stress response can become dysregulated, leading to persistent anxiety.
Trauma and PTSD
Exposure to traumatic events, such as physical or sexual abuse, combat, accidents, or natural disasters, can result in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and ongoing anxiety symptoms.
Chronic Illness
Certain medical conditions, such as chronic pain, heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders, can be associated with anxiety. The physical and emotional burden of managing these conditions can lead to heightened anxiety levels.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse, including alcohol, drugs, and prescription medications, can increase the risk of anxiety disorders. Withdrawal from certain substances can also trigger anxiety symptoms.
Chronic Health Conditions
Living with chronic health conditions, especially those that affect daily functioning, can lead to anxiety. Conditions like cancer, HIV/AIDS, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can contribute to anxiety.
Neurological Conditions
Some neurological conditions, such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and brain injuries, can be associated with anxiety disorders due to their impact on brain function.
Medications
Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, stimulants, and some asthma medications, can have side effects that include increased anxiety.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders, can influence mood and anxiety levels.
Nutritional Factors
Diet can play a role in anxiety. A deficiency in certain nutrients, such as magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids, may contribute to anxiety symptoms.
Sleep Disorders
Chronic sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or sleep apnea, can lead to increased anxiety and exacerbate existing anxiety disorders.
Medical Procedures
Some medical procedures or surgeries can be stressful and trigger anxiety in individuals, particularly if they have a fear of medical settings or certain medical conditions.
It's important to note that anxiety disorders often result from a combination of these factors rather than a single cause. Additionally, not everyone who experiences these health-related factors will develop anxiety disorders, as individual resilience and coping mechanisms also play a significant role in how anxiety manifests.
Because anxiety is such a complex issue, I recommend that you work with someone instead of handling it all on your own. You’re invited to sign up for my Portland functional medicine services and start your journey toward wholeness and vibrancy.
“Every small step forward is momentum, taking you to the top of the mountain, where you feel strong, healthy, alive, and truly YOU.”
- Dr. Tanya Hudson
FAQ
Functional medicine is a “whole-body” approach to wellness. By looking at the whole person, from gastrointestinal health to emotional health, naturopathic doctors treat each patient as a unique individual, promoting physical and mental health.
The goal with each patient is to build a strong foundation, optimizing nutrition, movement, sleep, and mindset. Functional medicine doctors prefer to use treatments found naturally on the planet, focusing on foods, vitamins and minerals, and herbs. Functional lab tests are utilized to get to the “root cause,” so that lasting health is achieved.
You can do this work virtually or in-person in the Portland Naturopath Clinic.
