Join Laurel Myers Hurst, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, on the Brain Health Hook-Up podcast as she explores the critical differences between heart health and brain health. Discover why standard blood tests may not accurately reflect your brain's needs and how prioritizing brain-specific nutrition and inflammation management can optimize your mental well-being.

Show Highlights:

• Heart vs. Brain Health: Understand the distinct needs of your heart and brain and why a heart-centric approach to health may overlook crucial aspects of brain health.
• Blood Tests and Brain Health: Learn why standard blood tests may not reveal nutritional deficiencies or inflammation levels that impact brain function.
• Homeostasis and the Heart: Discover how your body prioritizes heart health, even at the expense of other organs, and the implications for brain health.
• The Brain's Sensitivity: Explore why the brain is more susceptible to dehydration, malnutrition, inflammation, and stress compared to the heart.
• Optimizing Brain Health: Learn about brain-specific nutrition, inflammation management, and other strategies for supporting optimal brain function and mental well-being.

Action Items:

• Question "Normal" Lab Values: If your blood test results are within the "normal" range but you're experiencing symptoms, consider discussing brain-specific optimal levels with your healthcare provider.
• Prioritize Brain-Specific Nutrition: Ensure your diet includes nutrients vital for brain health, such as omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Manage Inflammation: Explore strategies for reducing inflammation, such as incorporating anti-inflammatory foods and practices into your lifestyle.
• Hydrate Regularly: Maintain adequate hydration to support optimal brain function and prevent cognitive decline.
• Seek Integrative Care: Consider consulting an integrative healthcare provider who can assess and address the root causes of your mental health concerns.

DISCLAIMER: Brain Health Hook-up Podcast, GROOVE THERAPY™, GROOVE SESSIONS®, and WellTuned Wellness LLC may benefit health, but are not substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.

Music for this Podcast is provided by: Kevin "Aries" Lee and Troy "Big Baby" Capers

You can subscribe to podcast.welltunedwellness.com for weekly updates, breaking research, and the opportunity to work with Laurel to unlock the path to flourishing!

Join Laurel Myers Hurst, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, as she challenges the stigma surrounding bipolar disorders, particularly Bipolar Affective Disorder 2 (BPAD2). Learn how to distinguish between distress and depression, understand the impact of trauma, and discover a holistic approach to healing that prioritizes brain biology, psychotherapy, and informed medication choices.

Show Highlights:

• Bipolar Disorder Stigma: Challenge the misconceptions and fear associated with bipolar disorders and understand its impact on individuals and families.
• Bipolar Affective Disorder 2 (BPAD2): Gain a deeper understanding of BPAD2, its defining features, and how it differs from BPAD1 (mania).
• Distress vs. Depression: Learn how to distinguish between these two experiences and tailor your treatment approach accordingly.
• The Role of Trauma: Explore the profound impact of trauma on mental health, particularly in the context of BPAD2, and the importance of acknowledging and addressing it in treatment.
• Holistic Treatment Approach: Discover how integrative psychiatric care integrates brain biology, psychotherapy, and medication to promote remission and lasting healing.

Action Items:

• Seek Knowledge: Educate yourself about bipolar disorder, BPAD2, and the impact of trauma on mental health.
• Advocate for Yourself: Talk to your healthcare provider about your experiences and concerns, and explore holistic treatment options.
• Prioritize Healing: Address the root causes of your mental health challenges with a comprehensive and personalized approach.
• Connect with Others: Seek support from communities and resources that understand and embrace the complexities of mental health.

DISCLAIMER: Brain Health Hook-up Podcast, GROOVE THERAPY™, GROOVE SESSIONS®, and WellTuned Wellness LLC may benefit health, but are not substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.

Music for this Podcast is provided by: Kevin "Aries" Lee and Troy "Big Baby" Capers

You can subscribe to podcast.welltunedwellness.com for weekly updates, breaking research, and the opportunity to work with Laurel to unlock the path to flourishing!

Episode Description:

Struggling with sleep? On the Brain Health Hook-Up podcast, Laurel Myers Hurst, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, delves into the critical connection between sleep and mental wellness. Learn the 4 key measures of restorative sleep--latency, awakenings, duration, and restfulness--and understand how optimizing your sleep can improve your mood, focus, and overall well-being.

Show Highlights:

• Sleep & Mental Health: Uncover the profound impact of sleep on your brain health, mood regulation, and emotional well-being.
• The 4 Pillars of Restorative Sleep:
  • Latency: Discover how long it should ideally take you to fall asleep.
  • Awakenings: Learn how frequent awakenings can impact sleep quality and brain function.
  • Duration: Understand the ideal sleep duration for optimal brain health.
  • Restfulness: Explore the often-overlooked aspect of sleep quality and its importance for feeling refreshed and energized.
• Brain Cleaning During Sleep: Learn how your brain utilizes sleep to clear out toxins and support cognitive function.
• The Well-Tuned Woman: Get a glimpse into Laurel's comprehensive program designed to optimize sleep patterns and enhance overall well-being.

Action Items:

• Track Your Sleep: Start monitoring your sleep using a sleep tracker or journal to gain insights into your patterns.
• Identify Disruptions: Pinpoint factors that might be affecting your sleep, such as environmental factors or lifestyle habits.
• Prioritize Sleep: Make adjustments to your schedule and routines to ensure you're getting adequate sleep.
• Seek Support: If you're struggling with sleep, reach out to your healthcare provider or consider joining The Well-Tuned Woman program.

DISCLAIMER: Brain Health Hook-up Podcast, GROOVE THERAPY™, GROOVE SESSIONS®, and WellTuned Wellness LLC may benefit health, but are not substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.

Music for this Podcast is provided by: Kevin "Aries" Lee and Troy "Big Baby" Capers

You can subscribe to podcast.welltunedwellness.com for weekly updates, breaking research, and the opportunity to work with Laurel to unlock the path to flourishing!

Episode Description:

Join Laurel Myers Hurst, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, as she continues the Health Literacy series on the Brain Health Hook-Up podcast. In this episode, learn what constitutes a "failed medication trial" in mental health treatment. Discover how pharmacogenomic testing can help personalize medication choices, potentially reducing the number of failed trials. Gain valuable insights into informed consent, treatment planning, and the importance of advocating for your mental health.

Show Highlights:

• Failed Medication Trials: Understand the criteria for determining if a medication trial has failed, including intolerable side effects, non-transient side effects, and lack of effectiveness.
• Informed Consent: Learn the importance of understanding medication risks, benefits, and alternatives before starting treatment.
• Pharmacogenomic Testing: Explore how genetic testing can personalize medication choices and potentially increase treatment success rates.
• Number Needed to Treat (NNT): Understand the NNT concept and how it relates to your chances of benefiting from a medication.
• Patient Empowerment: Discover strategies for effective communication with your healthcare provider and advocating for your mental health needs.

Call to Action:

• Listen and Learn: Tune in to the Brain Health Hook-Up podcast for valuable health literacy insights and practical tips for navigating your mental health journey.
• Share this Episode: Help others understand medication trials and advocate for their mental health by sharing this informative episode.
• Connect with Laurel: Have questions about mental health or pharmacogenomic testing? Reach out to Laurel on social media or via her website.

Check out the first episode of the Health Literacy Series by heading to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206959/15695355

DISCLAIMER: Brain Health Hook-up Podcast, GROOVE THERAPY™, GROOVE SESSIONS®, and WellTuned Wellness LLC may benefit health, but are not substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.

Music for this Podcast is provided by: Kevin "Aries" Lee and Troy "Big Baby" Capers

You can subscribe to podcast.welltunedwellness.com for weekly updates, breaking research, and the opportunity to work with Laurel to unlock the path to flourishing!

DISCLAIMER: Brain Health Hook-up Podcast, GROOVE THERAPY™, GROOVE SESSIONS®, and WellTuned Wellness LLC may benefit health, but are not substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.

Music for this Podcast is provided by: Kevin "Aries" Lee and Troy "Big Baby" Capers

You can subscribe to podcast.welltunedwellness.com for weekly updates, breaking research, and the opportunity to work with Laurel to unlock the path to flourishing!

Ever wondered why your insurance company won't pay for your medication? Join Laurel Myers Hurst, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, on the Brain Health Hook-Up as she demystifies the world of prior authorizations. Learn the difference between brand-name and generic medications, the steps involved in prior authorization, and how to effectively advocate for yourself within the healthcare industry.

Show Highlights:

• Health Literacy and Mental Health: Discover the importance of understanding the healthcare industry and insurance processes to make informed decisions and advocate for yourself.
• Prior Authorizations: Unravel the complexities of prior authorization, including why they are required, the steps involved, and the role of "Cover My Meds."
• Medication Coverage: Learn the difference between brand-name and generic medications, factors influencing insurance coverage, and the concept of "Number Needed to Treat."
• Patient Advocacy: Recognize your crucial role as the central communicator between your provider, pharmacy, and insurer, and learn how to advocate effectively.

Call to Action:

• Empower yourself with health literacy! Tune in to the Brain Health Hook-Up podcast and take control of your mental health journey.
• Share this episode with friends and family who may be struggling to navigate the complexities of insurance and medication coverage.
• Leave a review and share your experiences with prior authorizations and mental health care.

DISCLAIMER: Brain Health Hook-up Podcast, GROOVE THERAPY™, GROOVE SESSIONS®, and WellTuned Wellness LLC may benefit health, but are not substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.

Music for this Podcast is provided by: Kevin "Aries" Lee and Troy "Big Baby" Capers

You can subscribe to podcast.welltunedwellness.com for weekly updates, breaking research, and the opportunity to work with Laurel to unlock the path to flourishing!

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of depression and the limitations of standard of care treatment approaches. We explore the importance of distinguishing between distress and depression and discuss biopsychosocial strategies for lasting recovery.

Show Highlights:

• Distress vs. Depression: Understanding the differences between emotional distress and clinical depression is crucial for effective treatment.
• The limitations of medication: While antidepressants can be helpful in some cases, they may not address the root causes of depression.
• The role of lifestyle factors: Explore the impact of lifestyle factors, such as stress, nutrition, and sleep, on mental health.
• Neuroplasticity and brain health: Discover how neuroplasticity, or the brain's ability to change and adapt, plays a crucial role in recovery.
• Holistic approaches: Learn about complementary therapies like psychotherapy, mind-body techniques, and lifestyle changes that can support mental well-being.

Call to Action

• Enroll in The Well-Tuned Woman: If you're interested in learning more about integrative care or The Well-Tuned Woman course, get first in line for more information at online.welltunedwellness.com/waitlist
• Share the knowledge: Share this episode with friends and family who might be struggling with depression.
• Leave a review: Let us know your thoughts on this episode by leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform.
• Reach out to Laurel: Feel free to contact Laurel through her website if you have questions or need additional support.

DISCLAIMER: Brain Health Hook-up Podcast, GROOVE THERAPY™, GROOVE SESSIONS®, and WellTuned Wellness LLC may benefit health, but are not substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.

Music for this Podcast is provided by: Kevin "Aries" Lee and Troy "Big Baby" Capers

You can subscribe to podcast.welltunedwellness.com for weekly updates, breaking research, and the opportunity to work with Laurel to unlock the path to flourishing!

This episode challenges the conventional approach to depression treatment, which often relies solely on medication. We explore the differences between distress and depression and discuss the importance of addressing the root causes of mental health challenges.

Show Highlights:

• Misdiagnosis of Distress: Learn how emotional distress caused by identifiable stressors can be mistaken for clinical depression.
• Limitations of Antidepressants: Discover why medication may not be the most effective solution for all types of depression.
• The Power of Neuroplasticity: Understand how the brain's ability to change and adapt plays a role in recovery from depression.
• Alternative Treatment Options: Explore the benefits of psychotherapy (supportive, cognitive behavioral, and trauma-focused), along with healthy lifestyle changes to support mental well-being.
• The Importance of Finding the Right Support: Learn about different types of therapy and how to find the best approach for your individual needs.

Call to Action

• Enroll in The Well-Tuned Woman: If you're interested in learning more about integrative care or The Well-Tuned Woman course, get first in line for more information at online.welltunedwellness.com/waitlist
• Share the knowledge: Share this episode with friends and family who might be struggling with depression.
• Leave a review: Let us know your thoughts on this episode by leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform.
• Reach out to Laurel: Feel free to contact Laurel through her website if you have questions or need additional support.

DISCLAIMER: Brain Health Hook-up Podcast, GROOVE THERAPY™, GROOVE SESSIONS®, and WellTuned Wellness LLC may benefit health, but are not substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.

Music for this Podcast is provided by: Kevin "Aries" Lee and Troy "Big Baby" Capers

You can subscribe to podcast.welltunedwellness.com for weekly updates, breaking research, and the opportunity to work with Laurel to unlock the path to flourishing!

Start your day with calm and clarity! Join Laurel Myers Hurst, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, as she shares a powerful 3-minute mind-body exercise to banish morning anxiety. Learn the simple steps of Mind-Body Radiance, a technique that helps you move anxious energy from your core to your periphery, leaving you feeling grounded and ready to face the day. Download Laurel's free worksheet for a deeper dive into this practice and explore more mind-body techniques in her course, The Well-Tuned Woman.

Show Highlights:

• The Morning Anxiety Struggle: Recognize the common experience of waking up with a sense of overwhelm and anxiety.
• Mind-Body Radiance Protocol: Discover the 3-minute exercise, involving intentional breathing and gentle pressure, to release anxiety.
• Benefits: Learn how this practice helps you shift anxious energy, increase body awareness, and improve focus and clarity.
• Addressing Vulnerability: Understand how to adapt the exercise if lying flat on your back triggers discomfort or vulnerability.
• The Well-Tuned Woman: Get an overview of Laurel's course offering more mind-body practices for mental wellness.

Call to Action:

• Download Worksheet: Laurel's free worksheet detailing the full Mind-Body Radiance exercise can be found by going to this link
• Enroll in The Well-Tuned Woman: If you're interested in learning more about integrative care or The Well-Tuned Woman course, get first in line for more information at online.welltunedwellness.com/waitlist
• Share the Episode: Help others conquer morning anxiety by sharing this episode with your network.
• Leave a Review: Share your experience with the Mind-Body Radiance practice and its impact on your mornings.

DISCLAIMER: Brain Health Hook-up Podcast, GROOVE THERAPY™, GROOVE SESSIONS®, and WellTuned Wellness LLC may benefit health, but are not substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.

Music for this Podcast is provided by: Kevin "Aries" Lee and Troy "Big Baby" Capers

You can subscribe to podcast.welltunedwellness.com for weekly updates, breaking research, and the opportunity to work with Laurel to unlock the path to flourishing!

Are you considering coming off your psychiatric medication? Join Laurel Myers Hurst, a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in integrative care, as she guides you through essential topics to discuss with your prescribing provider about whether you are truly ready. Discover the importance of remission, physical, emotional, and relational resilience, and the role of inflammation, nutrition, and past painful experiences in achieving lasting mental wellness.

Show Highlights:

• Remission: Understand what true remission means and why it's crucial before considering medication changes.
• Resilience: Learn about the three types of resilience - physical, emotional, and relational - and how they contribute to mental well-being.
• Inflammation and Nutrition: Discover the impact of inflammation and nutrient deficiencies on mental health and why addressing these factors is essential for sustained well-being.
• Past Painful Experiences: Explore the importance of mind-body techniques in processing trauma and fostering emotional healing.
• The Well-Tuned Woman: Get an introduction to Laurel's comprehensive course that equips women with the knowledge and tools to optimize their mental and physical health.

Call to Action:

• Join the waitlist: If you're interested in learning more about integrative care or The Well-Tuned Woman course, get first in line for more information at online.welltunedwellness.com/waitlist
• Share the Episode: Help others make informed decisions about their mental health by sharing this episode. 
• Leave a Review: Share your thoughts on the episode and your journey with mental wellness.

DISCLAIMER: Brain Health Hook-up Podcast, GROOVE THERAPY™, GROOVE SESSIONS®, and WellTuned Wellness LLC may benefit health, but are not substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.

Music for this Podcast is provided by: Kevin "Aries" Lee and Troy "Big Baby" Capers

You can subscribe to podcast.welltunedwellness.com for weekly updates, breaking research, and the opportunity to work with Laurel to unlock the path to flourishing!

Join Laurel Myers Hurst, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and groovologist, as she challenges misapplication of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. Discover the power of integrative care, an approach that goes beyond standard psychiatric practices by addressing underlying medical conditions, nutritional deficiencies, and trauma that may be root causes of poor mental health. Learn how integrative care can unlock true healing and flourishing by considering all aspects of your well-being.

Show Highlights:

• Blind Spots to the DSM: Uncover the overlooked rule in the DSM that often leads to misdiagnosis and ineffective treatment.
• Integrative Care vs. Standard of Care: Understand the key differences between these two approaches and how integrative care offers a more comprehensive path to healing.
• Inflammation, Nutrition, and Injury: Explore the critical role these factors play in mental health and how they are often missed in traditional psychiatric care.
• The Importance of Testing and Intervention: Learn why it's crucial for healthcare providers to test for conditions they can effectively treat.
• The Well-Tuned Woman: Learn about Laurel's upcoming course designed to empower women with the knowledge and tools for optimal mental and physical well-being.

Call to Action:

• Join the waitlist: If you're interested in learning more about integrative care or The Well-Tuned Woman course, get first in line for more information at online.welltunedwellness.com/waitlist
• Share the Episode: Help spread the word about integrative mental health care by sharing this episode with your friends and family.
• Leave a Review: Let Laurel know your thoughts on the episode and how integrative care has impacted your life.

DISCLAIMER: Brain Health Hook-up Podcast, GROOVE THERAPY™, GROOVE SESSIONS®, and WellTuned Wellness LLC may benefit health, but are not substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.

Music for this Podcast is provided by: Kevin "Aries" Lee and Troy "Big Baby" Capers

You can subscribe to podcast.welltunedwellness.com for weekly updates, breaking research, and the opportunity to work with Laurel to unlock the path to flourishing!