Anxious? Depressed? Low Motivation? Your neurotransmitters may

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers produced and stored in the brain and are released into action when the brain cells are activated. They are responsible for every though, mood, pain or pleasure sensation we feel. They control our energy level, our appetite, and the foods we crave. Neurotransmitters even regulate how we sleep, as well as our sex drive. Psychological stress can cause neurotransmitter deficiencies or imbalances; likewise, the neurotransmitter deficiency or imbalance can cause changes in our health. For example, the majority of Serotonin, our "feel good" hormone, is produced in the gut. If we are under stress, eat poorly, or have food sensitivities, this can actually affect our mood and behavior by disrupting serotonin production. It is estimated that over 86% of Canadians have suboptimal neurotransmitter levels. Many patients come into my office having tried various medications for their mood without success. Neurotransmitter testing allows us to see the levels of brain chemicals such as dopamine, serotonin, epinephrine and norepinephrine. Based on these levels, Dr. Falk designs a treatment plan to address the cause of the mood disorder. If a patient is already on medication, treatment plans that are safe to use along side medications are used.