Chris Aiken: Tools for Managing Depression, Bipolar, Mixed States, and Mood Swings | Episode 110Chris Aiken: Tools for Managing Depression, Bipolar, Mixed States, and Mood Swings | Episode 110
Brain Shaman
Dr. Chris Aiken shares practical tools for managing mood disorders through sleep regulation, light exposure, nutrition, and more.
1:09:32•8 Jan 2025
Mastering Mood Swings with Dr. Chris Aiken
Episode Overview
- Mood disorders exist on a spectrum from depression to mania.
- Sleep regulation is crucial for managing mood swings.
- Light exposure and dark therapy can help stabilise moods.
- Nutrition and supplements play a significant role in brain health.
- Travel and jetlag can impact mood, but there are ways to mitigate these effects.
“We really think of depressed as meaning slowed down. It's not necessarily sad, but slowed down, unmotivated.”
In this episode of Brain Shaman, host Michael Waite sits down with Dr. Chris Aiken, a psychiatrist and the author of 'Bipolar, Not So Much'. They dive into the complexities of mood disorders, focusing on the spectrum that ranges from depression to mania, and everything in between. Dr. Aiken brings his expertise to the table, offering practical tools for managing these conditions, with a strong emphasis on sleep regulation.
You'll hear about the importance of light exposure, dark therapy, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule to stabilise moods. Dr. Aiken also touches on the impacts of travel and jetlag on mood swings, providing actionable advice to mitigate these effects. If you've ever wondered about the link between circadian rhythms and mental health, this episode will shed some light on it.
The conversation also covers the role of nutrition, supplements, and even the controversial topic of psychedelics in treating mood disorders. Whether you're dealing with bipolar disorder, depression, or just looking to improve your mental health, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion that could help you or someone you know manage their mood more effectively.
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