Both anxiety and depression affect our mind, emotions but also our body. Sadness is often accompanied by lack of motivation, tiredness and appetite dysregulation. Symptoms of anxiety are often very physical and can negatively influence the way we see ourselves, the others and the world. There is a reason for this link. In a region of the brain behind the nose, a small organ called the pituitary gland, acts as a control unit for the mind-body interaction. The pituitary gland receives stimuli from that part of the brain called the limbic system, which processes and stores memory, emotions and social behaviour. It also receives body stimuli of varying nature ranging from the body temperature to sexual stimulation and stress. The pituitary gland is filled with hormones that are released directly into the blood stream. These hormones reach several glands in the body and regulate their activity. In return, the body’s glands produce hormones and other substances that provide feedback stimuli to the pituitary gland. These hormonal loops help our body adjust to external and the internal conditions through a finely tuned regulation of the body temperature, hunger, thirst, sexual activity, blood pressure, endocrine functions and emotional behaviour. Understanding this brain-body link offers new opportunities for pharmacological, psychological and physical interventions of anxiety and depression.
An initial 1hr consultation is offered to patients with general adult psychiatric problems such as anxiety and depression. Cost £450
Cost for psychological assessment and treatment £160-200 (50' sessions)