About this condition
Anxiety and depression frequently coexist, and both can have physical contributors alongside psychological ones. Naturopathic doctors look at nutritional, gut, and hormonal factors that may be playing a role, working alongside psychologists and psychiatrists rather than in place of them.
What a naturopathic doctor can do
- Comprehensive mental health panel (B12, folate, vitamin D, iron, thyroid, cortisol)
- Gut microbiome assessment — 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut
- MTHFR gene testing for patients who do not respond to antidepressants
- Omega-3 fatty acids — strong evidence for depression
- Magnesium and L-theanine for anxiety
- St. John's Wort for mild-moderate depression (with appropriate screening)
- Adrenal and hormonal assessment
- Collaboration with your existing mental health team
Also known as
Common questions
Yes — treatment-resistant depression is an area where naturopathic investigation often reveals missed biological factors. MTHFR mutations, nutritional deficiencies, gut dysbiosis, and thyroid dysfunction are common and treatable contributors.
MTHFR is a gene involved in folate and B12 metabolism. Mutations affect neurotransmitter production and are associated with depression, anxiety, and poor response to certain antidepressants.
Most naturopathic interventions are safe alongside antidepressants, but there are important exceptions — particularly St. John's Wort, which interacts with many medications. Always disclose all medications to your ND.