How does your diet affect your mental health?

Food or nutrition is not often a subject that comes up when you see your health practitioner for your mood - but it's a very important part of getting and staying well.

How does my diet affect my mental health?

The depressed or anxious patient who comes to see their GP may be given the option of a prescription medication, but often very little else. Talking therapy is increasingly offered, however there is often a waiting list and at times there are challenges in finding the right fit for the person - and the small issue of whether it will be funded - either through GP provider services, employee service providers or ACC. A mildly depressed or anxious individual who isn’t at risk of self-harm or suicide doesn’t need crisis input, may not need long term psychotherapy or the type of intensive care that a Community Mental Health Centre (CHMC) would provide. They often don’t need to talk about their childhood and at times have no major trauma going on in their lives (past or present) but could really benefit from some practical strategies and support to improve their mood and well-being.