When Medication for Mental Health is Necessary: DNA and Genetic Testing May Be the Answer

Priorities on Purpose: Eliminate Distractions, Find Your Focus, and Grow With Jesus

In this episode of Priorities on Purpose, the host and Christian Life Coach, Melissa Batt shares an insightful conversation with her sister about mental health, medication, and the importance of finding the right support. From navigating depression and anxiety to discovering the power of DNA testing for personalized medication, Melissa and her sister discuss their journeys toward better mental health. Whether you're struggling with your own mental health or supporting someone who is, this episode will offer hope and practical insight. Tune in for Real Talk on breaking the stigma of mental health struggles and learning how to thrive instead of just survive.

This is a republished episode originally recorded a couple of years ago but it is still highly relevant. We are sharing it again to help those who may not have heard it the first time.

Disclaimer: Melissa is not a doctor, and this episode is for informational purposes only. Please seek professional medical advice before making any changes to your medication or treatment plan.

Key Takeaways:

• [00:02] - Welcome & Introduction
  Melissa gives an introduction to this episode, sharing an important conversation with her sister on mental health and DNA testing for personalized medication. She explains the updates since the original recording.

• [02:00] - The GeneSight and PGX Tests
  Melissa explains her experience with DNA testing for medication compatibility, highlighting how it helped her adjust her treatment. Her sister also shares how this test changed her life after 22 years of struggling with the wrong medications.

• [07:19] - Medication and Mental Health
  Melissa and her sister discuss how depression and anxiety impacted their lives and how medication, though not always the first choice, became a helpful tool. They address the stigma of taking medication and emphasize the importance of finding the right treatment.

• [11:30] - Living with Boundaries and Advocating for Mental Health
  Melissa and her sister talk about the importance of boundaries in caregiving and family relationships. They reflect on how creating boundaries helped them focus on their own mental health and well-being.

• [16:00] - Hope for Mental Health Struggles
  Melissa reminds listeners that they are not alone in their mental health struggles and encourages them to seek help without shame. They discuss the significance of brain health and how addressing it can help you move from merely surviving to truly living.

• [22:00] - Final Thoughts & Call to Action
  Melissa wraps up the episode with encouragement to be proactive in seeking the right mental health support, whether through counseling, medication, or other therapies. She emphasizes that there is no shame in needing help and shares her own experiences with medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes that contribute to better mental health.

Resources mentioned:

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• GENESIGHT® (linked here) is the specific testing Kristina had done. It seems to focus more on mental health medications that are commonly prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other psychiatric conditions.

• PGx (linked here) is the test that Melissa had done mentioned at the beginning of the show. This test also gives you information related to dozens of other areas not related to psychological issues such as opioid withdrawal, pain management, overactive bladder, sleep disorders, gastrointestinal, diabetes, dementia, Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, anesthesia, antifungals, HIV, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, NSAIDS, Vertigo disorder, seizure disorders, COPD and gynecology. It also gives you specific details related to the MTHFR variant.

• To find more support for yourself or loved ones, look for your local NAMI office here. https://www.nami.org

• And, remember whether it is for suicide prevention or just to talk with someone who will listen, you can always dial 988 and get connected with someone 24/7.

Disclaimer: Melissa Batt is a Christian life coach. She is not a physician. She only speaks of her experiences. Her opinions are her opinions alone and should not be taken as medical advice. Please reach out to your doctor for guidance and next steps. Never stop taking a medication without being under the supervision of your healthcare provider.

Call to Action:

🌟 Could this be holding you back? Find out now by taking this free quiz! 🌟 Let's not let our mental health keep us stuck!

Connect with Melissa:

Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching here: Breakthrough Coaching

• Website: melissabatt.com
• Instagram: @melissabattofficial
• Book a Free Consult: 30-minute call

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