S5E5: The Gut Brain Connection: Can Diet Influence Mental Illnesses?

01/08/25 • 25 min

In this episode of Look Again: Mental Illness Re-Examined, host Faydra Aldridge dives into the fascinating connection between gut health and serious mental illness. Joined by Dr. Amedeo Minichino, a clinical academic psychiatrist at the University of Oxford, they explore how the trillions of bacteria in our gut, known as the microbiome, could influence brain function and play a key role in conditions like schizophrenia. Dr. Minichino discusses emerging research on how gut health might inform personalized treatments, the potential for early intervention in psychosis, and how diet could be a powerful factor in mental health care.

In addition to our primary funder BC Partners, this episode is brought to you by Castanet, the Okanagan’s trusted source for news, events, and community updates. Thank you to Castanet for supporting our show and helping us share these stories with you.

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S5E4: Cannabis-Induced Psychosis: What Every Parent Needs to Know

In this episode of Look Again: Mental Illness Re-Examined, host Faydra Aldridge speaks with Dr. André McDonald, an epidemiologist and lead author of a groundbreaking study on cannabis use and psychotic disorders. They explore the alarming connection between cannabis use in teens and the risk of developing psychosis, particularly as THC potency has dramatically increased. Dr. McDonald breaks down key findings, including the heightened risk for teens, why early cannabis use is especially dangerous, and how public health messaging needs to evolve in the era of legalization.“Be sure to listen to this important discussion on cannabis and strong links to mental illness, especially with teenagers.

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Next Episode

S5Re-visited: In Conversation with Kody Green on mental illness and social media

This is a re-release of the season four premiere of Look Again, “Beyond the Selfies: Social media's influence on mental illness stigma.” Kody Green is a motivational speaker, content creator, and author who was diagnosed with Undifferentiated Schizophrenia at 28 years old.
In this episode, Kody talks with Faydra about becoming a 'Mental Illness Social Media Influencer.’ The conversation touches on coping mechanisms, medications, and the power of humour. Revisit this insightful discussion about the link between digital platforms and mental illness.
Kody Green’s book Mind Over Meetings can be ordered through his website. You can also follow him @SchizophrenicHippie on Instagram and TikTok.

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