Mental Check Panel: Finding the Root Cause

Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and behave in daily life. Lab testing, on the other hand, refers to the use of laboratory methods and analysis to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions.
Lab testing may be used to measure certain biomarkers in the blood, such as hormone levels or neurotransmitters, to help diagnose and monitor certain mental health conditions. Lab results may provide important information about the functioning of various systems in the body, including the nervous system, which is involved in regulating mental health.

Wellacy (AKA FastLabs) is dedicated to providing patients with actionable lab results. With your health as our priority, Wellacy (AKA FastLabs) offers you a Mental Check Panel – designed to help identify the underlying root causes of depression and anxiety, so you can address them using nutrition, supplements, and other lifestyle factors.

The Mental Check Panel is 8 tests in one:

Thyroid Panel:

Thyroid testing is often used as a biomarker to help diagnose and monitor thyroid-related disorders, which can affect mental health. The thyroid is a gland in the neck that produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. When the thyroid is not functioning properly, it can cause a range of symptoms, including changes in mood. Hypothyroidism, which is a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid, can lead to symptoms such as depression, fatigue, and weight gain. Hyperthyroidism, which is a condition characterized by an overactive thyroid, can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and weight loss.

Electrolyte Panel:

Electrolytes are minerals in the body that have an electric charge and are responsible for maintaining the balance of fluids in the body and the proper functioning of muscles and nerves. An imbalance in these electrolytes can affect the normal functioning of the body and brain, resulting in symptoms such as: confusion, fatigue, mood changes, irritability, depression, anxiety, and more.

Folate and Vitamin B12:

Folate and vitamin B12 are both important for brain function and mental health. Folate, also known as vitamin B9, plays a role in the production of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals in the brain. A folate deficiency can lead to symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment.
Vitamin B12, on the other hand, is necessary for the proper formation of red blood cells and the proper function of the nervous system. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can cause symptoms such as memory loss, depression, and cognitive decline. Both deficiencies can cause serious mental health issues if left untreated.

Cortisol:

Cortisol is a hormone that is released by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It plays a key role in the body’s “fight or flight” response, helping to prepare the body for physical activity and to respond to perceived danger. In small amounts and short-term, cortisol can have beneficial effects on mental health, such as reducing inflammation and improving memory and cognitive function. But when cortisol levels are consistently high, it can have negative effects, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Chronic stress can lead to increased cortisol levels, and this prolonged elevation can disrupt the delicate balance of chemical reactions in the brain, leading to mood disorders and other mental health conditions.

Vitamin D, Calcium, and Magnesium:

These three are essential minerals are involved in the regulation of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are chemicals in the brain that are involved in mood regulation.

Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of depression and other mood disorders. Some studies have also suggested that vitamin D supplementation may be effective in improving symptoms of depression, anxiety, and cognitive function. Additionally, it’s also important to note that vitamin D deficiency can also lead to other health issues such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.

Low levels of calcium and magnesium have been linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Additionally, they also play a role in the regulation of stress hormones, such as cortisol. Some studies have suggested that supplementation may be effective in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. Calcium can be obtained through diet, such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods. It is important to note that excessive intake of calcium supplements can lead to health problems, such as kidney stones, so it’s always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Magnesium can be found in many food sources, including spinach, almonds, black beans, and avocado. Both are available as dietary supplements.

Keep in mind that biomarkers are only one aspect of mental health diagnosis, biomarkers can indicate a possible issue but not necessarily be the definitive or only way to diagnose a mental health condition, and the results should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical information, such as the patient’s history, symptoms, and examination findings.

Appointments at Wellacy Are Available NOW

Visit FastLab’s new South Miami location at 6193 SunsetDr, South Miami FL 33143 across the street from South Miami Hospital and close to Larkin Hospital. This new state-of-the-art laboratory offers a FULL menu of laboratory testing and diagnostic options for patients – including the Mental Check Panel. Appointments can be made directly on the Wellacy (AKA FastLabs) website, www.wellacy.com.Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are recommended. Call (305) 741-2655 or email info@wellacy.com to find out more!