168. Nature Doesn't Make Mistakes: A Functional Approach to Mental Health w/ Dr. Riz Ahmad

Dr. Roger McFillin welcomes back Clinical Psychologist Dr. Riz Ahmad to explore a fundamental question: "Does nature make mistakes?" Challenging conventional psychiatric approaches, they argue that what we label as mental illness is actually be the body's natural signals for change. The psychologists contrast traditional mental health treatment with 'functional mental health', which focuses on root causes and the interconnection between physical and mental well-being rather than subjective labels and drugs. Through practical examples, they advocate for a paradigm shift that considers the whole person - from lifestyle and nutrition to relationships and spiritual health - ultimately calling for a healthcare system that heals rather than simply suppresses symptoms.Chapters00:00The Health Crisis: A Fragmented Narrative03:18 The Interconnectedness of Mind and Body06:45 Challenging Conventional Mental Health Paradigms10:35 The Dopamine Dilemma: Pleasure and Pain15:50 Nature's Signals: Understanding Symptoms20:59 The Role of Nature in Health25:55 The Complexity of Mental Health Treatment30:20 Exploring Consciousness Beyond the Material35:52 The Power of Intention and Interconnectedness41:07 Reconnecting with Our True Nature45:46 The Impact of Light on Mental Health48:44 Integrating Psychology and Functional Medicine52:26 The Flaws in Allopathic Medicine56:17 Redefining Mental Health and Optimal Well-Being01:00:11 Contrasting Standard and Functional Approaches to Teen Mental Health01:12:25 Understanding Trauma and Its Effects01:21:45 The Interconnectedness of Mind, Body, and Emotion