friedel family foundation for a Better Future

• The brain, weighing about 3 pounds, consumes significant body resources: 20-30% of calories, 20% of oxygen, and 25% of blood flow.
• It contains approximately 86 billion neurons, each with up to 40,000 connections, and information travels at 268 mph.
• Brain function influences focus, motivation, mood, and behavior; imbalances or inflammation can cause issues like anxiety, impulsivity, or mood swings.
• Proper care can maintain brain health, enhance neurogenesis, and improve mental agility.
• 1 in 4 adults take psychiatric medication; depression and anxiety have risen by 43% since 2020. Youth mental health is a Growing Concern. According to the CDC, suicide rates among children ages 10–14 more than tripled between 2007 and 2018, increasing from 0.9 to 2.9 deaths per 100,000. These findings underscore the importance of early recognition of mental-health concerns, access to appropriate support, and education that helps families understand brain and mental health.

Source: CDC — Suicide and Homicide Death Rates Among Youth and Young Adults, 2001–2021

• Nearly 60% of people say they feel lonely or isolated, while close friendships have dropped by 40% despite being more digitally connected than ever.
• Alzheimer's disease, depression, obesity, and other chronic health conditions are distinct disorders, yet they may share important contributing factors. Sleep disturbances, chronic stress, physical inactivity, metabolic health, and other biological and lifestyle factors can influence both brain function and overall well-being. Understanding these connections encourages a more comprehensive approach to health—one that considers the brain, body, environment, and individual circumstances.

A healthier brain and a healthier body are important parts of a healthier life.

Shift to Brain-Based Mental Health

• Motivation and anxiety are now understood as brain functions and patterns, not character flaws or personality traits.
• Traditional approaches focus on symptoms and medication, often ignoring underlying brain function and a more natural path to better Brain Health is hindered by a lack of support in Insurance. 
• ADVANCED TOOLS FOR UNDERSTANDING BRAIN FUNCTION: Brain SPECT imaging and quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) are specialized technologies that provide different types of information about brain function. When clinically appropriate, these tools may contribute additional information to a comprehensive brain-health evaluation. Qualified healthcare professionals interpret their findings alongside medical history, symptoms, clinical examinations, and other appropriate assessments to make informed recommendations.
• · The future of mental health includes integrating functional imaging into care, emphasizing prevention, and recognizing that many societal issues (violence, addiction, suicide) are rooted in brain health.
• A whole-person approach considers blood flow, inflammation, hormones, trauma, nutrition, and toxins, acknowledging their impact on the brain.
• Longevity will increasingly include brain health, as the brain influences habits, stress response, and decision-making.
• Public safety concerns are linked to unrecognized brain injuries, inflammation, toxins, and impulse control issues, advocating for early intervention.
• Prevention is prioritized over crisis care, focusing on early factors like sleep deprivation, stress, head injuries, and poor nutrition that erode brain function over time.

A mindset shift from, "What's wrong with me?" to "Is this good or bad for my brain?" fosters curiosity and empowerment, emphasizing brain adaptability.