How Functional Testing Changes the Way We Approach Mental Health

Many people struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, or chronic stress are doing “all the right things” and still not improving. Therapy, medication, supplements, lifestyle changes and yet symptoms persist.

One of the biggest reasons for this is that mental health is often approached without enough individualised data. This is where functional testing changes everything.

Why Mental Health Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

Mental health symptoms are influenced by far more than thoughts and emotions. Nervous system regulation, nutrient status, blood sugar stability, gut health, hormones, and genetics all play a role.

Without understanding what is happening beneath the surface, treatment often becomes guesswork.

What Is Functional Testing?

Functional testing looks at how the body is functioning in real time. Rather than focusing on diagnosis alone, it helps identify drivers and contributors to symptoms.

Depending on individual needs, testing may assess:

• Mineral balance and stress patterns

• Blood sugar regulation

• Gut microbiome health

• Hormone metabolism

• Neurotransmitter pathways

• Genetic and pharmacogenomic influences

How Testing Guides Personalised Care

When we understand why symptoms are occurring, treatment becomes targeted and precise. This allows for:

• Individualised herbal and nutritional prescriptions

• Dietary changes based on physiology, not fad diets

• Lifestyle interventions matched to nervous system capacity

This approach is especially important for people with complex or long-standing mental health concerns who have tried many different approaches with no noticeable improvements.

Who This Approach Is Best Suited For

Functional testing is ideal for individuals who:

• Have tried multiple approaches with limited success

• Experience overlapping physical and mental symptoms

• Want evidence-based, personalised care rather than trial-and-error

If you’d like to learn more about how this approach is used in practice, you can explore my Comprehensive Mental Health & Wellbeing Program

If you’re unsure whether this is the right fit, book a free 15-minute introductory chat to find out more.