Ep. 19 - Bridging the Gap: Psychiatry, Herbs, and Transgender Mental Health

Be Your Money Hero

In this episode of Be Your Money Hero, I sit down with Sarah Schumacher, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who uniquely combines conventional psychiatric practices with western herbalism. Sarah shares her holistic approach to mental health, which goes beyond neurotransmitter modulation to include factors such as individual safety, physical health, nutrition, genetic inheritance, and personal experiences. We delve into her journey from studying anthropology to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner, and how her passion for herbal medicine led her to integrate it into her practice. Sarah discusses the stigma around psychiatric medications and how she uses medical herbs to complement traditional treatments, especially for disorders requiring mood stabilization or during periods of suicidal ideation. We also explore the heightened mental health challenges faced by the transgender community, particularly the impact of societal stigma and discrimination. Sarah emphasizes the importance of gender-affirming care and how it creates a safe space for patients to be transparent about their symptoms and lifestyle. We touch on the financial implications of mental health, especially for the LGBTQ+ community, and how societal pressures can affect career opportunities and financial stability. Sarah provides practical advice on finding supportive mental health care providers and discusses the importance of sleep hygiene and other self-care practices that can improve mental health. Whether you're interested in holistic mental health approaches, the intersection of mental health and financial well-being, or the unique challenges faced by the transgender community, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

Links/Resources: - Sarah Schumacher's practice: www.freshpathpsychiatry.com

Find a mental health provider: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists