In our introductory lecture, Dr. Chris Palmer begins an exploration of the profound connection between mental health and brain metabolism, challenging traditional views of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Palmer sheds light on the current mental health epidemic and its alarming statistics, highlighting how traditional treatments often fail to provide lasting solutions for many patients. He discusses the limitations of current diagnostic approaches and treatment methods, before introducing a pivotal case study that suggests a potential connection between metabolism and mental health.

In lecture two, we are introduced to the brain energy theory, which proposes that mental disorders are fundamentally metabolic disorders of the brain. The lecture examines extensive evidence showing strong bidirectional relationships between mental illnesses and metabolic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, while also discussing how metabolic dysfunction can explain various symptoms of mental disorders. Dr. Palmer emphasizes how understanding these metabolic connections could revolutionize our approach to treating mental illness and the importance of integrating mental and physical health care.

In lecture three, we continue to study the brain energy theory, with mitochondria playing a central role. The lecture examines how mitochondria, beyond their traditional role as cellular powerhouses, regulate metabolism, neurotransmitter function, hormone production, and inflammation, connecting all known biopsychosocial factors in mental illness. The discussion concludes with evidence suggesting that mental disorders may reflect accelerated aging, supported by data on increased psychiatric medication use in older populations.