Gut Feelings: Understanding the Connection Between Gut Health and Mental Health
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Authors
Klausen, Victoria
Issue Date
2025-09-08
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
microbiome , gut health , mental health
Alternative Title
Abstract
This capstone explores the emerging connection between gut health and mental health through a review of current research on the microbiome–gut–brain axis (MGBA). While traditional counselling practices focus primarily on cognitive and emotional processes within the brain, growing evidence suggests that gut health—including microbiota diversity and integrity—may significantly influence mood, behaviour, and psychological well-being. This paper examines how factors such as diet, stress, medication use, environmental pollutants, and early life experiences impact the gut microbiome and, in turn, mental health outcomes. Framed through both solution-focused and feminist theoretical lenses, this research challenges the reductionist view of mental illness as purely brain-based and advocates for a more holistic, embodied approach to mental health care. An applied component - a psychoeducational workshop for mental health professionals - offers practice strategies to integrate MGBA-informed practices into therapeutic settings. Although limitations in the research remain, the findings underscore the potential of integrative, lifestyle-based interventions in supporting mental health and well-being.
Description
Citation
Publisher
License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess