Presenter: Lise Alschuler, ND, FABNO and Nancy Gahles, DC, CCH RSHom(NA)
Format: Video of slides with synchronized audio

Does stress cause chronic disease, and, if so what can we do about it? The first aspect of answering this question is to understand the discrete and predictable molecular and pathophysiological impacts of distress, anxiety, depression and mental outlook. Armed with this understanding, the importance of assessing the nature of the stress, its duration and severity, and whether there are windows of vulnerability over an individual’s lifespan will provide additional clarity to the role of stress in creating and perpetuating illness. Clinically relevant and scientifically studied stress reduction strategies and natural interventions will be discussed. These strategies will include psycho spiritual, botanical, and nutritional interventions. Finally, the talk will address the delicate nature of this topic and will explore ways interact with patients about stress and disease without blame or guilt.

Learning Objectives
- Participants will understand the nature and causes of stress (with particular emphasis on anxiety, depression and pessimism) and how to assess for stress in their patients.
- Participants will understand the pathogenic impact of stress on body systems and cellular function.
- Participants will understand the differing impact of stress on disease risk as a result of the nature of the stressor, its duration and timing in one’s lifespan.
- Participants will gain a depth of understanding of key therapies and interventions that minimize stress and its pathological impacts.
- Participants will become familiar with sensitive