Mental health plays a critical role in our daily lives, yet many people struggle to access truly holistic care that addresses the root causes of stress, anxiety, and depression. Busy lifestyles, processed foods, and the constant pressures of modern living leave little time for prevention. Even when people try to make healthier choices, the food options available are often less fresh than they appear.

Sherry Soltani – Local Journalism Initiative

In a recent interview in Coquitlam and the local Tri-Cities community, volunteer host and mental health advocate Samira Gholami sat down with Dr. Mehrdad Torkamaniha (MD, ND) and Elham Nazemi Habib (RHN, skin technician), co-owners of Green Family Wellness Center, to discuss the urgent need for a more preventative, integrative approach to mental health and wellness.

Dr. Torkamaniha shared insights into the growing stressors facing residents, including financial pressures and social isolation, and emphasized the effectiveness of treatments like neurofeedback, acupuncture, IV therapy, and supplement-based care. He explained, “We need to target root causes, not just symptoms.”

Elham Nazemi Habib spoke passionately about the role of nutrition in mental health, pointing out that even well-meaning individuals often struggle to access truly fresh and nourishing foods. She noted, “Stress and busy schedules drive people toward convenience foods, but these choices impact mental and physical health more than we realize.”

Samira highlighted the importance of recognizing how mental health affects every aspect of life and emphasized that many people, even when they aim to eat healthily, unknowingly consume products that are not as fresh or nourishing as they seem.

The conversation also shed light on a larger gap. Most residents are unaware of the full range of integrative therapies available to them. Treatments like red light therapy, naturopathic protocols, and holistic nutrition consultations can offer crucial support for those struggling with anxiety and depression. However, greater civic support, policy change, and community education are needed to make these services more accessible.

Samira, Dr. Torkamaniha, and Elham stressed that by integrating wellness into community planning and offering affordable, preventative care options, municipalities like Coquitlam can foster stronger, healthier communities before crisis hits.

It is time to rethink how we approach mental health support because preventative care does not just heal individuals; it strengthens entire communities.