Root Causes of Depression: Dr. James Greenblatt's Functional Approach
Root Causes of Depression: Dr. James Greenblatt's Functional Approach  
Podcast: Silver Disobedience® Perception Dynamics™ with Dian Griesel: How People Think, Lead & Create Success
Published On: Fri Apr 17 2026
Description: Depression Explained: Clinical Definition, Root Causes & Nutritional Psychiatry with Dr. James GreenblattSilver Disobedience© Perception Dynamics™ host Dian Griesel interviews psychiatrist Dr. James Greenblatt about what clinical depression is versus normal sadness, how anxiety can co-occur, and why depression should be approached as a treatable medical illness with underlying contributors. Dr. Greenblatt contrasts standard symptom-based prescribing with a functional psychiatry model that looks for biological causes such as nutrient deficiencies (iron, B12, vitamin D), thyroid or hormone issues, malnutrition, celiac/gluten sensitivity, and genetic vulnerabilities that affect nutrient needs and metabolism. They discuss diet individuality, the importance of eliminating ultra-processed foods and refined sugar, and concerns about overuse and risks of SSRIs (including suicidal ideation, especially with malnutrition) and GLP-1 drugs (reduced micronutrient intake and potential disordered eating). Dr. Greenblatt introduces his consumer-focused book “Finally Hopeful,” his work with lithium orotate, training programs, a planned virtual clinic, and the potential of AI to integrate records, labs, and genetics for personalized care.You can learn more about Dr. Greenblatt and follow his work at any of these links:Website: https://www.jamesgreenblattmd.comFacebook @jamesgreenblattmdLinkedInConnect with Psychiatry Redefined:Website: https://www.psychiatryredefined.orgPsychiatry Redefined on LinkedInInstagram: @psychiatry_redefinedPlease SUBSCRIBE!I’m Dian Griesel and in November of 2017 I began blogging as @SilverDisobedience on my website and @SilverDisobedience on ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ and @DianGriesel ⁠X⁠ Career-wise, I am a perception analyst, counselor, hypnotherapist, author of 16 books and a Wilhelmina model. For 30 years, via owning an investor & public relations firm, while being in private practice, I have helped my clients to achieve greater understanding as to how perceptions impact everything we do whether personally or professionally. A couple of years ago I added a podcast. Episodes are unscripted, with plenty of no-holds-barred revelations from fascinating, accomplished guests living diverse lives. Intimate stories about work, play, psychology, relationships, pop culture, trends, B.S. + more are unpacked through thought-provoking questions that spark honest revelations, pivotal moments, and unguarded insights — stunning even the boldest guests with their own “aha” truths. ✨🔗 YouTube Channel Spotify i❤️podcasts 🍎podcastsLinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/diangriesel/⁠ SHOW RUN:00:00 Depression Episode Intro01:12 Clinical Depression Defined02:12 Sadness Versus Diagnosis03:50 Anxiety And Evaluation04:59 Root Causes Not Symptoms07:03 Nutrition And Genetics09:25 Diet Trends And Individuality13:22 Gluten Mood Connection15:17 Research And Acceptance17:08 SSRIs Risks And Limits21:49 GLP-1s And Eating25:27 Testing And Lab Panels27:09 Book Finally Hopeful29:46 Lithium Orotate Insights32:21 Supplement Safety Warnings34:41 Training And Finding Help38:01 Future AI And Genetics42:01 Wrap Up And Subscribe