Emerging research reveals that mental and metabolic health are inseparable. Individuals with serious mental illness die 10 to 20 years earlier than the general population—most often from preventable cardiometabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease rather than from suicide.

In this session, psychiatrist Dr. Matt Bernstein explores how metabolic dysfunction can both cause and worsen mental health symptoms, and how restoring metabolic balance can dramatically improve mood, cognition, and overall functioning. Drawing on both cutting-edge research and direct clinical experience from the Accord program, Dr. Bernstein will translate neuroscience into clear, practical steps for patients, families, and clinicians. Participants will learn how everyday factors such as nutrition, sleep quality, circadian rhythm alignment, movement, and stress regulation influence brain chemistry, neuroplasticity, and resilience.

Participants will gain a clearer understanding of the connection between metabolic and mental health and will learn practical, accessible strategies that may support overall brain and body health.