This is an excellent summary of toxic elements and oxidative stressors due to heavy metals.
Individuals who suffer depression, anxiety or schizophrenia and other mental disorders, typically do not respond to SSRI medicines and or supplements that affect levels of serotonin and dopamine or norepinephrine. These folks may be experiencing symptoms from toxic elements, such as lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, copper and aluminum.
Such metals, referred to as free radicals, are environmental toxins that are inhaled from the atmosphere or consumed in foods. Cigarette smoke, incinerators, metal workers, large fish, feed additives, amalgam fillings, vaccines, paints, pastels, tattoo ink, copper cookware, well water and old paint dust etc are common sources.
While chelation therapy is used by physicians to remove metals stored in the body tissues, Dr. Walsh believes that metals are not likely to be drawn out in substantial quantities through IV chelation with products such as Calcium-EDTA. The best way to manage toxics is to supplement on a daily basis with antioxidants that capture the metals as they leave the tissue and bind or neutralize them before they are excreted in the urine or stool.
Healthy diet with antioxidants such as chlorella, fiber and vitamins D, E, A and C are most useful. Consider ALA, glutathione, gaba and zinc for more aggressive approach to toxic elements management of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and other mood and mental health conditions.