According to "Orthomolecular Psychiatry," what is a proposed cause of certain forms of mental illness?

The approach in "Orthomolecular Psychiatry" emphasizes the significance of biochemical factors and nutrient balance in mental health. It posits that certain forms of mental illness may arise from alterations in metabolism that are a direct result of insufficient nutrient intake. This theory suggests that deficiencies in essential nutrients can disrupt physiological processes, leading to changes in brain function and mood regulation. By focusing on nutrition, the perspective shifts toward correcting these imbalances, potentially alleviating symptoms of mental illness.

The other choices reflect important aspects of mental health but do not align with the primary focus of the orthomolecular approach. For instance, while genetic predisposition plays a role in many mental disorders, the orthomolecular framework aims to address the biochemical environment influenced by nutrition rather than focusing solely on genetics. Similarly, although excessive nutrient intake can cause health issues, it does not specifically relate to the proposed causes of mental illness from the standpoint of “Orthomolecular Psychiatry.” Lastly, while psychological trauma is an important consideration in mental health treatment, the orthomolecular perspective specifically highlights the biochemical and nutritional factors rather than emphasizing psychological trauma as the sole cause.