How to Hack Your Hormones: Supporting Mental Health from the Inside Out

In this empowering close to Care to Change’s Mental Health Awareness Month series, host Larry Vinson and therapist April Bordeau tackle an often-overlooked topic in mental health: hormones. With insight, humor, and practical wisdom, they explore how internal chemistry impacts emotional wellbeing—and what you can do about it.

Whether you’re feeling chronically exhausted, emotionally stuck, or overwhelmed by life’s demands, this episode unpacks the hidden biological forces at play—and offers everyday strategies to start restoring balance.

Key Takeaways

• 10 surprising reasons you may be exhausted—that go beyond just needing more sleep
• The connection between external stressors and internal hormone imbalances
• Why both men and women need to pay attention to hormones like cortisol, serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin
• Common signs of hormonal imbalance (hint: it’s not always physical)
• How to naturally “hack” your hormones through simple, science-backed daily practices

Hormones That Impact Mental Health

• Estrogen: Mood regulation & emotional stability
• Progesterone/Testosterone: Sleep, calmness, energy
• Cortisol: Stress response—too much leads to burnout
• Serotonin: Mood, sleep, digestion
• Dopamine: Motivation, pleasure, attention
• Oxytocin: Trust, bonding, emotional safety
• Endorphins: Natural pain relief & mood boosters

Hormone “Hacks” You Can Start Today

• 🎧 Listen to uplifting music
• 🌳 Walk in nature
• 🧘 Practice mindfulness or prayer
• 💬 Share a compliment or hug someone you love
• ✅ Complete a small task
• 🍫 (Yes, even a bit of dark chocolate helps!)

“You can’t change the direction of the wind, but you can adjust your sails.” — April Bordeau

Who Should Listen?

• Anyone feeling exhausted despite rest
• Those looking for natural support alongside therapy or medication
• Women navigating perimenopause or hormonal transitions
• Men interested in better understanding their emotional shifts
• People who want practical, whole-person strategies for mental wellness

🆘 Need Support?

Visit caretochange.org to connect with one of our therapists or access resources to help you take your next step toward healing and hope.