What exactly is brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF? What is the relationship between neuroinflammation, BDNF, and depression? What are ways that we can naturally stimulate increases in BDNF? In this exciting interview, psychiatric nurse practitioner, Michelle Novella answers all these questions and more! Michele Novella, PMHNP-BC, PMHCNS-BC, is the owner and medical director of Star Psychiatric Healthcare, LLC, in Danbury, CT. She was educated at Fairfield University in Fairfield, CT, and received her Master's Degree in Adult Psychiatric Nursing from Yale University, graduating with high Honors. Additionally, Ms. Novella is an inductee into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and is an active member of the ANA, APNA, and CTAPRNS. She is also a past recipient of the American Cancer Society's prestigious "Excellence in Onocology" Nursing Award for the State of CT.  She is a national speaker for several pharmaceutical companies, including Takeda and Lundbeck.