Can alternative treatments help mental health problems?
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Alternative treatments for mental health problems can be helpful for some people. Many people find self-help and support groups are very useful. Expressive therapies, such as dance therapy, art therapy, and music therapy can be beneficial. Relaxation and stress reduction techniques, such as yoga, meditation, and guided imagery help many people cope with symptoms such as anxiety, stress, and depression. Nutritional therapy using supplements may be helpful for some. Before exploring any alternative therapy for mental illness, discuss it with your doctor or therapist to be sure it's right for you.
Alternative treatments for mental health problems can be helpful for some people. Many people find self-help and support groups are very useful. Expressive therapies, such as dance therapy, art therapy, and music therapy can be beneficial.... More -
David Tolin answered:I would encourage caution when it comes to alternative mental health treatments. In most cases, there is little or no scientific evidence to support their use, and in some cases they have even been shown to be harmful. Statements about the benefits of things like art therapy, music therapy, aromatherapy, nutritional suplements, and so on are based on opinion and anecdote, not science.
Conversely, science has shown us beyond a reasonable doubt that some mental health treatments truly are effective. Certain medications, for example, can be very helpful for severe illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can have very powerful results for problems such as depression and anxiety.I would encourage caution when it comes to alternative mental health treatments. In most cases, there is little or no scientific evidence to support their use, and in some cases they have even been shown to be harmful. Statements about... More -
Christie Korth answered:As far as alternative treatment is concerned, it would be warranted when examining mental health to look at ones dietary intake. It makes sense to rationalize that a diet consisting of foods that are processed and denatured like boxed cereals, snack cakes and lunch meats can cause nutrient deficiences which can aggrevate symptoms of mental health disorders.
For example, deficiencies in magnesium can cause anxiety. It has been further noted that mental clarity can not be achieved without a healthy balance of fats. Omega 3 fatty acids found in walnuts, avocados, tuna, mackerel, salmon and flaxseed support brain health, along with b complex vitamins. Evaluating for deficiences in these nutrients is usually very helpful.
Curbing substances like sugar, nicotine, caffiene and alcohol can help balance the body and rid toxins, which can contribute negatively to mood disturbances. A diet high in simple carbohydrates can also promote mood swings, as the blood sugar levels rapidly rise and drop, causing a sugar craving and withdrawl process which can contribute negatively to your mood.
There are herbs out there that have been studied and proven effective, like St. John's Wort. However, you must excersize caution when using these products. Be sure to consult your doctor, especially if you are already on prescription medications. There are teas you can also try in the health food store, like Calm Tea or Kava Kava.
You can also try Bach Rescue Remedy for anxiety, which is a natural and safe alternative that works very well!As far as alternative treatment is concerned, it would be warranted when examining mental health to look at ones dietary intake. It makes sense to rationalize that a diet consisting of foods that are processed and... More -
Dr. Elissa Mullen of MDLIVE answered:Alternative treatments can help mental health problems, but it is VERY important that you stay on your medications prescribed by your mental health provider (MPH). Coordination of care with an Alternative Practitioner and your MHP will be the goal of continued care. Diet, Sleep, Exercise, Herbs, Homeopathy and Orthomolecular Medicine can all improve mental health. Orthomolecular medicine is the use of Nutraceuticals in therapeutic dosing or higher doses than would be recommended in an over the counter (OTC) vitamin. I have found that Orthomolecular medicine can especially help individuals with sensitivities to pharmaceuticals or where pharmaceuticals cannot be used do to safety concerns both medical and an interference with other medications.
Alternative treatments can help mental health problems, but it is VERY important that you stay on your medications prescribed by your mental health provider (MPH). Coordination of care with an Alternative Practitioner and your MHP will be the goal... More
