I am an advocate for complimentary, integrative, and alternative therapy if this is what my patient desires. These treatments may consist of acupuncture, alpha-stim, aromatherapy, chiropractic care, diet, diet supplementation, equine therapy (if available), exercise, herbal medicine, massage, neurofeedback, nutritional and lifestyle changes, a therapy dog, etc. If this is the treatment of your choice then I am happy to provide what I am able to for my patients and/or place a referral in the community for such alternative and complimentary care and treatment.
- The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) is the main government agency for investigating non-traditional treatments for mental illness and other conditions.
- Complementary methods are non-traditional treatments given in addition to standard medical procedures.
- Alternative methods of treatment used instead of established treatment.
- Integrative methods combine traditional and non-traditional as part of a treatment plan.
Natural Products:
Some supplemental vitamins and minerals may lessen the symptoms of mental illness.
Some supplemental vitamins and minerals may lessen the symptoms of mental illness.
- Omega-3 fatty acids are group of chemicals found in a number of different foods, including fish. Studies have found that certain types of omega-3 fatty acids are useful in the management of both medical and mental illnesses. Research shows that for young people experiencing an episode of psychosis for the first time, treatment with omega-3 fatty acids may help decrease their risk of developing a more chronic and serious form of schizophrenia.
- Folate is a vitamin required for the human body to perform many essential processes on a day-to-day basis and is a compound that the human body is unable to make on its own. The FDA has approved one form of folate- l-methylfolate (Deplin) as an additional form of treatment in depression and schizophrenia.
- Medical foods are another type of product containing natural ingredients.
Reference:
nami.org