Complementary and alternative therapies typically aren’t a part of mainstream healthcare. This means you’re pretty unlikely to get this treatment through typical medical means. They can be used to aid in traditional treatments, but some people may choose to use them on their own. You may often hear them being called “holistic treatments.”

Different complementary and alternative therapies and treatments may help with different symptoms or general wellbeing. They can focus on your physical, mental, or even spiritual well being.

 

 

Can complementary and alternative therapies be used to help mental health problems?

Complementary and alternative therapies can be used to help mental health problems. However, the Royal College of Psychiatrists say there isn’t enough evidence to substantially prove that they work. While other studies are too small to be reliable. Having said that, many people who use complementary and alternative therapies find them helpful. Everyone is different at the end of the day, and the important thing is that whatever treatment you choose works for you.

Before using complementary and alternative therapies, it’s a good idea to speak to your GP or therapist first, especially if:

• You’re taking other medication, or using other treatments
• You’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or
• You’re under eighteen years old

 Some complementary and alternative therapies also aren’t allowed in certain sports.

 

What types of complementary and alternative therapies are there?

There are plenty of different complementary and alternative therapies. Here is a brief list of the ones we explore in this factsheet.

• Aromatherapy
• Herbal medicine
• Massage
• Meditation
• Spiritual or energy healing

 

Aromatherapy

Aroma therapy requires the use of essential oils to improve health and wellbeing. Essential oils generally consist of oils made from plant extracts.

You can utilize aromatherapy oils through massage, in the bath, or by breathing them in as vapours. Research has shown that aroma therapy can be somewhat useful in the treatment of depression. There is also some research to show that aromatherapy may reduce anxiety and stress. However, these are relatively smaller studies, so more research is needed.

 

Herbal remedies

Herbal remedies are made from parts or the entirety of some plants. Sometimes they’re referred to as herbal medicines. Many mainstream drugs and medicines are based on products that come from or are partly comprised from plans.

You can get herbal remedies in different forms and types, such as liquid, power, or even in creams. A qualified herbalist can typically prescribe herbal remedies to use alongside other medications and treatments, but it’s important to let them know if you have any allergies before using any products.

Some herbal remedies can have a bad effect on a condition that you have, or on medication that you take. These are called interactions. You should always talk to your doctor or a pharmacist before taking herbal remedies.

 

Massage

A massage therapist uses their hands and other parts of their body (elbows and the like) to rub your muscles and get rid of tension to help you relax or ease pain. There are different types of massage to choose from:

Swedish massage: Utilizing long, kneading strokes, rhythmic light tapping strokes, and movement of the joints and muscles to relax and relieve tension.

Shiatsu massage: Pressure is put on specific points to help balance your energy.

 

 

Mindfulness and meditation

Mindfulness is a certain type of meditation. It’s when you focus on your mind and body and encourage yourself to remain in the present moment. It’s a way of really honing in and experiencing things as they are happening.

A good example of mindfulness would be to focus on your breathing. Try to focus on how it feels when you breathe in and out.

When you practice meditation or mindfulness you learn to be more aware of your thoughts and personal feelings. Once you’re more aware of your thoughts and feelings, you can better learn to manage them.

 

Tara Brach, Ph.D., is a respected meditation teacher, psychologist, and accomplished author known for her insightful works, including “Radical Acceptance,” “Radical Compassion,” and “Trusting the Gold.” Integrating principles from both Western psychology and Eastern spirituality, Brach offers a unique approach to her teachings. Many individuals have found her guidance invaluable in navigating the practice of meditation. With her wisdom and expertise, Brach provides a steady compass to help seekers explore the realms of inner peace and self-discovery.

 

 

Spiritual and energy healing

Spiritual or energy healers believe that the energy in your body impacts both mental and physical health.

Reiki is a well-known energy healing therapy that has become quite popular both in person and in online content such as ASMR. They believe that they can channel energy into your body to help with spiritual healing. You can keep your clothes on and can either sit or lay down during the process.

 There isn’t currently much research into the effects of Reiki on mental health. However, research has shown that it may help with some of the symptoms of depression. It also may ease the feelings of stress or anxiety, as well as insomnia.

However, there are also alternative avenues for spiritual exploration.

 

The JdR podcast, hosted by Canadian native John de Ruiter, presents a refreshing exploration of spirituality and self-discovery. With a particular emphasis on contemporary perspectives, John engages in insightful discussions both in-person and online, delving into a wide range of topics such as relationships, personal growth, and spirituality. In addition to his role as an accomplished author of works like “Unveiling Reality,” John’s podcast offers a valuable resource for listeners embarking on their spiritual healing journey, providing them with wisdom and guidance to deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Whichever method you choose, be sure to consult your psychiatrist and GP before consuming any alternative medicine.

 

 

 

Published: 2023-08-05 00:47:48