A mental health facility or program can provide essential support for individuals experiencing a crisis. However, some people do not feel comfortable attending traditional treatment and prefer alternative holistic therapies. According to the National Center for Complimentary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), “Complementary physical and/or psychological approaches include tai chi, yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy, spinal manipulation, art therapy, music therapy, dance, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and many others.” Alter San Diego Crisis Intervention provides personalized care plans that can incorporate complementary and integrative treatments into our crisis stabilization program. Our team of experts ensures that clients receive the support and resources they need to heal.
Do I Need Medication to Feel Better?
Every case is unique. In some cases, prescription medication can provide essential relief and make it easier for clients to manage their condition. The most common types of prescription medication used by mental health professionals include:
- Antidepressants
- Stimulants
- Mood stabilizers
- Antipsychotics
Each type of medication is designed to treat specific symptoms or side effects. Below are some of the most common disorders treated using prescription drugs:
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
- Schizoaffective disorder
- Severe anxiety
- Major depression
- Personality disorders
- Mood disorders
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
What Are the Side Effects?
Your care team will take into account all the details of your situation and work with you to determine the best approach to treatment. In some cases, that may include medication. Many people try to avoid prescription drugs for personal, cultural, or religious reasons. In addition, some medications have possible side effects that people want to avoid, including:
- Weight gain
- Drowsiness
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Difficulty focusing
- Muscle weakness or tremors
Potential side effects vary significantly between medications. However, they can reduce or eliminate symptoms, increase the quality of life, and support positive lifestyle changes. Most people with mild mental health symptoms do not require prescription medication to recover from their disorder.
The Benefits of Alternative Treatment
An alternative approach to treatment can make recovery more accessible for individuals who may not embrace traditional medicine. Some of the known health benefits of holistic therapies include:
- Decreased stress levels
- Reduced symptoms of mental health disorders
- Mood stabilization
- Increased self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-confidence
- Improved quality of life
- Some holistic techniques can boost the immune system
- Stronger mind-body connection
Holistic care is beneficial to mental and physical health. However, it is not a cure and should be used alongside psychotherapy, peer support, and other therapeutic tools. You can work with our team to create a treatment plan that meets your needs and preferences.
Holistic Treatments Can Reduce Stigmas
Stigmas and misinformation can stop people from getting the resources they need to heal from mental health issues. Alter San Diego Crisis Intervention uses a holistic approach to treatment tailored to meet the needs of every client. A holistic approach to mental health can feel safer for people with internalized stigmas related to psychotherapy or prescription drugs.
Do Holistic Treatments Work?
Effective treatment involves adopting preventative strategies to protect you from developing additional mental health issues. Care plans that use a personalized approach will ensure you have the skills and resources to look after your physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being.
Holistic treatments work to a degree and provide essential support to people experiencing a mental health crisis. Alternative methods that focus on general health and healing encourage clients to incorporate the following into their daily routines:
- Proper nutrition
- Physical activity
- Quality sleep
- Regular self-care
Alter San Diego Crisis Intervention understands that some people respond more favorably to natural healing methods, and we can incorporate these techniques into our treatment plans. Clients can choose from a wide range of options and referrals to ensure they receive the proper care.
How Can Holistic Treatments Affect Your Lifestyle?
Holistic treatment looks at the whole person and all of the factors that contributed to their current circumstances. Lifestyle changes are essential to establishing and maintaining healthy routines that allow you to heal. In many cases, people are unaware of their own maladaptive behaviors and unhealthy habits. Holistic treatment can help you recognize areas in your life that have contributed to your mental health issues and give you healthy alternatives to replace them.
Some of the most common lifestyle changes people make during recovery include:
- Taking more time to meditate or engage in mindfulness-based activities
- Prioritizing mental and emotional health over other responsibilities
- Connecting with loved ones and strengthening family bonds
- Engaging in positive social interactions and community activities
You can build a healthier future that prioritizes your emotional, physical, and spiritual health. With the help of Alter San Diego Crisis Intervention, you can grow and thrive during recovery. We can help you find a balance between evidence-based and alternative therapies to ensure you feel comfortable and secure during treatment.
A holistic approach to treatment can help you improve your mental and physical health. Making lifestyle changes that support healthy eating, quality sleep, and positive social interactions can increase the effectiveness of therapy. Some people choose to avoid more traditional treatments like prescription medication due to stigmas or personal beliefs. In some cases, holistic therapies can provide similar results to standard medications. Alter San Diego Crisis Intervention uses tailored treatment plans to ensure clients have access to the resources and services they need to heal. We can help you successfully overcome mental health-related issues using evidence-based and alternative holistic treatments. To learn more, call our office today at (866) 986-1481.
