Alternative Medicine for Mental Wellbeing

Some recent healthcare studies* suggest that alternative medicine is growing in popularity. One of the many reasons for this increase is due in part to the fact that most alternative medicine therapies are often non-invasive, with little or no side effects.

For example, herbal medicine like St. John's wort was scientifically studied* in Europe, presenting positive findings for its effectiveness on the treatment of certain cases of depression. However, large pharmaceutical company, Pfizer Inc., refuted these studies by carrying out an independent study on the herb. The difference, though, between this alternative medicine in comparison to drugs like Prozac, is the potentially lethal side effects; which have made recent headlines in anti-depressant/anti-anxiety drug lawsuits.

Complementary and alternative medicine like acupuncture is also making leeway in the field of mental healthcare. In a small pilot study* carried out by researchers, acupuncture was used as a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy on patients suffering from PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). Interestingly enough, research found that acupuncture may be effective in helping people, who have PTSD.

Another form of alternative medicine, believe it or not, is meditation. Studies* found that individuals who practice meditation are more proficient at recognizing and processing information. Does this mean that meditation gurus are more intellectual? No, it simply means that most individuals who practice meditation have an improved sensory-cognitive perception, or heightened sense of awareness. Perhaps alternative medicine like meditation may one day find its way into educational facilities across the country; which could potentially lead to more positive learning environments, as well as a reduction in attention deficit disorders?

Persons suffering from psychiatric problems like bipolar disorder may also find relief from complementary and alternative medicine like Omega-3 fatty acids. Because Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients, researchers studied this supplement to determine its effectiveness on certain mental health conditions. With promising results of the (researcher's) meta-analysis, the future is looking brighter for those plagued with depression or bipolar disorder; and alternative medicine like Omega-3 fatty acids has the potential to play an important, complementary role in helping to treat these disorders.

Intrigued by alternative medicine? You're not alone. Over 74 percent of US adults have used complementary and/or alternative medicine* at some time in their lives. This is also one of the many reasons why natural health and alternative healing schools have begun popping up all across the country.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding schools in alternative medicine, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore alternative medicine programs near you.

*Source: National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Alternative Medicine for Mental Wellbeing
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