We live in a stressful and demanding world, which can seriously affect our job, health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Stress is also closely related to anxiety and depression. In fact, some people experience all three at once. There are many ways to address these mental health issues, and adding an integrated approach to holistic medicine has proven successful.

What Is A Holistic Approach?

A holistic approach looks at how the body works as a whole system rather than solely focusing on one aspect or symptom. Holistic medicine is based on the idea of interconnectedness. It’s important to consider how all factors of our lives — including our thoughts, feelings, and environment — affect our health.

Holistic medicine acknowledges no separation between the body and the mind. Rather than treating only physical symptoms, holistic medicine looks at the whole person to find and heal the underlying cause of illness or disease. Depression and anxiety are two of the most prevalent mental health conditions. Reports from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation indicate that approximately 284 million people worldwide suffer from anxiety disorders, and about 264 million suffer from depression.

Anxiety is a mental health disorder with overwhelming worry, fear, panic, and unease. Many factors, such as stress, trauma, or chemical imbalances, can contribute to it. Depression manifests as persistent sadness and a lack of interest in once-enjoyable activities.

Although traditional treatments such as antidepressants and psychotherapy can help some people manage their symptoms, many individuals find that integrating a holistic approach can make their treatment more effective.

The holistic approach to treating mental health problems includes the following:

• Focusing on prevention
• Emphasizing patient education
• Helping you overcome your symptoms and gain control over your emotions
• Learning coping mechanisms for triggers
• Using complementary therapies and supplementation

Is Holistic Approach the Same as Alternative Medicine?

No, holistic medicine and alternative medicine are not the same. Alternative medicine refers to treatments that replace conventional medicine, whereas holistic medicine incorporates conventional and alternative approaches.

For example, a person who suffers from chronic pain may receive acupuncture treatments for their condition (alternative therapy) in addition to medication prescribed by their doctor (conventional medicine).

Benefits of Holistic Approach to Anxiety and Depression

Some of the benefits of holistic mental health treatment include:

• It encourages self-care and empowerment; You will feel empowered by learning self-help techniques to continue on your own after treatment ends.
• You can implement holistic therapies easily into your lifestyle in many cases, and they’re often cost-effective, too!
• You have a range of options for treatment, and your doctor can combine them to achieve greater results.
• You’ll be able to identify triggers and avoid them as much as possible.
• You can develop healthy coping skills that you can use long-term. A holistic approach to anxiety and depression allows you to address the root of the issue and find out what’s causing your symptoms rather than simply treating them.
• Combining physical activity and a balanced diet can effectively eliminate anxiety and depression symptoms and improve your overall health.

What Are Examples of Holistic Treatment for Depression and Anxiety?

A holistic approach can help you feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally. One can achieve these goals through lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, stress management techniques, and lifestyle factors such as sleep quality. It’s also referred to as integrative medicine because it combines conventional medical treatments with natural remedies for anxiety and depression, such as herbs and supplements.

The following are examples of holistic therapy for mental health issues:

Yoga and Tai Chi

Yoga and tai chi are physical exercises that involve slow, controlled movements that promote balance, breathing control, and muscle strength. These exercises promote emotional stability by relaxing the body’s nervous system and balancing its energy flow.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a kind of (TCM) traditional Chinese medicine where the practitioner inserts very thin needles into the skin at certain points on the body to promote healing.

Massage

It involves applying pressure to specific areas of the body using hands or other tools such as balls, stones, and sticks. The main goal is to provide pain relief, enhance relaxation, and improve circulation and lymphatic drainage in the body, which can help promote overall health and wellness.

Reiki

Yoga and tai chi are physical exercises that involve slow, controlled movements that promote balance, breathing control, and muscle strength. These exercises promote emotional stability by relaxing the body’s nervous system and balancing its energy flow.

Mindfulness Therapies

Mindfulness therapies like meditation and guided imagery help you focus on your thoughts and feelings in the present time rather than concentrating or dwelling on the past or worrying about future events.

They encourage you to develop self-awareness, which means that you become more aware of how certain situations affect your emotions and moods.

Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies such as herbal teas or tinctures made from plant extracts contain antioxidants that can boost the immune system, promote relaxation, and support brain function.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy or essential oil therapy uses essential oils in combination with relaxation techniques. Essential oils are distilled extracts from leaves, flowers, herbs, and other parts of plants. Essentially, these extracts promote health and wellness by affecting the limbic system through odor and skin absorption.

PHWC’s Supplements That Help Improves Mental Health

Last but not least, supplements are another component of holistic treatment. Research suggests that taking health supplements containing minerals, vitamins, and other compounds essential to the body’s health can help improve symptoms of depression and other mental health problems. At PHWC we take the guesswork out of supplement buying by offering high-quality, effective, and reliable supplements to support your mental health.

1. Premier Mood Support

Premier Mood Support is SAMe- SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine) in capsule form. SAMe is a supportive nutrient in liver health, joint comfort, metabolic reactions, and healthy mood. The human body naturally produces SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine and evidence shows it has antidepressant properties aiding in people who suffer from depression.

2. Premier NAC +

According to research, NAC reduces glutamate levels and inflammation in the brain, helping to improve mental health. As an adjunctive therapy for psychotic and affective disorders, N-acetylcysteine can effectively reduce symptoms of major depressive disorder and other mental health issues.

L-cysteine is a conditionally essential amino acid and a precursor to glutathione, the tripeptide. Premier NAC+ provides the conditionally essential amino acid L-cysteine. Along with glutathione, NAC+ supports the body’s antioxidant and detoxification processes.

3. Premier Rest & Restore

Melatonin has not been extensively researched as a depression treatment. Here’s what we currently know.

• The results of one review found that some people were able to reduce depression symptoms by taking melatonin.
• There is also evidence that melatonin may be useful for (SAD), seasonal affective disorder. It’s a type of depression that occurs during the winter months.
• In yet another study, melatonin is effective as an adjuvant treatment for mood disorders like major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder).

Although melatonin has yet to be proven to treat depression directly, it can help you start sleeping regularly. Having a restful night’s sleep may alleviate some symptoms.

Premier Rest & Restore uses a biphasic delivery system for a quick and steady release of melatonin. This vegan-friendly melatonin supplement enhances antioxidant and immune function while promoting healthy sleep patterns.

4. Premier Vitamin D Liquid

In addition to being essential for physical health, vitamin D also plays a crucial role in mental health. There is enough research to suggest that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to depression symptoms. Therefore, it is vital to ensure we don’t lack vitamin D.

Premier Vitamin D3 Liquid combines cholecalciferol from lanolin with sunflower oil and purified water. This kind of vitamin D promotes better absorption!

5. Premier Omega

Omega-3-rich diets are a promising natural treatment for moderate depression and bipolar disorder, stabilize mood and boost antidepressant effectiveness. There is also evidence that omega-3 fatty acids may have neuroprotective properties.

Premier Omega contains MaxSimil® monoglyceride fish oil that absorbs three times more EPA+DHA than other leading fish oils. This type of fish oil supplement gives you maximum benefit.

*** Note: If you’re already on medication for anxiety or depression, you should consult your doctor about supplements you can take. Supplements also work best with a healthy lifestyle, proper diet, and exercise.

Make Your Mental Health a Priority!

We hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about the holistic approach to depression, anxiety, and stress! The holistic way helps you cope with the daily stresses of life and improve your mental health overall.

If you are searching for a “doctor in Hamilton Bermuda” or a “doctor near me”, at Premier Health and Wellness Center we are here to help. To order our natural supplements for mental health improvement, call us at 441-292-5111. You can also visit the Premier Health and Wellness Center or The Phoenix Centre Pharmacy, Hamilton, Bermuda.