A Holistic Approach to Treating Anxiety and Depression

Depression and anxiety affect a significant number of Americans, and the use of antidepressants is on the rise in the general population.

Commonly used antidepressant and anti-anxiety drugs often come with unwanted effects like weight gain, sexual issues, cognitive disturbances, and digestive problems. Additionally, these medications can take a substantial amount of time to show results, and some individuals may have to switch medications due to inadequate symptom relief or undesirable side effects.

There are doctors who have been treating patients dealing with depression and anxiety for years using a more natural approach. While Western allopathic medicine focuses on mental health disorders from a single perspective, holistic psychiatry considers the individual as a whole.

The solution for addressing depression and anxiety disorders extends beyond relying solely on pharmaceuticals. Holistic psychiatry emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility. The key to good health is recognizing that you are in charge of your body’s well-being. Your doctor helps to guide and direct you, but it’s up to the individual to take action.

Challenges exist with the use of medications for depression and anxiety. While medication can be crucial for individuals experiencing severe symptoms like panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, or trauma, discontinuing these medications can be problematic. When individuals begin to feel better, stopping medication can be challenging due to the effects of SSRIs on serotonin levels. The gradual reduction of medication can lead to decreased serotonin levels, causing difficulties for individuals trying to discontinue their use.