Integrative Psychiatry
What is Integrative Psychiatry?
Integrative psychiatry is a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health that combines conventional treatments (like medication) with evidence-based complementary therapies, focusing on the whole person (mind, body, spirit, community) to rebalance and heal, addressing lifestyle factors like nutrition, sleep, stress, and movement, alongside potential biological issues like gut health or imbalances, offering personalized plans beyond just symptom management.
What Are The Core Principles Of Integrative Psychiatry?
Whole-Person Care
Treats the individual, not just the diagnosis, considering mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual aspects.
Personalized Plans
Creates tailored strategies based on individual biology, goals, and lifestyle, moving beyond one-size-fits-all psychiatry.
Evidence-Based Complementary Therapies
Integrates approaches like mindfulness, meditation, yoga, dietary changes, nutritional supplements, and exercise, which have scientific backing for mood.
Root Cause Exploration
Uses diagnostic testing (e.g., for nutrient deficiencies, toxins, Lyme disease, hormonal issues) to find underlying biological factors affecting mental health.
Mind-Body Connection
Emphasizes how gut health, nutrition (e.g., serotonin production), sleep, and exercise significantly impact mood and brain function.