DR. TATE’S ANSWER

Thanks for your question!

Mental health conditions are often treated with medication, therapy or a combination of the two.  However, there are many different types of treatment available, including Complementary & Alternative Treatments, self-help plans, and peer support. Treatments are very personal and should be discussed by the person with the mental health conditions and his/her team.  Here are some of my recommendations:

• Psychotherapy – Psychotherapy is the therapeutic treatment of mental illness provided by a trained mental health professional.  Psychotherapy explores thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and seeks to improve an individual’s well-being.  Psychotherapy paired with medication is the most effective way to promote recovery.  Examples include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, etc.
• Complementary & Alternative Medicine – Complementary & Alternative Medicine, or CAM, refers to treatment and practices that are not typically associated with standard care.   CAM may be used in place of or addition to standard health practices
• Support Group – A support group is a group meeting where members guide each other towards the shared goal of recovery.  Support groups are often comprised of nonprofessionals, but peers that have suffered from similar experiences.
• Self Help Plan – A self-help plan is a unique health plan where an individual addresses his or her condition by implementing strategies that promote wellness.  Self-help plans may involve addressing wellness, recovery, triggers or warning signs.