An integrative (holistic) approach to using medications to treat anxiety, depression, and PTSD

There are many different interventions that can be helpful in targeting symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. Mindfulness, psychotherapy, supplements, herbs, and vitamins in addition to exercise and a Mediterranean diet, are powerful tools to reduce distress and optimize wellness. However, when these interventions do not lead to the resolution of symptoms, medications for anxiety and depression can be an incredibly powerful and important addition to a comprehensive treatment plan.

It is important to note that our current understanding of the brain is limited, despite the vast amount of knowledge we have about many aspects of brain function. We have well-developed models of the various parts of the brain, the many psychoactive molecules, including neurotransmitters, and how signaling between connections of neurons in different parts of the brain impact our experience of the world. However, these models are not complete and there is still much to learn about the brain.

People often talk about various neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. Medications used to treat psychiatric conditions, known as psychotropics, affect these neurotransmitters and their specific receptors. The idea that psychiatric conditions are "chemical" is based on the concept of intentionally impacting neurotransmitter systems. However, this is not as simple as it may seem. The more accurate consensus model in mental health is the BioPsychoSocial model. (https://www.mentalhealthgeneral.com/the-biopsychosocial-model-in-mental-health/ .)

What we call psychiatric symptoms stem from an endlessly complex interplay of our psychological way of being in the world (Psycho) as we experience the stressors in our life (Social) in the context of neurochemical realities of our brain, which are in part determined by our genetics(Bio). This what allows for the variation in effective interventions per above.

Nature and mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation can be helpful in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

When it comes to the use of psychiatric medication it is prudent to use the lowest dose required to reduce symptoms. It is self-evident to most I believe to utilize non-medication interventions such as psychotherapy, somatic (breath and body), and behavioral interventions to target symptoms. As these are not always fully effective, one sign to consider the need for medications is when symptoms interfere with your personal and/or professional functioning.

Medication and supplements can play an important role in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

If you're looking for non-medication interventions to help with symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD, visit my Links page for more information - https://www.drjonslaughter.com/links . If you feel that prescription medications would be beneficial for your symptoms, I encourage you to speak to your physician or consult with a psychiatric prescriber for further guidance. If you are locating in the New York Metro area feel free to contact me to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if the care I offer could be of benefit to you - https://www.drjonslaughter.com/contact-8 .