Alternative, Complementary, or Integrative Approaches to Treating Depression

More Americans are seeking out alternative, complementary, and integrative (ACI) approaches to painful chronic conditions, such as depression. This article reviews a variety of the interventions that are potentially helpfulfor those with depression. Approaches discussed include supplements, exercise, massage, light therapy, homeopathy, and rapid rate transcranial electromagnetic stimulation. Articles in the lay press abound and herbs, homeopathic remedies, and supplements are sold in supermarkets, drug stores, and catalogs. Persons use these approaches without consulting knowledgeable providers. Information related to the use of ACI approaches is often confusing, and many approaches are not supported by research. However, most ACI interventions enhance comfort and result in few dangerous side effects. Psychiatric nurses need to become knowledgeable about these interventions and can serve as a resource to clients by assessing the usefulness of ACI interventions and prescribing them in their practice.