Alternative Therapies for Depression and Anxiety
Course Overview
The prevalence of mental illness continues to increase across the world and in North America, with depression and anxiety representing the most common forms of mental illness. Although the symptoms of depression and anxiety experienced by many people may not be regarded as severe, even mild to moderate symptoms can be debilitating and difficult to manage. Many patients may be interested in pursuing alternative therapies for the management of their mild or moderate symptoms. These alternative therapies can span a wide range of options, from exercise to acupuncture, and from herbs to vitamins. They may be used in conjunction with established, evidence-based treatments or on their own. Understanding the reasons that these products are used, as well as their actual risks and benefits, will allow healthcare professionals to help patients sift through the hype, avoid dangerous products, and select treatment options that are most likely to offer benefit.
Learning Outcomes
Upon the completion of this course, the learner should be able to:
- Discuss the prevalence and severity of depression and anxiety in the U.S. adult population.
- Provide counseling points for the safe and effective use of alternative modalities for anxiety and depression.
- Review the evidence for herbal supplements commonly used for depression and anxiety.
- Compare the evidence for vitamins and minerals in the management of mental health.
- Consider the evidence for safe and appropriate use of alternative therapies during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
About the Author/Presenter
Chelsey McIntyre, PharmD, is a clinical pharmacist who specializes in drug information, literature analysis, and medical writing. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Genetics from the University of California, Davis. She then went on to complete her PharmD at Creighton University, followed by a clinical residency at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Dr. McIntyre held the position of Drug Information and Policy Development Pharmacist at CHOP until her move to Washington state in 2017, after which she spent the next six years as a clinical editor for Natural Medicines, a clinical reference database focused on natural products and alternative therapies. She continues to create rigorous professional analysis and patient education materials for various publications while also practicing as a hospital pharmacist. Her professional interests include provider and patient education, as well as the application of evidence-based research to patient care.
Audience/Accreditations and Approvals
TRC Healthcare/ NetCE
In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by TRC Healthcare/ NetCE. TRC Healthcare/NetCE is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
This course is designed for the following healthcare professions (select your profession for details):
Counselor, Nursing, Pharmacy, Physician, Psychology, Social Work
If you require special accommodations, please contact Colibri Healthcare Support by clicking here: Contact Us
