Holistic treatment is based on the concept that there are many contributing factors possible of affecting a person’s well-being, and each of these factors should be taken into consideration when assessing someone’s health. Treating a person with a holistic-based approach means taking the entire person into account; this includes their physical, social and mental being. Holistic healing dates back 5,000 years, originating in China and India. These holistic healers expressed a healthy way of living that was in harmony with nature and each part of a person. Treating a person holistically means treating them on every one of these important levels. Many doctors and therapists overlook a person’s emotions and treat their physical body while others disregard physical pain and only look at their mental state, without any regard for emotions. A person can be stable emotionally and physically, but may need help mentally and spiritually. These areas are interdependent and make up the human being. Disregarding one in favor of another is not treating the entire person. When a person is not treated holistically, relapses and other issues are more likely to arise. Working on one’s life purpose is a major part of addiction therapy. A patient may recognize their addiction problem and habit as a negative way of life, but without knowing what their path should be, it is difficult to get started on it. Holistic therapy can improve mental and emotional health because it is a comprehensive approach allowing the patient feel whole. Without this feeling of completeness, it can be difficult to move on with normal life once therapy and treatment is over. Focusing on every different aspect of a patient’s being is important for getting them on their path to final recovery. (photo via)
