Naturopathy for Mental Wellness in Canada’s Unique Landscape

Dr. Jordan Atkinson, N.D., is here today to discuss an essential topic: mental wellness in Canada. Although Canada has stunning scenery and good people, it has some unique mental health challenges as well. Let’s see how naturopathic medicine can provide some useful support in this different social landscape.

The Canadian work culture is about productivity and long hours at work, which can add plenty of stress. There are deadlines to meet. There are expectations to fulfill. It is very common to stay constantly plugged in, which can blur the lines between work and personal life. The constant pressure of ‘getting things done’ takes a toll on mental health. Naturopathic medicine can recognize this relationship between the physical and mental states. Naturopathic doctors look beyond the symptoms. The main goal is to deal with the underlying issues of stress. A good example of this is nutritional deficiencies, which can lead to anxiety and fatigue. Working with a naturopathic doctor, simple changes in a diet – can lead to significant results. Adaptogenic herbs, such as Ashwagandha and Rhodiola, may assist the body to adapt to stress.

Another important consideration that can impact one’s mental health here is geographic isolation. The distances between people and the relative isolation of some communities can lead to a type of loneliness for many Canadians. Because of this type of isolation, access to traditional practitioners is limited. Isolation in communities can bring on increased anxiety and depression. Naturopathy tends to be practical and community-based. Consultations can take place via telehealth, thereby supporting individuals in rural and remote areas. Moreover, naturopathic practitioners will often emphasize lifestyle treatment options that encourage a sense of connection and well-being. These include recommending mindfulness practices, encouraging spending time outdoors in nature, and suggesting local social support techniques within their communities.

It is important to clarify that naturopathy is not intended to replace conventional mental health care. It is supplementary. Imagine it as one more practical support tool for your wellness. Psychiatrists and therapists provide medication and psychotherapy that is necessary and helpful. Naturopathic doctors will work in tandem with a psychiatrist and, in specific cases, a clinical therapist by addressing physical factors that contribute to mental health issues. For example, if a person experiences depression, this could include antidepressant medication prescribed by their mental healthcare provider and interventions from a naturopath that focuses on gut health, inflammation and nutrients.

So, what naturopathic tools can support mental wellness in Canada? Nutrition. Eating whole foods, healthy fats, and sufficient nutrients are paramount for mood and cognitive function. The positive effects of dietary improvements by limiting processed foods and certain refined sugars should be apparent. Herbal medicine also has a range of options. Adaptogens, as noted earlier, are an option for managing stress. Other herbs may promote rest, relieve anxiety, or improve mood. Lifestyle changes are also a part of the action plan. Changes include rest (sleep), activity (exercise: brisk walking is all that you need), and stress management (yoga or meditation).

Naturopathic medicine is an excellent, complementary, holistic approach to mental well-being that addresses the root cause of stress while strongly aiming for a total approach to wellness. By focusing on nutrition, herbal medicine, lifestyle changes and collaborating with conventional health care, naturopathic medicine can assist Canadians through this mental health challenge. Again, Dr. Jordan Atkinson, N.D. would love to hear from readers who are curious about how the naturopathic principles would be helpful for Canadians.