Many people seek complementary and alternative approaches to domestic violence. Understanding the evidence base helps make informed choices.
Complementary Approaches with Evidence for Domestic Violence
Acupuncture: Several studies show modest effects on domestic violence symptoms, particularly for anxiety and pain-related presentations.
Yoga: One of the best-evidenced complementary approaches — multiple mechanisms relevant to domestic violence.
Massage therapy: Reduces cortisol and increases serotonin — documented effects on domestic violence symptom severity.
Supplements: Omega-3s, magnesium, and vitamin D have meaningful evidence for some domestic violence presentations.
Complementary Approaches with Limited Evidence for Domestic Violence
Crystal healing, homeopathy, and many energy medicine approaches lack scientific evidence for domestic violence. Risk of harm is low, but opportunity cost of forgoing evidence-based treatment is real.
Using Complementary Approaches Safely for Domestic Violence
Complementary approaches work best as additions to, not replacements for, evidence-based domestic violence treatment. Always inform your healthcare providers of everything you're using.