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