Gia Merlo MD

Lifestyle psychiatry is an emerging branch of mental health care that emphasizes the integration of lifestyle factors into treatment strategies for various psychiatric conditions or for overall well-being. 

 

Distinct from complementary and alternative medicine, lifestyle psychiatry employs a conventional medicine lens to the causes of mental health illnesses and focuses on lifestyle interventions. These interventions can be used in addition to medication and psychotherapy for people who experience psychiatric conditions.  

 

Lifestyle psychiatry is an evidence-based field targeting behavioral change, brain health, patient well-being, and reducing patient stigma. Lifestyle psychiatry takes a comprehensive approach, considering the impact of nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and other lifestyle choices on mental well-being.

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In lifestyle psychiatry, practitioners recognize that lifestyle factors play a significant role in the development, progression, and management of mental health disorders. For example, research has shown strong associations between dietary patterns and mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Similarly, inadequate sleep or poor sleep quality can exacerbate symptoms of conditions like bipolar disorder and ADHD.

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By addressing lifestyle factors, lifestyle psychiatry aims to optimize mental health outcomes and reduce reliance on medications alone. This approach empowers individuals to take an active role in their mental health by making positive lifestyle changes that support overall well-being. Lifestyle interventions may include personalized nutrition plans, exercise prescriptions, sleep hygiene strategies, stress reduction techniques, and mindfulness practices.

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