Understanding and Treating Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Using the Six Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

Abstract

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a health condition that has been increasing in occurrence due to a high number of traumatic events individuals have been experiencing around the world as well as the awareness of the effects of such traumatic events on individuals. There are several effective treatment options available for those who have PTSD. This includes conventional therapies, as well as complementary and alternative medicine approaches. Naturopathic Medicine is one field of medicine that can be utilized by patients with PTSD seeking safe and effective treatments. A complete understanding of PTSD including risk factors, symptoms and neurophysiology is important in determining an appropriate treatment plan for patients. Knowing that each case presentation may be different will play a role in providing the most effective individualized treatment plan. With the increased understanding of PTSD, there are many ways to approach a PTSD case, one of which can involve the use of the six principles of Naturopathic Medicine. This approach uses a variety of modalities as part of an effective treatment plan. It will take into account the individuality of each case as well as constitute a holistic approach to each presenting PTSD patient. This thesis/poster aims to link the six principles of Naturopathic Medicine to aspects of PTSD that allows for us to understand and potentially treat PTSD.