Talk or Medicate?

Six ways to heal trauma without medication, from the author of “The Body Keeps the Score,” Bessel van der Kolk.

Conventional psychiatric practices often advise us that if we feel bad, take this drug and it will go away. However, after years of research with some of the top psychiatric practitioners in the world, it has been found that drugs simply don’t work that well for many, and our conventional ways of healing trauma need to change. More recently, researchers in the study of trauma have been experimenting with ‘new age’ healing mechanisms that are making massive waves for trauma patients. Some of these new healing methods include psychotherapy, EMDR, yoga, psychodrama and movement, the arts including creative writing and painting, neural feedback and even psychedelics. Many of these methods have proven to be more effective than conventional pharmaceuticals. Do note, what works for you might not work for your friend or neighbour. Always check your therapist is properly qualified and supported through supervision. Ask before you commit!