Orthomolecular Psychiatry

Background

The first major practitioner of this system was Abram Hoffer in the 1950’s. He used niacin and other nutrients to treat acute schizophrenia. Linus Pauling coined the term “orthomolecular” in 1968. It is believed that any beneficial results from drugs can equally be gained by the use of natural substances.

This system addresses the causes of psychiatric disorders such as psychosis. This entails individualized biochemical testing, dietary changes, identification of any allergies, fasting, and vitamin therapy. Practitioners check for heavy metal intoxication, food allergies, hypothyroidism, and hypoglycemia.

This form of psychiatry offers another viable adjunct or alternative to traditional methods. Especially when mainstream methods are not producing any significant results, we owe it to ourselves and our families to explore other modalities. For example, manic depression medication does not always work, and does have undesirable side effects. There has been much research and evidence to support the use of omega-3 fatty acids in treating bipolar symptoms. Click here for the Transforming Child Behavior Home Page..

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