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As a future mental health nurse practitioner, what are ways I can provide a more holistic care approach for my patients when faced with lack of state funding and budget cuts?

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Nancy’s Answer

Nicole, this is a good question, since budget cuts mean fewer services covered by state programs. When I worked in community mental health, I learned as much as I could about free programs and services in the community. For example, support groups are often free, such as Alanon or CHADD. Sometimes community centers assign fees for recreational programs on a sliding scale, based on ability to pay. Sometimes educational programs have scholarships. Nowadays it is possible to do internet searches for free programs based on your individual patients' needs. Another avenue is to coordinate a free program at a public facility or worksite by asking a professional or professionals to lead classes for free. Often they are willing to do this in hopes of developing new clients. I have done this with a meditation teacher who is coming to a support group relating to environmental health to teach us mindfulness. Sometimes one free program is enough to change a patient's life. A third resource may be specific to a type of illness. For example, cancer support centers have a wide range of holistic services for free where I live.

Nancy recommends the following next steps:

Research supports online relating to different medical needs/services
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JOHN’s Answer

Besides the tremendous answer by Nancy Camp, holistic approaches can vary widely in the elements that can be gratefully beneficial. Sunlight, nature, walking, and herbs like Ashwagandha that help reduce anxiety, stress, and depression are all possibilities that can help. I think it was mentioned that 2+ hours out in nature can reduce depression and/or stress by like 80%.

Also, for Ashwagandha, "In one controlled 60-day study in 64 stressed adults, those who took 600 mg of high-concentration ashwagandha extract per day reported a 79% reduction in severe depression, while the placebo group reported a 10% increase".

I have sent e-mails to hospitals, cities, countries, and various establishments about this type of holistic medicine approach. Open-air treatment and a department for laughter like a Patch Adams to awaken more elements that can brighten one's existence through simple steps.

In regards to laughter "When people watch comedies, their blood flow increases by 22% and when they watched graphic war movies, their blood flow decreases by 35%. The studies in Japan even show a more balanced blood sugar in diabetics when they watch comedies and laugh”.

Just some thoughts to possibly help.

Thank you for your time and the tremendous care and love you have to ask such to help others.

God Bless,

John German

JOHN recommends the following next steps:

Maybe take a minor in holistic medicines and/or seek out school organizations that integrate holistic approaches. Knowledge can awaken more knowledge.
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