The first network of its kind, endorsing an integrative approach to the treatment of mental health has launched a new website in coordination with World Mental Health Week.

RED BANK, N.J., Oct. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The International Network of Integrative Mental Health (INIMH) brings together mental health experts including medical doctors, psychologists, allied health clinicians, and academics who are passionate about improving mental health outcomes for patients by combining complementary and mainstream medicine. It was established to be a resource to mental health professionals, researchers and the general public on the practice of integrated mental healthcare.

Founded in 2010, by 16 mental health pioneers from across the globe, the INIMH now has a board of approximately 24 healthcare professionals with experience in integrative mental healthcare.

A statement provided by INIMH President, Dr. James Lake, and Vice President, Dr. Jerome Sarris reveals that "There is a growing body of statistical and anecdotal evidence indicating that many people are using non-conventional approaches (often in combination with mainstream medicine) to treat mental health conditions."

"Despite this, there has been a deficit in the availability of high-quality information for people to improve their mental health using an integrated approach that combines the 'best of both worlds.'"

"INIMH fills a need for quality, evidence-based information about integrative and complementary medicine approaches in current mental healthcare."

The practice of "integrative mental healthcare" adopts a model that uses an integrated approach to addressing biological, psychological, and sociological determinants of mental illness.

A combination of mainstream interventions such as pharmacological treatments and psychosocial interventions with evidence-based non-conventional therapeutics (such as nutritional medicine, dietary and exercise modification, acupuncture, select herbal medicines, and mindfulness meditation), are often prescribed.

The INIMH announcement incorporates the official launch of its innovative website for clinicians and the public (http://www.inimh.org).The interactive website provides links to resources on integrative mental healthcare; expert-hosted forums; a comprehensive searchable mental healthcare library; and offers networking between clinicians, researchers and the public.

In addition, a White Paper co-authored by Dr. Lake and Dr. Sarris outlines strategic recommendations for advancing integrative mental healthcare, including increasing research in key areas, improving clinician training and education, and promoting a public health agenda.

Link:
World's first network on integrative mental health to improve patient outcomes