PART 1.

Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:

The unfamiliarity with and uncertainty about CAM is a reality, but its proponents can be guides and coaches for others.

Consider the following scenario: Your friend tells you she is considering CAM and would like your advice as to whether she should try it or not. She would like to know what issues you think she should consider. What would you tell her?

Discuss the advice you would give her.

PART 2.

2 responses…….

Response 1. If it where my friend, I personally feel it would depend on a few factors such as what is the diagnosis, what is the prognosis and how is it currently affecting the activities of daily living. It focuses on a holistic approach to treat one’s entire being including their spirituality, mental and physical wellness as opposed to just the condition he or she is facing at the moment. It is done with procedures such as chiropractic medicine, acupuncture, herbal medicine, diet and exercise. Although CAM can be beneficial for the most part, it is not always the best choice for everyone. “Compared to conventional medical procedures, scientific research and studies on alternative medicine is still very limited” (Thomas, 2018). Mainstream medicine is sometimes tricky as there can be side effects, everything practiced is evidence based. With that being said, I would tell my friend to choose the route that best meets their need and desired outcome.

Response 2. In response, to how I would respond to a friend that was considering Cam, I believe it would depend on the severity of what their health problem is. Western drugs are designed to treat a certain issue that in studies may reduce symptoms and allow the recovery of the patient with side affects that many people these days take notice of. Complementary medicine is used with traditional western medicine to treat someone for example herbs or vitamin supplements. Alternative medicine has its place with the well-being mental status of a person. These practices include stress relieving practices like meditation, yoga, and prayer.

As a friend, I would listen to their response of what their diagnosis was and who made the diagnoses. Then encourage them, depending on the diagnosis and reputation of the Dr. and facility, to try the traditional route keeping in mind alternative and complementary medicine. If a person has a severe chronic condition it is best to listen to the proven Doctor in his field to take traditional medicine. I have experienced this and have found that a combination of CAM and traditional medicine helps speed up recovery if all are in place. All doctors say everyone responds differently to medicines and I feel that it is related to the spiritual well-being of the person with the supervision of great doctors.

Responses do not need to be long.