Approximately one-third of Americans rely on natural therapies, survey finds

By Staff Writer

Many parents are hesitant to allow their children to take prescription drugs to treat a social or emotional disorder.

These individuals may be pleased to know that an increasing number of Americans are turning to mind-body therapies, such as yoga and meditation, to treat certain ailments. According to researchers from Harvard Medical School and the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, more than one-third of U.S. citizens use some form of alternative medicine.

The findings are based on a survey of more than 23,000 U.S. households.

Although the study's authors said that certain conditions require prescription medication, many people have started to see the physical and psychological benefits of treatments that do not require chemicals.

Many adolescents who suffer from anxiety disorders or depression may seek pharmaceutical drugs to alleviate their symptoms. However, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health reveals that prescription drug abuse among teens exceeds marijuana use.

Pending a doctor's opinion, parents can seek other forms of treatment such as a summer camps for kids. These programs offer natural therapies that are designed to help troubled teens.