00036 Managing Depression. Dr. Kalitenko explains his Holistic approach to Depression Management to Ari Kagan .
: An In-Depth Conversation with Ari Kagan
[Introduction] Depression is a complex and challenging condition that affects millions of people worldwide. To shed light on this topic, we sat down with Dr. Sergey Kalitenko, a renowned holistic physician, to discuss his unique approach to depression management. In this candid conversation with Ari Kagan, Dr. Kalitenko provides valuable insights and explores the holistic methods he employs to help patients find balance and embark on a journey towards healing.
[Body] Ari Kagan: Thank you, Dr. Kalitenko, for joining us today. Let’s begin by delving into your holistic approach to managing depression. Could you explain how it differs from conventional methods?
Dr. Kalitenko: Absolutely, Ari. Conventional approaches to depression often focus solely on addressing the symptoms through medication. While medication can be helpful, it often overlooks the underlying causes and fails to provide a comprehensive solution. My holistic approach takes into account the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit, aiming to restore balance and promote overall well-being.
Ari Kagan: That sounds fascinating. Could you elaborate on the various components of your holistic approach?
Dr. Kalitenko: Certainly. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of personalized care. Every individual is unique, and their experience with depression is no exception. I conduct a thorough evaluation to understand the patient’s medical history, lifestyle factors, and any underlying imbalances. From there, I create a tailored treatment plan that may include a combination of nutritional support, lifestyle adjustments, hormone optimization, and mind-body techniques.
Ari Kagan: Can you give us some examples of the mind-body techniques you employ?
Dr. Kalitenko: Absolutely, Ari. Mind-body techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy can be powerful tools in managing depression. They help patients develop self-awareness, gain control over their thoughts and emotions, and cultivate a positive mindset. Additionally, I often incorporate techniques like acupuncture, yoga, and massage therapy to further support the mind-body connection.
Ari Kagan: How does nutrition play a role in your holistic approach?
Dr. Kalitenko: Nutrition plays a vital role in our overall well-being, including mental health. Imbalances in our gut microbiome can contribute to depression and other mood disorders. Therefore, I focus on optimizing patients’ nutrition by recommending a whole foods-based diet, incorporating essential nutrients, and addressing any potential food sensitivities or allergies. By nourishing the body with proper nutrition, we can positively impact the mind and mood.
Ari Kagan: That’s fascinating, Dr. Kalitenko. How about hormone optimization? How does that factor into depression management?
Dr. Kalitenko: Hormonal imbalances can significantly impact mental health. For instance, imbalances in hormones such as cortisol, thyroid hormones, and sex hormones can contribute to depressive symptoms. Through comprehensive testing, I identify any imbalances and develop a customized hormone optimization plan. This can involve hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle modifications, and targeted supplementation to restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms of depression.
Ari Kagan: It’s clear that your approach focuses on a comprehensive understanding of the individual and their unique needs. How have your patients responded to this holistic approach?
Dr. Kalitenko: I’ve been privileged to witness remarkable transformations in my patients. By addressing the root causes and providing holistic support, I have seen individuals regain their joy, energy, and sense of purpose. It’s truly rewarding to witness the power of a holistic approach in managing depression and empowering patients to take control of their well-being.
