Nature’s Best
Your university life may be afflicted with constant bouts of exhaustion, poor sleep, anxiety and stress. You brush these off, deeming them as inevitable and temporary side-effects of your busy lifestyle. As the semester carries on, you notice the effects becoming more prominent and settling deeper by the day. A health-care professional may not seem like the right person to ask about some seemingly trivial concerns but it’s about time that you begin to uncover the real problem, and the Student Wellness Centre’s (SWC) naturopathic doctor can help!
Naturopathy in Canada is defined as a distinct primary care system, using natural medicine to treat an array of health concerns. Naturopathic services have been at the SWC clinic for 14 years and have helped many students by using an array of modalities. By addressing the root cause of the problem while using a holistic and client-centred approach, naturopathic doctors are able to tackle pervasive issues impacting a students ability to function throughout their life.
I’m already seeing a medical doctor at the SWC, can I see a naturopathic doctor as well?
Many times, people feel as if you can’t see both, or that you have to pick one or the other. Health-care professionals at the SWC clinic believe you can see as many health care providers that you feel correspond to your needs, giving you more choice in treatments and different perspectives. Naturopathic doctors are well versed in topics like pharmacology and their practice can complement those of medical doctors.
Can I still benefit from seeing a naturopathic doctor if I don’t have a diagnosis of a condition or disease?
Naturopathy is not specified for those with a diagnosis and you don’t need to have a definitive concern to see a doctor. If you aren’t feeling at your 100%, you can see a naturopathic doctor to allow your body to become as healthy and balanced as it can be.
What can I expect at an appointment with the Naturopathic Doctor at the SWC?
Dr. Rita Patel, ND is at the SWC clinic every Friday and is always excited to meet with new patients! Similarly to an appointment with a medical doctor, you can book an appointment with Dr. Patel, ND by calling 905-525-9140 ext. 27700. Your first appointment will be be an assessment of your concerns with relevant treatment provided.. This typically lasts 30 minutes and students can leave with a better understanding of their health and how to improve it. Consecutive visits will follow the student’s timeline and needs. Note: Naturopathic services are covered by many insurance plans and is 80% covered by the MSU Health Plan.
Special thanks to Dr. Rita Patel, Naturopathic Doctor at the McMaster SWC Clinic for sharing her knowledge and passion for her work in naturopathy.
By: Jin Ming Wang
Addictions, Mental Health & Mental Illness, Physical Health, Sexual Health, Stress Management