How do patients seeking CAM typically view their health?

Patients seeking Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) often perceive their health in a holistic manner. This view encompasses the idea that health is not just the absence of illness, but rather a dynamic balance of physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

By embracing this holistic perspective, individuals recognize that multiple factors contribute to their overall health. They often see themselves as active participants in their healing process and may prioritize practices that address various aspects of their lives, such as stress reduction, emotional health, and community support, alongside traditional medical care. This integrated approach allows them to view health as a multifaceted concept, rather than attributing it to a single cause or factor.

This understanding of health influences the types of therapies individuals seek, as many CAM practices aim to restore balance and promote wellness across different dimensions of life. Thus, this comprehensive outlook is central to the patient experience within CAM modalities.