Experiences with complementary and integrative medicine in mental healthcare: a qualitative substudy of the PSYKIM project

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Introduction: Complementary and integrative medical procedures (CIM) are commonly used in Germany, including for the treatment of mental health conditions. The aim of the study was to investigate how CIM is used and perceived in outpatient mental healthcare settings. Methods: This qualitative interview study was conducted as part of the PSYKIM cross-sectional project. Twenty participants (15 women, 5 men; mean age 37.5 years, range 19-64) were recruited from a larger survey sample. Semi-structured telephone interviews were used to explore participants' experiences with CIM therapies in the context of mental healthcare. Interview data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis within a constructivist paradigm. Results: The most frequently used CIM therapies were yoga, acupuncture, meditation, art therapy, and progressive muscle relaxation (PMR). Thematic analysis identified four overarching experiential dimensions across therapies: (1) emotional regulation and inner calm, (2) individual prerequisites and ambivalent effects, (3) creative expression and emotional processing, and (4) the influence of therapeutic setting. CIM therapies were experienced in highly heterogeneous ways. While many interviewed participants reported symptom relief, improved wellbeing, and enhanced self-awareness through CIM therapies, others described frustration, emotional distress, or a lack of effect. Overall, experiences were highly individualized and influenced by factors such as personal readiness, the therapeutic environment, and group dynamics. Conclusion: The highly heterogeneous ways in which patients with mental health conditions experience CIM therapies underscore the need for individualized implementation, professional guidance, and open communication about both benefits and potential risks. Future research should investigate how multimodal interventions that combine CIM with conventional treatments can be individually tailored and contextually adapted to improve mental health outcomes. Trial registration: This study has been registered in the German Clinical Trial Registry with trial ID DRKS00032426 on 08.08.2023.

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