What is a holistic approach?

​At a glance

A holistic approach means to provide support that looks at the whole person, not just their mental health needs. The support should also consider their physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing.

Each person will have a different experience of mental illness and a path to recovery that is influenced by their age, gender, culture, heritage, language, faith, sexual and gender identity, relationship status, life experience and beliefs.

It is important not to assume that how you interpret situations will be the same as the person you are supporting. Listening, asking and checking are key skills to be able to provide a holistic service. A holistic approach focusses on a person’s wellness and not just their illness or condition.

Resources

The whole person
This is a link to Pat’s story and his journey to turn his life around.
Type: Web page
Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
Produced by: Mental Health Commission of NSW

Definition of 'holistic'
This web page includes a summary of how to respond holistically to a client. Scroll down for a useful case study. In order to access the page, you will need to set up an account.
Type: Web page
Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
Produced by: QCOSS Community Door

Respond holistically to client issues
This is a free online training course designed to assist in establishing relationships with clients and responding holistically to their issues. In order to access the training, you will need to set up an account.
Type: eLearning
Produced by: QCOSS Community Door