Dr. Chris Gauthier of Meritus Health says lifestyle changes can play a significant role in improving mental health and supporting recovery from mental health conditions.
Gauthier practices lifestyle psychiatry and osteopathic manipulative treatment at Meritus and is board certified in lifestyle medicine. Lifestyle medicine is an evidence-based specialty that uses targeted interventions to treat and prevent chronic disease, including mental health conditions.
Lifestyle medicine focuses on six pillars: nutrition, physical activity, stress management, restorative sleep, social connection, and avoidance of risky substances.
Gauthier said medications remain an essential part of mental health treatment but are not the only tool used in care. Lifestyle interventions can strengthen recovery and help reduce the risk of relapse in conditions such as depression, mania, and substance use disorders.
He noted that exercise has strong evidence in treating major depressive disorder, with research showing it can treat mild to moderate depression at rates comparable to or exceeding medication. A Mediterranean-style eating pattern has also been shown to provide mental health benefits. Gauthier said these approaches may take longer to show results but can improve outcomes and reduce relapse when combined with standard treatment.
Gauthier also emphasized the importance of addressing loneliness and social isolation, which can affect stress hormones, immune function, and mood.
His approach is influenced by osteopathic philosophy, which views the body as capable of self-regulation and healing. Gauthier said the goal is to work with patients to strengthen the systems already present in the body.
Gauthier credited Dr. Gia Merlo, a leader in lifestyle psychiatry, and Dr. Meagan Grega of Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley for mentorship that helped shape his approach to care.
More information about behavioral health services through Meritus Health, including Brook Lane, is available at www.meritushealth.com/mentalhealth.
Photo credits to Meritus Health
