Armchair Doctors

I belong to many Facebook groups. Some I have purposely joined, while friends have added me to others to learn or share my knowledge. Over the past year, I have seen an uptick in people taking their medical needs to Facebook. Why, oh why, are we asking complete strangers on a Facebook group for advice on our health!? These people know NOTHING about us. They are most likely not even educated or qualified to be giving any answers in the first place.

I know I have been guilty of it in the past. I just wanted a quick and simple answer for something basic. "Hey, my child has this rash, anyone have any idea what it is"? I have even gone to Pinterest for a "cure all" recipe years ago. I didn't honestly think I was doing anything wrong at the time. Now, looking back, I can't believe I did that.

Understanding the human body takes time, effort and education. Jumping on a Facebook page, Pinterest, or "doctor Google" for health advice is never advised. Besides, do you really want to listen to a doctor, aromatherapist, herbalist or anyone who is going to willy nilly give you information regarding YOUR health? I mean really, honestly? These people know nothing about you, or your history. They don't know what kind of food you eat, how well you sleep, what medications you are on, what allergies you have or family history. THEY KNOW NOTHING specific to you! And the cryptic question you just asked, how would anyone know what is truly needed to help you?

Now, I am not saying that you should put your medical history out there. No, please don't do that. What I am saying is, you need to go to your doctor, or holistic specialist to work with you and get to the root of the actual issue. Who that is will depend on your needs and views. It could be a physician, or perhaps a naturopath, maybe an herbalist, nutritionist, aromatherapist or homeopath. Whomever you decide to work with, research them and their education. Do they resonate with you? Do you think they are qualified to answer your questions or recommend proper remedies to help? Also remember, not every doctor or medical professional may be trained in the modality in which you seek advice. Ask for credentials, we are more than happy to share our education with you!

One of the worst things you can do is turn to Facebook, Pinterest or any other type of social media to look for a diagnosis or treatment plan. These people have no vested interest in you and honestly, may not even be giving you correct information. I see it daily. Essential oils are all the rage and can be very dangerous when used improperly. Yet, EVERY DAY someone suggests to another person to just put a "couple drops" of essential oil in their water, their mouth or use them undiluted.

I know the people making suggestions are not doing so with malicious intent. Most of us love to help others. If we feel we have the knowledge, we like to share it. The bad thing is, not always do we know what we are sharing is incorrect or harmful. None of us get up each morning and think "how can I hurt someone today", but it does happen.

Please do yourself a favor and go through proper channels when seeking advice for health-related issues. You may be saving yourself and your family a lot of pain, heartache and grief. If you have any questions, my door is always open. Please send me an email at melissa@sweetwillowspirit.com. If you are interested in booking a consultation, send a message. We can talk to see if I would be a good fit for you. Have a wonderful day!

Love and light,

Melissa