Alternative methods of treating depression

Many people prefer to treat depression with non-drug methods that help them cope with the problem and improve their mood. Non-traditional and home remedies are suitable for mild types of the disease. At the same time, there is no definitive evidence that treating severe depression without medication and psychotherapy will yield a positive result. Therefore, before starting treatment, you should consult a doctor and learn more about alternative therapies.

What is alternative treatment for depression?

Treatment that is not part of standard Western medical practice is called complementary or alternative medicine. It can include various methods of getting rid of the disease, from diet and exercise to psychological training and lifestyle changes. It also includes:

• Acupuncture;
• Aromatherapy;
• Biofeedback;
• Manual therapy;
• Guided imagery;
• Dietary supplements;
• Hypnosis;
• Massage;
• Meditation;
• Relaxation;
• Yoga.

Let's take a look at whether depression can be treated if you don't use traditional medical approaches.

Herbal preparations and supplements

St. John's wort is a popular herbal supplement used for depression. This herb has been used in global medical practice for thousands of years. At the same time, research results have shown different results. St. John's wort has shown itself to be the best in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. 5-HTP and SAMe are other types of supplements that scientists have studied to combat depression.

Before taking herbal supplements, it is better to consult a doctor, because when interacting with various medications, they can pose a health risk to people with other physical ailments. A specialist will be able to take into account all the risks and real benefits of such a supplement so that you can make the right decision.

Meditation and yoga

Sometimes meditation is associated with an altered state of consciousness, as it helps to relax and cope with depression.

Yoga is a part of meditation, during which a person takes different postures and uses different breathing techniques. It also helps to completely relax. Since there are a large number of yoga practices, some of them are not recommended for patients with certain medical conditions. Some evidence suggests that yoga provides relief from depression, but this information is not fully confirmed.

Massage therapy

Most tactile therapies are based on the mind-body connection, meaning that a person's physical health and emotional state are closely related. Therefore, experts believe that when a person's body is in a relaxed state, their mind is able to contribute to better health, reduced signs of depression, and an overall improvement in their emotional state.

There is also information that exercises designed for the mind and body in combination with various massage techniques can make a person calm and confident.

Physical exercises

Different types of exercise can reduce stress levels, relax and alleviate symptoms of depression. They also help to restore balance, flexibility, and energy. Thus, treating depression without medication through exercise is the safest, most effective, and easiest way to fight the disease. However, before starting training, you should consult a doctor to ensure that excessive exercise does not harm your health.

Guided imagery

Guided imagery is a relaxation technique used by some professionals in combination with biofeedback. When drawing such images in the head, a person will think of positive mental pictures, such as sea waves, warm sunlight, or green grass. The images can also be aimed at a complete recovery from depression. Patients who use this type of therapy say that positive imagery helps them cope with depression and improve their emotional state.

Music therapy

It has long been known that music is a natural catalyst for the human spirit and its state of mind. The famous philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras used music therapy as early as the 6th century BC. Also during the Second World War, volunteers played music for wounded soldiers during their stay in a hospital for veterans. This practice showed such positive results that the VA added music therapy to its program.

For this treatment, you need to have a CD player, mp3 player or a cell phone with headphones. A person just needs to choose their favorite music and enjoy a pleasant therapy. This method of treating depression can be very effective and useful for patients of all ages, as it helps to remove anxiety, relieve stress, eliminate feelings of fear, grief, and other symptoms of the disease.