Any form of therapy that strays away from traditional medicinal approach can be classified as alternative therapies. In terms of depression, antidepressants are usually quite common forms of treatment for in most cases. However, since these medications are known to have some discomforting side effects, an increasing number of people have started going for alternative therapies for depression. These alternatives to antidepressants are aimed at solving the problem of depression from the roots. This is why alternative therapies are gaining more popularity in comparison to antidepressants which usually only tackle the peripheral symptoms of depression.
Use of Herbal Therapy
One of the most popular alternative therapies for personality disorder symptoms is herbal therapy. In this area, St. John’s wort is certainly the most popular type of herbal therapy for depression. This herb has been used across the globe for centuries. Though research findings are yet to confirm the efficacy of these alternative therapies for depression, people who have used herbal therapy for depression have been quite satisfied overall. However, you must be aware of alternative therapy effects from herbs before you start the use of these herbs. Some of these herbs can interact with other medication you may be on so it always makes sense to consult your doctor before beginning the use of any of these herbs.
Meditation and Yoga
On the other hand, meditation and yoga are considered to be completely safe as alternative therapies since there is no fear of interaction or side effects. Meditation can also be considered to be an altered state of mind bringing about a sense of relaxation which is great to treat depression. This is one of the leading benefits of alternative therapies like meditation and yoga. Again, yoga involves both exercise as well as meditation. This again is a great way to attain guided imagery as well as muscle relaxation. These benefits of alternative therapies are highly useful in countering depression. However, in terms of yoga, alternative therapy effects may also put the individual at the risk of minor or major injuries so make sure you carry it out under the right kind of guidance.
Massage Therapy
In order to make the most of benefits of alternative therapies for depression, you can also consider something like massage therapy. Massage therapy is a great way to relax muscles in the body and release all the built up tension. This therapy works on the belief that the body and the mind are closely connected making it that much more important to have a relaxed body to have the same effect on the mind.
Exercise
When it comes to positive alternative therapy effects, exercise is surely one of the best ways to make the most of these benefits. Different types of exercises help individuals release stress and feel relaxed at the same time. Again, exercise is also known to boost the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that promotes mood regulation making it very important to fight the effects of depression. On the other hand, doing the right kind of exercises are extremely important to enjoy the desired effects.