Alternative Treatments for Depression

There are many types of alternative treatments for depression. Those who do not respond to antidepressants and those who do not want to take prescription medicines due to their high cost and unpleasant side effects resort to safe and effective alternative treatments for depression. Alternative treatments and lifestyle changes not only help alleviate depression symptoms safely, but they also help improve your overall health. Some of the best types of alternative treatments for depression include herbal remedies, Yoga, Omega 3, Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, Aromatherapy and Diet and Exercise.

Herbal Remedies

The effects of alternative treatments or a natural mood booster for depression are more, if you opt for herbal remedies. St. John’s Wort is an effective herb that helps relieve many depression symptoms. It is believed that the herb prevents nerve cells in the brain from absorbing serotonin over and again and reduces protein levels in the functioning of body’s immune system. Many studies show that St. John’s Wort helps people with mild depression to get rid of symptoms quickly. It may interfere with medications that are used to treat cancer, heart disease and seizure, so it is important to consult with a doctor before taking this herb.

Yoga

Yoga is a gentle form of exercise that helps manage stress more efficiently. The breathing exercise in Yoga can help you get relief from various depression symptoms easily and safely. It helps alleviate day to day stress and anxiety and enhances relaxation.

Omega 3

Omega 3 is one of the safest and most effective alternative treatments for depression. Omega 3 is found in fish like tuna, salmon, mackerel and swordfish. In addition to providing the effects of alternative treatment for depression, Omega 3 helps improve the health of your skin and overall physical health.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can help alleviate depression symptoms by encouraging changes in the brain chemicals, which cause a great sense of relaxation and calmness. It also reduces the stress hormone levels that cause depression. However, it is important to get massage therapy from a well trained, experienced professional.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is one of the best types of alternative treatments for depression. It involves using essential oils like lavender oil and rosemary, which help produce positive emotional as well as psychological reactions. It affects the nervous system and relieves anxiety and tension. The essential oils used in aromatherapy helps to balance and relax the nervous system more effectively.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the oldest alternative treatments for depression. It involves stimulating specific areas in your body by inserting fine needle just beneath the skin surface. Acupuncture helps relieve stress, nervous tension, anxiety and depression.

Diet and Exercise

The effects of alternative treatments for depression can be more, if right diet and exercise programs are incorporated into your schedule. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause depression. Taking foods rich in Vitamin B and magnesium or taking supplements can help mitigate depression symptoms. Exercise is one of the simplest ways to alleviate depression symptoms. It offers significant mood enhancing benefits.  Just walking for 20 to 30 minutes a day can help you keep depression at bay. You can also consider some other physical activities like swimming, jogging, playing tennis or gardening that you like most to get maximum benefits.