Alternative treatment for depression

I have recently been diagnosed with depression. I don't want to take antidepressants, so what other options are there for me?

There are alternative treatments for depression. It should be noted that a health treatment that is not classified as standard Western medical practice, is referred to as "alternative" or "complementary." Alternative therapy encompasses a variety of approaches. These approaches include everything from diet and exercise, to mental conditioning, and lifestyle changes.

If you have considered alternative treatments such as: herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements, for your depression, you are not alone. Many people with depression have considered them, and best of all they are widely available over the counter. Some people, who are diagnosed with depression, worry about taking antidepressants. There have been lots of negative press for this type of medication, and many people suffering with depression, worry about side effects. If you have decided that antidepressants are not for you, there are alternative treatments to explore. There are both vitamin and other supplements that many people are using to treat their depression.

It is important to note however that there is no established research on how well these remedies work. While some vitamins and herbal supplements may be promising alternative treatments for depression, anyone considering this type of treatment needs to understand that the research is still ongoing. The efficacy of alternative treatment (non antidepressant) has not been scientifically proven. However, it is agreed by most experts that if your depression symptoms are in part due to some sort of nutritional deficiency, you may benefit from additional vitamin supplementation, but this should be on the advice of your healthcare professional.

If you decide to try natural and herbal supplements, it is important to remember that they can have side effects, and drug or food interactions. For example, St. John's Wort (a promising herb used for treatment for mild to moderate depression), can interfere with prescription drugs such as blood thinners, birth control pills, and prescription antidepressants.

It cannot be stressed enough that any herbal supplement should be treated just like a medication. It requires caution, and should be taken only after consulting your doctor. Your doctor can help you weigh the risks and potential benefits. That way, you can make an informed decision. It is crucial to make sure your doctor, and/or therapist knows exactly what you are taking.

There are other alternative treatments that can be used as well. These can be used with vitamin or herbal supplements, or alone. These include:

• Relaxation techniques-Research is still ongoing but most people find that relaxation techniques may not only help relieve symptoms of depression, but also reduce stress, and boost feelings of joy, and well-being. Many people who have depression find that these techniques allow them to gain control, of their symptoms, and therefore treat them more effectively, with whatever method they choose. These techniques include: yoga, deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation.


• Acupuncture-This is the technique of using fine needles, on specific points, on the body for therapeutic purposes. This is increasingly being investigated as a treatment for depression, with some research studies showing promising results. It is advised that if you decide to try acupuncture, make sure that you find a licensed qualified professional.


• Massage therapy- Massage uses touch in order to provide relaxation. Users of this technique should understand that most touch therapies, are based on the premises that the mind and body are interconnected, and that physical health and emotional well being, are closely linked.That is the general principle behind the various types of massage, including: shiatsu, neuromuscular therapy, spinal release therapy, Swedish, and the sports variation. The basic premise is that, when the body is relaxed, the mind contributes to better health, less depression, and overall well-being.