How to Best Cure Depression Without Drugs

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By yummers
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Best Cure Depression Without Drugs

Throughout their lives, most people can expect to experience a bout of depression or they may know someone close to them who does. Often, the side effects of pharmaceutical drugs taken to treat depression can be even worse than the condition itself. This article was designed to help someone who may be suffering from mild depression and for whatever reason feels that pharmaceutical drugs are not an appropriate solution to their problem.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Step 1

Cardiovascular exercise. This is one of the most powerful, natural antidepressants around. Granted, when one is depressed, going for a run may seem nearly impossible. Even a short, 10 - 15 minute jog will oxygenate the blood, cause the body to secrete endorphins (a natural source of pleasure) and create a change in mood.
Step 2

Meditation. Buddhists have been known to refer to meditation as 'the science of happiness'. There are a variety of psychological as well as physical benefits attributed to meditation. Take a comfortable seated position with good, alert posture and simply pay attention to your breath. Start with as little as three minutes a day and gradually work your way up to 20.
Step 3

Nutrition. Think of the saying "garbage in, garbage out." The foods we eat have an even greater impact on our psychological state then you might imagine. Major culprits include: sugar, caffeine, processed foods as well as many drugs -both illicit as well as some prescribed by your doctor!

Tips & Warnings

It can be very helpful to keep a journal and take note when you notice your mood going up or down. Being aware of what affects your mood on a personal level can do wonders in helping you take control of your emotional state.
This article is not meant to diagnose or treat clinical depression. There are certain kinds of depression which do require the use of pharmaceutical drugs and or professional counseling. If you feel you may fit into this category, do not hesitate to seek professional help.