How to Find Alternative Treatments for Depression

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By CM Herold
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Having the blues or feeling down time to time is normal; however, sometimes depression and despair are constant feelings affecting everyday life. If you're suffering from depression and are looking for alternative treatments for depression, check out the steps below.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Try taking St. John's wort as an alternative for treating depression. According to the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2002, St. John's wort helps mild to moderate depression. The research reveals that St. John's wort works as well as older tricyclic antidepressants. St. John's wort helps increase serotonin levels. There may be mild side effects such as sensitivity to light, dry mouth and dizziness; however most people find the benefits outweigh the mild side effects. There are medications and other supplements that interact with St. John's wort, so make sure to check with a doctor or pharmacist about any drug interactions.
Step 2

Start a regular exercise program as an alternative to medication to treat depression. Ongoing research dating back to 1981 reveals a regular exercise program can improve mild depression and plays an important role treating severe depression. For the best results, exercise at least 35 minutes a day six to seven times a week. Start a fast walking or jogging program. Keep in mind that it may take a few weeks or more of regular exercise to experience improvement.
Step 3

Meditate every day to ease symptoms of depression. Taking a few minutes during the day. Find a quiet, relaxing place. Close your eyes, and focus on a work like peace or tranquility. Repeat the word over and over while slowly tensing and then relaxing the muscles in your body. Start with your feet. Move up your legs towards your waist, arms and finally neck and face muscles.
Step 4

Try acupuncture as an alternative treatment for depression. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese method of healing. Make sure to find an acupuncturist who is state certified. Most insurance companies cover acupuncture.
Step 5

Check out music therapy as an alternative treatment for depression. Take time each day to listen to whatever type of music you enjoy.
Step 6

Spend a few minutes out in the sun each day as an alternative treatment for depression. Studies show that people who get some sun each day experience less depression.
Step 7

Opt for a healthy diet to improve symptoms of depression. Avoid sugar, alcohol, nicotine and high-glycemic carbohydrates. High-glycemic carbohydrates are found in bread, processed foods and foods that contain a lot of sugar. Foods that help symptoms of depression are omega-3s, brown rice, oatmeal and cabbage. Drink plenty of water and avoid carbonated drinks.