The treatment of depression is not only confined with the use of pharmacologic and psychological therapeutic modalities. Even other “alternative methods” can also be tapped to maximize the success of the recovery. These alternative or complementary methods can be used as adjunct treatment for the standard ones.
However, it is highly advised though that before one should use any type of alternative therapy, prior consultation to the mental health care provider is necessary.
Alternative Treatment of Depression
There are several therapies that can be utilized for the treatment of depression. These therapies are easily available and are quite cheaper. However, these are not meant to replace the standard form of therapy for depression, these “alternatives” serve only to supplement what are already available.
The following is an enumeration of the various possible therapies that can be used as alternative treatment of depression:
- Herbal Medicine. St John’s Wort, Evening Primrose, Gingko Biloba, and Omega 3-Fatty Acids are some of the popular herbs that are known to treat depression. Some individuals claim to have been using pure natural products in the treatment of depression because the side effects are minimal, and these herbal preparations have been quite effective to them. However, as advised, the use of herbs and plants for depression should be consulted first with the doctor to avoid any untoward drug-herb interaction.
- Exercise. Without a doubt, a few minutes of exercise per day has several benefits. Exercise improves blood circulation to one’s brain, reduces stress, and improves relaxation, in which, all of these will eventually lead to the reduction of depression symptoms.
- Meditation. This specific exercise that takes a person to his or her altered state of consciousness is also beneficial for the treatment of depression. Meditation can be done for ten minutes a day. The person must sit quietly and focus only on one idea – this could be a word, phrase, mantra, or scenery.
- Reflexology. The idea of reflexology is this: by massaging specific points on the soles of the feet that are connected to the different nerve organs in the body, it stimulates the body’s healing process. Reflexology is viewed as beneficial in helping the body to relax and the organs (especially the brain) to function normally.
- Acupuncture. This Ancient Chinese form of medicine that hits specific nerve points of the body through inserting very fine needles is said to maintain the balance of the person’s body and mind. It has several benefits including relaxation of the mind.
- Guided Imagery. This is a relaxation technique that prompts the patient to compose his or her mind and think of beautiful and calm images such as peaceful sceneries. Guided imagery uses the power of thinking as a powerful tool in helping a person develop healthy coping skills to overcome depression.
Effectiveness of Alternative Therapies for the Treatment of Depression
Whether these aforementioned therapies are effective in reducing the symptoms of depression, only health professionals and the individuals suffering from depression have the answers.
It is quite true that these alternative therapies are beneficial and can be used as supplementary treatment option. However, there is no guarantee that these are safe to use without prior consultation to the doctor, as each individual is unique.
What proves to be effective for one person might not be true to another. That is why, it is highly stressed that before initiating any therapy for the treatment of depression apart from the standard ones accepted (use of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy), one should see his or her doctor and weigh down the potential risks against the benefits of using the alternative methods in order to arrive at an informed choice.