Natural Alternatives to Depression Medication

Natural alternatives to depression medication may include herbs and supplements, personal behavior changes and alternative medicine to relieve symptoms. The natural treatments may help people avoid the side effects of traditional antidepressants, such as weight gain and sedation. People who are considering using natural alternatives to prescription antidepressant medications should consult their doctors before stopping the use of prescription medications. By speaking with their doctors, they can also learn of potential interactions with other drugs.

Sunlight

• People with depression caused by seasonal affective disorder may benefit from natural or artificial sunlight, especially during the winter months.

Exercise

• Physical activity can activate the reward center of the brain and increase feelings of well-being, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Omega-3

• Omega-3 fatty acids are available as supplements and found in foods such as fish, soy and walnuts. They may relieve the symptoms of depression.

SAM-e

• S-adenosyl-methionine, or SAM-e, is a dietary supplement that is used in Europe as a prescription medication for depression, according to the Mayo Clinic.

St. John's Wort

• St. John's Wort is an herb commonly used to treat mild forms of depression and can be used as a tea or taken in pill form.

Valerian

• Valerian is an herb taken in pill form and can be used for short periods of time, up to 6 weeks, to treat sleep problems and other symptoms associated with depression.

Warning

• According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, St. John's Wort can reduce the effectiveness of other medications, including birth control pills and medications for cancer, heart issues and HIV.