|  | Conditions Treatments | Depression

Recovering From Depression Without Drugs

Depression is an illness that many Americans face year after year. The symptoms range from mild to severe and may occur for a variety of reasons: death of a loved one, hormonal changes, relationship problems, etc. For those with mild to moderate depression, there are many options outside of taking medicine to help them get well.

  1. Join a Support Group

    • Do not try to deal with depression alone; this will delay the healing process. Determine the origin of your depression and seek the help of a professional or a group. Talk about your feelings with someone who can help you or who has experienced the same plight as you. Many cities have meetup groups to fit almost anyone's need. Even if you do not join a support group, socializing can help combat depression.

    Herbal Supplements

    • One of the most well known supplements to help depression is St. John's Wort. It can regulate sleep patterns for those with insomnia and uplift mood. Many who suffer from depression have vitamin and mineral deficiencies. B vitamins, magnesium and potassium deficiencies contribute to symptoms, so taking these supplements may be wise. Your doctor will be able to perform blood tests to see if this is a cause for depression.

    Get Some Sun!

    • Ever heard of those who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? This disorder causes depression symptoms due to a lack of sunlight. Some are immediately affected by SAD: it can happen within a day or two without sun exposure. Human circadian rhythms (internal body clocks) are built around sleeping when it is dark and being awake during daylight hours. If we do not get some sun, a good mood can gradually become downtrodden. For those who live in an area that does not get a lot of sunlight, chronotherapy, or light therapy, can remedy depressive symptoms. This involves having light boxes or lamps around to use in lieu of the sun. It can help regulate our circadian rhythm, and that can lend itself well to a reduction of depressive symptoms.

    Warning

    • If symptoms of depression are severe, you need to seek the advice of a medical professional. Often, mild depression can be assisted via natural remedies. However, if your depression symptoms are mentally debilitating and interfere with daily life, it may be necessary to take an anti-depressant per your doctor's request.

Depression - Related Articles