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Ways to Fight Depression Without Pills

Hypothyroidism, trauma, childbirth, the short days of winter---these can all trigger depression. With so many causes, depression is best managed and even cured with the help of a medical professional, especially one well acquainted with depression treatments. A family doctor might simply prescribe a patient pills, but they don't always work for all people. Even in people for whom medication does work, other therapies used in conjunction with medication might be appropriate.

  1. Talk Therapy

    • Talk therapy is also known as psychotherapy. This method of fighting depression is sometimes necessary to get at the underlying causes of depression and make constructive life changes to enable recovery and build a better future. It is sometimes used in place of medication.

    Lifestyle Changes

    • Lifestyle has an impact on depression and its symptoms. Reducing and coping with stress; being able to talk to someone supportive, perhaps at a support group; making time for relaxation and recreation; taking care of your physical body--all these and more are part of creating a lifestyle that supports recovery from depression. Lifestyle changes are best undertaken in tandem with other depression treatments, especially psychotherapy.

    St. John's Wort

    • St. John's wort is used by prescription in Europe for depression treatment. Some studies have shown it helps, others have not shown benefits. St. John's wort interacts with some other medications. Make sure you check with your doctor and pharmacist.

    SAM-e

    • SAM-e, which stands for S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine, is also used in Europe for depression. It is produced in the human body and helps regulate the two mood-influencing chemicals dopamine and serotonin. Some studies show promise, but you should take it only after talking to your doctor.

    Omega-3

    • Right now omega-3 fatty acids, which are already being touted as good for your heart, are being studied to see if they might be helpful in treating depression. These oils are found in fish, canola and walnuts, as well as in other food sources. There are also omega-3 pill supplements available over the counter.

    VNS

    • VNS stands for vagus nerve stimulation. A small generator placed in the body delivers regular electrical pulses to certain places in the brain. Benefits increase over time. The treatment is used for those who haven't responded to other forms of treatment.

    TMS

    • Transcranial magnetic stimulation or TMS is a 30- to 40-minute treatment that involves sending electromagnetic pulses into the brain via a device put on the scalp. Treatments take place over the course of four to six weeks, with five treatments a week. TMS is effective and typically used to treat those who aren't responding to other therapies.

    Light

    • Though not approved by the FDA, light is often used to treat seasonal affective disorder or SAD. The treatment uses a special light box or visor that produces light with the wavelengths of sunlight. (Light bulbs don't provide this kind of light.) You sit near this light or wear the visor, and the light creates a change in your brain chemicals, reducing symptoms.

    Exercise

    • Exercise has been proven to have a significant impact on mild to moderate major depression---as much as treatment with medication. Better yet, it only takes moderate exercise such as walking. The recommendation is 20 to 30 minutes per session, three to five times per week. Those exercising five times per week for three months were shown to have a 47 percent decrease in depression. You need to check with your doctor before starting.

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