Holistic Depression Treatment Options
Over 13% of Americans take antidepressants to treat depression. However, antidepressants come with side effects, and they treat the symptoms but not the root of the problem. Holistic depression treatment options forego the medication for all-natural remedies. Learn about 5 of the most popular holistic depression treatment options.
Healthy Food and Supplements
Depression patients can treat their depression at the beginning of the day at breakfast by making smart food choices throughout the day, starting with a healthy breakfast. Healthy foods full of nutrients make people feel good on the outside, which can make them feel better on the inside, too. A healthy diet consists of fruits, vegetables, grains, and lean protein. Processed foods, foods high in saturated fats, and alcohol should be enjoyed in moderation.
Supplements can improve mood, too. Supplements to treat depression include:
- Vitamin B
- Zinc
- Magnesium
- Vitamin D
Reiki
Reiki refers to energy healing. A reiki teacher trains to harness their energy and share it with clients through the power of touch. The client will learn to connect their body and mind. They will also learn to connect to the greater universal plane where they will receive positive energy from their reiki teacher and other positive energies they encounter.
Psychotherapy
Therapists use psychotherapy to identify negative cognitive patterns and correct them. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) requires patients to face triggers and then repeatedly replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts, gradually changing subconscious thoughts that may exacerbate depression. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) changes brain processes during triggers by bilateral cognitive stimulation. During periods of high stress, a therapist will ask the client to perform mundane cognitive processes, such as following a pen with the eyes, to regulate brain responses.
Journaling
Many people see progress through regular journaling. To use a journal to treat depression, people should write in the journal every day. Ideally, they will write about emotional periods throughout the day, including triggers and personal treatment techniques. The author can look back at this information to identify patterns and adjust their behavior accordingly.
Art Therapy
Art therapy encourages patients to express themselves artistically to treat depression. Patients have the choice of whatever medium they prefer, including painting, sculpting, playing music, and storytelling. Art therapy provides an instant release, and the creator feels accomplished once they see what beauty came from their pain.
Talk to your therapist about holistic options to treat your depression. You can decide together whether you want to use these options to supplement medication or replace it altogether. For more information on depression treatment, contact a professional near you.
