Depression affects everyone differently, and not all treatments work the same for each person. For some, medication or therapy can be really helpful, but others might not feel the relief they need or might deal with frustrating side effects. That’s why exploring alternative treatments for depression can be a great option. It opens up more ways to find something that works for you and supports your mental health in a way that feels right.
Many people seek out alternative treatments for depression for different reasons. Some of the most common reasons include:
When treating depression, sometimes the most beneficial options are the ones you can easily integrate into your life. Natural therapies, like exercise, mindful eating, herbal supplements, and meditation, are simple ways to improve your mental health. Whether you’re using these methods on their own or alongside other treatments, they can be a supportive way to manage your depression.
Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce depressive episodes by up to 25%, making it a great natural way to support your mental health. Exercise releases endorphins which are feel-good chemicals that help boost your mood and reduce stress. You don’t need to run marathons to benefit. Try adding some of the following activities to your daily routine:
What you eat can directly affect your mental health, which is why there’s a whole field of study dedicated to “nutritional psychiatry.” Research suggests that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and olive oil can help lower your risk of depression. On the other hand, you should try cutting back on processed meats, refined sugars, and heavy fats. Instead, focus on plant-based foods, like:
This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the occasional treat, but balance is key for both your body and your mind.
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to support emotional and mental health, and several have been studied for their effects on depression and anxiety. Herbs like lavender, lemon balm, valerian, and hops have been shown to help with mild depression, anxiety, and stress. St. John’s Wort is another popular supplement that has been found to alleviate mild to moderate depression. However, it’s important to be cautious with this particular supplement as it can possibly interact with certain medications.
Mindfulness and mediation are both practical ways to help you manage stress and negative thoughts. Benefits include:
For those who haven’t found relief through traditional treatments for depression, brain stimulation therapies are another alternative. These therapies target specific areas of the brain to help improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Though they may seem more intensive, brain stimulation has shown promising results, especially for people with treatment-resistant depression.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate targeted areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. Unlike medications or more invasive procedures, TMS is done completely outside of the body and does not require anesthesia. It’s generally well-tolerated, with the most common side effect being mild headaches that occur during or after the procedure. In extremely rare cases, seizures can occur, so TMS is not recommended for those with epilepsy, a history of head injuries, or other serious neurological conditions.
TMS has become a hopeful option for many who haven’t had success with antidepressants. About 50 to 60 percent of people with treatment-resistant depression report improvement with TMS.
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a more intensive option that is often reserved for severe cases of depression that haven’t responded to other treatments. ECT involves applying a small electric current to the brain to induce a controlled seizure. This helps reset certain brain functions that are thought to contribute to severe depression. The patient is placed under anesthesia during the procedure, so they are not conscious of the process.
ECT is most commonly used for people dealing with severe major depression or bipolar disorder. It’s also often used in dire situations, such as when someone is at high risk of suicide. While ECT can sound intimidating, it has proven to be a highly effective treatment for many people struggling with life-threatening symptoms.
For those looking to explore more creative or non-traditional approaches to therapy, there are many alternative methods that can complement traditional psychotherapy. These therapies use creative expression, interaction with animals, and music to help manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. They offer different ways to process emotions and gain a sense of control over your mental health.
Art therapy helps people express their emotions when words fail. Trained art therapists use different artistic mediums and psychological principles to help people express feelings that might be difficult to verbalize. Some of the benefits of art therapy include:
Animal-assisted therapy involves spending time with animals as a way to alleviate depression. Interaction with animals like petting, play, or sitting together, can have a calming effect. This therapy boosts levels of oxytocin, the “love hormone,” and serotonin, which improves mood. Here’s how animal assisted therapy can help:
Music therapy uses the emotional and physical effects of music to help people manage depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Whether you’re listening to music or creating it, music therapy taps into the brain’s reward center, thus producing positive feelings and physical reactions like goosebumps. Here are some benefits of music therapy:
If your current treatment plan isn’t providing the relief you need, or if you’re struggling with unpleasant side effects from medication, it may be time to explore alternative treatment options. Alternative treatments, like brain stimulation therapies or exercise and mindfulness, can help you manage your depression symptoms. However, it’s important to always consult with your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your specific needs.
If you’re considering alternative treatments for depression, talk to a healthcare professional today to find out what might work best for you.
Diet and depression – Harvard Health Publishing
Medicinal Plants Used for Anxiety, Depression, or Stress Treatment: An Update – Molecules
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): Hope for stubborn depression – Harvard Health Publishing
What is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)? – American Psychiatric Association
What is Art Therapy? Fact Sheet – American Art Therapy Association
Talk to the animals: Animal-assisted therapy offers emotional support – Harvard Health Publishing
Animal-Assisted Therapy for Depression – Healthline
What is music therapy, and how does it work? – Medical News Today
Determining if TMS therapy suits your mental health journey should involve consultation with a qualified professional. At Cura Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed treatment decisions.
Don’t let a mental health condition hold you back any longer. Schedule a consultation with Cura Behavioral Health today. Our experienced team is ready to answer your questions and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
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Dr. Kevin Simonson, an esteemed Medical Director at Cura Behavioral Health, brings over 15 years of experience in psychiatry. A graduate from a top medical school, he specializes in the treatment of mood disorders and anxiety, employing a patient-centered approach. His dedication to evidence-based care and his commitment to advancing mental health practices have made him a respected figure in the field. Dr. Simonson’s leadership ensures the highest standard of care for the community at Cura Behavioral Health.
