Can Depression Be Treated Without Medication?

By: Annmicha Blugh

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Depression can be treated without medication. Depression is a feeling or state of mind where negative, melancholic and "blue" emotions lead to isolation, indifference, hurtful vices and chronic depression. However, for every ailment there are natural cures which exceed medication in efficiency and long-term well-being.

Exercise. Energetic activity such as walking, running or playing sports can boost the production of endorphins which heavily influences mood. Exercise stimulates the pituitary glands to release these endorphin hormones in the bloodstream. The hormones run to the spinal cord and the brain, fomenting an invigorating and happy mood. Euphoria, that delightful feeling of satisfaction, is a natural opiate caused by another natural hormone, serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which, simply put, conveys messages to the brain and rest of the body by synapses. Because of the brain's all-encompassing power as the body’s Central Processing Unit (CPU) controlling every thought and feeling, mood, sexual desire, appetite and social attitudes are determined by this brain hormone. A serotonin deficiency or imbalance causes depression; therefore, exercise is the best non-medicated, all-natural way to treat depression.
Laughter. Laughing is indeed the best medicine. What does laughing, giggling, smiling and chuckling do? These actions lift feelings of depression. Humor enhances the immune system, increases natural energy, and numbs the feeling of depression. So, go ahead. Laugh depression away–no medication involved.
Conversation. Endorphins and serotonin are produced and released when having fun in a group or with a close companion. Men and women are social beings; therefore, socializing, checking in on one another, enjoying happy moments, giving and sharing also promote a healthy body, mind, and soul. You don’t have to pay for this priceless medication called friends and family.
Psychotherapy. Sometimes it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Deep depression can be treated with regular sessions with a certified counselor, psychiatrist or psychotherapist. Finding out the root of the depression is restorative. Then you can get back on track and with the rest of your life without worrying about the medication’s side effects.
Sleep. Rest or sleep is a natural balm for depression. Sleep calms the body, relaxes, renews and revitalizes in many ways. A refreshing sleep is just what might be needed to come out depression without medication.
Diet. At times a deficiency in a vitamins or nutrients is the reason for depression. Some natural medicines that can treat depression include St. John’s Worts, ginkgo biloba, kava kava and black cohosh, extra doses of vitamin B6, vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium also advance psychosomatic progress.
Prayer. Turning to God (or any other religious being) is the best way to heal any disease or sickness. Divine and spiritual help comes about by prayer. Prayer changes things and can transform any depressive condition to a buoyant, optimistic, inspiring attitude and life.