You may wonder if you can battle your depression without psychiatric drugs. These drugs are probably not going to send you into a drug treatment program. In fact, there are many studies that have highlighted the positive effects. There are many different ways of coping with your depression naturally.
- Make sure you get enough sleep. Mood and sleep are related. Try to keep a regular sleep schedule.
- Avoid stimulants such as caffeine. These types of substances will diminish your serotonin level.
- Take multi-vitamins. This is especially important if you do not eat a well-balanced diet. Diet deficiencies are one cause of depression.
- Natural or herbal remedies may help mild to moderate depressions. These remedies include SAMe, 5-HPT or St. John’s Wort. Some studies indicate that St. John’s may be as helpful as prescription medications.
- Use your spirituality as a positive influence. By getting in touch with this through meditation or prayer, you can help depression.
- Exercise more. Start slowly. You don’t need to start with a rigorous exercise right away. You can just start with a walk around the block and increase your routine daily.
- Reduce or avoid alcohol consumption. Not only is alcohol somewhat of a toxin, but it is a depressant so it’s best to avoid it.
- Eat a balanced diet. Studies indicate that eating fish may help your mood.
- Your mood can be affected by your inner thoughts. You might consider reading self help books or even contact a therapist who can help with any negative thoughts and ideas.
- Reduce your stress level. Stress can be emotionally draining as well as physically draining as well. Find ways to control this stress.
- Fight feelings of loneliness by reaching out and helping others. This may be friends, family, or strangers. It will make you feel better — even if it’s just a few minutes of your time.
