Depression medication is a well-advertised treatment for those suffering with depression. Although the medication can relieve many of the moderate to severe symptoms, it may not be a cure for the underlying issue. If your doctor has diagnosed you with depression, you may want to discuss with them the following alternative treatment methods.

Relaxation Techniques

Depression can make you feel unenthused toward everyday life occurrences. Whether it’s caused by loneliness, health complications, medicine or some drastic past event, it can affect your mental and physical wellness. Yoga is a challenging exercise that uses deep breathing, meditation and stretching movements to relax the mind and body.

The various poses can also help you deal with the intrusive thoughts that may clutter your brain. Because yoga is fun and challenging, it can provide good feelings from within. If you’re unsure what to expect from the class, enlist a friend to participate with you. You can also incorporate the movements throughout the day.

Therapy

Overwhelming thoughts can be a common symptom of depression. You may also be unable to focus on work or family. Therapy allows you the chance to step back and analyze what could be contributing to your anxiety and depression. The therapist may also be able to suggest changes or ways to deal with your problems.

Hypnotherapy creates subconscious changes through behaviors, thoughts, responses and attitudes. This therapeutic technique addresses the entire person instead of treating the symptoms. By identifying the problem, you can dig deep into the trauma to release emotions that may have been bottled up. Hypnotic suggestions can also be used to boost your motivation and build better body functioning.

Exercise

You don’t have to be a top athlete to exercise. Simple activities such as yoga, walking, biking and lifting weights are exercises that improve symptoms of depression. As a matter of fact, some physicians are ditching their prescription tablets in favor of exercise for individuals with mild symptoms.

Whether it’s the mood boosting endorphins that reach the brain or you see a change in your appearance through the various workouts, exercise is a lot safer for treating mild cases of depression. As you get deeper into your workout regimen, incorporate other activities that you enjoy such as running, cross training or Zumba classes.

Sleep

Getting a good night’s rest can energize the body. A good solid 8 or 9 hours of sleep can also have a positive effect on your mood. When you fail to get the required amounts of sleep, your depression symptoms can worsen. It also exacerbates fatigue, irritability, sadness and moodiness. To help you get a more restful night of sleep, try turning off your smartphone and tablet an hour before you go to sleep. Taking a warm bath or shower can also promote relaxation before bedtime.

Eat Right

Eating a healthy diet is critical for your mental and physical wellness. But ditching the processed and sugary substances found in many foods on the market today can also prevent the mood swings and sadness found with depression. Try eating small, nutritious meals throughout the day. Fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, whole-grains and lean protein can produce feel good hormones. Omega-3 fats can also help stabilize your mood and boost your happiness.

Build Strong Social Networks

Loneliness and isolation can contribute to your depression. In some instances, being alone without human contact can promote desolate feelings. You can combat your depression by keeping in contact with family members and friends. If you need assistance getting motivated, join a group or class with interests that you enjoy. You can also volunteer to help those in need such as an animal shelter or soup kitchen for the homeless.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a unique technique that uses small needles inserted to various pressure points of the body. This therapeutic process has shown promising results in the treatment of depression. But before you decide to give it a go, you want to ensure that the professional is licensed and qualified to perform this method of therapy.

If you find it a struggle to break out of your moodiness and sadness, there are treatments available to combat depression. While some physicians find medication works best for those with severe symptoms, the above alternative therapy treatments can show you how to be a participant in life again.