“Can I treat my depression naturally?”

Check on homeopathic medicine and herbal medicine for your issues. If that doesn’t work then see a therapist maybe

While therapy and medication have been deemed most effective to treat depression, there are natural methods that one may try. Exercising regularly may relieve symptoms of depression. In addition, meditation and other relaxation techniques can be effective. Specific nutritional and dietary supplements are often discussed; however, whether or not they are safe and beneficial is debated.

There are many variables here. How long you have been depressed, how severe your symptoms are, if this is reactive (such as grief, job loss, etc.) or chromic, family history...all are factors.

However, eating a healthy diet of lean protein, dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamins B-12 and D can certainly help alleviate symptoms.
Avoiding sugary and processed foods, alcohol and drugs, fatty proteins, excessive caffeine may also help control your depression.

An active lifestyle and maintaining a healthy weight can also be a help.
And of course, talking with a mental health professional can also be a "natural" means of treating depression.

If your depression is mild to moderate and you're able to function, e.g. work, etc. you can try a few interventions that do not involve medication: increase your consumption of Omega 3 fatty acids--eat more fish such as salmon , sardines, trout and also take a reputable brand of supplement (minimum of 1 gram). Other sources include flaxseed, algae oil. Also, be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, leafy greens. The other action that's been shown to be as effective as medication is regular cardiovascular exercise, a minimum of 30 minutes a day--any form of movement which increases your heart-rate, even if it's simply walking briskly in the fresh air--this would be an excellent behavior. Another intervention: please find a therapist for psychotherapy. You need not go for years, only to learn some coping skills for your depression. Call several therapists till you find someone whom you have rapport with, preferably someone who does CBT (cognitive behavior therapy) and mindfulness practices. All of these interventions do not involve medication and by doing them, you'll feel proactive, an advocate for yourself, you'll be taking action and simply by taking ownership of your present and, you'll feel better and more encouraged about your future. I wish you the best. Please be sure you're under the supervision of your medical doctor who can supervise your omega 3 supplementation and also your general health.

Dear Madam,

Sorry to hear that you are suffering from depression. There are several factors to consider before you start treating yourself. Is there a family history? Does your depression have a genetic component? Is it situational? Is it connected with a trauma? How long have you had it? What other approaches have you followed, i.e., psychotherapy, consulting your primary care physician? What do you mean by "can I treat it naturally," i.e, Homeopathic, Aurvedic, over-the-counter medicines? Even for those natural medicines you will need to consult someone who specializes in them so you are guided on the right path. It may be a good idea to consult a licensed psychologist and then decide which path to choose. You may want to get a book titled "Feeling Good" by Dr. David D. Burns.

Take care,

Dr. Lata Sonpal

There are natural ways to treat depression but I encourage you to discuss all options with your therapist and psychiatrist and find a holistic doctor to help you through the process of finding what may be right treatment plan for you.

It has been shown that exercise, mind-body therapies, and herbal supplements may have the power to naturally affect your mood, wellbeing, and even alter your brain chemistry.

Yes, usually talk therapy can help. You need to be open and understand it is a process.

Hi there absolutely. You can treat your depression by either going to therapy with an individual therapist, or maybe joining a group that can help you learn some coping skills. You can also read some self-help books one of my favorite books is how to break the habit of being yourself. It’s all about practicing better habits understanding your depression and living the life that you want to live through change of behavior. But first you have to understand where your depression is coming from which you can do this individual therapy.

Hi there!

The answer to that question varies depending on the person. Many people can treat mild to moderate depression through therapy and changes in their thoughts and behaviors. For many people, medication can help the healing process move more quickly, and for people with severe depression, medication is often more important.

Take a look at this link:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/owning-pink/201103/11-natural-treatments-depression-md-s-tips-skipping-the-prozac