While medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants are popular treatment methods for depression, some people prefer ways of treating this condition that do not require taking a pill. Options exist; however, they should be discussed thoroughly between doctor and patient before a final decision is made.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, also known as counseling and talk therapy, and is one of the most common treatments for depression, according to the Cleveland Clinic. This treatment method is most effective for those suffering from mild or moderate forms of depression and focuses on the behaviors and emotions that contribute to this condition.
More than one type pf psychotherapy is used, among them being cognitive behavioral therapy. In short, it changes negative thoughts and behaviors patients experience into positive ones by helping them realize it is their own thoughts determining how they feel and act.
Psychotherapy can be done on an individual or group basis, and may include a patient's spouse, family members or close friends.
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
During the process of ECT, electrical currents pass through the brain, affecting the chemical messengers in the brain responsible for mood regulation. As the Mayo Clinic notes, it offers immediate relief of severe depression symptoms when other treatments are unsuccessful.
The Cleveland Clinic adds that the electrical currents produced during ECT actually cause seizures in patients. These seizures release the chemical messengers, allowing for communication between the nerve cells; this results in relief of depression symptoms.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
Originally approved by the FDA for the treatment of refractory epilepsy, VNS is also effective for treating low-to-moderate refractory depression--treatment resistant depression, according to HealthyPlace.
The procedure is done on an outpatient basis where the VNS device is surgically implanted just below the skin in the neck, where the vagus nerve is located. The doctor then sets the device to release electrical impulses to the mood centers of the brain at timed intervals. These impulses help relieve the symptoms of depression, although it may take several weeks or months before an improvement is seen.
Lifestyle Changes
While depression cannot be treated alone, lifestyle changes can make a difference when used in combination with other treatment methods.
The first thing a person can do is incorporate a small amount of exercise into his daily routine. HelpGuide recommends 30 minutes a day for the best results, and states that not only does exercise increase energy levels, it also boosts mood and reduces stress.
Relaxation techniques help relieve stress that is a direct cause of depression. Deep breathing, yoga and meditation are all things people can do to relax rather than allow the symptoms of depression to overtake them.
