How to Treat Depression Without Drugs

Overview

Depression refers to a chronic mental illness in which a person's mood is characterized by sadness, anger and frustration. According to the Mayo Clinic, depression is a very common condition throughout the world. Symptoms include loss of interest in daily activities, hopelessness, irritability and suicidal thoughts. There are specific steps to treat depression without drugs.

Step 1

Go to a psychologist or psychiatrist to obtain psychotherapy (counseling). Here, you will be able to talk about your depression and understand your behavior, thoughts and views about yourself. Your doctor will use positive reinforcement to encourage you to be content.

Step 2

Go to a psychiatrist and have electroconvulsive therapy or shock therapy. Electrical currents will pass through your brain to trigger seizure activity. This procedure may affect the chemicals in your brain (neurotransmitters) that contribute to your depression.

Step 3

Go to a neurologist (brain doctor) to obtain nontraditional treatments for depression. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) involves surgically implanting a generator to frequently release pulses of electricity into your brain. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) involves sending an electrical current to your brain with the use of an electric magnetic coil. In deep brain stimulation, electrodes are placed into the brain to decrease symptoms of depression.

Step 4

Purchase St. John's Wort or SAM-e, available at nutritional supplement stores. St. John's Wort is an herb that is widely used in Europe to treat mild to moderate depression. SAM-e is a synthetic chemical and dietary supplement that can be used to treat depression. In addition, eat foods rich in Omega 3-fatty acids, such as certain fish and oils. Talk to your doctor before taking these supplements, as they may interfere with your current medications.

Step 5

Get an acupuncture treatment. This involves placing very thin needles in areas of your skin to trigger the release of natural chemicals in your brain that decrease depression symptoms.

Step 6

Go to a quiet room and meditate. Concentrate on your breathing and take deep, slow breaths. This can relax your body and decrease your symptoms.