Depression is not just a simple mental health condition a person can recover from overnight. Some people suffering from depression take years to get better — some even decades. It is highly recommended to seek professional help if you are suffering from depression. They can prescribe medication and refer to mental health team for counseling or cognitive behavior therapy
There are many ways it can be treated. Medications and therapies specifically designed to help patients deal with depression are the most common treatments for this mental disorder.
There are traditional ways of treating depression that have been proven by countless individuals to work wonders on them — however, since each case of depression is unique, there are others who say that some of these traditional methods have no effect on them.
If you are one of the people who are not a fan of taking medications for depression, or if you simply want to try all your options in battling depression, the good news is, there are also natural ways to treat this terrible condition.
Change your diet — Many studies have discovered that the food we eat can affect our moods. In fact, in a study published on the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s website from the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, it was stated that “Nutrition can play a key role in the onset as well as severity and duration of depression.”
A healthy diet composed of whole foods won’t only improve your physical health but could put you in a better mood as well. So, if you’re ready for a diet change, focus on eating foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids like fish (such as salmon and tuna), as well as egg yolk, flax seeds, and walnuts.
Omega-3 plays a big role in reducing inflammation in the brain, which is associated with severe depression. Other types of food that can help you in battling depression are fruits and veggies, and probiotics such as yogurt.
Engage in physical exercises — According to American Psychological Association, “Usually within five minutes after moderate exercise you get a mood-enhancement effect.”
In addition, a study conducted by James A. Blumenthal, Ph.D and colleagues revealed that “…aerobic exercise is an effective treatment option for patients with major depression, and offers practical suggestions for helping patients initiate and maintain exercise in their daily lives.”
If you’re not into sports and extreme workouts, you don’t have to worry. Even brisk walking and jogging can help you fight off depression.
Get some sunlight — A study from Harvard Medical School investigators at Massachusetts General Hospital states that exposure to UV rays from natural sunlight can help the body release endorphins. The release of endorphins is linked to feelings of happiness and even pain relief.
Meditate — Mindfulness-based meditation can relieve psychological stresses such as depression, according to researchers from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD.
Set realistic goals regularly — Keeping your mind occupied by maintaining its focus on a goal can help in alleviating depression. Depression often comes with feeling of worthlessness, and setting a realistic, doable goal would help you have a sense of accomplishment once you have reached that goal.
Get a massage — Massages can increase serotonin levels, and serotonin plays a big role in improving one’s mood. In addition, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, a massage could help in relieving depression.
Try out new hobbies — Engaging in new projects won’t only help you broaden your horizon, it can help your brain focus on something other than negative thoughts. Pick an activity that you really enjoy doing so it can naturally hold your interest. Do-it-yourself crafting, or gardening, are just some of the best hobbies you can try.
Get a pet — Not to state the obvious, but having a pet can help release stress and anxiety. According to Mental Health Foundation, pets can have a positive impact on mental health, loneliness, and depression.
Write in a journal — A journal or a diary would be a great deal of help in letting out your emotions. Also, when you write down the positive things that have happened to you, you can have something to go back to remind you that good things happen.
Talk to someone — Talking to professional mental health counselors might not be easy for everyone. If you’re uncomfortable pouring your heart out to a stranger, talk to a dear friend or a family member close to you. Don’t bottle up your emotions.
There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for depression. Find out what works for you and do it as much as you can. Seek most of all, to find an emotional anchor who can keep you grounded, don’t forget that storms don’t last forever, and keep in mind that there are many people who love you.
We love sharing home remedy hacks that are inexpensive. May it help those who need it.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not to be treated as expert advice. Nor should it anyways replace your doctor. We strongly advise that you seek professional help if you feel you have depression.
[If you are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for a list of additional resources. Here’s what you can do when a loved one is severely depressed.]