When you suffer from anxiety and depression, you may feel that you don’t have many options beyond antidepressants and talk therapy. But a new and emerging market has developed with alternative therapies to treat these conditions.
In fact, there are many things you can do to support good mental health instead of or in addition to drug therapy. It’s important that if you’re taking a prescription medication that you talk to your healthcare provider before stopping it.
Read on to learn some possible alternative therapies for anxiety and depression. You may find that these are good additions to your current treatment.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is an herbal medicine that has been shown to treat mild depression and anxiety with some success. This is available without a prescription, but shouldn’t be used in combination with prescription anti-depressants.
Kava
Kava is an herbal therapy that can be used to reduce problems with anxiety. This treatment should be used under supervision of a healthcare provider and is best when used for short periods of time.
SAMe
Same is an herbal supplement that can be used to treat depression, anxiety, and other issues. It naturally helps the body to make serotonin which is the chemical that creates positive mood.
This is available without a prescription, but like other herbal formulas, shouldn’t be used in combination with prescription anti-depressants.
Yoga
Yoga has been shown to help people experience relaxation and improved mood. This is a practice that combines stretching with breathing and meditation. You can take classes in person or use yoga videos and practice it in your own home.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a Chinese medicine approach to wellness. In acupuncture, small needles are placed in various points of the body to help remove blocks in energy flow that can lead to health problems. Many people experience positive results from acupuncture when used to treat anxiety and depression.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy can be an effective treatment to lift depression and soothe anxiety. It can help to relax the muscles in the body and reduce the effects of stress that can often lead to depression.
In addition, if you’re suffering from depression related to chronic disease, massage therapy can help to give relief from symptoms and improve your mood. Massage may not completely eliminate depression, but can be a good supportive therapy.
Homeopathic and Naturopathic Medicine
You may also be able to get relief by visiting a homeopathic or naturopathic physician who is trained in whole body wellness. They can help to treat the underlying causes of anxiety and depression and help you to get relief.
