Tuesday, November 30th, 2010 at
8:02 am
does anyone know of any alternative medicine,method to treat depression besides prescription meds?
Herbal Remedies
There are a variety of herbal therapies believed to treat many illnesses. For depression, St. John's wort and ginkgo biloba are the most talked about.
St. John's wort has been used for medical purposes in other parts of the world for thousands of years, despite the fact that it hasn't been scientifically proven to treat moderate to severe depression.
Ginkgo biloba is thought to improve memory and other intellectual functions, although the evidence is conflictual.
Any herbal supplement requires caution and should be taken only after consulting your doctor. Your doctor can help you weigh the risks and potential benefits so you can make an informed decision.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese method of healing that prevents and cures specific diseases and conditions by sticking very fine, solid needles into specific points on the body. It stimulates the body's ability to resist or overcome illnesses and conditions by correcting imbalances. Acupuncture also prompts the body to produce chemicals that decrease or eliminate painful sensations.
Acupuncture is most effective at treating long-term pain, such as headaches, menstrual cramps, and low back, neck, or muscle pain. It can also be used to treat arthritis, facial pain, pain from shingles, spastic colon, colitis, obesity, and addictions to nicotine or other drugs.
Reflexology
This is a technique in which a therapist applies pressure to specific points on the hands and feet. Reflexologists believe that the body has the capacity to heal itself. There are nerves in the hands and feet related to various parts of the body, and by manipulating these points through reflexology, it is thought that the healing process is stimulated.
Exercise
Different forms of exercise can lower your stress, relax you, reduce depression and increase your energy, balance, and flexibility. In general, exercise is a safe, effective, and easy way to improve your well-being; but, always check with your doctor before starting a new program.
Meditation
Meditation is sometimes described as an altered state of consciousness. It is a form of relaxation that, unlike sleep, is entered into purposely. Meditation is usually practiced regularly -- for at least 10 minutes each day. While the body is at rest, the mind is cleared by focusing on one thought, sometimes a word, phrase, or particular scenery.
Massage
Massage uses touch to provide relaxation. While there are variations of massage, they all work under the general principle of the connection between body and mind -- that when the body is relaxed and at ease, the mind is promoting better health, less depression and overall well-being. Some examples of massage include shiatsu, neuromuscular therapy, spinal release therapy, Swedish, and the sports variation.
Guided Imagery and Relaxation
Guided imagery is a form of focused relaxation that helps create harmony between the mind and body. Guided imagery coaches you in creating calm, peaceful images in your mind -- a "mental escape" for therapeutic purposes. It can be a powerful psychological strategy to enhance a person's coping skills. It can help people cope with -- and possibly overcome -- stress, anger, pain, depression and insomnia with or without associated physical illness.
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