There are many ways to counter some of the symptoms of depression that don’t involve prescription medications.

This article discusses somenatural treatments that may help fight depressionincluding lifestyle changes and supplements.

It also covers other strategies you might try such as practicing mindfulness or enhancing your home environment.

Get More Sleep

Sleep and moodgo hand in hand.

To support your emotional well-being, verify you have what sleep experts call “good sleep hygiene.”

Therelationship between sleep and depressioncan be complex.

Cut Back on Caffeine

Coffee, tea, soda, and even chocolate are steeped in caffeine.

If you do tend to rely on caffeine, try cutting back gradually for avoid unpleasant symptoms ofcaffeine withdrawal.

Certainnutrient deficienciescan play a role in depression symptoms.

For treating mild to moderate depression, dietary supplements such asSt.

John’s Wort, S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e), and 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) may be worth a try.

Omega-3 fatty acids have also been investigated for their potential impact on depression.

The effectiveness of these natural remedies is also not always clear, so always talk to your doctor first.

Studies also suggest that different types of mindfulness meditative practices can also be effective in the treatment of depression.

Drinking can interfere with sleep, and quality sleep is a key to battling the blues.

If you’re taking any sort of antidepressant, you really shouldn’t drink at all.

Alcohol doesn’t interact well with medication.

If you have been misusing alcohol or other substances and need help quitting, talk to your doctor.

You may also have analcohol or substance use disorder.

confirm to eat a well-balanced diet that’s rich in nutrients.

Your thoughts truly do have a direct bearing on your mood.

If you’re struggling with negativity, consider seeing a therapist to help you learn ways to counter it.

Other times, they can be more subtle.

You might find yourself engaging in things like catastrophizing or all-or-nothing thinking.

Catastrophizing involves always anticipating negative outcomes.

All-or-nothing thinking means that you think of things as either successes or failures with no in-between.

Reframe Your Thoughts

When you find yourself having a negative thought, consciouslyreframe itin a positive way.

Shifting your focus to your strengths and abilities can help you maintain a more positive mindset.

Make plans with loved ones and keep those dates.

Enlist a few of your closest loved ones who understand what you are experiencing.

Try New Things

Depression often zaps your interest and motivation to explore new things.

But over time, you might find that something sparks your interest or helps you feel more motivated.

It may help you fight off a sense of boredom and give you something to look forward to.

Summary

Depression is a serious condition that may grow worse over time if left untreated.

These strategies can also be helpful when used to complement treatments that may include psychotherapy and medication.

Find out which option is the best for you.

You should talk to your doctor or therapist to find the best approach to treating your depression.

For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.

Talk to your doctor and discuss some of the self-help strategies that may support your treatment.

Click below to listen now.

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