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What’s a Non-Pharmacological Treatment for Depression?

Woman wondering about non-pharmacological treatment for depression

Medication is a recognized primary treatment option for people affected by major depression. However, it’s not the only option. You can also help ease the effects of depression by a variety of other means. For example, one modern option is NAD for depression, a supplement-based approach that supports balanced brain function. Your doctor may also recommend many other treatments and self-care methods. Together with medication, these methods can promote a timely improvement in your sense of wellness.

Need help identifying a non-pharmacological treatment for depression that works for you? Call the professionals at Springfield Wellness Center today at 844.334.4727. We feature NAD+ therapy for depression. We’re also standing by with advice on your other potential options.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Depression

Psychotherapy is the main non-medication treatment for depression. Your doctor may recommend any of several specific therapies. However, the most likely choice is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is useful in depression recovery because it:

  • Takes a practical approach to improving your mental well-being
  • Helps undercut false beliefs that typically keep depression going
  • Can be effective even when you don’t take medication
  • Makes it less likely that you’ll go through future bouts of depression

The therapy has an added benefit if your recovery plan also includes medication. Namely, it increases your odds of taking that medication as directed.

Other Non-Drug Treatments for Depression

In some cases, your doctor may recommend a specific non-medication treatment for depression. That’s especially true if you have a severe form of the illness that doesn’t respond well to medication or therapy. One option in these circumstances is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). In ECT, a controlled electric current is sent through your brain. This can produce faster results than medication. However, the treatment comes with some significant risks.

Another potential non-drug treatment for depression is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). In TMS, magnetic energy is directed into certain areas of your brain. The procedure is less invasive than ECT. It also typically has fewer side effects.

Self-Care as a Non-Pharmacological Treatment for Depression

Self-care is always a crucial aspect of depression recovery. That’s true whether or not you take medication. The long list of self-care options available to you includes:

  • Exercising regularly
  • Steering clear of drugs or alcohol
  • Maintaining good sleep habits
  • Eating a balanced mix of healthy foods
  • Doing things that make you feel relaxed

It’s generally best to exercise within your limits for 30 minutes or so most days of the week. Both aerobic activities and strength training can help you feel better.

By avoiding drugs and alcohol, you eliminate two common triggers for depression. You also make it easier to recover from the illness’ effects. Good sleep habits not only help you feel well-rested. They can also help you feel less stressed throughout the day. Research shows that a diet rich in certain foods can support depression recovery. That includes such things as vegetables, whole grains, and fruits. It also includes low-fat dairy, olive oil, and fish.

The cumulative effect of these kinds of self-care options tends to leave you feeling more relaxed and at ease. You may also want to take part in a formal stress management program.

Start Non-Medication Depression Treatment at Springfield Wellness Today

Non-pharmacological treatment for depression is a valuable recovery resource. In some cases, it may replace medication entirely. However, you may also receive it in addition to medication. What’s more, numerous self-care options can help you keep depression at bay.

Looking for a non-medication option for depression recovery? Springfield Wellness Center supports your goals with NAD+ therapy. This therapy addresses depression by correcting a chemical brain imbalance that may intensify the illness’ effects. We’re also happy to explain other options that support mental health improvement. For more information, just contact us today at 844.334.4727. You can also fill out our online contact form.