Depression Treatment: Holistic vs Traditional
Depression is a widely common mental health disorder, especially throughout the United States. It’s estimated that up to 7% of the population suffers from depression at some point. While traditional treatments for depression include medication and therapy, there is a growing trend towards holistic approaches to treatment. Below, we will compare and contrast traditional and holistic treatments for depression. We will study the pros and cons of each approach and discuss which type of treatment may be most effective for you or a loved one.
Traditional Treatments for Depression Include Medication and Therapy
A common medication for treating depression is antidepressants. These drugs work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can help improve mood. Antidepressants are usually taken for 6 to 12 months and may lead to side effects such as weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and fatigue. Of course, many people may experience these side effects from depression itself anyway, but it’s still important to consider several of the pros and cons of antidepressants before you begin using them.
Therapy is another common treatment for depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy (otherwise known as CBT) is a type of therapy that can help people to understand and help them change any negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to their depression. CBT typically involves weekly sessions with a therapist and may also require homework assignments outside of the session.
Traditional approaches to treating depression are often effective, but they usually take a long time to work and may have unpleasant side effects. Some people prefer to try a more natural approach to treatment first before considering medication or therapy.
Holistic Mental Health Treatments
There are several different holistic treatments for depression that you can try. These include things like exercise, dietary changes, supplements, and acupuncture.
Exercising regularly can significantly boost your mood and energy levels. It releases endorphins, which have mood-lifting properties. Exercise can also help you to improve the quality of your sleep. Dietary changes can also help treat depression. Eating a healthy diet loaded with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help improve mood and energy levels. Omega-Three fatty acids are also thought to be beneficial for people with depression. We can also find these acids in fish, nuts, and seeds.
In addition, supplements such as vitamin D and magnesium are sometimes recommended for people with depression, as they may help to improve mood. Finally, acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice that involves placing needles at specific points of the body, which may help open your mind and treat depression.
There are many different holistic mental health treatments that you can try if you are looking for an alternative to traditional approaches. These treatments usually have fewer side effects than medication or therapy, but it is essential to talk with your doctor before you begin any new treatment.
Mental Health Coach
A mental health coach is a type of therapist that specializes in helping people to overcome mental health challenges. Mental health coaches often use a combination of traditional and holistic approaches to treatment. They can help you to develop a plan for managing your depression and will provide support and guidance as you take steps toward depression recovery. Mental health coaching can be an effective treatment for depression, either in-person or online.
So, what’s the verdict? Between traditional and holistic mental health treatments, which type of treatment is best for depression? The answer may vary depending on the individual. Some people may find that traditional approaches work best for them, while others may prefer to try a more natural approach. Only you can determine what you are comfortable putting in your body. If you are considering treatment for depression, be sure to talk to your doctor first to discuss all the risks and benefits of incorporating these things into your life.
