8 Natural Depression Treatments

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 16.2 million American adults suffer from depression. Depression is more than just feeling sad; it’s a real medical condition with real consequences. The good news is that there are many natural depression treatments that can help!

Treatment for depression often includes medication and therapy, but there are also many natural ways to treat depression. If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional treatments, here are 8 completely natural depression treatments to try.

1. Get Outside Every Day

There’s something about being in nature that just makes us feel better. Maybe it’s the fresh air or the Vitamin D from the sun, but studies have shown that spending time outside can help relieve symptoms of depression. So go for a walk in the park, sit on a bench and people-watch, or have a picnic in your backyard – just get outside every day!

2. Exercise Regularly

We all know that exercise is good for our physical health, but did you know that it’s also good for our mental health? Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. So hit the gym, go for a run, or take a yoga class – just get moving!

3. Spend Time With Friends and Family

When we’re feeling down, it’s easy to isolate ourselves and withdraw from social activities. But spending time with loved ones can actually help improve our mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. So call a friend, plan a girls’ night out, or have dinner with your family – whatever helps you feel connected and supported.

4. Eat a Healthy Diet

What we eat has a direct effect on how we feel both physically and mentally. Eating lots of processed foods and sugars can actually worsen symptoms of depression, so it’s important to focus on eating healthy, whole foods. Make sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet as well as lean proteins and healthy fats. Also, limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, as they can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and sadness.

5. Get Enough Sleep

When we’re tired, everything feels harder – including dealing with depression. Most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep each night, so make sure you’re getting enough rest. Establish a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day (even on weekends!), and avoid working or using electronic devices in bed so you can relax and fall asleep more easily.

6. Practice Relaxation Techniques

There are many different relaxation techniques you can try to help reduce stress and anxiety. Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery are all great options. You can find instructions for these techniques online or in books or apps. Experiment to see what works best for you, and make time for relaxation every day.

7. Take Up a Hobby

When we’re feeling down, it can be hard to find things that make us happy. But hobbies are a great way to boost our mood and give us something to look forward to. So try something new – take up painting, join a book club, or start gardening. Do whatever brings you joy!

8. Try CBD Capsules

CBD capsules are a natural supplement that have been shown to help with anxiety and depression. CBD is derived from the hemp plant, and it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce a calming effect. CBD capsules are easy to take and can be found online.

Depression is a serious condition, but it is treatable. If you’re struggling with depression, talk to your doctor about what treatment options are right for you. And don’t forget to try some of these natural depression treatments!