Posted by emily on September 24, 2000, at 14:42:45
In reply to Re: Treating Depression without Medication » josh, posted by shellie on September 22, 2000, at 19:12:59
Hi, Josh. I admire your determination to heal yourself naturally, and to look for integrity in your healing. I just started antidepressants after spending most of my life being depressed. I have had similar concerns to yours and have tried a number of alternatives, but I have continued to cycle in and out. The downs had gotten so bad that I was consistently suicidal, so I decided to try medication after all--for me, I would rather be medicated than dead. But I do hope to go off eventually...
That said, here is some feedback from my own experience and research. (I work at a health food store, so I gather some information through the people I run into, the reading I've done on my own, and of course personal experience.) Here are some ideas:
exercise--regular and aerobic
nutrition--whole grains, fruit and vegetables, variety--try to stick with organic, try to avoid caffeine, sugar, artificial ingredients... There is a lot of info out there about nutrition. Have you thought of seeing a nutritionist? While it might not be the cause of your depression, it could help support your healing.
supplements--vitamins, minerals--again, you might want to see a nutritionist.
get a pet (see thread on pets above)
stress reduction--massage, aromatherapy, meditation, prayer--whatever makes sense for you
surround yourself with kind and loving people
make plans and spend time with these people
acupuncture
herbal support--look for a reputable herbalist or naturopathic doctor
and of course, finding a support team that respects your wishes and supports your healing. sounds like you want to explore cognitive therapy, and that you're not happy with your MD? (Although I also know people with fibromyalgia and chronic pain who have been helped by ADs.) If you want to find an MD or therapist with more alternative ideas, you might check your local health food store--see if the people who work there have heard of anyone. Or try a low-force chiropractor, who might be able to recommend you to a sympathetic psychiatrist or general practitioner.Sorry if this info is too much. Hope it is helpful.
As James said, I also believe that there can be a lot of healing value in ADs, but I sympathize with your desire to try alternatives.
Good luck to you!
Emily
poster:emily
thread:522
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20000813/msgs/652.html