Studies suggest that 10% of individuals in the US struggle with depression*. MDD (Major Depressive Disorder) is a challenging mental health condition to contend with. It often presents strong resistance to traditional treatment options such as antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, Tricyclics, and other mood stabilizers). From a Western medicine perspective, there are two default treatment options for depression, notably medication and therapy. Granted, these treatments are highly efficacious, but they don’t always work for everyone. Medication is also associated with many side effects.
Various alternative treatments for depression are available, including acupuncture, meditation, herbal remedies, TMS treatment for depression, guided imagery, reflexology, and yoga. We will briefly explore each alternative treatment option for depression. Patients are strongly encouraged to work with their primary care physician, therapist, or psychiatrist to develop the best treatment plan for depression. Alternative therapies are perceived as an adjunct to other prescribed treatments such as psychotherapy and medication.
Many people are tired of taking medication, which is often associated with undesirable side effects. Alternative therapies provide a natural treatment option for depression. Antidepressants may not be viable for all patients suffering from depression. In such cases, alternative therapies can help ease the symptoms of MDD and reduce their intensity, thereby providing relief to patients who don’t respond well to traditional therapy options. Some alternative treatments for depression allow patients to avoid taking medication altogether. Let’s take a look at the available options.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that has been used to treat a wide range of physical and mental health conditions for over 2000 years. Studies show that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for depression. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that “acupuncture may help relieve symptoms of depression.” A 2013 study found that “acupuncture was associated with significant clinical improvements in patients with MDD [Major Depressive Disorder].”
Meditation
Meditation is a mindfulness practice that helps individuals focus their attention on the present moment. Research suggests that meditation can be an effective treatment for depression. A 2014 study found that “mindfulness-based interventions…show large effects on depressive symptoms.” Meditation helps individuals become more aware of their thoughts and emotions so they can manage them more effectively.
Herbal Tinctures
Herbal remedies are commonly used to treat various physical and mental health conditions. St. John’s Wort is the most well-known herbal remedy for depression. According to the NIH, “studies suggest that St. John’s wort may be as effective as tricyclic antidepressants” in treating mild to moderate depression. Other popular herbal remedies for depression include Ginkgo Biloba, SAMe, omega-3 fatty acids, and S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe).
Deep TMS Therapy for Depression
TMS treatment for depression is a noninvasive procedure that uses electromagnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells deep within the brain. Deep TMS™ therapy by BrainsWay is FDA cleared to treat major depressive disorder. The safety and efficacy of Deep TMS for treating MDD are noted in the literature. In real clinical practice settings, the majority of treatment-resistant depression patients have benefitted from Deep TMS. Among patients who completed 30 treatment sessions, nearly 3 in 4 achieved clinical response and nearly 1 in 2 achieved remission.
A 2013 study found, “TMS [transcranial magnetic stimulation] applied over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was superior to sham stimulation in reducing MADRS [Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale] scores in patients with medication-resistant MDD [major depressive disorder].” There are no lasting side effects with Deep TMS.
Deep TMS cutting-edge technology differs from traditional TMS, thanks to a patented H Coil helmet. It transmits electromagnetic fields that cover deeper and wider areas of the brain. The magnetic stimulation penetrates deeper than traditional TMS (Figure-8 coils) and gets to the root cause of depressive symptoms. This also allows for more effective targeting of neural activity.
Guided Imagery Treatment
Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that involves focusing on positive images and soothing sounds or narratives. Guided imagery has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression. A 2009 study found that “guided imagery appears efficacious in treating mild to moderate major depressive disorder.” Guided imagery can be done at home using audio recordings or apps that are readily available online.
Reflexology Treatment
Reflexology is a type of massage therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the hands and feet. Reflexology has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression. A 2008 study found, “after eight weeks of reflexology…there were significantly lower levels of self-reported depressed mood.” Reflexology can be done at home or by a licensed reflexologist. There are also reflexology charts available online which show where pressure should be applied on the hands and feet.
Yoga for Depression
Yoga is a mind-body practice that originated in India over 5000 years ago. Yoga involves physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation (Dyana). Yoga has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression. A 2016 study found that “yoga was associated with significantly lower levels of rumination, self-criticism, anxiety sensitivity index, and negative affect compared with no intervention.” Yoga classes are offered at many gyms, community centers, and yoga studios worldwide.
Of course, there are other helpful treatments for managing depression. These include regular exercise, massage therapy, and deep breathing exercises. Combined, traditional approaches and alternative treatments can provide significant relief and/or remission from depression.