What are some ways to battle depression and survive without medication?!
Question:
What are some ways to battle depression and survive without medication?
I'm currently battling depression and i don't want to be put on any medication, i'm lost and confused and have run out of ideas.
Answers:
Yes, sweetie, there are plenty of ways.
Medication is usually only a temporary solution, anyway. The US is terrible about instantly medicating people and neglecting the real problem. Unless you are always depressed all the time, or pose a risk to yourself at this moment, you probably should not be medicated anyway.
There are ways to manage depression without medication, but it will involve some therapy. Just be honest with your therapist right away that you are not interested in medication. They can help you to work out a daily plan that will help you cope and also stay productive in your life. If you cant afford a therapist, there are plenty of clinics offering free support for depression- I would look around or call your local hospital and they could give you information.
Staying active plays a HUGE role, even though you practically have to force yourself. Make a list of small, not too time consuming activities that are pleasant. These don't have to be big projects or cost any money. Think of simple things like taking a walk, taking a relaxing bath, listening to a favorite cd, reading a book, going to a local dog park and watching the animals, etc. Try to do two or three of these things each day. The key to managing depression is to reintroduce joy into your life. It is almost a task at first, but after a while doing these pleasant activities becomes easier.
It is especially important for you to NOT just sleep. You will feel like sleeping all the time, but this will not help you, the inactivity is actually detrimental. If you feel the urge to nap, do a pleasant activity first and if you are still sleepy afterwards, which you may not be, then take a short nap.
I hope this helps a bit, fell free to email me any time if you need to, my yahoo id is the one displayed above my picture.