Major depression is a significant mental health illness that can seriously influence a person’s life, making even the most fundamental daily activities difficult.
A depressive condition can produce melancholy, hopelessness, and worthlessness. It may also show itself in physical symptoms, including exhaustion, chronic pain, and difficulties concentrating.
Over the years, there have been many methods of new treatments for depression to help alleviate people’s symptoms. We’ll learn about these treatments in this article.
Traditional Depression Treatments
First, let’s look at traditional treatments for depression.
Medication
Patients use antidepressant medicines to treat severe depression symptoms. These drugs make the brain create more of certain chemicals that help control mood.
Some common types of medication include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants.
Psychotherapy
Another popular treatment method for depressive disorders is psychotherapy, sometimes referred to as talk therapy.
Speaking with a mental health expert about your thoughts, feelings, and actions will help you understand your situation and develop new coping mechanisms.
New Treatments for Depression
Now we introduce the newer treatments for depression commonly available.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Research shows that CBT is an effective treatment for depressive symptoms.
It’s a highly effective psychotherapy method that aims to help patients recognize and alter negative thought patterns and behaviors.
It is helpful to treat severe depression by assisting individuals in identifying their distorted thoughts and replacing them with more positive, realistic ones.
Furthermore, CBT helps patients develop coping strategies for dealing with difficult situations or emotions. With CBT, individuals learn to manage their stress and anxiety and improve their overall quality of life.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a relatively new treatment for depression that has recently gained popularity. With TMS, magnetic pulses stimulate the brain to lift mood and lessen depressive symptoms.
During a TMS session, healthcare providers place an electromagnetic coil against the patient’s scalp to send short bursts of magnetic energy into the brain.
The use of TMS to treat depression has a number of benefits. Most importantly, TMS is a non-invasive and painless procedure that doesn’t call for sedation or anesthesia.
Research has suggested its effectiveness in reducing symptoms of depression, including feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
Exercise and diet for depression
Many may not know this, but regular exercise and a balanced diet can be beneficial in alleviating symptoms of severe depression.
Regular exercise can be one of the best ways to promote a healthier mental state. It reduces depressive symptoms, elevates mood, and increases vitality. Exercise releases endorphins, substances that help reduce stress and support general well-being.
A healthy diet also includes essential nutrients that can help improve mood and lessen the effects of depression. Fish, nuts, and seeds are examples of foods high in omega-3 fatty acids that can lower inflammation in the body and enhance general mental health.
Alternative Therapies for Depression
Finally, let’s explore alternative therapies to improve our mental well-being.
Herbal remedies for depression
Herbal medicines are becoming increasingly popular to treat depression that doesn’t respond to other treatments.
Herbs grown in nature can help with depression symptoms like sadness and a lack of hope. Some of the most common plants used to treat depression are St. John’s wort, ginkgo biloba, and lavender.
Meditation and mindfulness for depression
Meditation and being aware of the present moment can help people who are depressed. Mindfulness is the practice of being aware of one’s thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations in the present moment without judgment.
Research has shown that meditation and mindfulness can help reduce symptoms of depression, improve mood, and increase overall well-being.
Light therapy for depression
One form of treating depression is light therapy, which involves exposing the patient to bright light. This type of therapy can help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, which is responsible for regulating sleep and wake cycles.
Light therapy is effective in alleviating depressive symptoms, including melancholy and hopelessness. Boosting energy and mood may improve your overall quality of life.
How We Can Help
There are many new treatments for depression that you should consider. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a painless, effective procedure that can help reduce symptoms of depression.
Physical activity and diet may also benefit those suffering from depression, as they can help improve mood and reduce stress.
Additionally, herbal remedies, meditation and mindfulness, and light therapy can all help reduce symptoms of depression.
Combining these new treatment options can help even those with severe depression find relief.
If you are struggling with depression, professional help can help you reclaim your life. At NeuroSpa, our healthcare providers offer a variety of treatments for depression, including revolutionary new solutions.
Our team of experienced professionals is here to help you find the best treatment option for your needs, so schedule an appointment today.
This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.
