I don't want to take medication for depression, any ideas?

Question

I have a phobia about taking pills.

Answer 1

watch this. It would cure anyone of depression

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HpKe1lUo5I

Answer 2

It depends on the illness, sometimes it's a reaction to life's events and tlking will help, sometimes it comes from your brain/body - then tablets can help. St Johns Wort is the most potent alternative - but it too is a drug and has side effects - it mustn't be combined with conventional medications.

You wouldn't beieve how much the doctors know about this illness, the science is really advanced, but since humans are all different and very complicated, the illness is still reliant on good care management. Generally getting referred to your specialist mental health team is better than most GPs (although some are really good).

This illness is one of the main cause of suicide, if it gets really too much - go to accident and emergency and don't leave until you can see a duty psychratrist. it might take hours but it is a short cut to a better assessment if the trouble is really bad.

I've taken anti-depressents - they work but you have to stick with them, you often have to suffer the side-effects before the good side of the medication works. I got really sleepy and lost my sex drive on Cipralex, came back through when I came off them. St John's Wort didn't do a thing for me.

Walking to get the blood up is essential, avoid alchol like the plague, also all street drugs, choclate is nice, avoid ruminating, going over thisngs. The illness is not a probelm that you can think your way out off. Its a condition that will usually pass with time, you can excercise your way out of most deperessions. The internet, and newspapers d not help, afunny film can take you out of yourself.

Answer 3

If you have phobias and other mental conditions (depression, for one) -- then perhaps psychotherapy is the answer for you. Have you actually been diagnosed with clinical depression, or are you just really sad and "blue?"

If that is the case, there are many ways to shake the blues. Finding hobbies, friends and activities to get yourself away from current situations are good ways to start. Seeking spiritual paths, meditation and Reiki are some alternative methods that have worked for others. (In fact, a lot of health insurance plans and hospitals are starting t offer holistic medicines and treatment options for patients!)

One thing to remember, though, is that there are all kinds of different therapists, and one kind of therapy may be better suited for you than another. Cognitive therapy, behavior therapy, play therapy, psychotherapy, and about 6 others come to mind, and they are all intensely different, based on your needs. The trick is to find the right kind for you, before you have a mental breakdown!

The thing is, you have started to try to find a way to deal with it, not just accepted depression as a way of life. You have options, and that is a really positive first step!

Here is a link to a pretty good website that breaks down a few of the types of therapy and what may help you based on your needs.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/psychotherapy/MH00009

Good luck!

Answer 4

Go talk to your doc about getting therapy.

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy can be great for people with depression.. its all about changing the way you view things and how you react to them.

In an ideal world- people would receive therapy anyway before anyone tried medication.

Medication can be a big help though- I suffer terribly with it (even been hospitalised many times) and since starting on a mood leveller I no longer experience such dark downs..

Is it just the pills? You can get liquid versions of some.

Answer 5

Medication is not a good idea, unless for only a short while to get you over a sticky patch, because it will block what is causing it. Have you thought of the talking therapies? No medication required, and eventually you will talk about what you have covered up. The relationship with the therapist will be very worthwhile and a jumping board for others, and it will be a fascinating journey. email me if you would like more details.

Answer 6

If you don't want to take pills, mention to your doctor that you don't want to take them and state the reasons (side effects). Believe me. If you give a long list of side-effects that you face, your doctor will stop the medication. I guarantee this.

Here are some ways to help you RELIEVE DEPRESSION.

TALK - Remember, talking helps you ease out your feelings and let you feel more comfortable and happy in the end. (I'm available at [e-mail])

THINK POSITIVELY - Thinking positively helps you maintain a healthy mental and physical life. It helps you be happy and have good relationships with others.

Answer 7

First would be to avoid self diagnosis, particularly in depression. The word means very different things to different people. Before considering what you do about your currently undiagnosed condition, get a confirmed diagnosis from a doctor. Many patients who are troubled do not need and will not benefit from pharmacological intervention anyway. They may need either counselling or psychotherapy.

Answer 8

I really don't know what to tell you about your phobia(i have some too) But, has your dr. ever got you into talk therapy 1st.?? Maybe, you could try yhat before taking pill's for it & I suffer depression & anxiety-remerone has helped me alot! I've been put on EVERYTHING on the book's & 30mgs. of this has helped me-Maybe, check out talk therapy then see what happen's??

Answer 9

it depends how severe your depression is and what advice your gp has given you. my uncle had depression and it made him a lot better with the medication, but everyones different. have a word with some homeopathists and other natural remedy practitioners so you are clued up on all the other options out there. then take that to your gp and you can have a discussion about what best suits you. hope this helps.

Answer 10

Well you need to deal with the feelings you are having! Try using a journal as an outlet for that. You would be suprised at what comes out when your not thinking just writting. Seeing some sort of counsiler would work too. You have to be able to express yourself hough
Good Luck!!!

Answer 11

Try getting a light box. Depression is worst when there is no natural daylight. My friend said this worked brilliantly for her. And I know that the recent spell of beautiful weather has lifted my spirits no end. Also try getting out for a walk, go to the seaside, the sea definately lifts me too.