What is the #1 cure for depression besides medication?

Answer 1

All methods of psychotherapy have demonstrated some effectiveness in helping depression. Of all the different types of psychotherapy, the only method that has a significantly higher rate of benefit over other methods is cognitive-behavioral therapy (C-BT). Of all treatments for depression, the most effective by statistical measurement C-BT combined with antidepressant medications is the most effective form of treatment for depressive disorders.

You can check out C-BT at www.nacbt.org or in the Wikipedia entry for Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, which has an entry for C-BT and depression. David Burns, MD wrote a book titled Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy, which is available in paperback. There are also other resources for the validation of success rates in clinical studies on C-BT and treatment of depressive disorders that are widely available online.

Answer 2

Put aside the thought of a cure, and think instead in terms of effective treatment. Practice for 15 - 20 mins daily, and when needed, the mindfulness breathing method at http://www.dbtselfhelp.com/ or gaze at a burning candle in a quiet, darkened room for 20 mins; both of these work better if practised morning, afternoon, and evening. Tai Chi & yoga suit some (http://www.yogasite.com). Work up slowly to 30 - 60 mins of vigorous exercise, preferably in sunlight, and take a vitamin B complex, and 4 fish oil supplements, all of these daily. Eat healthily, and keep occupied. See a doctor, as it may be thyroid related. See http://www.beattheblues.info/? & www.depression.com/-

Answer 3

EXERCISE! #1

But, in addition, supplementation can help substantially.
For example:
Amino acids (especially L-Tyrosine & 5-htp). Fish oil,
B-Complex, Ester C, Magnesium & Calcium Citrate containing Vitamin D , Multi Vitamin/Mineral Complex. It is important to have protein in the morning. Limit sugar intake. Avoid alcohol or depressant medication. And last but not least, get enough sleep.

Answer 4

Depression is such a deadly disease. You can cure it immediately if you're self is ready enough to cure yourself. You should know the problem and try to solve it but if its the kind of problem that can't be solve for underlying reasons. You should have your support system in your back like your friends and family. And try some other activities that you can divert your feelings and be relaxed. And most importantly try to accept the things that happened to your life that caused your depression. I can confidently say that you can do it God won't give it to you if you don't have the capacity to do it. Have faith in GOd, He is always there for us!.

Answer 5

Exercise and eating right would be my guess. Treating your body like crap makes it treat you like crap.

If you are depressed though, you should really seek the medication, as often times depression is caused by a hormonal imbalance in your brain.

And if anyone rattles off herbs to you, read this first:
http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts/depression_anxiety/JohnsHopkinsDepressionAnxietyHealthAlert_174-1.html

Answer 6

Exercise

Answer 7

Depending on the cause of the depression, you can exercise, eat healthy, because eating certain things like too much chocolate can contribute to ill feelings. Drinking less alcohol, Doing things to take up time. Walking, painting, reading, whatever floats your boat.

Answer 8

Anything that excites you and makes you want to get out of bed in the morning. Even if it is only a TV show or a pet or a person who has a problem that you want to help.

Answer 9

only would work for mild depression:
getting plenty of light
avoid alcohol/drugs
eat healthy-esp fish like salmon for omega 3's
exercise
socialize with friends family
talk to someone esp a trained person to deal with it
avoid toxic people
change the situation causing unhappiness or excess stress if possible

Answer 10

Change your life. something in your life now is causing your depression, once you realise what that is you will find that it will go away, without the need for meds.