Treating Depression – So, What Are The Choices?
- Brainz Magazine
- Aug 30, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 7
Dr. Pooja Anand Sharma is the Founder and Chairperson of Vishwas Healing and Healthcare LLP, a renowned Psychologist, Psychotherapist, Alternative Healing Master with over 22 years of experience in the healing industry. Dr. Pooja’s passion for healing and counseling goes beyond just a profession; it is her true calling.
Depression is a fairly prevalent but severe mental disorder that impacts the lives of many individuals globally. This is not just sadness or a bad day, it is the ability to change a person in their thinking and in their ways. Fortunately, there are several good ways to eliminate or at least control the symptoms of depression.
Medication
Depression is a condition that is frequently treated using antidepressants, which are drugs meant to reduce the signs of the illness. These medications help regulate chemicals in the brain which are related to mood and emotions.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioural therapy or talk therapy is another way through which depression is treated. Different therapeutic approaches include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This makes people able to recognize and alter undesirable expectations or behaviors in them.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): This enhances interpersonal relationships and social interactions.
Psychodynamic Therapy: This aims to look at the psychological causes of emotional pain.
Group Therapy: This fosters a platform where people can be able to express themselves and get information from other people.
Alternative therapies
Several alternative therapies can complement traditional treatment methods:
Reiki can be defined as a form of therapy that lowers stress and anxiety, and enhances the mood and quality of life, as it focuses on imbalances in the energy field, which in turn aids in the management of depression.
Energy Healing modalities such as Healing Touch, Therapeutic Touch and Pranic Healing removes energy obstructions and balance the energy to decrease stress and anxiety and to promote healing of emotional aspect.
Crystal Healing is a form of healing that involves the use of crystals such as Amethyst, Rose Quartz, and Citrine for the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of the body. Crystals can be put onto the body or the surrounding area, or used in meditation, or even taken around with people to help to bring balance to the energy and change the mood.
Mindfulness Practices are meditation, MBCT, and MBSR that involve paying attention to the present moment and managing emotions to help in dealing with depression.
Art Therapy is a way of expressing oneself through art, for instance, painting, drawing or even sculpting where one is able to express their feelings, decrease their anxiety and even change their mood through the use of art.
Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice which helps to reduce stress by reducing the levels of stress hormones such as cortisol by increasing the levels of serotonin and endorphins that are released in the body and help to make the body and mind relax.
Aromatherapy is a form of treatment that incorporates essential oils such as lavender, chamomile and bergamot in diffusers, bath products, and massage oils to help in calming down and improve the moods of the users.
The Bach Flower Therapy employs 38 different flowers to help in treating the emotional aspect of a person. For depression, the essences such as Mustard, Gentian, and Sweet Chestnut help to work through the issues that cause depression and bring harmony.
Lifestyle changes
Certain lifestyle changes can significantly impact the management of depression:
Regular Exercise: Exercise releases endorphins in the body which are chemicals that help in increasing moods.
Healthy Diet: The food that is taken in the body has an impact on the mood and energy of the body. Some of the foods that are good for the skin include foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as fish and nuts, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables.
Adequate Sleep: It is important to get a good night’s sleep for the mind. It is recommended that one should try to have a regular sleep schedule as this enhances mood and cognitive performance.
Stress Management: Self-care strategies like mindfulness, meditation and yoga can also assist in controlling stress which is a critical factor in determining one’s emotional health.
Conclusion
Depression is a complex disorder that typically responds to a combination of treatments that may be chosen based on the patient’s profile. Whether it is through the use of drugs, counselling, altering one’s diet and exercise regime or other complementary therapies, many individuals can get better and live normal lives. It is recommended that one should consult a doctor to get the right treatment plan. Please bear in mind that the act of seeking assistance is the first thing that has to be done in order to be cured.
For further information, and to access more resources, please visit the official website of Vishwas Healing Centre or get in touch with the team at info@vishwashealingcentre.com.
Read more from Dr. Pooja Anand Sharma
Dr. Pooja Anand Sharma, Healing Therapist & Life Coach
Dr. Pooja, an exceptional communicator, seeks to revolutionize holistic healing by emphasizing the profound interconnectedness of the mind and body. Her philosophy rests on the belief that mental and physical health are inseparable. Any ailment affecting one inevitably reverberates through the other. With this vision, Dr. Pooja has transformed countless lives.
