Depression is a growing problem in America. Everyday, more people are falling under this. It is regarded as an illness. The popular belief is that it is caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. There are many different medications to combat depression. But there are ways to combat depression without medication. While depression may be an illness in and of it self, depression is often just a symptom of another health problem.

Before you seek out prescription or over the counter treatment, there are many things you can look at.

Exercise: Exercise causes the body to release a chemical in your body called endorphins which lift the mood.

Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet and replenishing all your nutrients is vital to your physical and mental health. Depression is said to have physiological causes. When some levels in your body are off balance, (e.g. blood sugar, sodium) one of the effects can be depression.

Sleep: The quality of sleep can have an effect on your mood. If your sleep was not restful you could be more vulnerable to depression, if not suffering from it.

Friends/Family: Sometimes, depression is caused by isolation and loneliness. Also the company you keep can have an influence on your mood. It is good to have friends whom you can talk to.

Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you get to the root of your depression. Writing is also a form of therapy

Music: Listening to or playing music can affect your mood as well.

Support Groups: Joining a group of people who have the same problems or similar problems with you and giving you support can do wonders for those with depression.

Meditation/Spirituality: Often times when you are depressed there is a mental unrest in you. Meditation and prayer can help relieve that tension

Counseling: Sessions with a counselor can help you find a way to counter depression

There are many other options that you can test out before going under medication. Medication should be the last resort to dealing with depression, and if you are looking to take meds it is best to do some research to find out which forms of medication is right for you, because some medical treatments for depression have adverse effects to body chemistry. Side effects should also be considered when getting a prescription.

These non medical options for combating depression will not reverse depression overnight. It could take weeks, months, even years to reverse depression. But they are worthwhile to consider before taking medication.

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