Can depression be treated without medication?

Yes: Depression can be treated without medication, but some people need it to complement lifestyle changes. Like someone with a heart condition needs their meds, people with depression do too. Exercise, therapy, laughter, good company and positive thinking can all help someone who is depressed yet medicines can facilitate a better outcome over the long term. (thanks to j. Batt.).

Sometimes: Although certain situations warrant treatment with medication, there are other modalities that can also be helpful such as regular meditation, exercise, counseling, and natural and herbal supplements. You can explore many of these with a qualified healthcare practitioner.

Often yes: For all but the most severe clinical depression, certain psychotherapies (e.g., cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal) have been shown to be as effective as antidepressants. Many say it's better to combine therapy and meds, but it can certainly be done with either alone. Exceptions include depression so severe that the person can't talk in therapy, or if there's any sign of psychosis or mania.

Yes It Can: There are multiple treatments for mild to moderate depression that do not involve medications. Therapy, exercise, mindfulness meditation and good physical health are a few examples. Make sure you are talking to your doctor before beginning any program, but medications are not the only effective treatment. (www.Thehealthymind.Com).

PSYCHOTHERAPY: Find a reputable psychotherapist in your area to discuss what depression means to YOU. It means different things to different people. You can also discuss your desires to try to ;et the therapy alone treat the depression, without relying on meds.