3 Unconventional Therapies for Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are serious mental health issues that should be addressed with a health care professional as early as possible. Educating yourself about treatment options can lead to a more productive conversation with your doctor about ways to deal with anxiety and depression so that you can lead a full and productive life. These therapies are on the more innovative side of treating mental health issues and may surprise you with their effectiveness and ease of implementation. 

1. Walking and talking therapy



Time outdoors can do wonders for your overall mental state and relaxation. You may be able to find a therapist who holds therapy sessions outdoors while walking. This relaxed environment can help to clear your mind and talk more freely about the issues that you are facing. Sitting in a sterile therapist's office can seem daunting and unappealing to many people. Embracing Mother Nature is a great way to avoid that stigma and allow yourself to open up in new and engaging ways. 

Finding a therapist who employs this method could be as easy as asking for a recommendation from your doctor. It may involve trying out different therapists until you find the right fit for you to feel the most comfortable. 


2. Hypnotherapy


This therapy often gets confused with hypnosis, which involves someone else controlling your thoughts and actions. On the other hand, hypnotherapy is about reorienting your focus and channeling your energy toward a positive outcome. This is typically used along side other therapies for anxiety and depression to increase their effectiveness. The best thing about this therapy is that it allows you to take control of your own healing process and harness your own focus.


3. Laughing



Laughter has been shown to reduce your blood pressure and help you to process stressful situations. While mediation is often praised as one of the most effective therapies for relaxation, laughing has been shown to have many of the same benefits. It also does not require the same level of focus and concentration as meditation does. 

One of the great things about laughter therapy is that it does not necessarily have to be done in a formal setting. While many hospitals and exercise studies may attempt to incorporate laughter and humor into their regular sessions, laughter therapy is different for everyone. Spending time watching a funny movie or television show can be just the remedy you need to get that laughter going. 

Depression, Find the Cause that May Surprise You

Could depression really be all in your head? New research reveals that brain inflammation may be to blame for your depressed feelings. Those who are depressed have 30 percent more markers of inflammation compared to those who do not. The study, which was performed by the University of Toronto’s Center for Addiction and Mental Health, used PET scans to measure immune cell activation and inflammatory responses. Those who were severely depressed were found to have the highest amount of inflammation. In the past, researchers had found that inflammation associated with other health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, autoimmune disease and other chronic illnesses could trigger inflammation in the brain and depressed feelings.

This is the first link between inflammation in the brain without other illnesses and a depressed mood. While this new research shines a powerful light on what causes this perplexing, often disabling illness, we also know that it is a complex mental condition that involves biological changes such as hormones or variations in brain chemistry and environmental and genetic factors. Some people may have a single trigger, such as a job loss or death in the family, while others may experience a cycle, such as those who suffer from seasonal affective disorder.

 Other factors in feeling blue can include diet, lack of sleep, too much sitting and cold weather or temperatures where you live. Smoking, excessive drinking and a poor diet can make it worse. Even social media can play a role in our mental and emotional wellbeing. If you are feeling depressed, you can take steps to feel better. Many people find relief in simple lifestyle changes. Try to spend some time outside in the sun every day, preferably while being physically active. Eat a nutrient-rich balanced diet, and kick the bad habits that may be holding you back.

 Evaluate your sleeping habits to identify those things that could be keeping you from getting a good night’s sleep. Find a hobby, learn something new, get involved in your community and spend some time doing something you really love. Changing your lifestyle can help you feel better but may not be enough for all depressed people. You may benefit from anti-inflammatory supplements, such as vitamins A, B6, C, D, E and K. Talk to your doctor about prescription medications. Because about 25 percent of people experience no relief from the first medication they try, let your doctor know if your medication does not seem to be working within a reasonable amount of time.