Alternatives

Alternatives to treating depression are treatments that have few to no side effects. The ones I researched were ones that did not involve taking medication or putting anything into ones body. Exercise, psychotherapy, and mediation have all been shown to be effective treatment options for depression. Exercise raises a persons self esteem, enhances positive body image,  It also helps with social interactions by incorporating group classes and seeing people at the gym. Psychotherapy such as psychodynamic, interpersonal, and cognitive behavioral therapy all work to help patients recognize negative thoughts, why they have them, and to develop ways to change this pattern of thinking. Meditation works through breathing and concentration to achieve total relaxation. To do this, individuals must rid their mind of all negative thoughts. This produces a feeling a mindfulness and enlightenment. All of these options have been shown to be effective in the treatment or prevention of mild to moderate depression. If these work just as well as antidepressants, without all the horrible side effects, why aren't they being "prescribed"?