Depression and anxiety are debilitating mental health conditions, and they affect millions of people all around the world. As our collective awareness around these conditions expands, physicians have put in the work to develop more sophisticated treatments to help manage the challenging symptoms. Unfortunately, many of the subsequent widely-prescribed medications can hurt more than they help.

For example, antidepressants and antianxiety drugs can offer relief to those suffering from these conditions, but these medications are also frequently associated with a number of negative side effects. These include sedation, blurred vision, dry eyes, lower level of physical energy and decreased focus. Sometimes, the side effects can be so severe that they may interfere with the person’s ability to lead a productive life.

A significant number of patients seek alternative treatment methods.

Depression and anxiety treatment: what are the safe alternatives?

Breathwork is one of the most-sought after alternatives for the treatment of anxiety. There are a variety of breathing techniques designed to reduce anxiety by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system and diverting attention from thoughts. One well known practice is box breathing with a simple four part breath; breathe in slowly counting to four, hold your breath for four seconds then slowly exhale for four seconds. Try it for a few rounds and see how you feel!

Meditation is another tool which helps protect your mind from overwhelming emotions. Meditation transports your mind to a more tranquil environment, and directs your focus to a positive image, sound or memory. Experts recommend that you meditate at least 10 minutes a day in a comfortable position.

Guided imagery is similar to meditation; its sole role is to help you find mental escape and cure your emotional wounds. This technique can improve your stress management skills and help alleviate physical tension.

Listening to binaural beats has also been shown to ease symptoms of depression. Tuning into alpha, delta or theta waves can reduce anxiety, improve your mood, help you sleep better and even boost your focus and motivation.