There are several natural alternatives to medication.- Vigorous exercise. Run or participate in a sport. This will naturally raise serotonin levels, which helps with both anxiety and depression.
- Meditation. Take a few minutes everyday to relax alone. Listen to calming music (like ocean sounds or water) and breathe in and out deeply. This will help relive anxiety.
- Keep a journal or diary. Whenever you feel stressed, worried, depressed, or emotional write about how you feel. Getting the emotions out is necessary, so it doesn't internally collect.
- Diet. Skip the donuts or other fatty based foods. A diet rich in vegetables, proper whole wheat, fruits, (lean( protein, and dairy can help. Putting nutrient based foods into your body will help the body feel physically better, and thus help the mind feel better.
- Tea or meditation before bed can help you sleep better.
- If the problem is more cognitive, I would suggest talking with a close friend or relative. Remember: jumping to conclusions is often wrong, you are valuable to society and your friends/family, and focus on the root of your problem. Too many after school activities causing anxiety? Working in the same place as your ex?Then find ways to limit the stress or emotional distresses.
- Over come anxiety causing fears by facing them head on.
- Also, if your friend is acting anxious or depressed and is in denial, a group therapy session is another option.
You can also met with a therapist (psychologist) and tell them you do not wish to use medication. Your therapist will go over similar methods.
However, if the mood disorder is biological, medication is required. I would recommend seeing a certified psychologist for proper diagnosis, and trying natural methods, before jumping into medications, which can be somewhat dangerous.