A common refrain for therapists is hearing from clients that they don’t want to go on medication for their mental health needs. While this is understandable, and medication is not a one-size fits all/cure-all, it definitely has its place in the treatment of a variety of mental health issues. Yet, it does not always need to be included in the course of one’s treatment. So, if you are wondering about what you can do to benefit your mental health without medication, this post is for you.
Natural Mental Health Hacks
You’ve surely heard these first few tips before, but the reason they are so well known is because these things really work and yet, so many people brush right past them and need to be told again!
· Get good sleep
· Avoid caffeine and excess sugar and fats
· Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables of a variety of colors
· Stay well hydrated
· Exercise
· Good Daily Hygiene
Any intentional steps in the right direction is progress. Take it one new behavior at a time and build from there for a solid foundation.
Other Helpful Practices for Mental Health
· Meditation
· Community Worship
· Volunteering
· Stretching
· Singing
· Dancing
· Cooking/Baking
· Gardening
· Writing/Journaling
· Therapy
· Support Group Attendance
· Practicing Gratitude
· Reaching Out to Old Friends or Family Members
· Trying Something New
· Learning a New Skill
All of the above work because they bring in a more holistic approach to mental health care. Creating healthy environments for ourselves where we can express feelings, engage in physical movement, breathe fresh air, laugh with good friends, cry with others, be supported by others, lean on our faith, engage our creativity, and take care of ourselves and others with positive energy are all helpful for building a firm foundation upon which mental health can flourish.
As humans, we need time to rest, to play, to create, to connect, and to share our thoughts and feelings and be accepted. Therapy’s biggest benefit is the unconditional, positive regard that a therapist has for the client and the client being fully seen and fully heard by someone invested in their well-being but who yet needs nothing in return from the client. Such one-way attention in an environment of safe, confidential attunement between two people is a powerful mechanism for healing and change to be fostered.
The above-mentioned practices are not magic. They work because they tap into the beauty and miraculous design of how each human being has been created…a being with thoughts, feelings, a body, a soul, a spirit. When we nurture each of these parts of ourselves, we grow healthier and healthier. Often, this can be done without medication. However, if medication is recommended in addition to the above, it just might be worth considering. A well-rounded mental health toolbox is essential to a well-rounded life.
*Depressive disorders, manic depression, bipolar depression, and bipolar treatment as well as some anxiety disorders may need medication help.
For more help to learn to identify your emotions and effectively manage them, to overcome negative behaviors, or if you are suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or trauma, Omaha Trauma Therapy is here to help! EMDR and Brainspotting therapy techniques are our specialty. We want to provide you with a holistic approach to overcoming your trauma. Contact us.