Today, we look at alternative therapies for mental health disorders that are as effective as medication and counseling.

When it comes to treatment for mental illnesses, tried and trusted methods such as medication and therapy are suggested. No doubt, they work. But that doesn’t mean these two are the only options available for people to try in order to feel better. There are also alternative therapies for mental health disorders, that are backed by science. Today, we look at these in detail.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

This is a psychotherapeutic technique that is used to treat people who are suffering from emotional trauma. In this type of alternative approach, the person is asked to move their eyes with the help of specific techniques, in order to stimulate emotional pain that is associated with traumatic and painful memories.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

This is a non-invasive form of treatment where concerned individuals are asked to breathe concentrated oxygen, while placed in a specialized chamber. This is done to encourage healing and reduce inflammation within the body. HBOT benefits brain health in general where it boosts blood flow and is especially helpful for those who have suffered from a concussion or TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury). This is important because research has shown that when the blood flow to the brain is low, it could result in depression, ADD/ADHD, suicidal tendencies, substance abuse, etc.

Neurofeedback

Ever heard of a treatment where all you’ve got to do is sit back and watch movies while your brain does all the work? Neurofeedback it is! This NASA-inspired, US, FDA-approved brain training technology balances in the imbalances in the brainwaves that are responsible for your anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, and other mental disorders.

There are electrodes placed on your head, that are attached to a computer. With the help of these, your brain receives constant feedback based on the visuals you see on the screen while watching a movie. As the brain receives this feedback- which is seen in the form of wavering pictures and sounds- your brain regulates and adjusts itself. Too technical? Here’s a video explaining how this technology works.

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (RTMs)

This is a treatment used to cure symptoms of depression where magnetic pulses are used to stimulate certain areas of the brain. This technology has been approved by the FDA and is especially used for patients who haven’t benefitted from conventional treatments for depression. There was a 2015 review study done on this treatment that found that it is an effective treatment that combats depressive disorder as well as other disorders.

Aromatherapy

There are certain scents such as lavender and others that are known to have therapeutic effects. Lavender helps with mood and sleep. Ylang-ylang helps with memory, emotional trauma whereas peppermint and eucalyptus help with energy and focus. Jasmine and chamomile on the other hand help reduce symptoms of anxiety, stress as well as promote good sleep.

Lifestyle changes 

There are enough studies that prove that lifestyle changes can significantly better mental health. This includes exercise, healthy diets, different types of yoga, taking supplements, deep breathing, spending time in nature. A change as simple as cutting out sugar from your diet can help you a great deal. Sugar increases serotonin levels and then brings them down drastically, therefore worsening symptoms of anxiety. Working out on the other hand too can promote mental well-being. Click here to know all about it.

At Brain & Co., you can undergo Neurofeedback treatment and combat your anxiety, depression, trauma, anger issues, sleep issues, and more. Book your first session right away! Contact details below:

Phone: +91 253 660 6333