Natural Alternatives to Lexapro
Many people today are looking for holistic alternatives to drugs. Some Lexapro alternatives might be worth asking your doctor about if you want a natural component to your treatment plan.
You might consider using one of the following — either in addition to medication or in hopes of having a completely holistic treatment plan — therapy, supplements, and lifestyle changes are all potential options.
7. Talk therapy (psychotherapy)
Much research has been done on the efficacy of talk therapy (also known as psychotherapy).
Multiple studies have found that talk therapy can significantly improve outcomes, and when combined with medication, the results tend to be far superior to what most people see if they use just therapy or medication.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is widely used and works by helping people identify and change unhealthy thoughts and behavior patterns that can negatively impact their lives.
8. Herbal supplements
Herbal supplements have been used for thousands of years in some cultures to treat both physical and mental health. In recent years, it’s become more prevalent in Western medicine, and some supplements are believed to be highly effective in treating conditions like anxiety and depression.
Some of the more common supplements that might be an effective alternative to Lexapro for anxiety or depression may include:
“Most commonly used OTC supplements are 5-hydroxytryptophan 5-HTP, St. John’s wort, and S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe). Note these have mixed results and responses and are not FDA-approved. Some may help with mild depressive symptoms but not severe clinical depression. Psychotherapy, alone or in combination with medications, is an effective treatment for depression, with a proven early response, remission, and long-lasting results.”
*NOTE: You should not replace a prescribed treatment plan with herbal supplements without first talking to your doctor or mental healthcare provider. Never stop taking medication without discussing an appropriate taper plan. More research is needed on using these natural remedies for anxiety and depression.
9. Lifestyle changes
Many people adopt healthy lifestyle changes to improve physical and mental health.
When combined with medication and/or therapy, making simple changes in your routine can often be quite effective in overcoming numerous symptoms related to a mental health condition.
Some people find they can reduce or eliminate the need for medication by adding healthy life choices and talking to their doctor.
Lifestyle changes that can help you improve many aspects of your life include:
- Working out is proven to increase endorphins and improve mood
- Eating well can help your mind and body
- Staying hydrated is essential
- Keeping a healthy sleep habit can enhance mood
- Yoga helps with anxiety
- Mindfulness meditation can calm your thoughts
- Journaling was found in research to help manage depression and anxiety
- Doing deep breathing work enables you to relax and reduces anxiety
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