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Whether you’re struggling to overcome an addiction or simply dealing with anxiety and stress caused by troubles at work or at home, there’s no single treatment that’s right for everyone. However, there are many options that can help you on your way to living a healthy, full life. Today,  The United Kingdom Academy of Integrative Therapy offers some suggestions on alternative treatment approaches that may help.

Focus on Things You Can Control

Often, people struggling with anxiety and depression face many of the same challenges as those recovering from substance abuse. All can benefit by improving their diet and exercise habits as well as evaluating their work life. Studies have shown that exercise can help prevent relapse, but it can also help those struggling with depression by reducing stress and anxiety.

Likewise, a balanced diet can even out hormones and increase your energy. If work has been a source of stress consider changing jobs to a lower stress part-time business, or even starting your own business from home. Taking these actions mean you’ll feel better physically and mentally, giving you more energy to face the problems of tomorrow.

Holistic Treatment

Whether you’re struggling to overcome your dependence on a substance or simply having trouble overcoming depression so severe that you have trouble getting out of bed, there are a number of holistic treatments that can help. After all, the goal is to improve your full self. This can be explored through a variety of ways, such as acupuncture or meditation. Often, recovering addicts use holistic methods in conjunction with more traditional treatments, but those same approaches can work wonders for those seeking to overcome depression as well.

Spiritual Recovery

Spiritual is not necessarily synonymous with religious. Though people define it in different ways, the majority consider spirituality their connection with the outside world and higher power. According to Mental Help, spiritual programs function on the belief that a disconnection from a higher power puts people at a higher risk of addiction.

You’ve probably heard of spirituality used in conjunction with 12 Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, the goal being to address the spiritual needs of a person so that they lose the need to turn to alcohol and other substances. However, that approach need not only apply to substance abuse. In fact, the National Center for Biotechnology Information suggests that spirituality can be a vital component in overcoming depression.

Practice Mindfulness

Whether you’re struggling with addiction or trying to overcome anxiety and depression, one of the best things you can do is start practising mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of being aware of what causes these triggers and teaches you to find the route of the issue so that you can address it in a rational way. Big or small, the goal is to keep your emotions in check before they get out of hand. Meditation, yoga, and tai chi are excellent exercises to help you turn inward and reflect on your emotional state. Guided sessions during recovery are a great and safe way to navigate your issues.

Explore Different Types of Therapy

When it comes to therapy, there’s no one-size-fits-all option. Some benefit from one on one talk sessions where they can dig deep into their issues. Others benefit from group therapies and listening to other people’s stories. Art and music therapies can offer a new form of expression for those who have trouble expressing their thoughts, as well.

Don’t be afraid to look into alternative approaches to addressing stress, depression, or addiction. Though it may feel overwhelming – especially at first – finding an approach that best fits you is a crucial step toward a healthier lifestyle and improved quality of life. It’s an incredibly emotional process and can unearth some difficult issues, but being able to deal with your experiences can be powerful, soothing, and healing. Deciding to get help is a huge first step.

For counsellor and hypnotherapist training based in Liverpool, visit The United Kingdom Academy of Integrative Therapy today!

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Article written by: Teresa Greenhill

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