Modern medicine typically treats depression with a form of psychotherapy and/or anti-depressant drugs. However, some studies indicate that approximately 50 percent of people who suffer from depression are not helped by these forms of treatment. For others, the side effects of medications such as Paxil, Prozac and Zoloft, including sexual dysfunction, nausea, diarrhea and headaches, make these drugs unsuitable. For these individuals, alternative treatments for depression might be a more effective option to help manage their condition. Following is a look at some natural remedies that many people have found helpful.
A lack of certain vitamins can be a contributing factor to depression. For instance, Vitamin B9 (also known as Folic Acid) is very important for the proper functioning of the brain and therefore plays a significant role in one's mental and emotional health. It also aids in the production of DNA and RNA and is especially crucial during high growth periods, like infancy, adolescence, and pregnancy. Folic acid also helps form red blood cells. A folic acid deficiency can result in (among other things) mental sluggishness and depression.
Vitamin B12 is well known as the "energy vitamin". It is required for the production of red blood cells as well as their maintenance. It also helps in regulating appetite. It prevents mental weakening and helps in the acceleration of thought processes as well as fighting infection and carcinogen agents. People who suffer from depression often respond faster to depression medication when they take Vitamin B12 supplements along with it.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) does not recognize depression as a specific illness but instead tries to treat the specific symptoms that are unique to the individual. A variety of techniques are used to restore imbalances found in the body, such as Chinese herbs, tui-na massage, exercise and acupuncture.
In a double blind randomized study of the effectiveness of acupuncture for treatment depression, 34 depressed female patients were assigned to one of three treatment groups for eight weeks. The first group received acupuncture treatment specifically tailored to their symptoms. The second group received a general acupuncture treatment that was not specific to depression, and the third group was placed on a waiting list for acupuncture treatment, but received none. The study found that those in the tailored acupuncture treatment experienced a more significant reduction in symptoms, compared to those in the non-specific treatment. In addition, more than half of the participants no longer met the accepted diagnostic criteria for depression after the study.
Herbal treatments are another popular way to manage the symptoms of depression. For instance, Siberian ginseng is an herb that aids the balance of essential neurotransmitters like serotonin, nor epinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Taking it regularly can lead to improved feelings of general well-being.
Passion flower is another natural ingredient that can help treat depression, anxiety and sleep disorders. Passion flower is a natural salve that is most effective when combined with St. John's Wort to produce a calming, soothing effect.
These are just some of the alternative forms of treatment that can be helpful in alleviating many of the symptoms of depression. As with anything, everyone will react to them in different ways. It is important to allow a trial period in order to feel the effects of the natural medications, as some will take several weeks to take effect. Always be sure to seek a doctor's advice before you decide to stop taking a prescription medication, and avoid combining prescription medications with natural medications on your own.
Depression can have far reaching implications for those who suffer from it. It can negatively impact all aspects of a person's life, from their job to their relationships. There are a number of ways of managing depression without medication. Find out more at Depression Help.