Depression is among the most frequently reported medical conditions today and is projected to become the second leading cause of disability worldwide by 2020. It is estimated by some that roughly half the people who seek treatment for depression are not helped by psychotherapy and medication or withdraw from treatment too early. Even among those who recover, more than one third of them have a relapse within eighteen months. This suggests that alternative treatments for depression may be helpful for some who suffer from this disorder. Here are some of the ways in which depression can be managed naturally.
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 B3 (also known as Niacin) is a vitamin necessary for cell respiration. It helps with the metabolizing of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, healthy skin, performance of the nervous system, and normal secretion of bile and stomach fluids. It can be administered for treating schizophrenia and other mental illnesses. It is also a good memory-enhancer and is responsible for the synthesis of sex hormones. People show increased mental alertness when receiving adequate supplies of this vitamin.
According to traditional Chinese medical theory, depression is a sign of specific organ energy being blocked and/or deficient. If this energy becomes depressed or deficient it can consume and damage the heart energy, which is the basis of the spirit. Some of the ways that depression is treated in Chinese medicine include herbal remedies, massage 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.
There are also a number of herbal remedies for treating depression. For example, ginko biloba is a natural ingredient that improves circulation in the brain, which often in turn improves memory and also eases some symptoms of depression. It can be taken along with other natural ingredients such as St. John’s Wort as an overall mood enhancer.
While licorice has been known for a long time to be an effective herbal treatment for colds, recently recorded data have shown impressive results in the treatment of depression. Licorice is a natural anti-depressant which contains eight monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Licorice can be taken either as a capsule or drunk as a tea. However, if taken in too large a dose or over a lengthy period, there may be side effects like increased blood pressure, headaches and lethargy. Licorice should be supplemented with potassium capsules and increased water intake to offset the side effects, and should only be used on the advice of a licensed practitioner.
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 is a much more serious condition than just feeling a little blue. It’s a real problem that can affect all aspects of a person’s life, from their job to their relationships. Learn more about the various approaches to managing depression without medication at Depression Help.
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