[Home Remedies] Natural approach to depression
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Healthy Alternatives
by Susie Cooper, ND
Board Certified Doctor of Naturopathy
A Natural Approach to Depression
Depression is a mood disorder which can be of short or long duration. It can have a variable degree of severity. Headaches, muscular aches, chronic tiredness and sleep disorders are just a few of the symptoms. Depression can also be triggered by medications or physical disease of another sort. Psychotherapy is the normal, orthodox approach to depression as well as prescription antidepressants.
Emotional Considerations
Depression - persistent sadness, fear, unhappiness, pessimism, hopelessness, worthlessness or despair. Physiological symptoms may include a change in appetite, either increased or decreased; constipation; sleepiness or sleeplessness. Anxiety - phobias, fear, panic; anxiety can be manifested by a tightness in the chest, hyperventilation, heart palpitations or gastroin-*test*-('")inal problems.
What does Natural Medicine suggest?
“Seek expression, not suppression.” In other words, the body and mind seek to express, or let go of, symptoms. With the right counseling support and a customized naturopathic program of supplements chosen just for the individual, balance can hopefully be regained. Suppression of symptoms may occur from prescription drugs which don't address the deeper underlying cause behind symptoms, but sometimes prescriptions are quite necessary, especially for deeper depressive states. Naturopaths usually encourage natural therapies for mild to moderate depression. For conditions which are more severe, work with your medical doctor, also.
“Strive for balance, physically, emotionally and mentally.” (The Wholistic Model of Health)
“A vitamin/mineral deficiency can play a major role in those suffering from depression.”
“Avoid preservatives, chemicals, artificial flavorings & processed foods.” Excess sugar can contribute to hypoglycemia, which may be a large cause of depression.
"Choose a ‘whole foods’ diet, organically grown, if possible.”
“Eat a variety of foods each day.”
“Try not to binge or overeat - eat in moderation and only when hungry.”
“Drink plenty of water, which flushes toxins from the system.”
“Breathe deeply to reduce stress and depression.”
“Learn a relaxation technique such as yoga or tai chi, or go for therapeutic massages.”
“Exercise can be a wonderful tool to keep ‘good chemicals’ up in the brain.”
"Surround yourself with beautiful music which creates a healing resonance for you." Music can induce deep healing responses in the body and mind.
Botanical Remedies, a few options:
St. John’s Wort (do not take along with anti-depressant prescriptions), Kava Kava, Passionflower, California Poppy, Valerian, Chamomile, Lemon Balm, Wild Oats, Catnip, Skullcap. (Considerations are different depending upon your unique situation. Consult a trained professional in natural medicine for specific herbs in your case.)
Supplements:
High quality vitamin/mineral formula, calcium/mineral formula with trace minerals, B-Complex formula for protecting nerves and for stress, extra B-6 or B-12 if needed for stress with fatigue.
Reading list:
Stress and Natural Healing by Christopher Hobbs, L.Ac.
Dr. Duke’s Essential Herbs by James A. Duke, Ph.D.
The information contained in this column is not meant to diagnose or prescribe for specific ailments, but is intended for educational support only. Please seek the advise of a licensed health practitioner for specific illnesses and emergency situations.
