by Dr. Isaac Schumann
Depression is one of the most common psychological and
emotional problems American adults encounter. A study reports that about 13 to
20 percent of American adults have some form of depressive symptoms.
Unfortunately, many severe cases of depression can ultimately lead to
suicide.
Are there any solutions and treatments available to stem this
unfortunate tide? Fortunately, the answer to this is yes. Unfortunately again,
many of these treatments involves a soup of medicines that may have some form or
side effect. As we discussed previously psychotherapy is another solution that
is gaining popularity due to the favorable results they have
exhibited.
For some people, the question that remains is if there are any
"natural" depression treatments available that do not involve some cocktail of
hard-to-spell medications that can be taken as a preventive and beneficial
alternative to mainstream treatments. The answer is yes. Although it is
recommended that any form of depression should be consulted with a doctor let's
take a look at a list of natural supplements that may help alleviate symptoms of
depression.
It Starts with the Diet Depression can be treated with better
nutrition. Studies have shown that such treatment not only has a beneficial
effect on the person's physical health, but also a favorable effect on the
person's mental and emotional health. This nutritional treatment includes
modification of diet, vitamins and minerals, and the addition of some amino acid
supplements.
The amino acid supplements are essential elements that are
precursors to neurotransmitters. The amino acids D, L-pheylalanine and
L-tyrosine are a viable alternative to antidepressant drugs.
A deficiency
in vitamins and minerals in the body can also cause depression. If this
condition is corrected, depression owing to this cause can be alleviated. Even
if you are not sure if you lack vitamins and minerals, supplementing your diet
with them will often improve symptoms related to depression and will contribute
to better overall health.
Some Very Useful Herbs The herb St. John's Wort
(Hypericum perforatum) in an extracted standardized form is being used in
Germany and other European countries to treat depression in its mild and
moderate forms. It is also known to alleviate anxiety and sleep
disorders.
This herb claims many benefits - among them are its
anti-depressive and antiviral properties.
The Ginkgo (Ginkgo Biloba)
extract, while not a primary treatment for major cases of depression, is an
excellent supplement to any depression-related syndrome. Studies are beginning
to show that Ginkgo can be used to treat some forms of depression that are not
responsive to antidepressant agents. In cases of resistant depression, Ginkgo
Biloba is beginning to appear attractive to the medical world.
Cut Back
on Those Soft Drinks Many practitioners advocate a nutrition oriented approach
to treating depression. They believe that the answer to the depression question
can be found in the diet of a person. Studies show that a decrease in the intake
of sugars and refined carbohydrates can produce relief from symptoms of
depression.
This diet will entail cutting out sugary drinks, pasta, white
bread, and other processed foods. For your carbohydrate needs, it would be
better to stick to grains, whole wheat, and other natural plant based
carbohydrates. Also, cutting down on these kinds of food can do wonders for
one's overall health.
This treatment is recommended for those who feel
depressed and languid during the late hours of the morning and the afternoon.
For these people, eating sugary foods will induce a temporary feeling of
alleviation from depression. However, this is only for a few minutes, and the
body automatically reverts to languid depression.
Depression is one
serious disorder that should not be taken for granted. Some people will equate
depression with other natural feelings such as anger, happiness, and sadness.
However, depression is much more complicated than that. It is a disorder and an
ailment that can be treated by natural or medical means. It would do well to
consult your doctor for more information on dealing with depression.
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Dr. Isaac Schumann brings to you a life time of experience
in the mental health field www.depressionhelpguides.com
