Treating Depression Without Prescription Medications
By NaturalGuidance Staff

Today, more than 20 million Americans suffer from some form of depression. People of any age, gender, race, or income can experience depression. And roughly 12% of all men and 25% of all women will experience serious depression at least once in their lifetime. Yet, depression remains a taboo illness that many people are reluctant to discuss, and some people don't acknolwedge as a disease.

While there is rarely only one factor that causes someone to become depressed, science indicates that depression is linked to low levels of serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter - a chemical in the brain that regulates mood. Depression can be caused by a number of factors:

Genetic Factors: A person with a parent who struggled with depression may inherit a predisposition to have low serotonin levels.

Psychological Factors: A person with a low self esteem or personality disorder may also find themselves suffering from symptoms of depression.

Environmental Factors: A person has recently experienced a traumatic event, such as divorce or the death of a close friend or relative.

In severe cases of depression, pharmaceutical antidepressants may be necessary. However, in cases of minor depression, there are a few natural options that have been shown to reduce the symptoms of depression. If you or someone you love is suffering from depression, it is important to speak to a health care professional before attempting to treat depression naturally.



Top Supplements for Depression Relief

Herbal Remedies to Relieve Depression

1.) St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
      - Clinically proven to be effective for mild to moderate depression.         Commonly prescribed in Europe to treat depression.
      - Has not been clinically proven to be effective for major depression.
      - For 1-2 months, take 2-4 grams of St. John's wort daily.
      - It may take up to 6 weeks to notice the effects of St. John's wort.

2.) 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan)
      - Comes from an African plant called Griffonia simplicifolia.
      - Has been shown to boost the body's serotonin levels.
      - Should not be combined with antidepressants.

3.) Omega-3 Fatty Acids
      - Clinically shown to play a vital part in the brain's reuptake of         serotonin.
      - Available from many sources, including fish oil and plant sources such         as Salba seed.

4.) Kava Kava Root (Piper methysticum)
      - Studies have shown that kava kava may be as effective as anti-        depressants for treating anxiety and depression.
      - Kava kava root has been used in the Pacific Islands for thousands of         years as the key ingredient in a ceremonial drink (similar to wine).
      - May cause toxicity in the liver, leading to liver failure. Please consult a         health professional before taking kava kava.

5.) Tryptophan
      - An amino acid that serves as a precursor for serotonin, a         neurotransmitter that helps the brain regulate sleep patterns,         appetite, and mood.
      - Promotes relaxation and restfulness.



Natural Strategies to Manage Depression

1.) Counseling/Therapy
      - Supportive counseling (cognitive therapy) can help to minimize the         hopelessness that accompanies depression.
      - The success of therapy hinges upon the therapist/patient relationship.         There are psychologists and counselors that offer a broad range of         therapy techniques.
      - Effective therapy will closely examine the causes of depression, such as         low self-esteem or unrealistic expectations, and should arrive at clearly         defined life goals.

2.) Exercise Regularly
      - Regular exercise helps to boost endorphins, the mood-elevating brain         chemicals that promote well-being.
      - Cardiovascular exercise, such as walking or jogging, is most effective.

3.) Healthy Diet
      - Eat a balanced diet high in nutrients.
      - Eat a diet high in antioxidants to prevent free radicals from the         destructive effects on the brain.
      - Eat a diet high in protein (lean beef, fish, poultry, beans) and low in         "bad" carbohydrates (sugars).

4.) Yoga/Meditation
      - The foundation of yoga centers around achieving a deeper spiritual         understanding of self, leading to self acceptance. This can be a         powerful technique for managing depression naturally.
      - Many people think yoga is intimidating because of the complex body         contortions that are often associated with it, but most fitness centers         offer beginner classes.

5.) Aromatherapy
      - Can be effective for mild depression or to transition off of anti-        depressants.
      - Essential oils from many plants, such as ylang ylang, neroli, jasmine,         and sandalwood, can help to relieve depression and anxiety.