Natural Home Remedies For Clinical Depression

Does Depression Have You Down?

Clinical depression or “depressive reactions” is a mood response that is often brought on by the stresses and strains in our lives. For some, it can be triggered by a serious loss, a difficult relationship, financial problems or any overwhelmingly stressful situation. For others it may be set off by medical conditions, drug or alcohol abuse, or hormonal changes. In recent years, it has been noted that certain forms of depression can actually run in families.

Far more common than you may think, one in five women and one in ten men can expect to experience some form of clinical depression in their lives. Depression can influence every aspect of your life. Although the exact cause of clinical depression is unknown, depression can leave one feeling sad, irritable, indecisive, pessimistic, hopeless or empty. Sufferers can experience insomnia, fatigue, memory loss, restlessness, anxiety and even rapid weight gain or loss.

Drug Therapy For The Treatment Of Clinical Depression

Today, many people are aware of the drug therapy that is available for depression. This includes pharmaceuticals such as Zoloft, Paxil, Wellbutrin, and Prozac. These drugs, while helping to eliminate the symptoms of clinical depression, can cause emotional “flatness”. Instead of coming to terms with the underlying causes of their depression, these medications suppress them.

There are a number of alternative holistic home recipes which can help to manage mild, moderate and clinical depression naturally. If you are currently on anti-depressive drug therapy, it is important to work with your primary care provider before incorporating these recommendations into your life.

Home Remedies For Dealing With Clinical Depression

Exercise! Regular physical activity has been shown reduce clinical depression by releasing endorphins, the feel-good chemicals in the body. It can also help to reduce stress and build self-esteem.
Meditate! Meditation and other relaxation techniques work to calm the mind and help to reduce stress, muscle tension and anxiety. It can also promote emotional health and balance.
Many forms of psychotherapy can help depressed individuals by helping them gain insight into and resolve their problems.
Avoid alcohol, sedatives and antihistamines, as well as substances that can alter ones mood such as caffeine and nicotine.
Increase consumption of fish such as salmon or mackerel. Both are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. You can also supplement with omega 3 EPA capsules or flax seed oil.
St. John’s Wort has been used for years to treat symptoms of clinical depression and restore sagging spirit.
SAMe is an essential amino acid that helps the body manufacture certain neurotransmitters, which promote the feelings of well-being.
5-HTP is a precursor to seratonin. Low seratonin levels have been linked to feeling “down” and clinical depression.
B-vitamins help to protect against symptoms of depression. It is best to take a B-complex that contains folic acid.
Essential Oils, such as Bergamot have also been show to help “lift the spirits” and provide some relief for clinical depression .

This information is provided for educational purposes only. The descriptions of nutritional supplements are based on the historical usage of the various ingredients. They are not intended to promote any direct or implied health claims, and actual results of usage can vary.
The statements on this Web site have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Rita Louise, PhD is not a medical doctor. Sessions are not intended for the diagnosis, treatment, alleviation, mitigation, prevention or care of any disease of any kind, in any way. Individuals, however, can choose to utilize the information and knowledge gained during a session for the care of their own body, including any suggested health or healing programs.
For any medical problems, see your primary care physician.