Depression is one of the most common medical conditions seen by doctors, and according to a study by Brown, Gaby and Reichert conducted in 2007, 13 percent to 20 percent of adults exhibit some symptoms of depression at some point in their lives. Some of these people will consult doctors and try prescription medication to relieve symptoms, and others will try natural remedies and alternative methods. Commonly used alternative methods of treatment for depression include taking vitamin supplements that alter brain chemistry, making behavioral changes and seeking counseling.
Vitamin Supplements
Depression results from deficiencies within the brain, primarily of serotonin and norepinephrine. Dr. Daniel Amen, a leading expert in the field of using supplements to treat depression, recommends numerous vitamins and amino acids. Amen says vitamin B-6 and fish oil can elevate mood and help relieve depression. Regarding amino acids, L-Tyrosine is the biological precursor to norepinephrine and is available in supplement form. Additionally, 5-HTP helps produce serotonin within the brain, and D,L-phenylalanine is a commonly used amino acid when the goal is to rapidly decrease depression symptoms.
Behavioral Changes
Changes can be made within one's life to reduce and, in some cases, eliminate depression symptoms. Dietary changes, particularly bay adding healthy proteins, replacing simple carbohydrates with whole grain complex carbohydrates, eating the recommended daily amount of fruits and vegetables, and reducing or eliminating alcohol all are effective methods for reducing symptoms. Exercise is another highly recommended method of treating depression, and research conducted by Richard Merritt of Duke University shows that regular exercise can keep brain levels of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine higher, decreasing long-term depression symptoms.
Counseling
For some people, depression results from situational factors within their lives, including family, relationship or work problems. Seeing a licensed therapist or counselor regularly can assist in working through and solving these problems, thus reducing depression. For people whose brain chemistry is the primary cause of depression, counseling can help them learn coping mechanisms to deal with their brain chemistry, including what serious depression warning signs to look for.
