Depression is a common, but serious, mental disorder that is characterized by feelings of worthlessness, depressed mood, disturbed sleep and eating patterns and lack of motivation or interest. A study sponsored by the National Institutes of Mental Health found that 6 percent of the studied population of 9- to 17-year-olds suffered from depression during a six-month period. Left untreated, depression increases the risk of substance abuse and suicide and interferes with social and academic functioning. For this reason, it is important for parents to seek a formal diagnosis and discuss treatment options with a general physician or a psychiatrist. In mild to moderate cases of depression, where medical intervention is not indicated, herbal treatments may provide some symptom relief. An herbalist or alternative health care practitioner can help formulate a treatment plan and provide instruction on appropriate dosages of herbal remedies for teenagers.
St. Johns Wort
Hypericum Perforatum, or St. Johns Wort, is a commonly recommended herb for treating depression. It is generally well tolerated, and has been used to treat depression for centuries in Europe. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the use of St. Johns Wort for this purpose, but the National Institutes of Health (NIH) confirms that extensive study has shown it to be highly effective in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. Do not take St. John's Wort in conjunction with antidepressant medications, as doing so has been proven to increase the side effects of the medication, and could induce mania, a hyper-agitated state.
Valerian
Valerian is an herb that is indicated for use in cases of anxiety and restlessness, or where a depressed individual has trouble sleeping. The majority of research on the efficacy of Valerian has been conducted based on its use as an anti-anxiety medication and not depression. According to the NIH, several studies strongly suggest that Valerian works to improve the quality of sleep and to decrease the time spent falling asleep when taken before bed. Because sleep disturbances are one of the primary symptoms of depression, Valerian may be indicated to improve rest and, consequently, overall well-being. The dosage of Valerian should be based upon weight, as higher than necessary doses are reported to cause a hangover effect.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is traditionally used in Eastern medicine to improve memory, concentration and mood. Research on the use of Ginkgo for depression is somewhat limited, but points to its efficacy in providing mild symptom relief for depression. Researchers believe that Ginkgo may increase bloodflow to the brain, which is what produces the desired effects. There are no published studies on its use with teenagers with depression, although it is generally well tolerated, with minimal side effects. The use of this herb is contraindicated in individuals with blood clotting disorders.
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