The National Institute of Mental Health reports that approximately 6.7 percent of the U.S. population is depressed in any given year. While symptoms of depression, by definition, persist over a period of weeks or more, many of these people never seek help. Yet, a number of conventional and alternative therapies effectively combat depression. It becomes imperative that people report symptoms of depression to their doctors or natural care providers, as the incidence of recurrence for untreated depression is high.
SSRIs and SNRIs
SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and SNRIs, or selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, are frequently used to combat depression. Popular SSRIs include fluoxetine, brand name Prozac, sertraline, brand name Zoloft, and paroxetine, brand name Paxil. SNRIs include venlafaxine, brand name Effexor and duloxetine, brand name Cymbalta. Physicians must closely supervise medication, as even small changes in dosage can cause severe side effects, although, in general, SSRIs and SNRIs have less side effects than older antidepressants.
MAOIs
MAOIs, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, are older antidepressants associated with serious side effects. Diet and certain over-the-counter medications can cause severe complications, including stroke, for people who take MAOIs. The National Institute of Mental Health advises patients on MAOIs to avoid cheese, wines, pickles, decongestants and cold medicine. Patients on MAOIs must communicate frequently with their doctors.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical practice that serves to unblock the body's energy by inserting thin needles in the appropriate meridians. Depression proves one of the more common maladies associated with blocked energy. A study conducted in 1998 by the National Institute of Health's Office of Alternative Medicine found that acupuncture is an effective treatment for depression. Patients should seek treatment from a licensed acupuncturist.
Yoga
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says 6.1 percent of adults who seek alternative treatment for depression turn to yoga. Not only does the physical movement trigger the release of endorphins, the body's own feel-good hormones, the meditative breath work may serve to calm the mind. Yoga Journal recommends that students suffering from depression try Sun Salutations, Bridge Pose, Camel Pose and backbends for relief.
Diet
Diet is instrumental to well-being. Depressed people often suffer from deficiencies in amino acids, vitamins B5 and B12, folate, magnesium, zinc, vitamin E and omega 3 fatty acids, according to Natural Solutions. It becomes important for everyone, depressed people in particular, to eat whole foods of a variety of colors and to avoid caffeine, alcohol, sugar and diet soda.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: The Numbers Count: Mental Health in America
- National Institute of Mental Health: What Medications Are Used to Treat Depression?
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicie in the United States
- Yoga Journal: Yoga for Depression, Part 1
- Natural Solutions: Eat to Beat the Blues
