Depression that requires treatment is usually characterized by ongoing feelings of sadness and hopelessness. If you experience depression, a doctor can refer you to a mental health counselor who can provide therapy and prescribe medication to improve your condition. Doctors may also recommend a nutritious, well-balanced diet because keeping the body healthy can help lessen symptoms of depression.
Medication and Therapy
Prescribed medications include antidepressants that can help improve moods by altering chemicals in the brain, according to MayoClinic.com. Different types of antidepressants can increase levels of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine or other chemicals in the brain that have successfully relieved and diminished depression in patients. Psychotherapy involves talk sessions with a therapist to help you understand how negative thoughts or behaviors may lead to depression. This kind of therapy also explores problem-solving methods for overcoming the condition.
Calm Environment
Eating a healthy diet and learning ways to relax to avoid stress help in treating depression, MayoClinic.com says. Eating foods that do not aggravate the stomach, which can intensify anxiety and depression, and enjoying meals in a calm environment help to reduce symptoms of depression.
Fruits, Vegetables, Fish
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fish may prevent or improve depression. Researchers analyzed the eating habits of more than 3,000 people divided into two groups over a five-year period. They discovered people eating a diet consisting mainly of fruits, vegetables and fish had lower rates of depression than a group that consumed a diet with high amounts of high-fat-foods, processed foods and sweets, according to the study published in the November 2009 issue of the "British Journal of Psychiatry."
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, may relieve depression. Research has shown that people taking omega-3s along with prescribed antidepressants had a better improvement in their condition than patients taking the antidepressants alone, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. More research may be needed because other studies have not reached the same conclusions. Symptoms of omega-3 deficiencies include mood swings or depression. Albacore tuna, mackerel, salmon, sardines and herring contain omega-3s.
Carbohydrates
People experiencing depression may have coexisting conditions. Nearly half of people diagnosed with depression also have an anxiety disorder, according to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America. Carbohydrates may help increase levels of serotonin in the brain, explains MayoClinic.com, which recommends whole-grain carbohydrates. Foods include whole-grain breads and cereal, oatmeal, brown rice and barley, which may improve conditions for people with depression and anxiety.
