Modern medicine does not actually know what is happening in the brain that causes depression, at time of publication. Conventional (allopathic) as well as homeopathic therapies include both physical and psychological treatments.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy has been practiced for over 200 years. This system of medicine was invented in the late 1700s by a German physician, Samuel Hahnemann and encourages people to avoid taking strong medications. It is a system of medicine based on the yet scientifically unproven belief that a substance that causes the symptoms of an illness in a healthy person can be given in diluted form to treat a person who has the illness that produces the same symptoms. Homeopaths believe enough likeness remains in the diluted form between the cure and the illness to stimulate the body's self-healing capabilities. It is often called "like cures like."
Atypical Depression
The term atypical depression describes a subtype of major depression that includes features not typical for that diagnosis. It is the most common form of depression, and the incidence is higher in women than men. Atypical depression causes great dysfunction, is chronic, and usually begins in the teen years. It is characterized by the ability to experience improvement in mood when involved in positive situations and by increased sensitivity to interpersonal rejection. Persons with atypical depression are prone to over-eating, over-sleeping, and feelings of heaviness in the arms and legs.
Homeopathic Remedies
The homeopathic approach to depression as well other illnesses is to match the treatment to the person's mind, body, and complaints. It is believed that everyone gets sick in their own unique way. Therefore, physical and psychological characteristics are assessed to determine what remedy should be used.
The following is a list of homeopathic remedies that are available in single or combination form and come with dosage recommendations that should be followed closely: Arsenicum alban, Aurum metallicum, Calcium carbonicum, Ignatia amara, Natrum carbonicum, Natrium muraticum, Pulsatilla nigricans, Sepia, Staphysagria. All of these medications are closely directed toward the physical characteristics and symptoms the person has, unlike allopathic medications that are directed toward correction of neurotransmitter imbalance.
Recommendations
Because homeopathic remedies need to be individualized, it is suggested that persons seeking this form of treatment should consult a homeopathic healer. The Council for Homeopathic Certification has a website that provides a comprehensive listing of certified homeopaths for each state. It is recommended that anyone with a longstanding or recurring depression seek care from a licensed mental health professional, and it is imperative that person seeks medical help immediately if they are contemplating suicide.
References
- Healthy.net; A Compendium of Homeopathic Medicines for Self-Care for the Individual; Jacquelyn J. Wilson, MD.
- Today's Caregiver.com;Overcoming Sadness and Depression Naturally; David Dancu
- "Alternative Medicine"; Edited by Phil B. Fontanarosa, MD; 2000.
