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HEALING DEPRESSION NATURALLY

Everyone knows what it feels like to be depressed. It is a feeling of helplessness and hopelessness that often disrupts your life and the lives of those around you. People who tell you to "snap out of it" often just make you feel worse. It often feels like you are at the bottom of a dark deep hole and are waiting for someone to come pull you out.

As I begin researching common medical solutions for depression, I come across the following statement, "On October 15, 2004, the FDA concluded that antidepressant medications can increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents with depression and other psychiatric disorders."

I found this to be a very disturbing statement. You mean that a child is prescribed for a medication that is supposed to alleviate depression, and instead it actually causes the condition to worsen? Antidepressants increase suicidal thinking? In this case it seems counterintuitive to take them in the first place. Why not try a natural approach?

Homeopathic medicines are not FDA approved because the dosage is not easily regulated. However, the antidepressants who cause suicidal thoughts are FDA approved. Does this make sense?

Nevertheless, there are natural and herbal remedies that are worth trying out. I have never heard of someone having suicidal thoughts from taking St. John's Wort, have you? Here are a few suggestions for natural treatment of depression.

St. John's Wort

St. John's Wort is best used to treat mild depression. The results of over 20 clinical trials suggest that St. John's Wort works better than a placebo and is as effective as antidepressants in treating mild to moderate depression.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are compounds that are found in many different types of fish. Our bodies do not make this; we must find foods that contain it naturally. Studies have shown that in cultures such as Japan and Taiwan, where fish consumption is very high, the depression rate is 10 times lower than in America.

Sam-e

Sam-e is available for purchase in your local health food store. This is a chemical that occurs naturally in the body. It is believed to increase levels of serotonin and dopamine.

Folic Acid

Folic acid is a B-vitamin that is often deficient in those who are depressed.

Other Suggestions to Alleviate Depression

Get outside and take a walk in the morning. Sunlight and exercise are proven mood-lifters.

Try yoga. You may be surprised by how good it makes you feel.

Monitor your intake of sweets, caffeine, and alcohol. These can often worsen mood swings.

There are many options to try when you are ready to escape the hold of depression. I urge anyone who feels that there is no hope, to speak to a doctor or a trusted friend. Taking a natural approach to treat depression is a safer and healthier choice for yourself and those that you love.

Learn more about this author, Pamela Gentry.
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