There are many natural approaches to try and eliminate depression. Everyone responds to these approaches differently, but there are many common homeopathic and naturopathic solutions that work for a wide number of people.
Form a homeopathic perspective, each person has just one remedy that fits their particular situation at any given time, so it is important that a person wanting to use homeopathic remedies for depression to consult with a homeopath or a naturopath that can help them determine the correct remedy to use.
From a naturopathic perspective, there are several options, including the following:
- Amino acid therapy. Depression for most people is the result of an imbalance between one or more neurotransmitters (including serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine). Amino acid therapy involves determining and administering the exact combination of amino acids and other cofactors needed to resolve these underlying neurotransmitter imbalances; this approach is extremely effective for most people.
- Eat an “anti-depression” diet. What and how you eat on a daily basis can dramatically impact your neurotransmitter function. Maintaining your blood sugar is of paramount importance, so you want to be sure and eat regularly, start your day with a protein-rich breakfast, avoid foods that disrupt neurotransmitter and/or blood sugar (including foods that contain MSG, sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, trans fats, soda and alcohol) and eat plenty of deep colored vegetables and fruits.
- Get moving. Getting at least 30 minutes of moderately intense exercise at least five days a week may be the most powerful antidepressant available. Studies have shown that getting regular exercise can increase your serotonin levels 37%, which can mean a healthier and happier you in no time.
- Stress less. We can’t always control the stressors in our lives, but we have at least some say in how those stressors affect us. Stress is one of the major causes of neurotransmitter imbalance, so getting stress under control is one of the most important things you can do to alleviate and ward-off depression.
- Talk to someone. Counselling is often an integral part of a naturopathic approach to depression. There are many different types of counselling and/or therapy available, but one of the most well researched for depression is called cognitive therapy. Several studies have shown cognitive therapy to be equally as effective as anti-depressant medications in treating depression.
There are a number of other naturopathic approaches to depression and each person will require a unique blend of these natural solutions to address the underlying cause(s) of their depression. To learn more visit Natural Solutions for Depression.
