As much most of us would like to believe that we are immune, depression remains one of the most common complaints that doctors hear from their patients. Nearly everyone experiences some of the symptoms of depression at some time during their lives. Since the best defense is a strong offense, we’ve put together this list of different types of depression treatment in order to help you understand your options.
- The number one treatment for depression symptoms is regular medical testing and treatment. More often than not, if you are experiencing unusual feelings of sadness, despondency, hopelessness, helplessness, and fatigue, it is caused by an underlying medical condition. There are a variety of conditions that can cause depression, so your first step should always be to consult with your doctor.
- The second line of treatment is usually antidepressant medications. These should not necessarily be used as much as they are used, but most primary care doctors don’t have a lot of psychiatric or psychological training and so this is what they know to offer to patients. The medications alter your neurochemistry in order to increase the levels of certain important chemicals in your brain. However, recent studies have shown that these are no more effective than placebo.
- Herbal remedies for depression. The main herbal depression treatment is called St. Johns Wort, and it is one of the few herbal remedies that actually has good clinical studies supporting its effectiveness in the treatment of depression. However, there are certain risks with using any herbal supplement, such as food and medication interactions. And of course, since herbal remedies are not regulated by the FDA, there is no way to be sure that you are getting the specific dose you believe you are taking. Be sure to consult with your doctor and to buy a reputable brand.
- Vitamins and supplements for depression. There are two particular supplements that have great scientific evidence for their effectiveness in reducing depression symptoms: vitamin D and omega 3 fatty acid supplements (usually from fish oil.)
- Exercise, especially weight training. Exercise helps your body to correct any metabolic problems and stimulates the release of human growth hormone. Higher natural levels of this hormone have been associated with better physical and mental health.