Treating Depression with Naturopathic StrategiesWhat to do when your outlook isn't so sunny...Are you just moody or are you depressed?According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression affects 350 MILLION people worldwide. The diagnosis of depression has a spectrum between mood disorders and depression. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)'s 2005-06 statistics, more than 1 in 20 Americans 12 years of AGE or older had current depression. People in the age group of 40-59 have the highest incidence of depression. Depression is not Just in the Mind... Depression has aches and pains associated with it. Inflammation is a cause of depression. Food and Drinks- what you put into your body affects mood levels. A healthy digestive system full of good bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidus will also lead to healthy brain function and mood levels. The Standard American Diet (SAD) is a cause of depression. Eat Big McBurger King hamburgers, fries, soda sweetened with high fructose corn syrup and this will lead to depression among other health concerns.Treatment Options for DepressionIn Naturopathic Medicine, the first way to treat a patient is to find the cause of the disease. Depression can be genetic, diet and lifestyle related, from grief or life changes and hormonal imbalances. Treating the whole person and focusing on the spirit as well as the body and mind can bring about spiritual changes that lead to peace.Here are some questions to ask yourself:How is your sleep? When is the last time that you remember being happy? How many traumas have you had in your life and at what age? What is your diet like? Do you have a lifestyle that will lead to inflammation in the body thus producing depression? Are you living your life's purpose and fulfilled?What helps Depression:* Exercise* Diet of whole foods, lean meats, organic fruits & veggies* Herbs that are nourishing for the nervous system* Vitamin and mineral supplementation based on individual requirements * Massage or other body work * Having a pet for unconditional love * Figure out what is your passion and follow it* Spending time in nature and having contemplation time__________________________________________
