A depression disorder in its mildest form can be linked to poor work productivity and a general lack of energy.
In its more severe form, however, a depression disorder can pose a substantial risk of disability or death from suicide.
Approximately 8 percent of the adult population is affected by these more severe forms of depression.
Also alarming is the fact that 20 percent of the adult population will struggle with a mood disorder which requires treatment at some point during their life.
Women are twice as likely to be afflicted as men.
It can often strike in the prime of life when everything appears to be going well in your life.
Suddenly, or more often gradually, the individual begins to notice an inability to perform certain tasks, concentration is affected and energy levels are definitely affected.
These symptoms, among others, are not to be taken lightly or dismissed.
We all can recognize that this is a problem, but is it better to treat the problem with unnatural chemicals or are natural remedies for depression safe and effective? Because a depression disorder is connected to an imbalance in the brain's neurochemistry, getting the brain chemistry back into balance should be of primary concern.
The following symptoms may be apparent to the individual or his/her family: Sleep: Insomnia or hypersomnia that occurs almost daily Energy: Loss of energy and a general feeling of fatigue Concentration: Inability to stay on task, indecisiveness Appetite: Marked increase or decrease Interest: Unable to take interest or find enjoyment from activities Guilt: Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt feelings Negative thoughts: A continual feeling of negativity, hopelessness, or thoughts of death Antidepressants including Prozac, Paxi, Effexor, Serzone, Celexa and Zoloft are typically prescribed to patients.
They are sometimes prescribed frivolously, but in some cases they can be very effective.
The downside to these medications are their sometimes dangerous side effects.
The individual's history and symptoms should definitely be considered.
Are antidepressants really getting to the root of the problem or are they just covering up symptoms? Lifestyle changes and natural remedies for depression do not just mask symptoms; they work with your body to correct chemical or hormonal imbalances that may be occurring.
Research shows that an unhealthy lifestyle is more common among those who are depressed than those who are not.
This is actually a very encouraging thing because with positive lifestyle changes, much improvement can occur.
There are important steps that you or someone you love can take to help start the road to recovery.
Natural remedies for depression: Clinical studies have proven the effectiveness of herbal remedies for treating depression.
They do not produce unwanted side effects, and because they are very helpful in balancing mood activity in our brains we can begin to start making necessary changes.
Essential fats: Taking Omega 3 fats in the form of fish oils is one of the most nutritionally important steps you can take.
Many natural doctors have seen great success from patients when they start feeding their brain essential fats.
Vitamin D-3: New research is startling regarding our need for Vitamin D-3.
Exposure to sunlight daily for 15 to 20 minutes can help your body make use of Vitamin D stores.
Sleep: Lack of sleep can really make us feel depressed.
Reduce or completely eliminate caffeine from your diet to help your brain know when it is time to settle down.
Many people have low levels of melatonin which helps you sleep.
Supplementing with melatonin is also helpful in many cases.
Exercise: We often think of exercise as just a way to help us lose weight.
However, exercise helps the body produce endorphins which are natural brain chemicals that help us feel better.
Even though we might not feel like it, exercising can be a huge factor on the road to recovery.
Because I have suffered with depression, I know how hopeless things can seem.
If you or someone you love is suffering with a depression disorder you may feel like there is no hope.
Natural remedies for depression can help you overcome that feeling.
Don't wait another day.
Take the next step.
Use this information to empower yourself to take that step toward wellness.