Nearly 18 million people in the United States alone are said to suffer from depression, and unsurprisingly, many are turning to alternative medicines - such as herbal remedies for depression - for relief. In Germany, St. John's wort, an herbal remedy, is one of the most prescribed items for use in treatment of the disorder which, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, impacts up to 15 percent of all people living in industrialized nations.
Nevertheless, the American Food and Drug Administration have yet to endorse the claims of St. John's wort sold in the majority of health food stores across the United States. In addition, other emergent supplements used in treatment of depressants include fish oil - or Omega 3 fatty-acid sources - and other dietary elements are gaining popularity with consumers.
It is believed that certain dietary deficiencies can lead to, or exacerbate, symptoms of depression. Dietary means of controlling depression are a new tactic in the modern world's long battle with the ailment. These techniques are very attractive to people leery of more traditional medications and treatments such as tricyclic drugs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and forms of electroshock therapy.
In all cases however, people are urged to seek professional medical treatment rather than self-medicate. Many doctors and therapists have a vested interest in more natural, dietary or herbal solutions to treating depression. So, speaking with a medical professional or psychotherapist about these forms of treatment is not unheard of or necessarily impossible. Some are, in fact, very open to exploring the possibilities as part of a treatment plan.
Beyond that, drugs, diet, and even exercise are typically one part of a larger plan in treating depression. While certain drugs, herbal remedies, or dietary changes may reduce symptoms and provide a healthier outlook on life, psychological help in the form of counseling are typically involved to help reshape the thought processes responsible for depressive episodes. A focus on learning new coping mechanism or healing from traumatic events are helpful elements of a treatment plan for depression that cannot be accomplished through drugs or natural remedies alone.
In short, anyone experiencing symptoms of depression should seek the care of a skilled care provider. Expressing interest in herbal remedies for depression in an effort to find a remedy for symptoms is not unheard of, so patients should not fear discussing such points with a clinician if it is their preference.
