Alternative Treatment for Depression

Beginning Med Surgical- I SurgicalCity College July 20, 2011

Sabrina Johanna Donna Joel Evans

Depression


Depression is a serious medical condition that affects millions of people. The single cause of depression has not being identified. Depression can be successfully treated. Common emotional symptoms of depression are hopelessness and constant sadness.

Treatments for depression

  

Medications. Psychotherapy Complimentary Therapy such as herbal therapy AlternativeAlternative- Complimentary Therapies: Exercise/ Yoga/ Meditation

Medications


Medications classified as antidepressants. Most commonly prescribed antidepressant are SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ) and MAOI (mono(monoamine oxidase inhibitor) Common antidepressant drugs are Prozac, Zoloft, Nardil and Aventyl. Aventyl.

Major side effects of antidepressants

       

Loss of appetite. Tremor Pharyngitis Depression Suicidal thoughts Dizziness Constipation Anxiety

Herbal therapy

Treatment for depression using herbs can be better than using Rx Meds for the following reasons:
 

Studies have shown that Herbal Remedies cause less side effects. Herbal remedies for depression work physiologically to restore balance rather than simply targeting a symptom. Herbal Therapies are less likely to cause toxicity than Rx Meds.

Herbs used to treat depression



St. Johns Worth Ginkgo Biloba Omega3Omega3-Fatty Acids SamSam-E

Exercise


Research shows that exercise is a good treatment for depression Exercise Reduces depression symptoms and improves physical fitness

Exercise: Positive Physiological Effects



Release of serotonin and endorphins, which are brain chemicals that improve and reduce depressive symptoms mimicking the effects of antidepressants Reduce chemicals such as Monoamine Oxidase and catecholamines O=methyl tranferase which can worsen depression Increase body temperature, which elicits a calming effect on the body

Exercises: Psychological Effects



Boost self-confidence by feeling better about personal appearance and achieving goals and challenges met through exercising. Reduces stress by taking the mind away from negative thoughts that feed depression. Increase social interaction with others. Choose to fight depression with exercise which is healthier than turning to drugs, alcohol or dwelling on negative thoughts.

Yoga


It is a very specific form of exercise that coordinates the mind and body It is being proven to be a safe technique in treating depression. Increases the production of the hormones serotonin and endorphins which promotes a positive mood and positve thoughts.

Yoga

Produces pressure on organs and glands facilitating a healing balance that elicits a feeling of well being. The stretching and strengthening movements promote the bodys optimal functioning by eliminating toxins.

Meditation


 

Medication treatment called MBTC (Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy) was as good or better as treatment with anti-depressants like Prozac. The MBTC therapy was more effective in enhancing quality of life. The MBTC exercises are primarily based on Buddhist Meditation techniques. It focuses on the present, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

Meditation


The Group practicing the MBCT meditation technique experienced a 47% relapse of depression versus a higher number of 60% for those who opted to use drug therapy. Individuals using MBTC meditation reported a far better quality of life, more overall enjoyment and much better physical well being.

Complimentary TherapyExercise

It is never too soon to start

Conclusion


As we presented, there are many ways to treat depression with medications, natural herbs, exercise and meditation. Learning about treatment options will help people decide what measure is most likely to work best for each individual particular situation and needs. Treatment for depression is long. Discipline, perseverance, support and commitment to treatment will take you out of depression sooner than you think

References
Badger, F. & Nolan, P. (2007). Use of selfselfchosen tharapies by depressed people in primary care. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 16(7), 1343-1352. Retrieved from EBSCO 1343host Smith, M., Saisan, J., Segal, R. & Segal, J. (2011). Dealing with depression. Retrieved from www.helpguide.org