Are you struggling with depression?
Depression is an illness that affects virtually every area of your life - health, work, relationships, and goals. It's a gradual process in that you almost don't see it happening. But suddenly, your house is always a mess, getting out of bed is difficult, exercising is now non-existent, you're overeating or not eating at all, you're neglecting your family, and missing important events that used to be important to you.
What are the symptoms of depression?
- You have a difficult time being optimistic about anything.
- You always feel as though something is wrong.
- You feel as if you're always on the verge of tears.
- It’s challenging to get out of bed.
- You’ve lost interest in things you used to be excited about.
- It feels impossible to decide anything.
- You have a hard time spending time with people that you love.
- You feel anxious and feel as if you’re suffocating or having a heart attack.
- You’ve had thoughts about suicide.
- You’re always focusing on your fears.
What causes depression?
The exact cause of depression is unknown. It’s believed to be a combination of things, such as a side effect of certain medications, your genetics, a chemical imbalance, or a medical condition. There are just too many factors to pinpoint the main cause, and depression is often gradual.
Here are some things that often contribute to depression but not limited to this list:
- Thyroid conditions, adrenal fatigue, hormone-related issues, and other illnesses.
- Low levels of iron, vitamin D, Omega 3s, magnesium, and other vitamins and mineral that impact mood
- Dietary allergies and sensitivities that cause the body to be inflamed and stressed.
- Low serotonin levels
- Insomnia/trouble sleeping
- Lack of exercise
- Medications and antibiotics
How Is Depression Treated?
Most often, the treatment is with antidepressants such as Zoloft or Prozac. If you need them, there is nothing necessarily wrong with taking these. But they are often prescribed regardless of the severity of your depression. Mild to moderate depression will benefit from other types of treatment. However, most doctors choose to prescribe it, and there are many side effects - suppressed libido, abnormal bleeding, insomnia, weight gain, irrational behavior, and more.
As a Naturopathic Doctor in Grand Island, NE, we want to help you manage your symptoms without pharmaceutical drugs. Effectively treating your depression and allowing you to find happiness, the energy to live your life once again, and have time for your family.
What Are Naturopathic Treatments for Depression?
The naturopathic strategy is to look at all aspects of you - your mental, emotional and physical aspects.
Herbal remedies play a significant role in treatment. There are a wide variety of herbal therapies that effectively treat depression. However, it's important that we first understand medical history to uncover any biochemical causes that may result from your depression. Also, we do a blood test to check your levels and look for any low levels of Vitamins or minerals that contribute to mood imbalances.
Give us a call today to schedule a consultation and start getting your life back.