Depression Treatment

There are also cognitive behavior therapy programs available. There are numerous options out there. Here are just a few.

Natural Treatment Options

Alternative medicine is becoming more and more accepted by mainstream society. According to the National Institute of Health, over one-third of Americans use some form of alternative medicine. Due to the high cost of anti-depression drugs and treatment, many patients are looking into natural remedies for depression. From St. Johns Wort to Kava Kava and Valerian Root, people are finding results.

According to The National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine, St. Johns Wort is as effective as prescription medication in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. However, for more severe depression, it was no more effective than a placebo. The Hypericum Homepage states that in Germany, more than 50 percent of depression, sleep disorders and anxiety is treated with St. Johns Wort. Prozac, on the other hand, is only used in 2 percent of the cases.

Kava Kava is a beverage that is often used to aid in relaxation, promote restful sleep and to treat a number of depressive and anxiety disorders. Made famous for its euphoria producing effects in rituals in the South Pacific, Kava Kava has been found to be a promising alternative to prescription medication.

Valerian Root is known for its sedative properties. If taken consistently for one to two weeks, the user will experience noticeable sleep improvement and a decrease in anxiety. In numerous clinical studies throughout the US and Europe, Valerian Root has been found to significantly decrease stress, depression, anxiety and to induce sleep.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy Programs

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) has helped millions of people overcome their depression. CBT, unlike traditional therapy, focuses on more immediate behavior patterns rather than the personal history. It consists of the following components:

• • Identify negative thoughts
  • Examine and counteract negative thought patterns
  • Help in engaging in enjoyable activities
  • Enhance problem-solving skills

The University of Michigan Depression Center explains that over 75% of depressed patients experience significant improvement.

Prescription Medication

There are numerous drugs available to treat depression. Some of the most commonly prescribed medications include Prozac, Zoloft and Paxil. However, there are many more on the market. It should be noted, though, that prescription medications carry with them far more side effects than their natural alternatives. There are studies that suggest that they may be more effective in the treatment of severe depression than herbal treatments. One should thoroughly research any drug before consuming it.

Once the decision is made to seek treatment, there are many options available. Through research and experience, you will be able to find the treatment that is right for you.

This entry was posted on Friday, March 5th, 2010 at 12:43 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.