- There is no exact reason for depression, but certain factors are known to contribute: genetics, life events and biochemical changes. The theory of genetic predisposition to depression has been supported by studies with twins and adopted children. When a person experiences a stressful life event---such as job loss, divorce or early death of parent or spouse---they are five to six times more likely to experience depression up to six months after the trauma. The biochemical changes that cause depression can be due to taking oral contraceptives, estrogen therapy, menopause, or premenstrual syndrome or vitamin deficiencies.
- Biogenic amines are a group of chemical compounds that stimulate neurotransmission. Specifically, these chemicals include: norepinephrine; serotonin, dopamine, acetylcholine and epinephrine. These feel-good chemicals keep the brain happy. A deficiency results in a poorly functioning brain and depressed feelings. Clinical depression is characterized by an ongoing daily depression that lasts for weeks and months. The depressed person may have sleep disturbances, eating disorders, crankiness, fatigue, irritability and lingering sadness. What distinguishes chronic depression from normal sadness is the duration and intensity of "feeling bad," to the extent that normal living becomes altered.
- In many cases, depression can be cured with dietary modifications and vitamin and mineral therapy. Eating less sugar and refined foods, and eating smaller more-frequent portions can reduce, and even eliminate, the effects of depression. Vitamin and mineral therapy can also alleviate depression. Even patients without a severe vitamin and or mineral deficiency can improve their mood and overall functioning level with a better diet and vitamin and mineral supplementation. Amino acids are precursors of the brains neurotransmitters and can be considered natural anti-depressants; L-tyrosine; D, L-phenylalanine; and L-tryptophan all improve brain function and improve mood. Vitamin deficiencies that can lead to depression include: vitamin B6, vitamin B12, Folic acid, Vitamin C and magnesium. Vitamin and mineral supplementation can in some cases alleviate depression entirely. The herb St John's Wort is considered an effective phytomedicine used to alleviate depression, anxiety and sleep disorders.
- Exercise is a natural way to overcome the inertia of depression. Regular exercise is a positive way to cure depression and prevent a relapse. Exactly how exercise relieves depression in unknown but the current understanding is that it enhances neurotransmitters, increases endorphin levels which enhance mood, while reducing tension and the hormone Cortisal which is related to stress. Exercise produces physical changes in the mind and body and improve symptoms of depression, sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and self-doubt. Other psychological benefits of exercise include: increased self-confidence; shifting focus of thoughts on something positive giving a sense of accomplishment; social interaction with others who are exercising; and a health coping alternative to increased alcohol, drug, and food consumption, as well as other self-defeating behaviors such as over-spending or gambling. (*See Reference 3*)
- Exercise also strengthens the muscles---including the heart---lowers blood pressure and reduces body fat, while building bone mass and increasing overall vitality. Find an exercise that you enjoy and stick with it. Make it pleasurable so that you will keep doing it. Unless you experience physical pain, do it regularly whether you "feel" like it or not and you will increase your physical fitness, appearance and attitude. Types of exercise that reduce depression include, but are not limited to: biking, jogging, skating, tennis, swimming, walking, yoga, vigorous house or yard-work, dancing or golf. It doesn't have to be fancy or pricey, it just has to get you moving and keep you moving regularly.
- Although, in many cases, depression can be treated---and even cured---completely naturally, it is usually considered a complementary therapy to medication and psychotherapy. A medical evaluation, followed by a doctor-regulated program of medication may be necessary.
