Depression Treatment. Real Solutions

Depression can cause distress in many different aspects of one's life including home, work and school. Research shows that of those who seek treatment for depression, approximately 80% find long term, effective results. The most popular methods of relieving depression related symptoms include:

• Prescription Medications
  
• Natural Alternatives and Medicines
  
• Cognitive Behavior Therapy based programs
  

Each of these categories is discussed in further detail below. I have written my overview of prescription medications at the bottom of this page, as most people are familiar with how this treatment option works.

Natural Alternative Medicines

Amidst the news reports and warnings related to prescription anti-depressants in the last decade, many people are turning to natural alternaitve medicines in an effort to curb the many symptoms associated with depression related disorder. In fact, alternative medicine use has increased over 300% among adults, teens and children in the last ten years.

Reinforced by tons of clinical and case studies, natural therapeutic agents like St. Johns Wort, Kava Kava, Valerian Root, 5-HTP and SAM-e have been shown to produce significant anti-depressive results in patients taking one, or some of these ingredients for periods ranging from one to twelve weeks.

Though natural alternative retailers sell many different formulations with combinations of all types of ingredients, I highly recommend exploring the following natural constituents before purchasing any products. The ingredients detailed below have all been clinically studied and shown to be effective in relieving symptoms commonly associated with depression (and anxiety). Their safety has been detailed in hundreds of clinical trials with less than 1.5% of users reporting mild side effects. Severe side effects as a result of taking any of the ingredients listed below are extremely rare. Please keep in mind that natural alternatives are not regulated by the FDA, and therfore, have not been approved for the treatment of depression. However, as you will see below, there is most definitely a benefit in taking a complimentary therapy.

• St. Johns Wort - SJW is one of the most widely used natural 'anti-depressants' available. Clinical research indicates that St. Johns Wort helps to relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression over a period of 2 - 6 weeks. When tested head-to-head with two popular prescription medications, St. Johns Wort with hyperforin extract was shown to be just as effective!
• Valerian Root - Commonly known for it's sedative effects on the central nervous system, Valerian provides immediate relaxation and relief for sleep difficulty. Lack of sleep and night-time restlessness may account for much of the stress, anxiety or depression an individual might be experiencing during the day. 90% of the Valerian studies reviewed have shown this herb to be effective in improving quality of sleep (QoS) and calming the central nervous system.