Most of us have experienced periods of “the blues” or times of temporary grieving. A depressive illness is more serious. A feeling of hopelessness and helplessness pervades and can last for days or weeks. Depression interferes with normal life functioning. The disorder changes a person’s mental and emotional outlook, and can result in sleep difficulties, increased physical symptoms, and disruption of eating patterns.
There are several types of depression. Treatments have evolved over the last 40 years, first focusing on psychoanalysis or counseling therapy, followed by drug treatment to address brain chemical abnormalities. Standard treatments with antidepressants come under scrutiny, particularly for teens and children. This has placed a new emphasis on natural therapies.
The good news is that nutritional supplements and other complementary or alternative therapies can be used to help balance brain functioning. New studies are being conducted every year that help define these therapies.
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