Depression and Natural Treatments - 5 Methods to Treat Depression Naturally

Depression is a common problem that strikes many people at some point in their lives. Symptoms may include a sense of hopelessness, feelings of sadness, a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, a feeling of anxiety or foreboding about the future, changes in appetite, and a change in sleep patterns. These symptoms can be caused by unresolved past issues, current life circumstances, toxic and abusive relationships, and/or improper brain chemistry. Whatever the catalyst, depression should be addressed and treated. While some severe cases may require medical intervention, frequently improvement in symptoms may be achieved using natural methods. Here are 5 methods to treat depression naturally:

1. Address your diet. The mind and body are intricately connected, and the health of one impacts the health of the other. Reduce your intake of highly processed foods and sugars. Focus your diet around fresh vegetables and fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains. Frequently appetite changes are an issue. If you find you are having trouble eating, carry around healthy snack foods that are high in protein, such as jerky and nuts, and eat a mouthful whenever you can. A handful of food may be more manageable than a full meal. If your problem is a tendency to overeat, be sure you do not eat while distracted, like when watching television. Set a time in the evening past which you will not eat anything more.

2. Try natural supplements. Start with a good, food based multivitamin and calcium supplement if you do not eat a lot of calcium rich foods. Take fish oil, which has many benefits to the body, including the improvement of brain function. 5 HTP (hydroxytryptophan) is a useful natural antidepressant, a precursor to serotonin, which is a brain neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation. L-Theanine is often taken in conjunction with 5 HTP and is a natural anti-anxiety supplement which does not cause drowsiness.

3. Implement an exercise program. Consult with your doctor to determine an appropriate level of physical activity. The ideal exercise type for the treatment of depression is cardiovascular in nature. What you are aiming for is an activity that promotes a sustained elevated heart rate that releases endorphins, the feel good chemicals released during longer periods of physical exercise. The therapeutic goal is 45 minutes of cardio activity 5 times per week, but do not let the amount of time or frequency recommendation stop you from adding in some kind of exercise. Anything is better than nothing.

4. Talk out your problems. A professional counselor is an excellent resource. Having an unbiased, trained person offer you feedback and perspective on your issues can be enormously helpful. Likewise, the emotional support of trusted family and friends can be invaluable and prevent isolation.

5. Take small steps toward self care. Create a list of little things you enjoy. Choose one of them each day and do it for yourself. When your list is exhausted, start a new one.

Are you interested in addressing your depression from a holistic standpoint, assessing the physical, emotional, and relationship components?

For a free copy of my ebook, "Natural Methods To Fight Depression", click here: http://www.stoptoxicrelationships.com/gifts-naturalmethodstofightdepression.html

Shannon Cook is a personal growth and relationship expert who has written a number of informative articles and ebooks on the topic of toxic relationships and holistic personal growth, including physical, emotional and relationship health.

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