- Depression or depressive disorder is an illness that involves the body, mood, and thoughts. Depression is considered a mood disorder. Imbalances in three neurotransmitters (brain chemicals), including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, are linked to depression. Depression affects the way a person eats and sleeps, the way one feels about oneself, and the way one thinks about life situations. Unlike normal emotional experiences of sadness, loss, or passing mood states, depressive disorders are persistent and can significantly interfere with an individual's thoughts, behavior, mood, activity, and physical health.
- According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults or about 9.5% of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year. This includes major depressive disorder (severe depression), dysthymic disorder (mild to moderate depression), and bipolar disorder (manic-depressive). Among all medical illnesses, major depression is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. and many other developed countries.
- Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years. Appropriate treatment, however, can help most people who suffer from depression.
- Children and teenagers can also suffer from depression. Depression in the young is defined as an illness when the feelings of depression persist and interfere with a child or adolescent's ability to function.
- The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry estimates that about 5% of children and adolescents in the general population suffer from depression at any given point in time. Children under stress, who experience loss, or who have trouble with attention, learning, conduct, or anxiety disorders are at a higher risk for depression.
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medical conditions
Depression
Contents
- Neurotransmitter imbalances: Studies suggest that a low or high level of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine cause depression. Studies have found evidence that a change in the sensitivity of the receptors on nerve cells to these neurotransmitters may be one issue, along with an imbalance in the amounts of neurotransmitters. Balancing neurotransmitters with drug therapy is the current focus for treatment of major depression.
- Heredity: Researchers have identified several genes that may be involved in bipolar disorder and are looking for genes linked to other types of depression. But not everyone with a family history of depression develops the disorder, and conversely, people with no family history of the disorder can become depressed.
- Gender: Depression occurs twice as frequently in women as in men, for reasons that are not fully understood. Hormonal changes such as menstrual cycle changes, postpartum period, pre-menopause, pregnancy, childbirth, miscarriage, and menopause are the most likely causes of depression.
- Although men are less likely to suffer from depression than women, six million men in the United States are affected by the illness. Men are less likely to admit to depression. The rate of suicide in men is four times that of women, though more women attempt it.
- Stress: Stressful life events, particularly a loss or threatened loss of a loved one or a job, can trigger depression.
- Medications: Long-term use of certain medications, such as some drugs used to control high blood pressure, sleeping pills, or birth control pills, may cause symptoms of depression in some people.
- Illnesses: Having a chronic illness, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer or Alzheimer's disease, puts an individual at a higher risk of developing depression. Having an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), even mildly, also can cause depression. Physical trauma (damage) to the brain can also trigger depression.
- Personality: Certain personality traits, such as having low self-esteem and being overly dependent, self-critical, pessimistic and easily overwhelmed by stress, can make an individual more vulnerable to depression.
- Postpartum depression: It is common for mothers to feel a mild form of distress that usually occurs a few days to weeks after giving birth. During this time the woman may have feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety, irritability and incompetence. A more severe form of the baby blues, called postpartum depression, also can affect new mothers.
- Hormones: Women experience depression about twice as much as men, which leads researchers to believe hormonal factors may play a role in the development of depression.
- Alcohol, smoking, and drug abuse: Abuse of alcohol, cigarettes, and recreational drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine (crystal meth), ecstasy, and marijuana can lead to depression.
- Previous depression: More than half of those who experience a single episode of depression will continue to have episodes that occur as frequently as once or even twice a year. Without treatment, the frequency of depressive illness as well as the severity of symptoms tends to increase over time. Left untreated, depression can lead to suicide.
- The onset of the first episode of depression may not be obvious if it is gradual or mild. The symptoms of depression represent a significant change from how a person functioned before the illness. Symptoms of depression can either be mild, moderate or severe.
- Loss of interest in normal daily activities: An individual may lose interest in or pleasure from activities that they used to enjoy.
- Depressed mood: The individual may feel sad, helpless or hopeless, and may have crying spells.
- Sleep disturbances: Sleeping too much or having problems sleeping can be a sign of depression. Waking in the middle of the night or early in the morning and not being able to get back to sleep are typical.
- Impaired thinking or concentration: The individual may have trouble concentrating, making decisions, or have problems with memory.
- Weight changes: An increased or reduced appetite and unexplained weight gain or loss may indicate depression.
- Agitation: The individual may seem restless, agitated, irritable, and easily annoyed.
- Fatigue (tiredness): Weariness and a lack of energy nearly every day are common signs of depression. The individual may feel as tired in the morning as they did when going to bed the night before.
- Low self-esteem: Feelings of worthlessness and excessive guilt are common symptoms of depression.
- Loss of sexual interests: If the individual was sexually active before developing depression, they may notice a dramatic decrease in the level of interest in having sexual relations.
- Preoccupation with death: The individual may have a persistent negative view of their situation in life and the future. They may have thoughts of death, dying or suicide.
- Other physical symptoms: Depression can also cause a wide variety of physical complaints, such as gastrointestinal problems (indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea), headache, and backache. Many people with depression also have symptoms of anxiety, including restlessness, inability to concentrate, and loss of sleep.
- Depression in children and the elderly: Children, teens, and older adults may react differently to depression. In these groups, symptoms may take different forms or may be masked by other conditions. Kids may pretend to be sick, worry that a parent is going to die, perform poorly in school, refuse to go to school, or exhibit behavioral problems. The elderly may be more willing to discuss the physical symptoms of depression, instead of their emotional difficulties, including constant complaining about aches and pains.
- Suicidal thoughts: Suicidal thoughts may accompany depression. Anyone who has suicidal feelings, talks about suicide, or attempts suicide should be taken seriously and should receive immediate help from a mental health specialist. Certain warning signs may indicate serious depression and the possibility of suicide. Danger signs include pacing, agitated behavior, frequent mood changes and sleeplessness for several nights, actions or threats of assault, physical harm or violence, threats or talk of death or suicide, such as "I don't care anymore," or "You won't need to worry about me much longer," withdrawal from activities and relationships, putting affairs in order, such as saying goodbye to friends, giving away prized possessions or writing a will, a sudden brightening of mood after a period of being depressed, or unusually risky behavior, such as buying or handling a gun or driving recklessly can be indicators of suicidal thinking.
- History and physical examination: To diagnosis depression the doctor must first rule out all other disease possibilities. Typically, the diagnosis begins with a medical history, including questions about the duration, severity, and characteristics of symptoms. The physician will ask about diet, stress, any medications currently being taken, and changes in sleep patterns. Questionnaires may be used to determine the level of depression.
- Diagnosis also involves ruling out other mental health conditions that may produce symptoms similar to depression. These may include other mood disorders, such as bipolar, schizophrenia, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and borderline personality disorder.
- A diagnosis of depressive disorder is based on criteria found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV-TR (DSM-IV-TR) developed by the American Psychiatric Association.
- Laboratory tests: Blood tests can determine if the levels of neurochemicals (brain chemicals), including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, are healthy. Tests may be ordered to rule out other causes, such as blood or urine tests to determine the balance of salts and sugar in the blood, hormone function, blood cell counts, and drug and alcohol levels. Computerized tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head may be ordered to check for blood clots, bleeding, or tumors. A spinal tap (lumbar puncture) may be ordered to get a sample of spinal fluid to determine if a brain infection, such as meningitis or encephalitis (both forms of brain inflammation), exists. These tests may rule out other conditions that may be present (such as brain tumor or other disease), and may determine if imbalances in neurochemistry are present.
- About half of the people who have a first episode of depression will have another episode within 10 years. The risk of further bouts of depression is higher than in someone who has never been depressed.
- Alcohol and drug abuse are very common among people with depression.
- Depressive disorder can have devastating effects on relationships as complete isolation and withdrawal during depression are common.
- Suicide may be a complication of untreated, mistreated, or misdiagnosed depression. Women attempt suicide more often than men do, but men are much more likely to succeed in killing themselves. The rate of suicide is four times greater for men. Men over 70 are the most likely to commit suicide.
- Calling a local suicide hotline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, can be help for someone thinking of suicide.
- Treatment for depression usually involves a combination of drug and psychological therapies.
- Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy involves talking to a healthcare professional about one's problems and life situation. There are several types of psychotherapy that have been shown to be effective for depression including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT). Research has shown that mild to moderate depression can often be treated successfully with either of these therapies used alone. However, severe depression appears more likely to respond to a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT helps to change the negative thinking and unsatisfying behavior associated with depression, while teaching individuals how to unlearn the behavioral patterns that contribute to their depression.
- Interpersonal therapy (IPT): IPT focuses on improving troubled personal relationships and on adapting to new life roles that may have been associated with a person's depression.
- Medications: Drugs used for depression often take two to four weeks to start having an effect, and 6-12 weeks to have their full effect. The first antidepressant medications were introduced in the 1950s. Research has reported that imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine can be improved with antidepressant use.
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs act specifically on the neurotransmitter (brain chemical) serotonin. Serotonin is mainly involved with mood balance. SSRIs are the most common agents prescribed for depression worldwide. These agents increase the amount of serotonin that is available for use by the brain. SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac®), sertraline (Zoloft®), paroxetine (Paxil®), citalopram (Celexa®), escitalopram (Lexapro®), and fluvoxamine (Luvox®).
- Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): SNRIs are the second-most popular antidepressants worldwide. These agents increase the amount of both serotonin and norepinephrine. SNRIs include venlafaxine (Effexor®) and duloxetine (Cymbalta®). SSRIs and SNRIs tend to have fewer side effects than other types of antidepressants. Side effects include nausea, nervousness, insomnia, diarrhea, rash, agitation, or sexual side effects (problems with arousal or orgasm).
- Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI): NDRIs acts by increasing the amounts of dopamine and norepinephrine available to the brain. Bupropion (Wellbutrin®) is commonly used as an antidepressant in this class.
- Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs): TCAs are older antidepressants that are not used as frequently now. They work similarly to the SNRIs, but have other properties that result in very high side effect rates, as compared to almost all other antidepressants. They are sometimes used in cases where other antidepressants have not worked. TCAs include amitriptyline (Elavil®), desipramine (Norpramin®), doxepin (Sinequan®), imipramine (Norpramin®, Tofranil®), nortriptyline (Pamelor®, Aventyl®), and protriptyline (Vivactil®). TCAs cause side effects that include dry mouth, constipation, bladder problems, sexual problems, blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, skin rash, and weight gain or loss.
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): MAOs are seldom used now for depression. They also increase amounts of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine for the brain to use in mood stabilization. They can sometimes be effective for people who do not respond to other medications or who have atypical depression with marked anxiety, excessive sleeping, irritability, hypochondria (health anxiety), or phobic (obsessive) characteristics. However, they are the least safe antidepressants to use, as they have important medication interactions, including causing dangerously high blood pressure, and require adherence to a diet free of tyramines, chemicals found in certain foods such as fish (especially dried and salted), chocolate, alcoholic beverages (chianti wine), and fermented foods such as cheese and soy sauce, sauerkraut, and processed meat. MAOIs include phenelzine (Nardil®), isocarboxazid (Marplan®), and tranylcypromine sulfate (Parnate®). A range of other, less serious side effects occur including weight gain, constipation, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, insomnia, and sexual side effects (problems with arousal or satisfaction).
- Other: Mirtazapine (Remeron®) is an antidepressant used commonly in the elderly that helps cause weight gain. A common side effect is drowsiness. Often psychiatrists will combine antidepressants with each other or with agents that are not antidepressants themselves. A class of drugs called atypical antipsychotic agents, including aripiprazole (Abilify®), olanzapine (Zyprexa®), quetiapine (Seroquel®), ziprasidone (Geodon®), and risperidone (Risperdal®) may be used. Side effects for these drugs are high, including excessive sedation and tardive dyskinesia (a nervous system disorder causing facial grimaces, lip smacking, and uncontrollable shaking). According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), certain antipsychotic drugs may increase the risk of diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure.
- Stimulants, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin®) or dextroaphetamine (Dexedrine®) can be added. Stimulants may cause dry mouth, disturbances in sleep patterns, nervousness, anxiousness, and weight loss.
- Lithium and mood-stabilizing medications may be prescribed, including lithium (Eskalith®, Lithobid®), valproic acid (Depakene®), divalproex (Depakote®), and carbamazepine (Tegretol®) to treat bipolar depression. Medications called atypical antipsychotics such as olanzapine (Zyprexa), risperidone (Risperdal) and quetiapine (Seroquel) were initially developed for treatment of psychotic disorders.
- Hormone therapy: For women with postpartum depression or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), hormonal replacement with estrogen and/or progesterone may help with depression. However, there is an increased risk of heart disease and cancer (breast and ovarian) with the use of these medications.
- Electroconvulsive therapy: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) involves the use of electrical current to stimulate various parts of the brain, and is used mainly in people who have episodes of major depression associated with suicidal tendencies, or in people whose medication has proved to be ineffective. ECT profoundly affects brain metabolism and blood flow to various areas of the brain. How that correlates to easing depression remains unknown, but this therapy is often highly effective. Safety of ECT is controversial, and adverse effects such as confusion, memory loss, headache, hypotension (low blood pressure), and tachycardia (increased heart rate) may occur.
- Light therapy: This therapy may help if the individual has seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This disorder involves periods of depression that recur at the same time each year, usually when days are shorter in the fall and winter. Scientists believe fewer hours of sunlight may increase levels of melatonin, a brain hormone thought to induce sleep and depress mood. Treatment in the morning with a specialized type of bright light, which suppresses production of melatonin, may help with this disorder. Melatonin is a hormone for the sleep-wake cycle and may be decreased during depression.
- Mild depression: If mild depression is diagnosed, antidepressant drugs are not usually recommended as a first treatment. Exercise seems to help some people with depression. Talking through feelings using counselling may also be helpful for mild depression. Talking to a friend or relative, self-help reading material, or a local self-help group are good choices. If the depression is mild but there is a past history of depression, antidepressants may be used.
- Chronic (long term) mild depression or dysthymia (present for two or more years) is more likely in people over 55 years and can be difficult to treat. Individuals diagnosed with dysthymia are usually started on a course of antidepressants.
- Moderate depression: If mild depression does not improve, antidepressants or talking treatments are generally used. Research has shown that antidepressants and psychological therapies are equally effective in treating mild or moderate depression but having the two types of treatment together does not seem to offer any extra benefits.
- Severe depression: If severe depression is diagnosed, both antidepressant therapy together with psychotherapy are usually used in combination.
- Although major depression can be a devastating illness, it is highly treatable. Between 80-90% of individuals diagnosed with major depression can be effectively treated and return to their usual daily activities and feelings.
- Hospitalization: Depression is a serious medical illness. Urgent care and hospitalization may be necessary when someone seems to be a danger to themselves or others, or if they are psychotic. A person experiencing extreme major depression should be brought to the hospital immediately to prevent suicide or possible violence to another person. An acute episode is treated with medications and a low-stimulation environment. Depending on the individual's symptoms and history, longer-term hospitalization may be required.
- Sage : Sage has long been suggested as a possible therapy for mood enhancement. Several trials provide evidence for this use of sage, even in stressful situations. Additional study is needed to confirm these findings and determine the best dose.
- Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to sage species, their constituents, or to members of the Lamiaceae family. Use cautiously with hypertension (high blood pressure). Use sage essential oil or tincture cautiously in patients with epilepsy. Avoid with previous anaphylactic reactions to sage species, their constituents, or to members of the Lamiaceae family. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- St. John's wort : Extracts of St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) have been recommended traditionally for a wide range of medical conditions, with the most common modern-day use being the treatment of depression. St. John's wort has been extensively studied in Europe over the last two decades, with more recent research in the United States. Short-term studies (one to three months) suggest that St. John's wort is more effective than placebo (sugar pill), and equally effective as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) in the treatment of mild-to-moderate depressive disorder. Comparisons to the more commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, such as fluoxetine (Prozac®) or sertraline (Zoloft®), are more limited. However, other data suggest that St. John's wort may be just as effective as SSRIs with fewer side effects. Safety concerns exist as with most conventional and complementary therapies. Studies of St. John's wort for severe depression have not provided clear evidence of effectiveness.
- In published studies, St. John's wort has generally been well tolerated at recommended doses for up to one to three months. The most common adverse effects include gastrointestinal upset, skin reactions, fatigue/sedation, restlessness or anxiety, sexual dysfunction (including impotence), dizziness, headache, and dry mouth. Caution is advised when taking St. John's wort, as numerous adverse effects including many drug interactions are possible. Drug interactions with St. John's wort can have severe consequences. One small study reported elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels to be associated with taking St. John's wort. St. John's wort should not be used if pregnant or breastfeeding, unless otherwise directed by a doctor.
- 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)Â : Supplement use of 5-HTP may help balance serotonin in the body. Serotonin is the brain chemical associated with sleep, mood, movement, eating and nervousness. While cells outside the brain, such as platelets in the blood and some cells in the intestine, produce and utilize serotonin, all serotonin used by brain cells must be made within the neurons themselves. When serotonin is not properly constructed within the brain, the result can be irritability, aggression, impatience, anxiety and depression. The results of numerous studies in humans suggest that 5-HTP may aid in the treatment of depression. However, it is not known whether 5-HTP is as effective as commonly prescribed antidepressant drugs.
- Caution is advised when taking 5-HTP supplements, as numerous adverse effects including drug interactions are possible. 5-HTP is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, unless otherwise advised by a doctor.
- Dehydroepiandoseterone (DHEA)Â : DHEA is a hormone made in the human body that serves as precursor to male and female sex hormones (androgens and estrogens). The majority of clinical trials investigating the effect of DHEA on depression support its use for this purpose under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Further research is needed to confirm these results.
- Few side effects are reported when DHEA supplements are taken by mouth in recommended doses. Avoid if allergic to DHEA. Side effects may include fatigue, nasal congestion, headache, acne, or rapid/irregular heartbeats. In women, the most common side effects are abnormal menses, emotional changes, headache, and insomnia. Individuals with a history of abnormal heart rhythms, blood clots or hypercoagulability, and those with a history of liver disease, should avoid DHEA supplements. Patients who are taking antidepressants should avoid DHEA. Avoid with a history of seizures. Use cautiously with adrenal or thyroid disorders or anticoagulants (blood thinners), or drugs, herbs, or supplements for diabetes, heart disease, seizure, or stroke. Stop use two weeks before surgery/dental/diagnostic procedures with bleeding risk, and do not use immediately after these procedures. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Phenylalanine : In early human study, L-phenylalanine, DL-phenylalanine, and D-phenylalanine were shown to reduce symptoms associated with depression. However, high quality clinical trials are needed for better assessment of the antidepressant effectiveness of various forms of phenylalanine dietary supplements.
- Use cautiously in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or in patients with hypertension, anxiety disorders, psychiatric disorders, or sleep disorders. Avoid in patients with Parkinson's disease or tardive dyskinesia. Avoid in patients with hypersensitivity to phenylalanine or with phenylketonuria (PKU).
- St. John's wort : Well-designed studies have investigated the effect of St. John's wort on symptoms associated with somatoform disorders. The results suggest St. John's wort may be effective in this population. Further well-designed clinical trials would add to this information and allow recommendations to be made.
- In published studies, St. John's wort has generally been well tolerated at recommended doses for up to one to three months. The most common adverse effects include gastrointestinal upset, skin reactions, fatigue/sedation, restlessness or anxiety, sexual dysfunction (including impotence), dizziness, headache, and dry mouth. Caution is advised when taking St. John's wort, as numerous adverse effects including many drug interactions are possible. Drug interactions with St. John's wort can have severe consequences. One small study reported elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels to be associated with taking St. John's wort. St. John's wort should not be used if pregnant or breastfeeding, unless otherwise directed by a doctor.
- Ayurveda : Ayurveda, which originated in ancient India over 5,000 years ago, is probably the world's oldest system of natural medicine. Early evidence suggests that a traditional Ayurvedic formula containing extracts of four Indian herbs, Ashvatha, Kapikachu, Dhanvayasa, and Bhuriphali, may have benefits similar to conventional anti-depressant medication. Further studies are needed to confirm the effects of this ayurvedic preparation for mild to moderate depression.
- Ayurvedic herbs should be used cautiously because they are potent and some constituents can be potentially toxic if taken in large amounts or for a long time. Some herbs imported from India have been reported to contain high levels of toxic metals. Ayurvedic herbs can interact with other herbs, foods and drugs. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before taking.
- Bach flower remedies : Depression is one of the major uses of Bach flower remedies. Currently, there is a lack of high-quality clinical trials that have investigated the use of Bach flower remedies for major depressive disorder. Higher quality research is needed in this area. Back flower remedies should not be used in lieu of more proven therapies.
- Chasteberry : There is limited evidence suggesting possible benefits of chasteberry in the alleviation of symptoms of pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Further evidence is necessary before a conclusion can be drawn.
- Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to members of the Vitex (Verbenaceae) family or any chasteberry components. When taken in recommended doses, chasteberry appears to be well tolerated with few side effects. Use cautiously in patients taking oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy. Use cautiously with dopamine agonists or antagonists. Avoid with hormone sensitive cancers or conditions (like ovarian cancer or breast cancer). Avoid if pregnant, breastfeeding or if undergoing in vitro fertilization.
- Chromium : Early studies show that chromium picolinate may improve symptoms of depression in people with atypical depression. Further research is needed before a recommendation can be made.
- Trivalent chromium appears to be safe because side effects are rare or uncommon. However, hexavalent chromium may be poisonous (toxic). Avoid if allergic to chromium, chromate, or leather. Use cautiously with diabetes, liver problems, a weakened immune system (such as HIV/AIDS patients or organ transplant recipients), depression, Parkinson's disease, heart disease, or stroke or in patients who are taking medications for these conditions. Use cautiously if driving or operating machinery. Use cautiously if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Coleus : Limited studies have assessed the efficacy of coleus in the treatment of depression. High quality clinical trials are warranted.
- Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to coleus. Use cautiously with antidepressants, blood pressure drugs, blood-thinners, pain relievers, anticoagulants, blood sugar drugs, bronchodilators, heart drugs (like anti-arrhythmics), drugs dependent on stomach pH (like ketoconazole), thyroid drugs, bladderwrack, garlic, ginkgo, St. John's wort, and other herbs or supplements with similar effects.
- Creatine : Early research suggests a potential beneficial of creatine supplements in depression. Large, well-designed studies are needed.
- Avoid if allergic to creatine or with diuretics (like hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide (Lasix®)). Use caution in asthma, diabetes, gout, kidney, liver or muscle problems, stroke or a history of these conditions. Avoid dehydration. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Feldenkrais method® : Early research revealed improved mood among participants who enrolled in a one-year program that included the Feldenkrais Method®. There is currently a lack of available scientific studies or reports of safety of the Feldenkrais Method®.
- Folate : Folic acid or folate deficiency has been found among many individuals suffering from depression and has been linked to poor response to antidepressant therapies. Folate supplements have been used for enhancing treatment response to antidepressants. Limited clinical research suggests that folic acid is not effective as a replacement for conventional antidepressant therapy. Blood tests can determine if an individual is low in vitamins such as folic acid.
- Folate appears to be well tolerated in recommended doses. Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to folate or any of the product ingredients. It is recommended that pregnant women consume 400 micrograms of folate daily in order to reduce the risk of fetal defects. Folate is likely safe if breastfeeding.
- Ginkgo : Preliminary study suggests that ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) may not be effective for depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Other research in elderly patients with depression shows possible minor benefits. Ginkgo may help in decreasing sexual side effects such as loss of libido in individuals taking antidepressants. Overall, there is not enough evidence to form a clear conclusion. It remains unclear if ginkgo is effective for improving mood in post-menopausal women. Further well-designed research is needed as existing study reports conflicting evidence.
- Caution is advised when taking ginkgo supplements as numerous adverse effects and drug interactions are possible. Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to members of the Ginkgoaceae family. If allergic to mango rind, sumac, poison ivy or oak, or cashews, then allergy to ginkgo is possible. Avoid with blood-thinners (such as aspirin or warfarin) due to an increased risk of bleeding. Ginkgo should be stopped two weeks before surgical procedures. Ginkgo seeds are dangerous and should be avoided. Skin irritation and itching may also occur due to ginkgo allergies. Ginkgo is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, unless otherwise advised by a doctor.
- Ginseng : A review of several studies suggested that ginseng may improve mood in post-menopausal women. Additional studies are needed before a conclusion can be made.
- Avoid ginseng with a known allergy to plants in the Araliaceae family. There has been a report of a serious life-threatening skin reaction, possibly caused by contaminants in ginseng formulations.
- Guarana : Caffeine, the active ingredient in guarana, may have positive effects on mood enhancement. Caffeine may increase alertness and feelings of well-being and improve performance on sustained attention tasks and simulated driving performance. Slow release caffeine consumption has been correlated with a decrease in calmness and an increase in sleep onset latency.
- Avoid if allergic/hypersensitivite to guarana (Paullinia cupana), caffeine, tannins or species of the Sapindaceae family. Avoid with hypertension, psychological or psychiatric disorders, liver impairment, and arrhythmias. Avoid with other stimulatory agents, especially ephedra. Use cautiously with breast disease, impaired kidney function, diabetes, pre-existing mitral valve prolapse, iron deficiency, gastric or duodenal ulcers, bleeding disorders, glaucoma, or if at risk for osteoporosis. Use cautiously if undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Lavender : Preliminary research suggests that lavender may be helpful as an adjunct to prescription medications for mild-to-moderate depression. Additional research is necessary before a conclusion can be made.
- Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to lavender. Avoid with history of seizures, bleeding disorders, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia), or anemia (low levels of iron). Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- L-carnitine : L-carnitine (also known as acetyl-L-carnitine) is an antioxidant and may help blood flow as well as neurological function. Although the results are promising there is currently insufficient evidence to support the use of acetyl-L-carnitine in the treatment of depression. Well-designed clinical trials with adequate subject number are required.
- Caution is advised when taking acetyl-L-carnitine supplements as numerous adverse effects including drug interactions are possible. Avoid with known allergy or hypersensitivity to carnitine. Use cautiously with peripheral vascular disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), alcohol-induced liver cirrhosis, and diabetes. Use cautiously in low birth weight infants and individuals on hemodialysis. Use cautiously if taking anticoagulants (blood thinners), beta-blockers, or calcium channel blockers. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Melatonin : Melatonin has been suggested for the improvement of sleep disturbances in depression, although research is limited in this area. There are several small, brief studies of melatonin in patients with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This research is not well designed or reported, and further study is necessary before a clear conclusion can be reached.
- Melatonin is not to be used for extended periods of time. Caution is advised when taking melatonin supplements as numerous adverse effects including drug interactions are possible. Melatonin is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, unless otherwise advised by a doctor. Use cautiously with drugs broken down by the liver, sedative drugs (Ambien®), barbiturates, narcotics, antidepressants, alcohol, drugs that increase the risk of bleeding such as warfarin (Coumadin®), non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen or naproxen), drugs that affect blood pressure (atenolol), drugs that lower levels of vitamin B6 in the body (such as birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or loop diuretics), diazepam, verapamil, temazepam, somatostatin, drugs that alter blood sugar levels (insulin), caffeine, succinylcholine, methamphetamine, isoniazid or herbs or supplements with similar effects (such as 5-HTP, Ginkgo biloba, garlic, saw palmetto, vitamin B12, chasteberry, arginine, DHEA, and Echinacea).
- Omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil, alpha-linolenic acid : Essential fatty acids (including omega-3 fatty acids) have many roles in the body, including proper nerve and brain function. There have been several studies on the use of omega-3 fatty acids in depression; however, not enough reliable evidence is available to form a clear conclusion.
- Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils are normally used. It is important to choose quality fish oil supplements, as heavy metals have been reported in some fish oil supplements. The label should say if the product has been tested for heavy metal contamination (such as lead and mercury). Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to fish, omega-3 fatty acid products that come from fish, nuts, linolenic acid, or omega-3 fatty acid products that come from nuts. Avoid during active bleeding. Use cautiously with bleeding disorders, diabetes, low blood pressure or drugs, herbs or supplements that treat any such conditions. Use cautiously before surgery. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that intake be limited in pregnant/breastfeeding women to a single six-ounce meal per week, and in young children to less than two ounces per week. For farm-raised, imported, or marine fish, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that pregnant/breastfeeding women and young children avoid eating types with higher levels of methylmercury and less than 12 ounces per week of other fish types. Women who might become pregnant are advised to eat seven ounces or less per week of fish with higher levels of methylmercury or up to 14 ounces per week of fish types with about 0.5 parts per million (such as marlin, orange roughy, red snapper, or fresh tuna).
- Qi gong : Qi gong is a type of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that is thought to be at least 4,000 years old. Preliminary study shows that Qi gong may be beneficial for relieving stress. Available data remains inconclusive, yet thousands of years of effectiveness in China for stress and anxiety must be appreciated. Qi gong has been studied in elderly patients to assess if it helped with depression in those with chronic physical illnesses. Results were inconclusive, and further research is needed before a recommendation can be made. Qi gong may be used as an adjunct to more proven therapies.
- Qi gong is generally considered to be safe in most people when learned from a qualified instructor. Use cautiously with psychiatric disorders. In cases of potentially serious conditions, Qi gong should not be used as the only treatment instead of more proven therapies, and should not delay the time it takes to see an appropriate healthcare provider.
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)Â : Riboflavin is a water-soluble vitamin, which is involved in many processes in the body, and is necessary for normal cell function, growth, and energy production. Adequate nutrient supplementation with riboflavin may be required for the maintenance of adequate cognitive function. Treatment with B-vitamins, including riboflavin, has been reported to improve depression in patients taking tricyclic antidepressants.
- Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to riboflavin. Since the amount of riboflavin a human can absorb is limited, riboflavin is generally considered safe. Riboflavin is generally regarded as being safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The U.S. recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for riboflavin in pregnant women is higher than for non-pregnant women; the RDA during pregnancy is 1.4 milligrams daily, and 1.6 milligrams during breastfeeding.
- SAMe : S-adenosylmethionine, or SAMe, is normally formed in the body from the essential amino acid methionine. SAMe supplements are used in depression and mood disorders. SAMe has been studied for use in depression for many decades. However, the majority of trials that have been performed have significant methodological flaws limiting their clinical usefulness. A small number of randomized placebo controlled trials suggest an antidepressant effect that is greater than that observed with placebo. Although some studies have suggested that SAMe has a more rapid onset of action in depression than tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), it is uncertain whether these effects result in improved patient outcomes. Large randomized placebo controlled trials that compare SAMe to other antidepressants such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are needed. Until these trials are available, it is difficult to justify the use of SAMe in patients with depression since there are many effective antidepressants available to this patient population.
- Caution should be used when taking SAMe supplements as drug interactions are possible. Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to SAMe. Use cautiously with diabetes and anxiety disorders, or in women in their third trimester of pregnancy. Avoid with bipolar disorder. Avoid during the first trimester of pregnancy or if breastfeeding.
- St. John's wort : Studies of St. John's wort for severe depressive disorder have not provided clear evidence of effectiveness. Additionally, despite some promising early data, there is currently not enough evidence to recommend St. John's wort for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Additional study is needed.
- In published studies, St. John's wort has generally been well tolerated at recommended doses for up to one to three months. The most common adverse effects include gastrointestinal upset, skin reactions, fatigue/sedation, restlessness or anxiety, sexual dysfunction (including impotence), dizziness, headache, and dry mouth. Caution is advised when taking St. John's wort, as numerous adverse effects including many drug interactions are possible. Drug interactions with St. John's wort can have severe consequences. One small study reported elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels to be associated with taking St. John's wort. St. John's wort should not be used if pregnant or breastfeeding, unless otherwise directed by a doctor.
- Valerian : There is currently not enough available scientific evidence on the use of valerian for depression.
- Use with caution if allergic to members of the Valerianaceae family. Avoid if driving or operating heavy machinery, as it may cause drowsiness. Avoid with liver disease. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)Â : Some research suggests that pyridoxine supplementation alone or in combination with high doses of other B vitamins may help with depression. Pyridoxine helps increase the "calming" neurochemicals serotonin and gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) levels in the blood, possibly benefiting people in dysphoric mental states. Well-designed clinical trials are needed to confirm potential benefit. Vitamin B6 may be found in a multivitamin or a B-complex vitamin supplement.
- Avoid if sensitive or allergic to any vitamin B6 product ingredients. Some individuals seem to be particularly sensitive to vitamin B6 and may have problems at lower doses. Avoid excessive dosing. Vitamin B6 is likely safe when used orally in doses not exceeding the recommended dietary allowance (RDA). The RDA for pregnant women is 1.9 milligrams per day. For relief of severe nausea in early pregnancy, 30-75 milligrams has been used daily. There is some concern that high-dose pyridoxine taken by a pregnant mother can cause seizures in a newborn. The RDA in breastfeeding women is 2 milligrams per day. Use cautiously if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Vitamin DÂ : In limited available study, vitamin D was found to be better than light therapy in the treatment of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Further studies are necessary to confirm these findings.
- Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to vitamin D or any of its components. Vitamin D is generally well-tolerated in recommended doses; doses higher than recommended may cause toxic effects. Use cautiously with hyperparathyroidism (overactive thyroid), kidney disease, sarcoidosis, tuberculosis, and histoplasmosis. Vitamin D is safe in pregnant and breastfeeding women when taken in recommended doses.
- Healthcare providers recommend that an individual suffering from depression reduce stress and try to develop regular sleep patterns. Sleep disturbances may signal the early phase of a depressive episode.
- Learn to recognize the early warning signs and triggers of depression. Warning signs of relapse vary from patient to patient, and may include thoughts of death, or slight changes in sleep patterns (a common indicator), mood, energy, self-esteem, sexual interest, concentration, and willingness to take on new projects, and dress or grooming.
Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. . Accessed March 15, 2009.
- American Academy of Family Physicians. . Accessed March 15, 2009.
- American Psychiatric Association. . Accessed March 15, 2009.
- Mental Health America.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness. . Accessed March 15, 2009.
- National Institute of Mental Health. . Accessed March 15, 2009.
- Natural Standard: The Authority on Integrative Medicine. Copyright © 2009. . Accessed March 15, 2009.
Disclaimer: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
