Antidepressant therapies to try before medication

For those determined to try something natural before going the traditional pharmaceutical route for the treatment of depression, here are a few of the best therapies. A complete list can be tailored to your needs by meeting with Bonnie or in our upcoming Action Plan on Anxiety/Stress.

Be aware that some therapies require more time and patience to bring results. You should always consult with a health professional to help guide decisions that are best for you as an individual.

Exercise
There is increasingly strong evidence for its use as a treatment for depression. The antidepressant effect of regular physical exercise has been compared to potent antidepressants like Sertraline.

Heal the Gut
We have touched upon the Gut/Brain Connection (Update) in several of our eNewsletters. Unless the gut is functioning optimally, depressive symptoms are hard to kick. Address gastrointestinal disorders from the inside out, which starts with diet and lifestyle.

Balance Your Blood Sugar
Blood sugar imbalance creates an inflammatory state which alters neurotransmitter brain chemistry. Never eating a carbohydrate alone, limiting sugar intake, and loading up with antiinflammatory nutrients will go far in ameliorating this issue.

Vitamin D, Magnesium, B-Complex, and EPA/DHA
Vitamin D is essential for mood regulation, especially during the fall and winter months. Magnesium is "nature's valium" and is a regulator for multiple neurological functions. B vitamins play a role in the production of certain neurotransmitters, which are important in regulating mood and other brain functions. Folic Acid, in men in particular, may be helpful for mood. EPA/DHA has significant research for helping women more so than men.

SAM-e
S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is an amino acid derivative that occurs naturally in all cells. SAMe plays a role in many biological reactions by transferring its methyl group to DNA, proteins, phospholipids and biogenic amines. This could result in SAMe indirectly influencing neurotransmitter metabolism and receptor function.

5-HTP and L-Tyrosine, the Safe Neurotransmitter Precursors
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) and L-Tyrosine are natural alternatives to traditional antidepressants. When the body sets about manufacturing serotonin, it first makes 5-HTP. When the body sets about manufacturing dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine, it first makes L-Tyrosine. Supplementing with these precursors must be overseen by a licensed health professional with expertise in neurotransmitters because there are specific vitamins and minerals needed to accompany the precursors or the risk for severe deficiency may occur.