Fight Depression Naturally

Depression can be overcome without taking addictive drugs. Many alternative doctors believe, and so do I, if people change their lifestyle, outlook, diet, and exercise, that most people can overcome their depression, since most people who suffer from depression don't suffer from serious depression. However, if you do suffer from severe depression, which may involve suicidal thoughts, then seek a doctor's treatment.

If you suffer from mild depression, try 5-HTP before taking any prescription for depression. 5-HTP works just like Prozac but without the negative side affects. It works to increase the chemical nutrient in the body that fights depression. Start off taking 100 mgs of 5-HTP right before you go to sleep. If you don't notice a difference, increase the dosage to 200 mgs but split it up by taking 100 mgs at night and 100 mgs in the morning. You can increase the dosage to 400 mgs a day, splitting it up evenly between nighttime and daytime, but don't take more than 400 mgs.

SAM-E is an effective depressant that fights depression. Like 5-HTP, it boosts a chemical in the body that fights depression. Doctors recommend taking 1,600 mgs of SAM-E a day. One important way to naturally treat depression is to eat more fish or get a good dose of fatty acids. Fish contains the oil, Omega-3 fatty acids, that help the brain cells remain healthy. If you don't like fish, you can try taking fatty acid supplements. Take 10 grams a day of DHA and EPA, dividing the dosage between meals.

St. John's Wort is effective in fighting mild depression. For some who take St. John's wort to fight depression, they start seeing changes within 10 days that includes, improved sleep, increased appetites and energy levels, and an overall good feeling. In time, many start to experience reduced emotional and mood swings, a decrease in anxiety, and an even more overall positive and good feeling about themselves and their lives. Start off taking 300 mgs a day and increase by 300 mgs every few days until you reach to 900 mgs a day. Divide the doses into three and take with meals.

Another natural remedy to fight depression is with flower essences. Flower essences are used to help a person overcome negative thoughts and feelings. Put four drops of St. John's wort essence under your tongue four times a day. You can also try Scotch broom when you get the "what's the use" feeling, Gentian will you get discouraged easily, and Wild rose to boost your self-esteem. You can use more than one of these flower essences at a time to help fight depression.

Some other natural ways to fight depression is to get more sunlight, eat healthier, and do some type of exercise every day of the week.