According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression affects approximately 17.3 million American adults each year. Depression is more prevalent in women than it is in men, and depression rates in children are on the rise.
Getting Help with Depression
A survey conducted in 2020 by Mental Health America concluded that the number of people looking to get help with their depression has skyrocketed.
Lean on family and friends
Social support is immensely helpful when dealing with symptoms of depression. Look to friends and family when you need someone to listen. Not being able to sit down face to face with loved ones during the pandemic has been particularly challenging. If you’re not yet able to see family and friends in person, schedule regular phone calls or Zoom sessions to keep your connections strong.
Find a therapist or support group
If you’re dealing with an illness, loss of a loved one or another particularly challenging time in your life, it may be time to find a support group or therapist. The Anxiety & Depression Association of America’s website can help you find both.
Herbs and Supplements
Curcumin
Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, which has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a number of conditions including depression.
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in curcumin have led to a number of studies to determine if curcumin could be a safe and effective natural depression treatment.
A 2017 study found that curcumin was effective in reducing symptoms of depression when used alone and when used in combination with saffron.
In a 2020 review article, the authors concluded that curcumin is a promising alternative option in the management of major depressive disorder and suggested it could play a role in depression prevention.
Curcumin is generally given in doses of 500 milligrams twice daily. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.
Try: Nordic Naturals Curcumin Gummies
Take two 200 milligram gummies daily with a meal.
Lion’s Mane
Lion’s mane, a mushroom used in traditional Chinese medicine, may be a potential alternative treatment of depression. While still in the early stages, clinical research indicates that Lion’s mane works through inflammatory pathways to improve mood and relieve depression symptoms.
Lion’s mane supplements are available as capsules, extracts and powders. Typical doses range from 500 – 750 milligrams per day.
Try: OM Lion’s Mane Mushroom Superfood Capsules
Take 3 capsules daily with a glass of water.
Comments