Overcoming Depression

It’s important to realize that depression can stem from hundreds of factors. This often makes it difficult to treat. As with most ailments, accurate diagnosis is the key. Unfortunately, most doctors nowadays seem to spend less time looking for the underlying causes of the problem and more time simply comparing observed symptoms with those listed as treatable by various drugs and prescribing the medication that fits best.

Before you resort to any supplement or drug you should rule out health conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), diabetes, weak adrenal function, and an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or pituitary gland as causes. Hormone imbalances, chronic infections, pain, cancer, and vitamin deficiencies can cause depression as well.

One of the most commonly overlooked contributors to depression is the regular use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs. If you take drugs on a regular basis, be sure to check with your doctor about their side effects. If you’ve ruled out or addressed the above underlying causes and are still feeling blue, here are some suggestions to help you smile again. Spend more time outside. At a minimum, try to get 20 minutes of sunlight each day. Get moderate amounts of exercise. Try to walk 20–30 minutes every day. Eliminate alcohol, caffeine, and fried foods from your diet. Take milk thistle extract (standardized to 80 percent silymarin), especially if you have hepatitis C (as many Vietnam veterans do).