Last Updated on 5 September 2024 by Brisbane Livewell Clinic
Naturopathic Considerations for Treating Depression
According to the Mental Health Council of Australia, around one million Australian adults and 100,000 younger individuals live with Depression. These statistics go on to state that so common is this condition that on average, one in every five individuals will suffer from it. In 2004, the World Health Organisation ranked unipolar depressive disorders as the third leading cause of the global burden of disease. It is said to progress to the first place by 2030. So how does treating Depression with naturopathy help?
From here rises a need for a more special and individualistic approach to eliminate the core of depression that has taken deep roots in our society and the lives of our loved ones. While conventional medication alters the natural pathways of the human system, as Naturopaths, we aim to provide holistic solutions to help individuals overcome depression in the most natural manner.
Here are some things that we take into consideration and explore during the diagnostic and healing process:
Observing Nutritional Status
What you eat does have an impact on your mood. We regulate their meal intakes to keep their blood sugar at an optimal level. Individual food reactions need to be observed to identify problem area so that it can be eliminated from the diet. Reactive foods such as gluten, dairy, alcohol or sugars are taken off the diet to observe any changes in mood swings. On the other hand, foods that are high in protein are encouraged.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Again, your mood changes could be due to your body’s inability to get enough nutrients. These include lack of Vitamin D, Iron and B-Vitamins. These can be screened with the help of a blood test, and once identified, can be easily supplemented.
Hormonal Imbalances
Common conditions that lead to hormonal imbalance are puberty, pregnancy, PMS, menopause and much more. Some of the most common imbalances are thyroid deficiencies and adrenal hormone imbalance. However, it is important to note that treating these hormonal imbalances does not mean taking hormones; rather, this can be resolved naturally as well – with the help of herbal therapies, vitamins and minerals.
Identifying Stress Levels
In some instances, depression may be a response to certain stress factors. The concept of Naturopathy focuses on taking a wider and deeper look into the life of the patient to identify the body’s response to stressors in life or “triggers” and improve their coping strategies.
Neurotransmitter Deficiencies
The antidepressant medication works in a way to target specific neurotransmitters in the nervous systems – mostly serotonins. While these medications are sometimes effective, they are not without side-effects, some of which are permanent. With the help of Naturopathy therapies and practices, it is possible to affect and improve the neurotransmitters without the intake of antidepressants.
If you or your loved one is experiencing symptoms of depression, please get in touch with us. We take pride in working closely with our patients, to provide them with the best and most effective care
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