The Best Natural Cures for Depression

Depression is actually a very serious medical condition and being depressed can really get in the way of living a normal, happy life. While everyone might become depressed every now and then, which is quite normal, chronic depression should be treated.

Many people resort to take SSRI drugs, selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor. Not only do SSRI depression drugs have a plethora of negative side effects, they are actually quite damaging to the brain. When you take an SSRI, it increases your serotonin levels. Although it will make you feel happier, it's unnatural and your body will know what your doing to it. After a while your brain begins to down regulate serotonin receptors. You'll then have to take higher and higher doses. When you finally decide to quit an SSRI, you begin to withdraw. In severe cases, the damage to your serotonin receptors is permanent.

Their are several natural depression treatments such as 5-HTP and st. john's wort. These work in a more natural way, which doesn't cause nearly as many side effects. They are also reported to be a safer choice.

5-HTP is a precursor to serotonin. 5-HTP is found in many foods but taking a 5-HTP supplement, which can be bought at a vitamin store, helps resolve depression symptoms. Chronic high doses of 5-HTP may cause heart valve damage, so you might want to take it as needed and not on a daily basis. 5-HTP is also effective for the treatment of insomnia and mild anxiety.

St. John's wort, which can also be bought at a vitamin shop, is effective in treating depression in some people. St. John's wort works more like a traditional SSRI but with far fewer side effects. It is often given to children with depression as SSRI drugs are often counter productive in children. St. John's wort can be taken on daily basis. Some people report no withdrawal symptoms while some report a very minor withdrawal.

Another very effective treatment for depression is exercise! When you work out, dopamine, which controls movement, is released from the brain. Dopamine is the brain chemical behind many addictions such as coffee and smoking. Exercising on a daily basis will naturally raise your dopamine levels, which will often help depression symptoms.

Whether you decide to try a natural depression alternative or an SRRI, you should consult your doctor first. In my opinion, SSRIs are just too risky when their are natural alternatives.