Depression Answers

Herbal Medication For Depression

Q.What makes an individual "qualified" for medication for depression? We've heard a lot about "brain chemical" depression, an imbalance in a person's brain chemicals. Are antidepressants the only way to treat that? We've heard a lot about "brain chemical" depression, an imbalance in a person's brain chemicals. Are antidepressants the only way to treat that?

A.In some cases, medication can be useful for depressed children and adolescents. Depression in young people is often overlooked, sometimes with tragic results. We are generally more cautious when using medications in those under eighteen. In the past decade, we have gotten more safe and effective antidepressants for young people. It varies depending on the severity of the depression, the individual's medical condition, and the individual's preferences. For milder depression, we are more likely to recommend psychotherapy first. For more severe depression, antidepressant medication is more likely to be necessary. The term "chemical imbalance" is misleading. Many things start with a chemical abnormality and become much more. For example, type 1 diabetes seems to be a simple chemical abnormality. The pancreas does not make insulin. The disorder is treated by insulin. However, living with diabetes is much more complex. It involves lifestyle issues, and many behavioral and emotional issues. You should talk to your psychiatrist and your obstetrician well before you try to become pregnant. Go to an OB who is comfortable dealing with this sort of thing. Make sure that you are aware of the risks and benefits of medication during pregnancy. You should also make sure that you are in a stable time in your illness. It is best if you are married or in a long-term stable relationship. If you have a breakthrough, your partner can help you and the child. For those wanting to know more about schizo-affective disorder, you can click this link. If you are looking for information on a particular depression medication or medication for bipolar disorder, you might want to try the HealthyPlace.com psychiatric medications area. There's a lot of info there on the uses of the medications and their side effects. Are there any natural remedies for depression and bipolar that can be used in conjunction with antidepressants? I have used St. Johns Wort in a few patients who did not do well on several other antidepressants. I have also used Fish Oil (Omega 3 Fatty Acids) for mood swings. However, I prefer to try the more established medications first. Since we have very little data on mixing these herbal compounds with traditional medications, I prefer the person to be off other antidepressants before we try the alternative treatments for depression or bipolar disorder. I have a ten month old son and Depression seems to run in my family and on my husband's. Is it possible my son can get depression, and are there ways I can help prevent serious depression? You should be sure that your son gets a lot of affection from family. Encourage him to develop a mind-set that he can solve problems and that life is not a helpless situation. Some people think that one's cognitive mind-set can be protective against depression. If he does get depression, you may be in a good position to see it and get him help early.

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