Depression is a state of mental agony characterized by very low spirits, and hesitation and aversion towards activities. The problem of depressive disorder is as old as human civilization. In Bible we get a reference of King David suffering from a depressive state of mind. Sigmund Freud in his theories stated that depression springs from a consistent sense of guilt or any other mental conflict. A person going through depression may go through a stagnant and prolonged period of sadness or 'melancholia' as stated by Hippocrates. He or she may feel himself or herself completely worthless and helpless.
Anxiety, a sense of void, unnecessary fear or paranoia, hopelessness, feeling of stress, irritation, sleeplessness and restlessness may be experienced by the person suffering from depression. People of any age group and belonging to any walk of life may fall prey to depression. Negative happenings in life like death of a close one, or any other loss, an accident or poor professional or academic performance, insults from close ones or in professional world, failures in fulfilling any kind of ambition or wish, spousal dissatisfaction may dump a person in to a state of depression.
1. Endogenous depression-This type of depression springs from within the body. Genetic causes, hormonal disturbances may lead to such depression. Endogenous depression therefore runs in the family.
2. Neurotic or Reactive depression-This type occurs due to external or environmental factors that act as precipitating agents.
Aging, medications, head injuries or any other chronic physical malady may also allow depression to play havoc with a person's psyche. Under chronic conditions, depression may soar so high that the victim may start contemplating suicide even.
1. Insomnia
2. Irritability
3. Mood swings
4. Loss of interest in normal day to day activities
5. Loss of appetite
6. Digestive disorder
7. Fatigue
8. Aches
9. Unnecessary anxiety
10. Over eating
11. Excessive sleeping
12. Difficulty in concentrating
13. Forgetfulness
14. Loss of decision making power
15. Suicide attempts
1. Extracts of hypericum perforatum or St John's wort can be used in the form of capsules, syrups, tablets or tea. It is an ancient natural remedy to treat dampened mood.
2. One of the useful home remedies for depression is the foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids contained in cold water fishes like salmons and sardines, in fish oil capsules, can fight against depression by maintaining proper brain functioning.
3. Intake of folic acid or folate contained in leafy vegetables, beans, fruits and Vitamin B complex supplements can help to alleviate depression symptoms.
4. Consumption of sweets, alcohol, and caffeine should be cut down, for they only worsen depressive conditions.
5. Magnesium and Vitamin B6 help in producing neurotransmitters that regulate our mood. They are present in eatables like nuts, green vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
6. Regular exercise and brisk walk is the easiest way to fight depression.
7. Exposure to sunlight helps in producing much serotonin, the key chemical in brain influencing our mood.
8. A mixture of rose petal extracts and warm water can function as a good anti depressant.
9. Another useful home remedy for depression is the herb licorice. Licorice tea can also fight against depression.
10. A mixture one-eighth teaspoon of nutmeg powder and amla juice is a good natural remedy to enliven mood.
11. Powder made out of dry asparagus root can be taken to raise one's spirits.
12. A neutral immersion bath can be taken daily to combat depression.
13. Practicing meditation and listening to soft music can eradicate anxiety. It is considered as one of the best natural remedies for depression and anxiety.
14. Apple along with milk and honey is a good natural remedy for depression.
