|  | Conditions Treatments | Depression

Dysthymic Depression Alternative Treatment

Dysthymic depression is chronic depression that last for at least two years, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms include loss of appetite, hopelessness and lack of energy. While antidepressants can be prescribed, several studies show that alternative treatments can provide relief and possibly work just as well as medicine.

  1. Ayurvedic Herbs

    • Ayurveda is the traditional system of medicine of India and employs herbal combinations to treat a variety of disorders, including depression. In a study published in the "Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy" in 2002, a formula consisting of four Indian herbs, called GS-02, was administered to 15 patients suffering from dysthymic depression. Researchers noted significant improvement in depressive symptoms in a high percentage of the patients--similar to that of antidepressant medication. The four herbs in GS-02 are ashvatha, kapikachu, dhanvayasa and bhuriphali. They can be found at many Indian grocery stores and online.

    Acupuncture

    • Acupuncture is based on the ancient Chinese theory of energy pathways in the body that can become blocked, leading to disease and lowered vitality. Since dysthymic depression sufferers often exhibit low energy and vitality, acupuncture may be a potent alternative therapy. In a article published in the "Journal of Affective Disorders" in July 2009, acupuncture treatment was compared with standard antidepressant treatment in a review of more than 200 studies. The researchers concluded that acupuncture was comparable, and in some cases superior, to antidepressants in relieving the severity of depressive symptoms, and had fewer adverse side effects.

    Diet Therapy

    • Omega-3s, or "healthy fats," found in nuts, seeds and many fish, have recently been found to profoundly influence the functioning of the brain. In a study published in "The American Journal of Psychiatry" in June 2006, a group of children suffering from major depressive disorders were given omega-3 supplements and showed highly significant improvement on three tests designed to measure depressive symptoms. Omega-3 supplements can be found at most health food stores and online, as well as in food sources.

Depression - Related Articles