Sunday, February 1, 2009

Potential Cures For Depression - a Short Review

By Russell Kemerling

There are many varied types of depression. Many Americans are affected by depression and they don't even know it or they are not willing to accept it. Studies estimate that at least 14 million Americans suffer from depression. Fewer than 4.7 million of those, about 1/3, will seek medical help.

Why would people with a medical condition not seek help? Perhaps it is because depression is classified as a mental illness. That label is one people tend to avoid. People who suffered from mental illness were, at one time in history, ridiculed by society. It was common to lock away people in facilities for the mentally ill when they exhibited signs of depression. Times have changed now, thank goodness. However, old stereotypes have not. Many Americans keep their problem to themselves, motivated by this.

Depression is caused by many factors. Diagnosis isn't simple. Chemical balance in the brain, DNA, biology and even environment have to be considered. Depression can stem from drug or alcohol abuse, or even from simple everyday stress. Depression can come from all of these elements.

So what are some of the treatments and cures available for those that are inflicted? Just as there are many factors that can cause depression-there are many options to cure it as well. Which option is the best for someone who suffers with depression may be dependent on each individual on a case-to-case basis.

There are many supposed cures for depression. A cure for depression is realistic when safe and effective treatments are considered. Here are some of the factors considered when these options are examined. Is there evidence to show that the option works to treat depression? Does it have an appropriate dose to be effective if a drug or herb? Has the method been accepted in accordance with high quality control standards? It's time to take a look at some of the more accepted cures.

Prescription drugs and psychotherapy, combined, has been a common treatment for many forms of depression. Prescription anti-depressants like SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are often prescribed as a treatment for depression. In 1988 Prozac was first used and today it is one of the most popular. Paxil, Zoloft, Lexapro, Celexa, and Luvox are just some of those that followed it. All have been proven to be effective.

But side effects are common, including causing more depression. That's the reason natural treatments are gaining popularity. A popular herbal cure is St. Johns Wort extract. In order to work it must contain between 3 and 5 % hyperforin. Studies and actual cases show it to be as effective as Prozac but with fewer side effects. As important as it is to find a cure-it is impossible to do so if those who suffer do not seek it. Seek medical care at once if you or a loved one suffer from depression. - 16004

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