In these modern times, depression and feelings of hopelessness are more common than ever. What with uncertain economic times, the rise of divorce, and life’s stressors, feeling discouraged is almost part of the day-to-day. In fact, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that over 15.7 million adults had experienced at least one major depressive episode in 2014.
Depression impacts the lives of many including parents, children, friends, and family.
The statistics are as alarming with smaller groups of the population, such as teens, college students, and even the elderly. The National Institute of Mental Health reported that 3 million adolescents (12-17 year-olds) in the U.S. had at least one major depressive episode in 2015.
Ways to Help with the Effects of Depression Naturally
In Western Medicine, the common way to treat symptoms of depression is through therapy and anti-depressants such as Prozac and Zoloft. Prescribed medications may relieve some of the symptoms such as lack of concentration, mood swings, insomnia, and fatigue. But, medication also means side effects such as dizziness, nervousness, weight gain, decreased sex drive, and nausea, just to name a few. So if you’re looking for more of a natural approach to dealing with depression, try the following four tips below:
Exercise Daily to Reduce Depression:
Aside from helping you control your weight which can also help increase your self-esteem, exercising regularly also improves your mood. A quick 30-minute gym session or even a simple walk in your neighborhood stimulates various brain chemicals that’ll leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that interact with your brain receptors in order to reduce your perception of pain.
Ibogaine Treatment For Depression:
Speaking of brain receptors, that’s also the magic behind the more holistic approach of ibogaine treatment. This natural substance, from the Tabernanthe Iboga plant in West Africa, allows your brain to reset itself, by firing up your central nervous system to balance your dopamine and serotonin levels. These neurotransmitters are mainly responsible for your mood, and pleasure centers of the brain. So when depression takes hold of you, your emotional responses are off. With a medically-supervised, ibogaine treatment for depression, you can get back to yourself again.
Additional Steps to Fight Depression:
Set Small Goals:
When you’re depressed, you’re not motivated. Not accomplishing things or being unproductive throughout your day can make things even worse, heightening feelings of helplessness. To feel better about yourself, try setting small goals that you can attain on a daily basis. It can be as simple as exercising reaching out to a friend for support or even doing the laundry. Start small and build upon your successes. Before you know it, you’ll feel better about yourself.
Reach Out To A Close Friend:
You may not feel like talking, or even sharing private thoughts with your loved ones, but calling a friend can help you feel less isolated. With depression, it’s easy to feel like shutting the world out is best, however, this makes sadness and discouragement even worse. Confide in someone you feel won’t judge you, someone, who you’ve known for a long time and knows you inside and out. They may be able to not only lend an ear but maybe a different perspective too.
The post Top 4 Natural Ways To Heal From Depression appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do people with cancer use alternative methods?
Cancer patients often face many challenges as they attempt to overcome their illness. They might have lost all hope for recovery or feel helpless because there is nothing else they can do. Patients may experience pain, nausea, fatigue, lack of appetite, loss of strength, etc.
Additionally, many conventional treatments do not work against cancer cells. It is important that cancer patients look for alternative therapies, such a complementary medicine. Research shows that nearly half of patients have used alternative medicine at least once in their treatment.
Cancer patients sometimes choose complementary medicine instead of chemotherapy because they think it will be easier to handle side effects. They may also prefer it as it costs less.
You can also use the following reasons:
Some patients believe natural remedies can prevent a recurrence.
Many people believe that natural remedies could improve the quality and quantity of their lives.
Others believe that natural remedies can reduce the risk of getting cancer again.
People concerned about possible side effects of chemotherapy use natural remedies as first-line therapy.
What are the advantages of alternative and complementary medicine?
People who feel they do not receive enough help from allopathic medicine may use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). These include homeopathy, herbal medicine, massage therapy and homeopathy. Traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, spiritual healing, chiropractic care, homeopathy, homeopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, chiropractic care and other therapies. Because they are not compatible with conventional medicine’s treatment and diagnosis, CAM practitioners may use alternative treatments. Many CAM therapies incorporate elements from conventional medicine. Some forms, such as acupuncture with needles, involve heat and moxibustion.
Some CAM treatments can be used to relieve pain, anxiety, stress, relaxation, sleep disorders, or manage stress. They can also help with fatigue and improve your overall sense of well-being. Some CAM therapies target specific conditions, such fibromyalgia. Other CAM therapies may simply be enjoyable experiences.
Although there is no one definition of CAM, most definitions include at minimum one of these:
- A holistic perspective that looks at the whole person, including body, mind as well as spirit and environment.
- The belief in mind-body interaction and influence
- An individual’s belief that illness is due to an imbalance in his/her environment.
- Focus on the whole person and not just the symptoms.
- Combination of Eastern philosophy and Western science
- Treatment methods that integrate mind, body, and spirit
- Natural products are better than synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies may not offer all the benefits. There are also risks. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. Some have side effects, which should be balanced against their perceived benefits. Before you decide whether or not to use any CAMs, talk with your doctor about these matters.
Which treatments are not part of holistic medicine and why?
Holistic medicine is an approach to healing that looks at the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms. It aids in the recovery of illness by promoting good health and preventing future ones.
Holistic medicine employs natural remedies like herbs, homeopathy, acupuncture, and surgery instead of using drugs and surgeries.
Holistic medicine refers to lifestyle changes like exercise, diet and meditation.
Integrative medicine, also known as Holistic Medicine, integrates all aspects a patient’s mental, physical, and emotional needs into one comprehensive treatment plan.
Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention as well as early detection of diseases and encourages healthy lifestyles.
Holistic doctors believe there is no single cause of any condition. Instead, they look at the entire picture, including genetic factors, environmental influences, lifestyle choices, and personal habits.
Holistic practitioners emphasize the mind and emotions more than the body.
Holistic physicians work closely alongside their patients to determine the best treatment for their needs.
Can a holistic doctor prescribe medication?
Holistic medicine is based on the premise that all diseases are caused by a combination of factors, including diet, lifestyle, environment, stress, emotional state, genetics, and other health-related problems.
These factors are important to consider when prescribing medications. This is part of a balanced approach to treating patients.
Physicians must know both modern science and traditional methods, such as homeopathy and herbs, to fully understand the impact of each factor on patients.
Many doctors have become certified in complementary and alternative medicine (C&A). This allows them the ability to offer a wide variety of services to their clients.
What is the distinction between holistic medicine, alternative medicine and holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine treats the whole person: body, mind, spirit, and soul. It examines all aspects that affect a person’s overall health. These include the psychological, spiritual and environmental factors often overlooked in traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can treat specific conditions like allergies, asthma, arthritis, and others.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic medicines can be safe as they don’t contain harmful drugs and are natural remedies that people have used for centuries.
They have been shown to cure many illnesses, such as arthritis, chronic pain, asthma, cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, infertility, etc.
Millions of people all over the globe are using holistic medicine to treat various types of illnesses. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, nutrition, counseling, physical fitness, exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies address the whole person instead of just the symptoms.
Statistics
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials on Acupuncture to Treat Insomnia
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- PubMed – Holistic medicine
nccih.nih.gov
- Statistics on Complementary & Integrative Health Approaches
- What’s in the Name of Complementary and Alternative Health? NCCIH
How To
How to make a career in Holistic Medicine
The field of holistic medicine is growing at an unprecedented rate. There are many ways you can pursue this career path. If you want to be a part of this profession, however, returning to school may be the best option.
A number of schools offer holistic medicine programs. These include the National College for Complementary Medicines (NCCM), which offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Many programs are available for medical professionals wishing to enter the field.
Many online universities also offer holistic health classes. One such program is the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. The Institute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN) provides holistic education resources and tools for students.
Another option is to apply for a traditional 4-year college. Many colleges now offer holistic health courses. For example, the University of California offers a Bachelor of Science in Holistic Health Sciences.
You should take a nutrition course if you want to pursue a career in holistic medicine. NCCM recommends to students that they study nutrition before embarking upon any professional training. Integrative medicine requires a thorough understanding of nutrition science.
Holistic medicine is more holistic than traditional medicine because it focuses on the whole person and not just symptoms. It requires more skill and knowledge. To be able to assess the nutritional aspects of different illnesses, holistic medicine is a must-know subject.
The NCCM states that nutritionists often work in conjunction with doctors to provide advice on diet to their patients. Some even go so far as to suggest specific diets or supplements based on their assessment of the patient’s condition.
Holistic practitioners need to be able to understand basic nutrition principles. This includes knowing which foods are healthy, and which are not. It can also include identifying nutritional deficiencies or other problems that might be causing them.
It is important for holistic practitioners to realize that not all specialize in nutrition. Some practitioners focus solely on acupuncture, while others focus on herbal remedies. Others combine both of these approaches into one treatment.
Holistic practitioners, however, recommend eating a diet rich with fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. They encourage eating plenty of seafood and fish. They also recommend that you avoid fast food restaurants and processed food products. They recommend that people eat as much organic produce as possible.
The one thing holistic practitioners can agree on is the importance of a balanced diet in helping to prevent diseases. There are however some things they disagree on. They don’t believe gluten is the cause of celiac disease. Rather, they think that a lack of nutrients plays a role in triggering the disorder.
However, they are all in agreement that allergic reactions can occur with certain foods. For example, they say that shellfish and peanuts cause anaphylaxis. They also warn against excessive caffeine.
Many holistic practitioners are able to use herbs to treat many illnesses. They avoid the use of pharmaceutical drugs. Because such drugs are not effective in solving the problem but only mask it, holistic practitioners avoid using them. This is why they prefer to rely upon natural remedies whenever possible.
Holistic practitioners often use a variety complementary therapies in addition to offering alternative treatments. These include:
- Acupuncture – In Chinese medicine, this involves strategically inserting needles under the skin. This stimulates your body’s healing system.
- Herbal therapy- Holistic practitioners use herbs to treat many disorders in addition to acupuncture. Ginseng is an example of a common herb that is used for this purpose.
- Homeopathy – Another type of traditional Chinese medicine, homeopathy, is based on the principle that like cures. Consider a situation in which you experience symptoms similar to those experienced by someone with a certain ailment. If this happens, it is important to seek out a remedy that contains the exact same ingredients as the original substance.
- Massage Therapy – Many holistic professionals offer massage therapy to help you relax and reduce stress. They claim it improves blood circulation, increases energy levels, and relieves muscle tension.
You should make sure that the practitioner you choose meets your needs. Look for someone who is trained in nutrition counseling if you are looking for someone who is certified in that area. If you are interested in learning more about acupuncture and the American Association of Oriental Medicine, (AAOM), certification is available.
Before making any decisions about holistic health, consult your doctor. You may also wish to check with your insurance provider to know what services are covered.
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If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: Top 4 Natural Ways To Heal From Depression
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/conditions/brain-health/mental-health/top-4-natural-ways-heal-depression/
Published Date: Sat, 12 Aug 2023 22:54:03 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do people with cancer use alternative methods?
Cancer patients often face many challenges as they attempt to overcome their illness. They might have lost all hope for recovery or feel helpless because there is nothing else they can do. Patients may experience pain, nausea, fatigue, lack of appetite, loss of strength, etc.
Additionally, many conventional treatments do not work against cancer cells. It is important that cancer patients look for alternative therapies, such a complementary medicine. Research shows that nearly half of patients have used alternative medicine at least once in their treatment.
Cancer patients sometimes choose complementary medicine instead of chemotherapy because they think it will be easier to handle side effects. They may also prefer it as it costs less.
You can also use the following reasons:
Some patients believe natural remedies can prevent a recurrence.
Many people believe that natural remedies could improve the quality and quantity of their lives.
Others believe that natural remedies can reduce the risk of getting cancer again.
People concerned about possible side effects of chemotherapy use natural remedies as first-line therapy.
What are the advantages of alternative and complementary medicine?
People who feel they do not receive enough help from allopathic medicine may use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). These include homeopathy, herbal medicine, massage therapy and homeopathy. Traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, spiritual healing, chiropractic care, homeopathy, homeopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, chiropractic care and other therapies. Because they are not compatible with conventional medicine’s treatment and diagnosis, CAM practitioners may use alternative treatments. Many CAM therapies incorporate elements from conventional medicine. Some forms, such as acupuncture with needles, involve heat and moxibustion.
Some CAM treatments can be used to relieve pain, anxiety, stress, relaxation, sleep disorders, or manage stress. They can also help with fatigue and improve your overall sense of well-being. Some CAM therapies target specific conditions, such fibromyalgia. Other CAM therapies may simply be enjoyable experiences.
Although there is no one definition of CAM, most definitions include at minimum one of these:
- A holistic perspective that looks at the whole person, including body, mind as well as spirit and environment.
- The belief in mind-body interaction and influence
- An individual’s belief that illness is due to an imbalance in his/her environment.
- Focus on the whole person and not just the symptoms.
- Combination of Eastern philosophy and Western science
- Treatment methods that integrate mind, body, and spirit
- Natural products are better than synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies may not offer all the benefits. There are also risks. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. Some have side effects, which should be balanced against their perceived benefits. Before you decide whether or not to use any CAMs, talk with your doctor about these matters.
Which treatments are not part of holistic medicine and why?
Holistic medicine is an approach to healing that looks at the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms. It aids in the recovery of illness by promoting good health and preventing future ones.
Holistic medicine employs natural remedies like herbs, homeopathy, acupuncture, and surgery instead of using drugs and surgeries.
Holistic medicine refers to lifestyle changes like exercise, diet and meditation.
Integrative medicine, also known as Holistic Medicine, integrates all aspects a patient’s mental, physical, and emotional needs into one comprehensive treatment plan.
Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention as well as early detection of diseases and encourages healthy lifestyles.
Holistic doctors believe there is no single cause of any condition. Instead, they look at the entire picture, including genetic factors, environmental influences, lifestyle choices, and personal habits.
Holistic practitioners emphasize the mind and emotions more than the body.
Holistic physicians work closely alongside their patients to determine the best treatment for their needs.
Can a holistic doctor prescribe medication?
Holistic medicine is based on the premise that all diseases are caused by a combination of factors, including diet, lifestyle, environment, stress, emotional state, genetics, and other health-related problems.
These factors are important to consider when prescribing medications. This is part of a balanced approach to treating patients.
Physicians must know both modern science and traditional methods, such as homeopathy and herbs, to fully understand the impact of each factor on patients.
Many doctors have become certified in complementary and alternative medicine (C&A). This allows them the ability to offer a wide variety of services to their clients.
What is the distinction between holistic medicine, alternative medicine and holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine treats the whole person: body, mind, spirit, and soul. It examines all aspects that affect a person’s overall health. These include the psychological, spiritual and environmental factors often overlooked in traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can treat specific conditions like allergies, asthma, arthritis, and others.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic medicines can be safe as they don’t contain harmful drugs and are natural remedies that people have used for centuries.
They have been shown to cure many illnesses, such as arthritis, chronic pain, asthma, cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, infertility, etc.
Millions of people all over the globe are using holistic medicine to treat various types of illnesses. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, nutrition, counseling, physical fitness, exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies address the whole person instead of just the symptoms.
Statistics
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials on Acupuncture to Treat Insomnia
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- PubMed – Holistic medicine
nccih.nih.gov
- Statistics on Complementary & Integrative Health Approaches
- What’s in the Name of Complementary and Alternative Health? NCCIH
How To
How to make a career in Holistic Medicine
The field of holistic medicine is growing at an unprecedented rate. There are many ways you can pursue this career path. If you want to be a part of this profession, however, returning to school may be the best option.
A number of schools offer holistic medicine programs. These include the National College for Complementary Medicines (NCCM), which offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Many programs are available for medical professionals wishing to enter the field.
Many online universities also offer holistic health classes. One such program is the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. The Institute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN) provides holistic education resources and tools for students.
Another option is to apply for a traditional 4-year college. Many colleges now offer holistic health courses. For example, the University of California offers a Bachelor of Science in Holistic Health Sciences.
You should take a nutrition course if you want to pursue a career in holistic medicine. NCCM recommends to students that they study nutrition before embarking upon any professional training. Integrative medicine requires a thorough understanding of nutrition science.
Holistic medicine is more holistic than traditional medicine because it focuses on the whole person and not just symptoms. It requires more skill and knowledge. To be able to assess the nutritional aspects of different illnesses, holistic medicine is a must-know subject.
The NCCM states that nutritionists often work in conjunction with doctors to provide advice on diet to their patients. Some even go so far as to suggest specific diets or supplements based on their assessment of the patient’s condition.
Holistic practitioners need to be able to understand basic nutrition principles. This includes knowing which foods are healthy, and which are not. It can also include identifying nutritional deficiencies or other problems that might be causing them.
It is important for holistic practitioners to realize that not all specialize in nutrition. Some practitioners focus solely on acupuncture, while others focus on herbal remedies. Others combine both of these approaches into one treatment.
Holistic practitioners, however, recommend eating a diet rich with fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. They encourage eating plenty of seafood and fish. They also recommend that you avoid fast food restaurants and processed food products. They recommend that people eat as much organic produce as possible.
The one thing holistic practitioners can agree on is the importance of a balanced diet in helping to prevent diseases. There are however some things they disagree on. They don’t believe gluten is the cause of celiac disease. Rather, they think that a lack of nutrients plays a role in triggering the disorder.
However, they are all in agreement that allergic reactions can occur with certain foods. For example, they say that shellfish and peanuts cause anaphylaxis. They also warn against excessive caffeine.
Many holistic practitioners are able to use herbs to treat many illnesses. They avoid the use of pharmaceutical drugs. Because such drugs are not effective in solving the problem but only mask it, holistic practitioners avoid using them. This is why they prefer to rely upon natural remedies whenever possible.
Holistic practitioners often use a variety complementary therapies in addition to offering alternative treatments. These include:
- Acupuncture – In Chinese medicine, this involves strategically inserting needles under the skin. This stimulates your body’s healing system.
- Herbal therapy- Holistic practitioners use herbs to treat many disorders in addition to acupuncture. Ginseng is an example of a common herb that is used for this purpose.
- Homeopathy – Another type of traditional Chinese medicine, homeopathy, is based on the principle that like cures. Consider a situation in which you experience symptoms similar to those experienced by someone with a certain ailment. If this happens, it is important to seek out a remedy that contains the exact same ingredients as the original substance.
- Massage Therapy – Many holistic professionals offer massage therapy to help you relax and reduce stress. They claim it improves blood circulation, increases energy levels, and relieves muscle tension.
You should make sure that the practitioner you choose meets your needs. Look for someone who is trained in nutrition counseling if you are looking for someone who is certified in that area. If you are interested in learning more about acupuncture and the American Association of Oriental Medicine, (AAOM), certification is available.
Before making any decisions about holistic health, consult your doctor. You may also wish to check with your insurance provider to know what services are covered.
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