Improving Low Mood and Depression

I see many patients struggling with low mood and depression. Feeling down can greatly interfere with your quality of life. Below, I talk about the different ways naturopathic medicine can help.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

There are many ways that herbs and supplements can improve low mood and depression. Many act similarly to depression medications but with less side effects. Some can be combined with medications or other treatments. Sometimes they can be used on their own depending on the severity of the depression.

There is emerging research about the role that inflammation plays in depression. Certain herbs can reduce inflammation and improve mood scores.

Other herbs and supplements can act to balance hormones. This may be a good fit for you if you find that your mood fluctuates with your period. Menopause and changes in thyroid health can also lead to low mood. These are areas herbs and supplements may help with.

Believe it or not there is some research linking gut health to mental health. There are many herbs and supplements that can improve gut health.

ACUPUNCTURE

Studies have found that 4-8 weeks of acupuncture can reduce depression scores. It’s safe to combine acupuncture with depression medication. It’s also a great tool to use on its own. This is one of my favourite tools to use for anyone suffering with a mental health condition.

LIFESTYLE

There is a strong link between exercise and mood. There is also some connection (though not as strong) between diet and mood. Getting these and other parts of your life in order is important to address your low mood. Mindfulness and strategies to improve the way you think are some other tools I discuss with patients.

When you’re feeling low, every area of life is affected. My passion is to get people to a place where they can cope with their moods to thrive in life as much as possible. If you would like to try naturopathic medicine for your low mood or depression book an appointment or free 15-minute consult.

If you are interested in naturopathic services please contact Holland Landing Health Centre at 905-853-7900 or via e-mail at info@HLHC.ca.