ChicagoHealers.com Offers Alternative Methods to Treating Depression and Anxiety

(Chicago) Stress, anxiety and depression have reached epidemic proportions nationwide. Busy work life, family schedules, poor nutrition, and other psychological, biochemical and physical stressors have contributed to the increase in pharmaceutical prescriptions for depression, anxiety and sleep deprivation.

ChicagoHealers.com offers alternative and integrative choices for depression and anxiety. For those experiencing side effects from certain medications, there is high demand for an alternative way of treating these types of disorders.

“There are many underlying causes for depression and anxiety,” said ChicagoHealers.com Practitioner Valerie A. Early, R.D., L.D., C.E.S., “This includes obesity, nutrient deficiencies or in-balances, low hormones, bio-chemical issues, pre-diabetes and eating disorders.” Since depression stems from various causes, it is necessary to have many alternatives for medication.

Early suggests visiting a health professional to help integrate any new methods into one’s daily routine. “There are many dietary supplements that can aid in depression and other related conditions,” said Early, “It is important to consult a professional to find the best combination of remedies for each individual case.”

With any illness, minor changes can help alleviate symptoms that are common with depression.

Some possible supplements include:

Inositol: This supplement is a B vitamin and isomer of glucose powder. Used to treat mild to moderate depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and polycystic ovary syndrome, Isotol works by increasing energy and metabolism.

Griffonia Seed: This herb increases serotonin levels which tend to be lower during onsets of depression. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that effects mood levels. A deficiency in serotonin is a major cause of depression.

St. John’s Wort: An herbal supplement that can be used in treating mild to moderate cases of depression. The herb inhibits the breakdown of serotonin in the brain.

Magnesium: This mineral is commonly used to treat patients with depression and certain eating disorders. Decreased levels of Magnesium can lead to increased adrenaline which causes anxiety and also an upset stomach. The ionic liquid form is best in treating these types of conditions.

Boron: This mineral is used to improve mental alertness and calcium absorption.

Zinc: Can be used to treat anorexia, bulimia and compulsive eating.

B6 combined with zinc enhances its effect, as it triggers the absorption of zinc into the human body cells.

DHEA: A hormone supplement that is used to treat depression. It increases the testosterone levels in the body.

B1-thiamine: A deficiency in this vitamin can cause anxiety, fatigue and depression. It can enhance the activity of the immune system and improve the body’s ability to withstand stressful conditions.

Docisahexaenic Acid Fish Oil: Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce aggressive behavior in stressed individuals.

There are many effective alternative and integrative methods that include biofield therapies such as Reiki massage. Behavioral, nutritional, herbal, homeopathic and hormonal therapies combined with vitamins and exercise will help in treating many psychological symptoms. “These modalities combined with the help of a good therapist and health professional can significantly turn your life around,” said Early.