Natural solutions for depression?

Forum guidelines BT super discount
General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Natural solutions for depression? Rss Feed  
Moderators: k9car363, alicefoeller Reply
2012-10-02 2:59 PM

Veteran
218
100100
Subject: Natural solutions for depression?
I was on cymbalta for about 5 years.  I slowly took myself of the drug (with Drs approval) over a 6 month period and did very well this summer.  But as colder temperature and rainy days are upon us, I can tell that I'm slipping back into the funk.  Has anyone had success with any of the natural approaches/remedies to controlling depression?

2012-10-02 3:10 PM
in reply to: #4437505

User image

Pro
5011
5000
Twin Cities
Subject: RE: Natural solutions for depression?
Are you seeing a therapist? That might help, if you are only using a GP now. What about a sunlamp? I have some friends who absolutely swear by theirs for dealing with their SAD.
2012-10-03 7:53 AM
in reply to: #4437536

Veteran
218
100100
Subject: RE: Natural solutions for depression?

mmrocker13 - 2012-10-02 4:10 PM Are you seeing a therapist? That might help, if you are only using a GP now. What about a sunlamp? I have some friends who absolutely swear by theirs for dealing with their SAD.

I'm way to screwed-up for a therapist to do any good!!!  Great idea on the lamp.  Did some research and ordered one last night.  Thanks!!

2012-10-03 11:29 AM
in reply to: #4438282

User image

Pro
5011
5000
Twin Cities
Subject: RE: Natural solutions for depression?

Er, aren't therapists designed to help those who are "way too screwed up"?

If you are too far gone for therapy to be effective, then I'm pretty sure going off your meds and relying on a sunlamp aren't the best treatments. Just saying...

2012-10-03 12:06 PM
in reply to: #4437505

User image

Science Nerd
28760
50005000500050005000200010005001001002525
Redwood City, California
Subject: RE: Natural solutions for depression?
I take Cymbalta, but also use a sunlamp in the winter.  It makes a big difference!  I have this one from Verilux.  It works great and you only need to use it about 30 minutes daily in the morning.
2012-10-03 5:44 PM
in reply to: #4437505

User image

Extreme Veteran
393
100100100252525
The Center of My Universe
Subject: RE: Natural solutions for depression?
St. Johns Wart and Passion Flower.  They help me to keep things on an even keel as I tend to be anxious.  Never had any (prescribed) meds.

Edited by TriFlorida 2012-10-03 5:44 PM

2012-10-04 9:06 PM
in reply to: #4437505

User image

The Original
7834
5000200050010010010025
Raleigh/Durham
Subject: RE: Natural solutions for depression?
It might be a good idea to have your vitamin d level checked.  If it's low then going on a supplement would really help.  It's amazing how much of difference in mood/energy levels with the right amount of vitamin d

Edited by runnergirl 2012-10-04 9:07 PM
2012-11-01 10:44 AM
in reply to: #4441566


106
100
Subject: RE: Natural solutions for depression?

VIT D level check would be the best way to go.  If you're short on funds you could start by taking 1000-5000 IUs/day depending on where you live. 

2012-11-20 1:29 PM
in reply to: #4437505

User image


434
10010010010025
Subject: RE: Natural solutions for depression?
Swim, bike and run work the best for me.  Oh, and sailing with some sun.  I look forward to warm sunny days on the boat next season.
2012-11-22 5:52 PM
in reply to: #4437505

User image

Expert
1951
10005001001001001002525
Subject: RE: Natural solutions for depression?

Mindfulness. I use it in my training too.

When I feel stress I use some of the techniques I've learned in Dialectical Behavior Training. It's an offshoot of Cognitive Based therapy that incorporates Eastern Mindfullness practices. 

There are many self help resources on the web. It's changed my life. 

2012-11-30 10:49 AM
in reply to: #4437505


71
2525
Subject: RE: Natural solutions for depression?

I started taking 5HTP to combat the dragged out fuzzy headed feeling that being post-menopausal sometimes brings on. It's an amino acid that targets the prefrontal cortex and is also considered helpful for depression in some people.

As for seasonal depression, get out at lunch time, even if only for a walk and even if it's minus 35 C with windchill. If you live in a rainy coastal area, a light box may be a necessity.

2012-12-04 6:51 PM
in reply to: #4516383

Regular
147
10025
Subject: RE: Natural solutions for depression?

UPDATE:  I purchased a blue light and it definitely helps!!!  If it is cloudy or raining, I usually get into a very bad funk.  This no longer happens.  Thanks for the suggestion!!  Also started taking SAMe.  Hard to tell how much it has helped but overall I really feel good.  Thanks again,

 

ETA:  My wife and dogs also thank you



Edited by riltri 2012-12-04 6:53 PM
New Thread
General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Natural solutions for depression? Rss Feed