Everyone gets the "blues" or gets into a funk from time to time. However, 17 million Americans suffer from clinical depression each year. Two thirds of these are women. Clinical depression is a real and serious health issue that can have devastating effects on one's family, relationships and career.

What is Depression?

The term "depression" encompasses several different medical diagnoses: Depression, Dysthymia, Bipolar Disorder and Seasonal Affective Disorder or S. A. D. Although each of these conditions vary from person to person, they all include some of the following symptoms:

• A persistent sad or empty mood


• Fatigue or lack of energy


• Loss of interest or pleasure in formerly enjoyable activities


• Problems with sleep


• Changes in appetite and eating


• Difficulty concentrating, remembering and making decisions


• Feeling guilty, worthless or helpless


• Thoughts of death or suicide


• Irritability


• Crying at the drop of a hat


• Bodily aches and pains which do not respond to treatment

Although a whole family of new anti-depressant drug, such as Prozac and Zoloft, have brought relief to some, these drugs do have unpleasant or unacceptable side effects for many. In addition, these drugs tend to manage symptoms rather than resolve the root causes. Very few people relish the idea of staying on such medications for their whole lives.

In Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine and acupuncture there are six major patterns of depression. These patterns mostly have to do with the Chinese ideas of liver, spleen, and kidneys. When being evaluated, the practitioner will first decide which of the six patterns or combinations of these fits the person. This pattern evaluation is made through four basic exams:

• Looking at the face, eyes, posture and especially the tongue and its coating


• Listening to the clients voice, breathing and manner of expression


• Questioning about the course and history of the condition as well as other bodily functions.


• Feeling the pulse on both wrists.

Based on this evaluation and other factors an individualized program can be started that takes into consideration all the aspects of this persons life.

It is quite possible to combine both Western and Chinese medicine. Quite often the combination can reduce or eliminate side effects of prescription meds. Often psychotherapy can help when both approaches are undertaken. It is critical to understand that you should NEVER just stop taking any anti-depressant medication cold turkey. Discuss stopping or reducing prescription medications with the prescribing physician. People with bipolar disorders typically need to stay on Western medications.

ALWAY TAKE ANY ONE WHO IS DISCUSSING OR ELUDING TO SUICIDE SERIOUSLY! IT IS A CRY FOR HELP AND NEEDS MEDICAL INTERVENTION AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. You can save a friends or loved ones life by paying attention to their crys for help and guiding them to appropriate medical help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us via email at viableoptions@sbcglobal.net or via phone at 816-283-0685.

Be well!

David Laskowski, Herbalist - Iridologist
Viable Options - North Kansas City, MO

 

"The author of this article does not advocate nor endorse self-treatment by laypersons. One should seek out a qualified practitioner in herbs, chiropractic, acupuncture or traditional medical doctor and check with their primary healthcare provider prior to making any changes in their health care approach"