Depression is in the news because of the unfortunate death of Robin Williams, a man who brought laughter to millions of people. The only positive thing about his death is that depression is “temporarily” in the news (news always moves on fairly quickly). What is not in the news or commonly understood is the relationship between depression and hormones.
At Natural Bio Health, our clinics in Austin, San Antonio, College Station and Odessa, Texas have treated thousands of clients whose depression diagnosis was in fact related to hormonal deficiencies.
To listen to a radio interview of NBH discussing the relationship of hormones on depression, click play below.
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Hormones and Depression.
Depression is generally defined as a chemical imbalance in the brain. Most anti-depressant drugs work on the premise of affecting a neurotransmitter such as serotonin, norepinephrine or dopamine. Neurotransmitters, like hormones, are chemical messengers.
The Psychiatric Annals have many studies showing the benefits of using hormones like DHEA, thyroid, testosterone, estrogen and progesterone to treat depression and anxiety. At Natural Bio Health, our providers have used hormones to treat Post-Partum depression (deficiency in progesterone) and PMS (moodiness, irritability, feelings of sadness – deficiency in progesterone and maybe thyroid).
We have discussed with our male and female clients the benefits of testosterone as a natural anti-depressant. Hormones like DHEA can affect mood and thyroid can have multiple beneficial effects on our feelings and mood as does estrogen.
Often our clients come to us having been prescribed anti-depressants with associated side effects. Most are able to eliminate the anti-depressants once their hormonal issues are properly treated.
Symptoms of Depression or Symptoms of Hormone Deficiencies?
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, including sex
- Difficulty concentrating and complaints of poor memory
- Insomnia or oversleeping
- Appetite changes, which may include weight gain or loss
- Fatigue, lack of energy
- Slow speech; slow movements
- Thoughts of suicide or death
Most of these accepted symptoms of depression are also symptoms of hormonal deficiencies or imbalances. In any case, depression is a medical condition and hormones should always be considered as a possible treatment alternative. Even mild depression should not be ignored.
Workings of Anti-depressants
The following anti-depressants are intended to increase the available amount of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the brain: Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, Paxil, Prozac and Zoloft, Elavil, Cymbalta, Effexor, and Pristiq.
Did you know: 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut? Enzymes and probiotics help make the gut healthy (as does healthy eating). Therefore, serotonin is increased naturally in a healthy gut.
The following are intended to increase the available amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain: Aplenzin, Budeprion, Buproban, Forfivo and Wellbutrin.
Did you know: Dopamine is both a hormone and neurotransmitter? L-dopa, the metabolic precursor of dopamine (a natural product) increases dopamine in the brain and is widely used to treat Parkinson’s disease. ADHD and Restless Leg Syndrome have been associated with low levels of dopamine.
Note: Our product Balance 4 has L-dopa. Can also help with stop smoking and constant hunger.
Potential side effects of anti-depressants are many.
Dry mouth, blurred vision, increased fatigue and sleepiness, weight gain, muscle twitching (tremors), constipation, bladder problems such as urinary retention, dizziness, daytime drowsiness, increased heart rate, sexual problems. Some may increase sweating and blood pressure and also cause fatigue and reduced energy.
Recommendations of Natural Bio Health:
- Take symptoms of depression seriously. It is a medical condition.
- Watch for symptoms in your teens and pre-teen children.
- Consider it may be your hormones causing the symptoms.
- Consider side effects of prescription anti-depressants.
Did you know: Suicide is the third-leading cause of death for 15- to 24-year-olds, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), after accidents and homicide. Parents and teachers ignore warning signs because they just don’t think young children would attempt suicide.
Feeling depressed? Know someone who seems depressed?
CALL FOR FREE CONSULTATION:
Austin, TX (512) 266-6713 | College Station, TX (979) 691-8100
Odessa, TX (432) 362-5433 | San Antonio, TX (210) 497-5371
Disclaimer: There is no single scholarly article that supports the claims in this blog. The information was taken from several sources and is believed to be completely factual.
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