Cures For Depression

There are many different forms of depression. Many Americans are affected by depression and they don't even know it or they are not willing to accept it. It is estimated that some 14 million Americans are affected by depression. It is also estimated that less than a third of those affected will ever seek treatment. Why is this the case?

Perhaps it is because depression is classified as a mental illness. No one wants to be classified with that label. There was a time in our history when those who suffered mental illness were shunned by society. In many cases those with slight signs of depression were locked away in state institutions for the mentally ill. Fortunately times have changed. However, old stereotypes have not. This influences many Americans to keep their illness to themselves.

Depression is caused by many factors. It is not a simple diagnosis. You have to take into consideration the chemical imbalances in the brain, genetics, biology and even the environment surrounding the individual. Drugs, alcohol and stress all can play a major role in the development of depression. These are all factors in causes depression.

So what are some of the treatments and cures available for those that are inflicted? Just as there are many factors that can cause depression-there are many options to cure it as well. Which option is the best for someone who suffers with depression may be dependant on each individual on a case-to-case basis?

Many claim they have a cure for depression. There are methods of treatment available that are safe and work efficiently towards a cure for depression. When considering which option is best there are a few considerations that must be examined. Has the method being considered been clinically proven to be effective in the treatment of depression?

If it is medication, herbal or prescription, does it have the proven amount of ingredients to induce a positive result? Has the method been accepted in accordance with high quality control standards? Let's examine some of the more popular cures.

For years the typical treatment for many forms of depression has been prescription drugs and psychotherapy. Prescription anti-depressants like SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are often prescribed as a treatment for depression. One of the most popular, Prozac, was first used in the United States in 1988.

Many others such as Paxil, Zoloft, Lexapro, Celexa, and Luvox have followed it. All have been proven to be effective. However, prescription drugs are expensive and offer many side effects. That is why natural cures are becoming so popular today. St. Johns Wort extract is one of the more popular herbal cures on the market. To be effective it must contain around 3-5% hyperforin.

It has been proven to work as well as Prozac with fewer side effects. As important as it is to find a cure-it is impossible to do so if those who suffer do not seek it. If you or someone you know suffers from depression seek medical attention immediately.