These are sobering facts, in light of the fact that depression poses a substantial risk of death and is associated with a high rate of disability. The often-quoted mortality rate is that about 15 percent of patients with major depression will eventually die by suicide, a rate confirmed in a large-scale review of 30 studies. Because depression has the potential to have such a devastating impact on our well-being, it is always wise to seek help at the first signs of it.

Although suicide rates have declined since the introduction of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in 1988, approximately 30 percent of patients with depression do not respond to SSRIs. Many end up taking a combination of two or more antidepressant medications with minimal results. Despite the availability of a wide range of antidepressant drugs, nearly 30 percent of all depressed patients fail to respond to antidepressant medication of any kind.

Among antidepressant medications, SSRIs have been found to be particularly effective, making them the medication of choice in most cases. However, researchers have questioned the true drug effects of this class of antidepressants, as well as others. In the past decade, three reviews examined a total of 105 studies on antidepressants and concluded that the drugs were no more effective than sugar pills except in the severest form of depression. This research suggests that while antidepressants can be effective, other alternatives may offer similar benefits without the side effects.

Concerns have been raised over the side effects associated with antidepressants, which include suicide, worsening of depression, and unusual changes in behavior in children, adolescents, and adults. In the fall of 2004, the FDA instructed drug manufacturers to add black box warnings to antidepressant medications because of serious side effects, including feelings of suicidality in adolescents. A black-box warning, the most severe warning that can be placed on a drug label, is used to alert doctors and patients of potential problems.

Based on this evidence, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, like fasting, represent a viable option for patients that are not helped by antidepressants or want to avoid the side effects. The use of CAM therapies has gained increased acceptance, making it a feasible alternative to pharmacology.

People often turn to antidepressants because they're feeling overwhelmed and the drugs have been recommended by their doctor. This is an phenomenon unique to the U.S. whereas in Europe, physicians tend to prescribe herbs and other natural methods before prescribing medication.

Symptoms of Depression

Symptoms of depression are also frequently masked by the other conditions, resulting in treatment for the symptoms - but not the underlying cause of - the depression. It is extremely important to treat all forms of illness at the same time.

Common symptoms of depression include:

• Depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities
• Significant weight loss or weight gain
• Sleep disturbances; sleeping too much or not able to sleep
• Problems with concentration
• Apathy (lack of feeling or emotion)
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Treating Depression

I use a combination of different psychotherapeutic approaches and natural methods to help depression. Research has shown that natural methods of treatment can be particularly effective in treating depression when combined with psychotherapy. I extensively studied these therapies while earning my Doctorate in Naturopathy.

With support, education, and modification of behaviors and lifestyle, many people enjoy long-term success. My book Healing & Wholeness: Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Mental Health explains how the powerful combination of psychotherapy and natural methods helps people to recover from depression quickly and appreciate lasting results.

When Medications Should Be Used

It is not always easy to know when to take medication. When we are feeling depressed, we may not be thinking clearly and may not know that we need medication. That's why it is always a good idea to get a medication evaluation from a qualified psychiatrist if you are feeling depressed. When medications must be used, natural therapies can often help to reduce side effects.

My depression counseling and therapy services are provided for the following areas: San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Cruz, Palo Alto, Monte Sereno, Los Gatos, Cupertino, Mountain View, Scotts Valley, Campbell, Willow Glen, and Milpitas CA.