Depression is a real medical illness. Depression is the leading cause of disability within the United States ages 15-44. It does rank 3 top disease among the work place. It accounts for 210 billion dollars
It is reported that 80 % of those treated with depression who improvement in 4 to 8 weeks . This is encouraging. Yet 2/3 of people with de[pression do not seek medical treatment. I feel many individuals are fearful of the drugs used for treatment. At the end of last year a book was published which peaked my interest. Depression: The Mind Body, Diet and Lifestyle Connection by Ray Griffiths is worth a read. There are triggers as discussed in the book as stress, vitamin deficiency, addictions as sugar, alcohol etc and dietary changes that affect our mood. There are brain - gut connections that affect different levels of neurotransmitters.
In addition it was refreshing to read about how a community and finding a passion ( I call this a hobby) can build neurotropins in the brain. This is a great book to read on a snowy day by a fireplace with a cup of lemon balm tea
until tomorrow…