The “Other” Depression – Be Informed – Your Health Detective

A little-known secondary type of depression is becoming more and more prevalent in our society. It is less severe than the chronic form of clinical depression yet still a disabling disorder that sabotages the quality of life of its victim. This disorder is known as Dysthymia – often misspelled as “disthymia” (pronounced dis-thi-me-a). It is characterized by a depressed mood that has manifested for about two years…click here to continue reading…

The symptoms of this disorder mirror clinical depression but does have some differences in that it does not include anhedonia (the inability to feel pleasure), psychomotor symptoms (lethargy or agitation), and thoughts of death or suicide. Dysthymia can occur either as a single disorder or in conjunction with other mood or psychiatric disorders. Dysthymia is as common as major clinical depression – affecting more than approximately 12 percent of the US population. Additionally, this disorder affects twice as many women as men.

Symptoms of Dysthymia:

Insomnia and/or excessive need for sleep;
Low energy/chronic fatigue;
Low self-esteem and/or feelings of being taken advantage of or betrayed;
Loss of appetite or chronic overeating and feeling the need to eat during the night;
Poor concentration/brain fog;
Inability to make decisions;
Feelings of hopelessness and/or worthlessness;
Panic/anxiety
Loss of interest in things that once brought enjoyment (including sex);
Being sensitive to or fearful of rejection;
Irritability and quick temper.

Dysthymia often affects young people, but can affect anyone, at any age and can set the stage for episodes of major depression later on. In children it often lasts at least one year and is often a result of chronic stress, while in older adults it lasts at least two years, and is often brought on by health problems such as a heart event or chronic illnesses and mental decline or the deep sense of grief that often accompanies a loss – a loss of anything valued, health, a relationship, financial stability, a job, etc.

Natural Support for Balanced & Healthy Emotional Health

In my wellness counseling I recommend a blend of nutrients and amino acids to nutritionally support healthy production of mood-regulating neurotransmitters for those with low spirits or unstable altering moods. This professional formula has been successfully used by my clients for many years. The formula contains over ten ingredients, all in one capsule, for assisting with depression and mood disorders:

St. John’s wort – acts to enhance mood as well as inhibit norepinephrine reuptake.

DMAE – a precursor to choline and may support the production of acetylcholine in the central nervous system. Increasing acetylcholine production can improve cognitive function and enhance mood. Research shows that taking DMAE for three months enhanced vigilance, improved mood, increased physical activity and stamina, and a better overall sense of well-being.

Rhodiola rosea – used to enhance work performance, decrease physical and mental fatigue, increase stamina and support depressed moods. It is considered an adaptogenic herb because of its ability to increase the body’s resistance to stress.

Vitamin B6 – is involved in the metabolism of amino acids and glycogen. Along with folic acid and vitamin B12, it promotes healthy homocysteine metabolism. Clinical research shows its effectiveness in treating depression and anxiety.

Vitamin B12 – also known as methylcobalamin, this vitamin along with folic acid are cofactors in the production of s-adenosylmethionine (SAMe). SAMe is well-known as essential for proper neurological function. Elevated homocysteine levels are often a sign of a deficiency of vitamin B12 and folate.

N-acetyl-L-tyrosine (NAT) – is a bioactive form of L-tyrosine, a precursor for production of dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. It helps support adrenal catecholamine production and thyroid hormone production. Many people with mood disturbances may have low catecholamine production.

GABA – an inhibitory amino acid that acts directly as a neurotransmitter. GABA, like L-theanine, has mood-modulating activity and anti-stress benefits.

5-HTP – is the immediate precursor to 5-hydroxy tryptamine (serotonin). It is useful nutritional support for health serotonin production. Symptoms of serotonin deficiency include depression, anxiety, irritability, fears, phobias, negative thoughts, sleep disorders, cravings for simple sugars and alcohol, bine eating, tension headaches, fibromyalgia, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

L-theanine – is a non-protein amino acid found naturally in green tea. It has mood-modulating activity and modest antioxidant benefits. Its effects on mood modulation may be through direct effects on the GABA receptors which release other neurotransmitters such as dopamine. It also has the ability to enhance alpha wave activity in the brain – a mood-modulating benefit while maintaining alertness.

Lithium – present in the human diet only in ultra-trace amounts and is found in some natural mineral waters and colloidal minerals. It has been reported that lithium, at low dosage levels, has a generally beneficial effect on overall human behavior. High prescription doses are often prescribed for those with severe mood disorders.

This specialized formula, Escaloft, is only available through health professionals. It is suggested to take 2 capsules daily and increase up to 2 capsules twice a day if under additional stressful situations when extra emotional support is needed. Click here to order.

If you’re tired of prescription drugs for mood disorders – that often cause more side-effects than they cure, consider using an all natural nutraceutical but be sure to slowly reduce your prescription medication as you introduce the natural supplement. It’s best to get assistance from a nutritionally-aware health professional to guide you, Naturally.

Resources:

Debra Warner, Psy.D.Associate Professor, Forensic Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles

Creighton University: Dysthymiahttp://www.creighton.edu/studentlife/officeoftheasstdeanofstudents/peereducation/

healthinformation/depression/dysthymia/index.php

Harvard Medical School: Feeling Down? It Could be Low-Level Depression. Harvard Health Publications Web March 2013
http://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/feeling-down-it-could-be-low-level-depression

American Psychiatric Association

National Library of Medicine

Harvard Medical School (2005). Dysthymia. Cambridge, MA: Harvard Health Publications.