Is there a natural approach to depression/bipolar aside from anti-depressants and mood stabilizers?

Is there a natural approach to depression/bipolar aside from anti-depressants and mood stabilizers?

Something more natural perhaps.
I definitely don't like the idea of having a "fake happiness".

An answer from someone who has/does take anti-depressants or mood stabilizers, that would be ideal.

Many anti-depressants have been tested short-term, but they haven't been tested long-term. They haven't been in the market place long enough for thorough testing. Many anti-depressants are less than fifteen years old! People, even in their 40s, live a lot longer than fifteen years old.

My doctor was about to put me on a fourth mood stabilizer. He told me the effects, risks, and benefits. When I asked him about the long-term, he made up things that didn't make sense. My dad and I fired him on the spot. These "professionals" get money for giving you medication. For each prescription they give you, they pocket more money from the pharm. companies.

I started to be my own avocate. Basically, I used these ideas to monitor my bipolar:

*Exercise 25 minutes a day. Never skip more than two days.

*Avoid processed foods and pure sugar foods.

*Instead of a person who'll shove medications down your throat, use your money to talk to a therapist instead.

*Join local, talk groups or internet forums.

*Write down your feelings. It isn't good to keep them inside!

*Know your purpose in life.

*Get at least eight hours of sleep. Your brain needs it.

I see Bipolar as a physical and emotional energy imbalance. Real happiness is knowing you can be happy yourself. Fake happiness is relying on something to be happy.

I'm sixteen years old. I was diagnosed when I was thirteen with Bipolar II. Almost weaned off medication, got a 4.0 GPA, and loves physics with computers.

stopped taking ALL psych meds over 3 years ago...they were treating me for psych symptoms and I have a closed head injury!!

In all the years of taking these, I learned a lot, including...Lithium occurs naturally in salt, and sometimes you can get natural lithium and small(very small) doses do the trick. Docs seem to like overmedicating people, I personally think it's a racket they have going with pharmaceutical companies.
Also, Omega 3 Fatty Acids are great...I took them in place of meds by the advice of my Doc, and you know what, since that 3 years has passed, I feel REAL again, Thank Allah!!!!

:0)

Have you considered spirituality? Look for a higher meaning in life. Exercise, too. Eat lots of avocados and nuts, they help to shake off the sadness. Sleep only at night. Take a brisk walk during the day. Get some sunshine. Read an interesting novel. Buy a pet. Find a new hobby. Start a support group. Visit Kaiser to learn about group programs offered.

From experience, the meds do help. They control the physical doings of depression, while you are able to work on the cognitive aspects. Do not depend on just meds, but consider them a useful tool. They truly do not change your personality.. they simply allow your body to enhance it's inhibitor production, which depressed people lack. Ask about zoloft or prozac. I recommend at least trying to see how it works out.
=)

Some people say flaxseed oil and St. John's Wart work well for depression, but for me I'm using 5htp, which is what I'd recommend most. It's also very helpful to adjust your sugar and water intake in your diet. If I drink too much soda, for instance, it can aggravate the condition.

Meditation, yoga, listening to upbeat music, alternative therapy, Reiki, St Johns Wart and maybe other teas/herbs.. Maybe you can find a therapist or spiritual adviser to talk to who won't force you to be put on medication.

YES. excersise. it increases your endorphins which causes happiniess and also improves your health.

getting out & excerise is the way to go..