Alternative Treatments
My training is in western allopathic medicine. I have become increasingly aware of the faith that many people place in naturopathic, homeopathic and non-western healing traditions. I am in no way qualified to evaluate or comment on those methodologies. In the final analysis every individual who wants to make changes in their lives has to find the appropriate set of beliefs and activities that is non harming and works for them. In my work I try to take other treatment choices into account when planning and conducting any type of therapy. I also recommend that patients attend to their diets in order to improve their overall health, blood pressure and glucose control. Most people do not consume enough fish in their diet and therefore use a fish oil supplement. There are a number of studies that have found that omega 3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) are beneficial in mood disorders. There are two main omega 3 EFAs: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These compounds have been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health and mental health. In particular there is a growing body of evidence that relatively high doses of EPA are effective in mood disorders. I encourage all patients with mood disorders in my practice to take EPA and review this in detail as part of treatment and consultation. In terms of supplements I frequently recommend S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe) to patients with depression. There is an extensive European literature demonstrating the value of SAMe as an antidepressant. I have also recommended Rhodiola Rosea to patients with low energy and depressed mood as a supplement. There is some Russian scientific literature to support its use for these indications. Evidence for the efficacy of St. John’s Wort is less robust in more severe depression, yet there is a place for this supplement as well.