For eons, humans have turned to the natural world for remedies to common ailments. When looking for herbs and other natural products for depression that have scientific evidence backing their efficacy, “the list is not that long,” says Dan Iosifescu, MD, associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry at NYU Langone Health.
There are several reasons to hesitate before trying a natural remedy for depression, and the first of these is the question about what’s really in the bottle, Dr. Iosifescu tells U.S. News & World Report. “If given the choice, I would prefer that patients try supplements under supervision and the help of a clinician. Together you can discuss the risk and benefits of any options you may be considering to treat your symptoms.”
Ariane Ling, PhD, clinical psychologist at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Center at NYU Langone, says, “Depression is an illness that robs you of your ability to do the things that you want to do.” But therapy and behavioral changes can help you manage your symptoms better. Dr. Ling recommends yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness practices to help ease depression as non-pharmacological interventions.
“We need to give permission to people who are struggling to seek help, especially during the pandemic when everyone is dealing with so much. We all deserve a space to really work on ourselves,” says Dr. Ling.
Read more from U.S. News & World Report.