- Get active
Exercise that increases your heart rate at least three hours a week (or 30 minutes a day) may help boost your body’s natural mood-enhancers (endorphins).
- Get enough iron
A lack of iron can make depression worse; check with a doctor to find out if you are iron deficient.
- Check out St. John’s wort
Take 600 to 1,200 mg a day of a standardized herbal extract containing of 0.3% hypericin to help with mild to moderate depression—but talk to your doctor first as St. John's wort can interact with certain medications.
- Seek counseling
A mental health professional may help you make a full recovery.
- Talk to your doctor
Antidepressants such as paroxetine (Paxil) fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), venlafaxine (Effexor XR), and bupropion (Wellbutrin) may help improve mood
These recommendations are not comprehensive and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. Continue reading for more in-depth, fully referenced information.
- Get and stay active
Aim for a regular program of fitness activities you enjoy to help prevent depression.
- Balance your fats
Increase your intake of oily fish high in omega-3 fatty acids to reduce depression risk.
- Avoid B deficiencies
Use a healthy diet and/or supplements to maintain sufficient B-vitamin intake to reduce depression risk.
These recommendations are not comprehensive and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. Continue reading for more in-depth, fully referenced information.
