What is Depression?

Mental illness affects individuals across all ages, income levels, education, or race. Nearly 8% of people will experience depression at some point in their lives (CAMH).

Depression may present on its own or as a complication of another disease such as: Alzheimer’s, cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic pain syndrome, heart failure, diabetes, post-partum, hypothyroidism, insomnia, HIV, drug abuse, and more.

Symptoms of depression:

• Depressed mood
• Lack of interest in activities which previously was interested in
• Altered sleep habits
• Altered appetite (increase or decreased)
• Decreased energy
• Psychomotor agitation
• Excessive guilt

Women may also experience (but are not limited to):

• Headaches
• Body pain
• Digestive upset

Men may also experience (but are not limited to):

• Suicide behaviour
• Risky behaviour
• Anger or aggression

The Naturopathic approach:

Our naturopaths provide compassionate care for individuals diagnosed with depression or are experiencing depressive symptoms. After screening for other conditions that may be present and discussing any current medication use, our naturopaths create customized treatment plans consisting of coping strategies, botanical herbs to support mood, and acupuncture.

*Note: our naturopaths provide care to support the body’s ability to cope and manage depression. We do this by implementing dietary and lifestyle changes in order to remove aggravating factors, as well as support the individual with botanicals and acupuncture. Though the naturopaths create an empathetic environment, they do not provide Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or any other therapy outside of our scope.

Learn more about suicide prevention and support.