Posted by bleauberry on January 23, 2009, at 17:02:11
In reply to Double depression and dysthymia: Treatment Ideas?, posted by SLS on January 23, 2009, at 6:03:04
That's a sad story. I feel for her. What makes it really hard is that she refuses medications. I mean, it is kind of hard to help someone who is not willing to help themselves, yeah?
If it were my friend I would suggest St Johns Wort because something natural is usually viewed as more benign and more acceptable. I would let them know that SJW is a healthy herb all around, but that lifting mood is just one thing it can do. I would specify the Kira brand, which is available at Rite Aid pharmacies. It is the LI160 formula used in German clinical studies. SJW in my opinion is under-rated, because I have seen it produces results anywhere from mild to amazing in people with a history of meds. As I see it, it's better than nothing at all.
Another one that should work fast, and is kind of in the same vein as the meds that helped her, is SAMe. Definitely talk her into taking SAMe. To get away from the stigma of depression, tell her many people without depression take it for healthy joints and less pain. That might make it more palatable to someone refusing mood manipulating substances.
I wouldn't underestimate the potency of those two suggestions. They can and do work miracles every day.
poster:bleauberry
thread:875571
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20090104/msgs/875661.html