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When it comes to caring for your overall wellness, mental health is a significant factor. Major depressive disorder affects about 6.7% of adults in any given year. Fortunately, those living with depression can explore several options to help manage its symptoms. In addition to traditional treatments, some patients may consider seeing a naturopathic practitioner about their depression. If you or a loved one is considering naturopathic medicine as a treatment path, this simple guide can help you decide if it’s right for you.

What Is Naturopathic Medicine?

naturopathic medicineNaturopathic medicine is a type of primary care that combines natural remedies with traditional medicine to prevent and treat illnesses. Naturopathic physicians study conventional medicine along with specialized naturopathic areas, including nutritional counseling, exercise therapy, botanical medicines, acupuncture, and homeopathy.

When you see this type of physician, they will individualize your treatment based on your overall health. Your doctor will put lifestyle factors like exercise and nutrition at the center of your preventative health care. They will often blend conventional treatments with natural medicine and refer you to outside specialists when necessary.

How Can It Treat Depression?

When you’re living with depression, a naturopathic physician will look at your overall health and recommend changes to help you feel like yourself again. For some patients, this will involve nutritional counseling. The doctor may identify irregular eating patterns, vitamin deficiencies, or food allergies that may affect your mood. They may also test for hormonal imbalances and neurotransmitter deficiencies, and recommend natural ways to balance those levels, including vitamin and mineral intake and herbal therapies. 

However, it is important to remember that every patient is different. Physicians can recommend a conventional depression treatment with naturopathic methods as a supplement. When you make your first appointment, the physician will assess your condition fully and make personal recommendations to help you feel your best.



If you or a loved one is living with depression, naturopathic medicine may offer ways to help manage its symptoms. Ellenburg Center for Natural Medicine in Anchorage, AK works with patients to create a personalized approach to their health. Dr. Michael J. Ellenburg is a naturopathic physician and licensed acupuncturist, offering services like nutritional counseling, lifestyle counseling, and integrative cancer treatment. From your first appointment, Dr. Ellenburg, medical consultant Dr. Robert G. Thompson, and their staff will combine a variety of methods to support your well being. To view a full list of their services, visit them online. Call (907) 563-2366 to make an appointment today.

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