Posts by Dr. Johann de Chickera
What’s the Difference between Psychiatrists, Social Workers, Counsellors, Psychotherapists and the other Mental Health Practitioners?!
When it comes to mental health practitioners, there is usually a bit more confusion from patients and practitioners alike with respect to how they all integrate into healthcare, and how you can access these services and which practitioner may be best suited for the needs of the patient. Although there is significant overlap between the…
Read MoreAcupuncture For Depression
There is a lot of evidence showing the benefits of acupuncture for depression. When we review the scientific literature, there is sometimes some controversy but ultimately safety is high, and acupuncture is worth a try for most people. The Evidence for Using Acupuncture for Depression A systematic review is a type of research trial whereby…
Read MoreFish Oil for Depression
Fish oils are sources of special oils called omega-3 fatty acids. There is a lot of good quality research into the natural treatment of depression, including taking fish oil for depression. Fish Oil for Depression Fish oil can be an anti-depressant. Many clinical trials looking at depression show that adding omega-3 fatty acids like fish…
Read MoreSt. John’s Wort for Depression
This blog post will go over what St. John’s Wort is as well as the usefulness of St. John’s Wort for depression. What is St. John’s Wort? St. John’s Wort is a flowering plant, which contains a phytochemical called hyperforin. The latin name for this plant is Hypericum perforatum. The Effect of St. John’s Wort…
Read MoreVitamin D for Depression
Vitamin D3 is commonly used for a wide range of health concerns – from bone health to immune regulation to mental health. There is strong evidence for using Vitamin D for depression. Effectiveness of Vitamin D for Depression There is strong data showing that vitamin D levels in the blood inversely correlate with clinical depression[12].…
Read MoreBrain Inflammation and Depression
There are several proposed mechanisms, or causes of depression. They include neurotransmitter hypothesis, HPA dysregulation and immune system activation [14] in addition to genetic factors [8]. One significant part of the immune immune system involvement is the role of brain inflammation and depression. This article will shed some light on one of many proposed ’causes’…
Read MoreWhat Causes Depression?
Depression is a complex mental health concern. Symptoms can vary from person to person, because there are various types of depression. When we dig a bit deeper, there a few mechanisms and proposed reasons for what causes depression. It’s important to consider these factors because these things alter our treatment plans. Genetic Influences of Depression…
Read MoreSymptoms of Depression
Depression is common and becoming more common. It’s important to recognize the symptoms of depression. If some of these symptoms seem to emerge, it’s important to seek out medical help. The Signs and Symptoms of Depression [1] When depression is considered, we think about some core symptoms of depression, along with somatic symptoms and other associated…
Read MoreThe Types of Depression
Depression is a mood disorder, characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest, along with some other potential symptoms. When it comes to assessing, diagnosing, and ultimately treating depression, it’s useful to consider the types of depression. The Main types of depression are: Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder Major depressive disorder Persistent depressive…
Read MoreWhat is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD, is a type of depression that is associated with the seasons of the year, typically Fall and Winter. Symptoms often have their onset at the same time each year, and may result in symptoms such as low mood, difficulty concentrating, sadness, feeling hopeless, guilty, worthless, increased carbohydrate cravings resulting in…
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