Depression is one of those “gifts” that often accompanies ADHD. Attention Deficit Disorder never comes alone, it always brings a friend or two such as depression, anxiety, learning disabilities or even asthma.
If you are being treated for depression and still find yourself struggling to get through the day, you might want to reconsider the way you treat your depression.
I’d like to share my personal experiences with you in the hope that it might help.
I have been taking medication for depression for a number of years now but it wasn’t until recently that I really began to feel like myself. Up until then, I was still aware of the depression sort of lurking on the fringes and would have bad days now and then.
I am lucky to have a doctor who looks at the big picture and who believes in a combination of medication and natural treatments.
The first thing she suggested was to start taking Vitamin D3 in addition to my medication. I started with 2,000 IU and now take 3,000.
Studies have shown that most Americans are deficit in Vitamin D and I suspect that is true for people in other countries as well, especially those not located near the equator.
Here is a quote from an article in MSN Health about Vitamin D:
The nutrient affects some 2,000 genes and could amp up your immunity to fight off everything from depression to cancer
You can read the entire article here.
Vitamin D wasn’t the only thing that she suggested though. Because I am in my fifties and am experiencing thinning hair, she also suggested some blood work to measure my thyroid levels.
She explained that there is a range for thyroid levels that many doctors consider to be normal, but if you are too far to one side or the other in that “normal” range, you could still benefit from treatment. See this for more information.
I went to see a specialist who confirmed that my thyroid was on the low side and he has been treating me for about 6 months. I can’t tell you what a difference it has made.
I feel better than I have in years and it has affected my life in so many ways. I sleep better, my eating habits have changed for the better, and I am even exercising – willingly!
If you are not feeling quite yourself even with medication for depression, please consider some of these ideas. Adding Vitamin D supplements to your diet is an easy way to begin and then you might want to consider seeing your doctor.
No one should have to live with depression. You don’t deserve it and neither do the people who love you. You can feel better. Take the first step.
3 Responses
Your articles are so on target. Keep up the good work!
I love your blog! My recent blood work revealed a vitamin D deficiency but my thyroid was normal. The Dr said that vitamin D was only important for breast health though. No mention of anything else. I requested the blood work because I have been feeling very tired lately. I’m gonna give the vitamin D another try. Thank you!
Thank you! And you’re very welcome!
Keep in mind that the amount you should be taking is about 2,000-5,000 IU. That’s according to my doctor.
Do you have the numbers on your thyroid? It can show as normal but if it is too close to either end of normal, it may need attention. Again, info from my doctor.