Holistic approach treating Depression at Inquire Within Behavioral Health: Symptoms, Medication, Nutrition, and Supplements

At Inquire Within Behavioral Health, we understand that depression is a complex condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s more than just feeling sad or having a bad day; it’s a persistent condition that interferes with daily functioning and causes significant distress. Our team is dedicated to providing a holistic approach to treating depression, combining medication with nutritional counseling and informed supplement use. Here, we delve into the symptoms of depression, explore treatment options with medication, and discuss how nutrition and supplements can support recovery.

Symptoms of Depression

Depression can manifest differently in individuals, but common symptoms include:

• Persistent Sad, Anxious, or “Empty” Mood: Feeling hopeless or pessimistic about the future.
• Loss of Interest or Pleasure: Not wanting to engage in activities that used to be enjoyable.
• Changes in Appetite or Sleep: Eating more or less than usual, or experiencing insomnia or hypersomnia.
• Fatigue and Lack of Energy: Feeling tired even after getting enough rest.
• Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, remembering details, or making decisions.
• Feelings of Guilt, Worthlessness, or Helplessness: Persistent negative self-talk or self-blame.
• Physical Symptoms: Headaches, stomach problems, or other physical complaints without a clear cause.
• Thoughts of Death or Suicide: Recurring thoughts about ending one’s life or suicide attempts.

Not everyone experiences all these symptoms, but they can significantly impact daily life and relationships. If you or someone you know is struggling with these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek professional help.

Diagnosis of Depression

Diagnosing depression involves a combination of physical exams, lab tests, and psychological evaluations. Mental health professionals use criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to assess symptoms. For a diagnosis of major depressive disorder, at least five of the following symptoms must be present for at least two weeks:

• Depressed mood or loss of interest in activities.
• Significant weight loss or gain.
• Insomnia or hypersomnia.
• Psychomotor agitation or retardation.
• Fatigue or loss of energy.
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
• Diminished ability to think or concentrate.
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation.

Medication Treatment for Depression

Medication is often a key part of depression treatment. Our team works closely with clients to tailor medication plans that address their specific needs. Common medications include:

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): These are often the first choice due to their safety profile and fewer side effects. Examples include citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva), sertraline (Zoloft), and vilazodone (Viibryd)12.
• Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): These include duloxetine (Cymbalta), venlafaxine (Effexor XR), desvenlafaxine (Pristiq, Khedezla), and levomilnacipran (Fetzima)16.
• Atypical Antidepressants: These include bupropion (Wellbutrin XL, Wellbutrin SR, Aplenzin, Forfivo XL), mirtazapine (Remeron), nefazodone, trazodone, and vortioxetine (Trintellix)16.
• Tricyclic Antidepressants: While effective, these can cause more severe side effects and are generally used when other options are not effective1.

It’s essential to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider and monitor them closely.

Nutrition and Depression

Nutrition plays a vital role in managing depression. A balanced diet can positively impact mood, energy levels, and cognitive function. At Inquire Within Behavioral Health, we emphasize the importance of nutritional counseling as part of our treatment plans. Here are some key nutritional strategies:

• Mediterranean Diet: Studies have shown that following a Mediterranean diet can significantly reduce symptoms of depression. This diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats like olive oil. It has been associated with a lower risk of depression due to its anti-inflammatory properties and beneficial effects on gut health37.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, these fatty acids support brain health and may help alleviate depressive symptoms3.
• Polyphenols: Compounds like curcumin, found in turmeric, and soy isoflavones have been linked to reduced depression risk due to their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects3.
• Tryptophan: An amino acid that helps produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation. Foods rich in tryptophan include turkey, chicken, and fish.

Supplements in Depression Treatment

While dietary supplements cannot replace a healthy diet, they can enhance micronutrient intake and support mental health. However, it’s crucial to use them under professional guidance to avoid interactions with medications or adverse effects. Here are some supplements that may be beneficial:

• S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe): Involved in neurotransmitter synthesis and may help improve mood. Research suggests SAMe can be effective in relieving depression, especially when combined with antidepressants4.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Available as supplements if dietary intake is insufficient. Combining omega-3s with vitamin D may enhance their benefits for depression and anxiety8.
• Probiotics: Support gut health, which is linked to brain function and mood regulation.
• Vitamin D: Important for overall health and may help alleviate depressive symptoms, especially in individuals with deficiency. Vitamin D supplementation, particularly when combined with omega-3s, can improve depression, anxiety, and sleep8.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, reach out to us today to explore how our team can support your journey towards wellness.

Contact Information:

Inquire Within Behavioral Health
https://inquirewithinbh.com/get-started/#

Let us help you navigate your path to mental health recovery.

Additional Resources

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. In life-threatening situations, call 911.
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): For more information on depression and mental health resources, visit the NIMH website.

References

1. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Depression (major depressive disorder) – Diagnosis and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356013.
2. FDA. (2019). Depression Medicines. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/consumers/womens-health-topics/depression-medicines.
3. Frontiers in Nutrition. (2023). Relationship between Mediterranean diet and depression in South Korean adults. Retrieved from https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1219743/full.
4. Cooper Complete. (2025). Top 9 Supplements for Depression: Nutrients for Mental Health. Retrieved from https://coopercomplete.com/blog/top-9-supplements-for-depression/.
5. Florida Medicaid Mental Health. (2019). DSM-5 Criteria: Major Depressive Disorder. Retrieved from https://floridabhcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/MDD_Adult-Guidelines-2019-2020.pdf.
6. American Academy of Family Physicians. (2023). Pharmacologic Treatment of Depression. Retrieved from https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2023/0200/pharmacologic-treatment-of-depression.html.
7. Wise Mind Nutrition. (2024). The Mediterranean Diet for Mental Health – A Path to Well-Being. Retrieved from https://wisemindnutrition.com/blog/mediterranean-style-eating-for-mental-health.
8. GrassrootsHealth. (2021). Combining Vitamin D and Omega-3s Produced the Greatest Improvements in Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and Sleep. Retrieved from https://www.grassrootshealth.net/blog/combining-vitamin-d-omega-3s-produced-greatest-improvements-depression-anxiety-sleep/.