Do you mean that are over-the-counter? Because anything natural would be over-the-counter. Like simplychallenging stated, St. John's Wort is used by some people. The NIH have found it to be no better than a placebo. You also should consult your physician because it can have an effect if you're taking other medication. You may want to consider seeking counseling or therapy.
Results of the study The trial found no statistically significant difference between St. John's wort and placebo on improvement in HAM-D scores or percentage of complete responses. The percentage of participants in remission from major depression at the end of the 8-week initial treatment phase was approximately 24 percent for St. John's wort and about 32 percent for placebo. Overall, the percentage of participants who improved either partially or completely was about 38 percent for St. John's wort and 43 percent for placebo. These findings suggest that St. John's wort is not effective for the treatment of major depression in adults with a moderate level of symptoms. This conclusion is supported by another recently reported placebo-controlled study (Shelton, et al., 2001). http://funadvice.com/r/3k1oc8cu7o
in response to your query about st johns wort- yes it is effective, infact if you are taking it, you cannot be on prescription anti-depressants. It is not considered a drug though, it is considered a food so its anti-depressant effects havent really been quantified. This means that it is hard to tell how different people wil respond to it. I dont think it will do any harm though. It will either help or do nothing.
Yea... I knew about that but do you know if it really works. I'm not really the type of person to take pills things like that for much of anything. I'm actually, incredibly strong-willed. I just want/need to know for possible future reference. Also, unfortunately, my stubborness keeps me from talking to a professional. =/
I don't think there is any Anti-Depressants that don't sell over-the-counter. But there is always alternatives to these, you can talk to a guidance counselor at your school. Or if your not in school, you can always talk to professionals in these matters.
"over the counter" means you can buy it without a prescription....
And yes there are supplements that can be taken for depression....St. John's Wort is one....there are other's, too. Talk to someone in a health food store.
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St.John's Wort is commonly used as a natural "treatment" for depression in some countries. You don't need a prescription for it, but you usually should talk to a doctor before trying to treat anything yourself.
Thanks =)