One of the foundational principals of Naturopathic medicine is to treat the whole person; this inherently recognizes that there are multiple systems that may be involved in any single disease process. This applies not only to the physical body, but also to the less tangible aspects of ourselves, including the emotional and spiritual. Many of us are familiar with the concept that our mind or emotions can influence the progression or development of disease. Similarly, it is also important to remember that dysfunction on the physical plane can significantly affect our mental stability. Coping with the knowledge of illness can in itself lead to a depressed mood. Chronic disease or injury can also be both exhausting and disheartening, and depression can accompany that process. Additionally, imbalances in the physical body such as blood sugar imbalance, chronic fatigue, or thyroid dysfunction can in themselves cause a decreased ability to regulate our emotions.

In addition to the mixture of physical, mental, and emotional causes of depression, the added stress of cold weather and lack of sunlight can also play a major role. When this is the primary trigger for a depressed mood and happens only during the winter months, it can be labeled SAD. However, it does not mean that sunlight is the only factor. If you are feeling persistently down, it is important to obtain proper evaluation of both the physical body and the emotional planes in order to fully understand the root cause (or causes) of depression. It is important to get adequate evaluation to develop understanding of an issue that may be comprised of multiple layers.

A Naturopathic doctor (ND) can act as the keystone when searching for the cause of depression. As a primary care doctor, an ND can perform a medical assessment, including lab testing and clinical diagnosis to rule out organic dysfunction in the physical body. If the underlying physiological aspects of depression are addressed, mood regulation can be much more easily achieved. Concurrently, our focus as holistic practitioners allows us to expand our assessment beyond the physical. Naturopathic medicine is unique in its ability to assess and treat disease on many levels. We are interested in treating and understanding the whole person, which includes physiology, biochemistry, mental, emotional, and spiritual issues.

Another integral principle of Naturopathic medicine is that there is a healing force in nature that, when given the proper nourishment and freed of obstacles, will bring a living being to a state of health. There are many factors necessary to maintain a healthy mind, body, and spirit. Because the state of one will necessarily affect the health of the others, it is important to maintain balance in all of these areas. It is important to start with the basics when treating any disease, as those activities are fundamental to mental well-being. These include adequate sleep, proper nutrition, adequate water intake, stress management, and a balanced interpersonal and inner life. If all of these are in balance, a person will be well on their way toward mental health.

In addition to offering assistance for these physiological aspects, an ND can also offer treatments that may target the emotional and mental planes as well. Some of these other options for prevention or treatment of SAD or depression include specific nutritional therapies, botanicals, homeopathic remedies, or hands-on therapies such as craniosacral therapy. If antidepressant medication is necessary, these treatments can also be used concurrently, and in collaboration with your other medical providers.

As we move through the winter season, it is more important than ever to stay connected with the people around us. Reaching out and asking for assistance is the best way to maintain balance; don’t be afraid to consult someone for support or advice through a period that seems rough. May your new year be one of health and vitality!