Q Can depression be treated with herbal medicine alone, without antidepressants?
A Mild depression can sometimes improve with Korean medicine treatment and lifestyle management alone. However, if it is moderate or more severe, or if there are suicidal thoughts, antidepressant treatment comes first and Korean medicine plays a supporting role.
Detailed Answer
For mild depression (PHQ-9 score 5 to 9), non-drug approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, exercise and Korean medicine treatment are effective. If it is moderate or more severe (score 10 or higher) or there are suicidal thoughts, drug treatment such as an SSRI is essential. If suicidal thoughts are suspected, please call the crisis counseling line (1577-0199) immediately or visit an emergency room.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Korean medicine treatment is not a replacement for antidepressants. In mild cases, improvement of symptoms can be expected through Korean medicine alone by reinforcing qi and blood and freeing the flow of energy. In severe cases, the safest and most effective approach is collaborative care in which Korean medicine complements ongoing conventional treatment.
Related FAQs
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Q
I don't think it's severe enough to be called depression, but I feel lethargic and have no motivation. Would Korean traditional medicine help?
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I have depression, severe anxiety, and digestive issues. Can these be treated together?
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I heard exercise and sunlight help with depression. How exactly should I do this?
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If you have depression, you may sleep too much or not at all. How should you manage your sleep?
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They say that when depression worsens, suicidal thoughts can arise. What should I do when these thoughts come?
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