Question 1

Are there foods that improve mood when feeling depressed?

Accepted Answer

Foods rich in tryptophan make serotonin (the happiness hormone). Bananas, milk, turkey, and nuts are good. Sugary foods temporarily lift mood but cause a rapid Sugar Crash that worsens depression.

Question 2

I do not want to exercise — do I have to force myself?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you should. Exercise is the most powerful natural antidepressant. When your heart beats and you sweat, Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is released to revive dying brain cells. Start with walking.

Question 3

Because I am depressed, I keep eating and sleeping.

Accepted Answer

This is Atypical Depression — opposite to typical depression. It is more common in those with slow metabolism (Taeeum constitutional type). Treatment to remove dampness and boost metabolism is needed.

Question 4

My mood keeps sinking for no particular reason (mild depression).

Accepted Answer

This may be a pre-stage of major depression. The circulation of qi is blocked (stagnation), impairing emotional regulation. Receive Korean medicine treatment to ventilate the stuck qi.

Question 5

I was working hard and suddenly all my energy feels completely drained (burnout).

Accepted Answer

The body and mind's battery is completely discharged. In Korean medicine, this is dual qi and blood deficiency. Rest boldly along with replenishing depleted energy through tonic medicine (Gongjindan) is urgent.

Question 6

After giving birth, I do not find my baby cute and just cry (postpartum depression).

Accepted Answer

Postpartum depression is a disease caused by rapid hormonal changes and parenting stress. It is not the mother's fault. Left untreated, it affects the child's emotional development — the mother's body and mind must be cared for first.

Question 7

My mood is fine but I hurt all over (masked depression).

Accepted Answer

This occurs in people accustomed to suppressing their feelings. Instead of depressed mood, headaches, indigestion, and muscle pain express it. The pain disappears only when the mind, not the body, is treated.

Question 8

After menopause, I feel useless and keep crying.

Accepted Answer

This is empty nest syndrome combined with menopausal hormone decline. It is not the end of a woman's life — it is a transition to a second life. Replenishing deficient yin energy improves both depression and hot flashes.

Question 9

Just before my period I get so depressed I want to die (PMDD).

Accepted Answer

This is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), beyond simple PMS. The brain is hypersensitive to hormonal changes. Herbal medicine that resolves blood stasis in the uterus and promotes qi-blood circulation can calm the hormonal waves.

Question 10

My teenage child shuts their door and will not talk.

Accepted Answer

This may not be simple rebellion — it could be adolescent depression. Children express it through irritability, defiance, academic decline, and gaming addiction instead of saying they are depressed. This is a time when the brain is being remodeled, making emotional support critical.

🌧️Depression