Posted by Dr. Bob on October 31, 2003, at 10:49:47
In reply to Re: Rollercoaster cont- Supplements instead of Dep etc » Shandra, posted by katia on October 31, 2003, at 0:39:20
> HI Shandra,
> In response to some of your questions:
>
> > If you're feeling depression set in, why don't you try a 5HTP supplement (100mg a couple of times a day) and see if that doesn't help. If you like I can point you in the direction of some of the sites I found that talked about it. While I didn't see any quick relief from St John's Wort by itself, I did when I added 5HTP - but I never tried it by itself, I just added it to St John's Wort and found that I immediately (ie w/in 2 hrs) felt less depressed w/out any kind of bounce into hypomania or mixed episode (I forgot to mention I have mixed episodes too, which I describe as going through hell on speed!)
>
>
> ** I have actually tried 5-HTP and a St. John's complex (irregularly, but together) almost two years ago and I still (even thought taking those) fell into one of the most awful depressions of my life. From my scant knowledge of antidepressants; it's often not a LACK of serotonin (which is 5-HTP); it's often about it not being processed or absorbed or getting to where it needs to go; something to do with the reuptake inhibitors??? I can't remember all the techonical jargon and description. taking 5-HTP is just taking in more serotonin. Anyway, i tried a lot of alternative supplements before finally giving in to pharma drugs. Valerian doesn't do a thing for me when I have insomnia.
> Also, be careful what type of fish oil you buy. Most of it's crap and has loads of mercury in it. A type I take is "nordic naturals" "Arctic Omega" from wild fish only. I take three grams a day. There are threads on this board where people were discussing this very issue. maybe do a search.
>
> **BTW, I'm mixed as well sometimes and I KNOW what hell on speed looks like.
> >
> > Anyway - I've got about 3 projects going that I need to finish up or at least get to good stopping places - this perpetual unfinished projects thing is pretty standard for me and one of the things I'm working on :)
>
> ** yes, it's a trait we all share.
>
> Katia
poster:Dr. Bob
thread:275243
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20031023/msgs/275243.html