The doctor won't take my depression seriously?

QUESTION - I suffer very badly from depression but my doctor won't take it seriously and refuses to prescribe me any pills. He says depression is just a state of mind and if I get out in the sunshine more and stop moping round the house I will be fine. Are there any natural or magical cures for depression, I just feel so miserable all the time.

Your doctor ought to be struck off. I can't believe that anybody has that kind of attitude to depression in these modern times. Get rid of that doctor and go see another one. A doctor has an absolute moral obligation to take you seriously. Depression isn't a bit of a low mood it is a recognised illness, with, I might add, recognised ways of successfully managing the symptoms. I'm not a doctor so I wouldn't get involved in diagnosing depression but I strongly feel that if you speak to a different medical professional you will get a sympathetic ear and a more accurate diagnosis. They have made great progress with mental health in the last twenty years, there are pills with very few side effects available and psychological techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy that have proven to be very effective.
In terms of anything additional I can suggest to help you, you could try taking St John's Wort (buy in any health shop). This is supposed to be as effective as prescribed anti depressants and has the added benefit of being natural. Of course I recommend you discuss with a doctor first. Crystals may also help you. Turquoise is an excellent all round stone to relieve depression and selenite worn on the person can help calm and regulate your mood. You could also try keeping a piece of amethyst in the room to dispell any external negavity.

Image http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1396472 (Saavem)

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