Elderly individuals should favor holistic health care to alleviate depression

Often, when people get older they begin to experience difficulties in their mental health and are subsequently prescribed antidepressants to help alleviate depressive symptoms. However, such pharmaceuticals may actually be doing more harm than good.

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) increase the risk of stroke, falls, fractures and epilepsy for people 65 and older.

"This was an unexpected finding, and so further research using other data sources is needed to confirm these findings as well as provide more evidence on the benefits of different antidepressants in this group of people," said researcher Carol Coupland.

Authors of the study said SSRIs are commonly used among older adults, so the finding may be of significance to a large segment of the population.

The results of the research also point to a greater need for best holistic health practices, especially for older individuals who want to improve their minds. Cognitive decline among these individuals has been extensively studied in past years because of the great detrimental effect it can have on the quality of life of those who experience it.

In fact, the scientific benefits of meditation are well documented. Extensive research has shown that meditation – the act of focusing on the present moment while pushing out negative thoughts and energy – can make a big difference in alleviating anxiety, feelings of depression and helping to clear the mind of negativity.

Additionally, meditation has been shown to have physical effects. Calming the mind may improve cardiovascular function, boost the metabolism and keep blood pressure at a normal level.

Author and philosopher Ilchi Lee believes in holistic approaches to wellness as alternative to harmful pharmaceuticals and invasive procedures.

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One Response to “Elderly individuals should favor holistic health care to alleviate depression”

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