Symptoms
It is characterized by apathy, extreme sadness or despair, constant fatigue, hopelessness, hypersensitivity, inability to concentrate, social withdrawal, thoughts of premature death, and worthlessness.

More often than not, these symptoms manifest itself physically in terms of overeating or loss of appetite, digestive disorders, headaches, and insomnia.

Severe depression may result to chronic prostration.

Causes
Traumas, emotional stress, dysfunctional interpersonal interaction, social withdrawal, biological changes, aging are common triggers for the symptoms of depression.

Misuse of prescribed drugs or malnutrition also causes depression.

Home Remedies
Apple: This fruits contains vitamin B, phosphorus, and potassium help the synthesis of glutamic acid, which controls renewal of nerve cells. Eat some apple while drinking milk mixed with honey. It’s a very effective nerve tonic that helps recharges the body and bring back its vitality.

Cashew: Cashew is rich in vitamins B complex, especially thiamine that helps in bringing back the loss appetite and stimulates the nervous system. It also contains riboflavin that energizes the body and help it stay active.

Asparagus: Ground 1-2 gm of dry asparagus root into powder and take it once daily. It stimulates the brain activity and helps repair nerve cells.

Cardamom: Boil powdered cardamom seeds in water. Add it to your usual tea while inhaling its therapeutic aroma.

Lemon Balm: Place 30 gm of lemon in ½ liter of cold water. Leave it for 12 hours. Strain the remaining residue then take it in small doses. It will help stimulate the brain activity and calms the nerves.

Rose: Boil 15 gm of rose petals in 250 ml water. Drink it instead of your usual coffee or tea.

Vitamin B: Eat foods rich in vitamin B such as fish, eggs, green vegetables and whole grains. It helps restore the body’s vitality.

Diets
Avoid alcohol, chocolate, coffee, sodas, sugar, tea, chocolate, white flour, sugar, white rice, and foods with too much food colorings and chemical additives.

Eat three meals a day. For breakfast, have some fruits while drinking milk, and also, eat some nuts or seeds. For lunch, eat some steamed vegetables, whole wheat chapatis and drink a glass of buttermilk. For dinner, eat some fresh vegetable salad and all the available sprouts such as alfalfa seeds, beans, cottage cheese, and another glass of buttermilk.

Other Treatments
Doing things for self-fulfillment helps bring back one’s confidence and alleviate depression.

Take physical exercises for it provides a certain degree of relaxation. It also helps tone up the body, while providing a feeling of accomplishment, and reduces the sense of helplessness.

Relax and meditate by taking in sufficient rest and sleep. It will help balance the nervous system and overcome the feeling of depression.