Depression can be mild, moderate or severe, and is usually characterised by psychological, physical and social symptoms (e.g. feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, poor motivation, headaches, constipation, reduced social activities and contact with friends, etc). The causes of depression are varied and complex, though common triggers include: distressing life events (e.g. death, relationship difficulties, redundancy, physical illness, money problems); hormonal changes (e.g. post-natal, pregnancy, menopause); alcohol or drug abuse; and certain medications. The fact that anti-depressants have recently received a lot of bad press regarding their side-effects, and that GPs no longer have a great deal of time to spend with each patient, may explain why more people are turning to complementary therapists for help.

Reflexology

Reflexology may help to relieve a number of the physical symptoms associated with depression, such as: headaches; bowel problems (diarrhoea or constipation); sleep disturbances; loss of appetite/ overeating; palpitations; and fatigue." The relaxing effects of reflexology should also not be underestimated - although it is often considered to be one of the more 'stimulating' physical therapies, reflexology is equal to most holistic treatments in that it involves an unconditional, nurturing, and 'safe' form of touch. Indeed, as this therapy does not require disrobing, it may be the preferred treatment option for clients whose depression stems from physical or sexual abuse (though such details may not be disclosed to the therapist).

In Chapter 13 of Clinical Reflexology, Knowles and Higgins comment that reflexology treatments may also help to: improve the client's self-esteem; reduce irritability and feelings of anger and loss of control; improve mood and energy levels; and create a new-found interest in personal health and well-being." They also suggest that the therapist should pay particular attention "to the relevant reflex areas associated with stress such as:

• the solar plexus
• hypothalamus
• pituitary and adrenal glands
• other reflex points pertinent to physical symptoms.

The endocrine system as a whole may be worth paying particular attention to as imbalances in this particular body system may affect a person’s behaviour and mood, resulting in irritability, restlessness and anxiety (as often seen in people with hyperthyroidism).

Being able to simply talk to a non-judgmental therapist may be of great benefit to the client However, therapists must refer clients on to a counselor or other relevant health professional where necessary, but at the same time know how to best support those who experience an immediate, strong emotional response to treatment.

Aromatherapy

Interestingly, a number of scientific studies have indicated that whilst depressed individuals have no problem identifying different odours, depression does appear to muffle their sense of smell. But whether or not clients have a muffled sense of smell, their own preferences should be taken into account when selecting oils: Patricia Davis, author of Aromatherapy: An A-Z, believes this can help the Aroma therapist to determine the changing moods and needs of the client. Davis also writes that the clients' preferences "will often be the right choice at that particular time."

However, the Aroma therapist should take care when selecting the range of oils that the client can choose from: sedative oils may be ideal for the those clients who are anxious, irritable, or having difficulty sleeping, but are unlikely to benefit those who are feeling abnormally fatigued or lethargic. For this reason, it is important to establish precisely how depression is affecting the individual.

In Aromatherapy: An A-Z, Davis suggests the following oils:

For restlessness, irritability, difficulty sleeping:
Chamomile, clary sage, lavender, sandalwood [preferably obtained from sustainable sources], ylang ylang.

For anxiety:
Neroli and jasmine.

For fatigue and lethargy:
Bergamot, geranium, melissa, rose.

If the client is not adverse to touch or disrobing, then massage is perhaps the best way to deliver the chosen oils, as this will help to tackle the clients' symptoms on two levels as opposed to just one, thus reinforcing the beneficial properties of the plant extracts. Providing clients with a blend that can be added to a bath or vapouriser will also mean that they can benefit from the oils in between treatments, as well as do something for themselves.

Our thanks to International Therapist Magazine for allowing us to share past articles.