Looking at professionals' perspectives on treating depression through food and natural therapeutic methods

Abstract

There is a liberal amount of research regarding depression and mainstream conventional treatment. This dissertation aims to explore the way food and nutrition could possible play a role in the treatment modality of depression as well as the role of nutrition on wellbeing. This study has adopted a qualitative approach by conducting semi-structured open-ended interviews with five professions who deal with treating depressed persons ( 2 psychiatrists, 1 nutritionist, 1 paraprofessional and a clinical psychologist). Through this study four superordinate themes were identified, (i) Defining depression, (ii) Assessment and Diagnosis, (iii) Current Treatment Modalities and (iv) The role of Nutrition. The superordinate themes show how broad of a spectrum depression is and that there are many factors which need to be considered within treatment modalities.The role of nutrition, was was identified both in terms of prevention as well as treatment, However there is a lack of research and education regarding it’s potential use as a first line of treatment.