They say take a pill. I say take a hike.

This post is a bit different from my other posts. I’m actually going to call someone out today.

I’m a little disappointed in a recent blog post from the Arthritis Foundation. In their defense, I can say that they have come a long way in providing sound education over the years.

The blog post in question was informative and helpful for the most part, but, in the case of anti-depressants being suggested for depression that can occur with RA, I was sorely disappointed.

We live in a day and age where prescription drug abuse is escalating and getting out of control. The old ways of coping with and treating depression associated with disease (I am not speaking of clinical depression here) are at the bottom of the list for suggested treatment, if they can be recommended at all. At the top of the list mention are anti-depressant drugs. Personally, I don’t think they should be mentioned in a blog post as a viable treatment. I think we can leave that one to doc and patient.

If you are on one of these drugs, please know I am not criticizing you. I am directing this blog to those who prescribe these drugs so readily and those who are quick to promote the use of them.

It’s easy to say “take this” and "poof!" your symptoms will be relieved.  But is this really the best course of action? Is this sustainable? Is this really what’s best for the patient?

It is a quick fix. It is a manageable solution. The patient can indeed see improvement. Someone does stand to gain--but it’s not the patient.

Is this really the message we want to send to those diagnosed with an auto-immune disease? Another drug to “fix” your troubles? I’m pretty sure you will agree that we are already an overly medicated society. Pharmaceutical Companies make BIG bucks. They are one ones who stand to gain if you swallow what they are selling.

So how can someone affected by depression and anxiety caused from an auto-immune disease overcome? How can the individual get better, feel better, be better?

It’s not a quick fix. Symptoms can be relieved immediately, but the healing process takes time. Generally, genuine improvements take more careful thought and more consistent investment of time than merely taking a pill.

Using holistic methods such as but not limited to exercise, nature-walks, massage, hot baths, counseling, elimination of stimulants, diet clean-up, yoga, Pilates, water therapy, meditation, or meditative prayer can be effective treatments that have lasting benefits.

If you or someone you know can relate to what I’m saying, recommend this blog post or at least share the holistic methods I have mentioned.

The solution is usually a combination of a few practices that work the best for each individual. There is no "one size fits all." Consistency is important. You will find what works for you.

Remember that you are in charge of what you put into your body. You are in charge of what you believe. Do your research and ask questions.

Peace and Love.