St. john's wort for depression, omega-3 fatty acids for mood stabilization and depression, and cranial electrical stimulation for substance use rehabilitation, depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders

St. John's wort is the most popular CAM product used for mental health conditions in America. All sources agree that it is effective for mild to moderate depression. Two sources found St. John's wort effective for more severe depression as well. Based on their clinical practice, Brown et al found St. John's wort effective for treatment of anxiety disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, menopause, schizophrenia and seasonal affective disorder. The major drawbacks of St. John's wort are the risk of triggering “cycling” in people with bipolar illness and the danger of interaction with many drugs. It is dangerous to mix St. John's wort with antiretroviral medications and with psychotropic drugs. Omega-3 essential fatty acids are essential for brain and heart health. Four sources found them effective in treating mental health conditions. While they have been most studied for use in depression and bipolar disorder, the sources urge that they are a promising treatment for postpartum depression, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder and cognitive impairment/dementia. Drug interactions and side effects are minimal. Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation (“CES”) uses a current that cannot be sensed by the consumer. Brown and Gerbarg is the only source that discusses CES, although Mischoulon is currently studying it. Two early studies of CES found increased attention and concentration in normal adults. Brown and Gerbarg add that in clinical practice, they have found that CES can improve attention, reduce anxiety, and relieve insomnia, all helpful in treating ADHD. No drug interactions or side effects have been reported.