St John's Wort - any good alternative?

[NigellasLoveBuns]

Suffered with depression a long time ago but got through it without taking medication. Now it has returned and I have been taking St John's Wort which seemed to work for a while but now I am back to feeling just like before. Has anyone tried any other plant based remedies? I am just feeling so helpless at the moment. I am at home with my 2 DCs and have no family nearby. Since having the DCs my social life has all but gone. I have no friends to speak of and I lack confidence to go out and speak to people. Has anyone been in this situation and come through?

You are depressed and have low self esteem. Counselling can definitely help, can you ask your gp to refer you? How old are your dc? Do you take them to any groups? That's a great way to meet other parents. It's hard to speak to strangers when you're feeling low, I know. The best way to go about it is to rehearse some basic scripts in your head. Most people will want to talk about their dc so ask questions about them as a starting point. It sounds as if isolation is a big part of the problem. If one of your dc gets on well with one of the other children, consider arranging a playdate. Strangers in your house... another anxiety provoking thought. You can get through that too. Once again you have dc in common so can talk about them - routines, getting fussy eaters to eat, favourite activities etc. You can also talk about being a sahm and how you find it, holiday spots you like, movies you enjoy, books... Alternatively arrange the playdate at a park, zoo or some such place that is less intimidating than in your home.