Prozac: Can Ayurveda Offer Alternatives or Complementary Treatments? - #16371

I’ve been struggling with anxiety and depression for a few years now, and my doctor recently prescribed Prozac. At first, I wasn’t sure about taking it because I’ve heard about its side effects, but after some months, I found it did help me feel more stable. However, I still don’t feel like myself. I get tired easily, and sometimes I feel disconnected from my emotions. I’m really starting to question if Prozac is the right answer for me long-term, and if there might be a more natural or holistic way to address my anxiety and depression. I’ve been reading a lot about Ayurveda lately, and I’m curious if there are any Ayurvedic treatments that could help me manage my symptoms without relying solely on Prozac. I’ve heard that Prozac works by affecting serotonin levels, but I’m wondering if there are natural alternatives in Ayurveda that can help balance my mind and body in a similar way. Can Ayurveda help reduce the need for medications like Prozac in the long run? For the past couple of weeks, I’ve also been trying to focus on better lifestyle habits, such as eating healthier, getting more rest, and doing some meditation. Still, I feel like I need something more to truly address my mental health. I’m especially interested in knowing if Ayurveda has any herbs or practices that can help bring balance to my nervous system or increase my emotional resilience. I would like to hear more about the Ayurvedic perspective on mental health and how it relates to the use of medication like Prozac. Are there Ayurvedic remedies that could be used alongside Prozac to enhance my well-being or perhaps even reduce my dependence on it over time? I’d love to know if there’s a way to find balance in a more natural way, without feeling like I have to rely on pharmaceutical treatments long-term. I’m also concerned about the long-term effects of taking Prozac. I’ve read that antidepressants can have side effects like weight gain, fatigue, and emotional numbness. Are there Ayurvedic methods to counteract these effects while still working on my mental health? For example, could Ayurvedic treatments like Ashwagandha or Brahmi help with anxiety or depression, and how would they interact with Prozac? Lastly, I would really appreciate any advice on creating a daily Ayurvedic routine that could support my emotional health and reduce my reliance on Prozac. What foods, herbs, or practices can I incorporate into my life to help with mental clarity, anxiety, and emotional balance in a holistic way? I’m really looking for a natural path to healing and would appreciate any insights into how Ayurveda can complement my current treatment or offer alternatives to Prozac.