THE ZEEBrA is a simple mnemonic that covers each of the critical factors that should be addressed in the diagnosis and treatment of depression. Careful consideration of each of these factors ensures that every aspect of a person—mind, body, and spirit—is investigated and restored to balance.
T: Take Care of Yourself—Getting plenty of sleep, eating right, and choosing activities that help lower stress and promote well-being are important steps to recovering from depression.
H: Hormones—Correcting hormone imbalances can often relieve depression.
E: Exclude—Exclude certain foods from the diet as problems associated with digesting these foods, such as wheat and dairy, can exacerbate depressed moods.
Z: Zinc and Other Minerals—Ensure adequate zinc and mineral levels; insufficient zinc is a frequent culprit in depression.
E: Essential Fatty Acids and Cholesterol—Monitoring essential fatty acid and cholesterol levels are important to cardiovascular and mental health as low levels of these substances are often implicated in depression.
E: Exercise and Energy— Participating in exercise is known to combat depression on multiple levels.
B: B Vitamins and Other Vitamins—Restoring vitamin levels to their optimal range can reduce symptoms of depression.
r: rEEG—If psychiatric medications are needed, rEEG can guide medication selection and eliminate trial-and-error prescribing.
A: Amino Acids and Protein—Eat an adequate amount of protein. A shortfall in the amino acids that make up protein can contribute to emotional distress.
Focusing on personalized medicine for the treatment of depression, Dr. Greenblatt concentrates on nutrition, genetics, stress, and when needed, technology to ensure that medications and treatment are targeted towards individual biochemistry. By identifying and addressing all the factors that contribute to depression, patients can leave behind the despair of depression and find their way to sustained recovery!