Medications

• Antidepressants are the most common treatment for depression. Some antidepressants, such as Cymbalta, also address the pain that can be a symptom of depression. Even for those suffering from chronic pain, antidepressants can help by boosting serotonin levels and improving mood and outlook. Another strategy for dealing with pain and depression is counseling, which helps you determine why you are depressed or teach you coping strategies to minimize how deeply you allow the pain you feel to affect your daily life. Pain medication can also help sufferers of chronic pain, but some varieties can be addictive,while others can do permanent damage to the liver and kidneys with prolonged use.
  
  

Natural Remedies

• Exercise is beneficial for those who are depressed and suffer chronic pain. Gentle exercises, such as yoga and tai chi, are most helpful. Water aerobics is another exercise almost anyone can do, even someone suffering from chronic pain or restricted mobility. Exercise stimulates the brain to release endorphins, which can block pain receptors and enhance your mood. Exercise also has anti-inflammatory properties that can ease pain. Some people find meditation helpful for depression and pain management. Hypnosis is a tool some sufferers try, in order to focus on other things and make pain and depression fade to the background.
  
  

Herbs

• Some people find relief with herbs and supplements. Fish oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, is beneficial for depression and pain because it can stabilize mood and has anti-inflammatory properties. St. John's Wort is commonly used to treat depression and can be paired with an anti-inflammatory herb like bromelain or boswellia to manage pain levels. Valerian root can provide a restful night's sleep, and camomile relaxes smooth muscle tissue. Hot peppers contain salicylates, which are the basis of aspirin, and capsaicin. Capsaicin is a chemical in the peppers that stimulates the release of endorphins and blocks pain receptors.