Botox no cure for the blues

There’s a wacky theory out there that, at its core, suggests that forcing depressed people to smile – or least removing their ability to frown – can somehow cure them.

The latest variation on this out-of-tune song comes from the world of cosmetic surgery, where a study has found that women who get Botox treatments are less depressed.

The study, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, followed 25 women after cosmetic procedures, 12 of whom had Botox or similar treatments. The others had fillers, peels or other treatments to deal with wrinkles.

The women filled out questionnaires on anxiety and depression two weeks after the procedures. The Botox women, according to this survey, had lower levels of depression and anxiety.

And you know what that proves? Absolutely nothing.

But the cosmetic industry is ready to pounce on it anyway. Already, they’re looking to promote Botox as a mood enhancer, which is not just bad medicine – it’s downright irresponsible.

Botox is far more dangerous than most people realize. Its side effects include facial paralysis, muscle weakness, headaches, flu-like symptoms, and a range of potential allergic reactions. There are even concerns that the toxin might spread from the injection site to other parts of the body, potentially leading to further complications and even
death.

Depression is not something to monkey around with. It’s a serious condition that far too many people battle unsuccessfully for far too long.

In most cases, depression is caused by a hormonal or nutritional imbalance. These imbalances can usually be diagnosed with a 24-hour urine test. If you’re battling depression or taking antidepressants, ask for one of these tests.

Once you figure out what the body’s missing, you can correct it and not only fight the depression, but stave off other health problems as well.

And that’s something you can really smile about.