Are There Natural Alternatives To Fight Anxiety And Depression?
Yes, there are.
Many people avoid going to a doctor about their mental health because they don’t want to be prescribed pharmaceuticals.
And while this doesn’t replace professional help, there are some more natural-based things you can do to attain good mental health.
Exercise
Yes, it’s hard to exercise when you don’t have time, are super stressed, or if you’re depressed and don’t want to do anything. If you can drag yourself outside, just for a walk, it will do you a world of good. Walking outdoors will get your heart rate up and your endorphins firing. If you’re more a person who needs a specific goal to make something happen, walk to the nearest convenience store to get your favorite treat, that way there’s a reward attached. Or if you’re into some form of gaming, start playing something like Pokemon Go, or download the new ‘The Walking Dead’ game on iOS or Android. These will give you goals to reach, whether that be walking to hatch an egg or heading to an area full of zombie activity!
Don’t Underestimate Essential Oils
People tend to think that Essential Oils are very hippie-like, but it’s something to consider if you would rather take the natural route to good mental health. Lavender for relaxation, eucalyptus for concentration, a combo of lavender and peppermint, as well as geranium can help relieve stress and you can use any of those alone. Adding basil or rosemary to that combo can help to stimulate yourself against mental fatigue. Lavender is very helpful in terms of warding off a panic attack, and Dr. Teal’s has a Lavender Bath or Eucalyptus/Spearmint mixture to help you relax as well.
Vitamins
Taking vitamins may seem like taking medication but if you need a boost, grabbing a vitamin or two won’t hurt. Especially in cases of seasonal depression a vitamin B complex can help with energy and vitamin D can be helpful for the lack of sun exposure in the winter. There have also been murmurs from Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont that just 248mg of magnesium per day leads to an astounding reversal of depression symptoms in study subjects -but has not been confirmed as a legitimate form of treatment by physicians.
Alternative Methods
Though not an endorsement by this station or by Beasley Media Group, there are some studies that have found that medicinal cannabis has helped cases of anxiety and depression in individuals where marijuana has been legalized for health reasons. As many states are moving toward a legalization argument for cannabis, pharmaceutical companies are feeling the pocketbook strain. In quite a few cases, not only has marijuana helped relieve pain, but many can take it in different forms to ward off panic attacks or get specific strains that are grown to help combat depression symptoms. It’s noted by Men’s Journal that treating Bipolar Disorder or Schizophrenia with cannabis has been a no-no. Always consult a physician before starting any regimen and be honest with your doctor about what you’ve considered taking before taking it.
And do your research before starting any of these natural alternatives.
