Natural Anti-Depressants & Anti-Anxiety Remedies
Depression comes in many forms. We all have times in our lives when we face depression, and learning natural ways to deal with these feelings of anxiety and sadness can help gauge how serious the problem is. Mild to moderate depression can sometimes be helped with natural remedies. If feelings of depression and anxiety persist after using these natural solutions, seeing a mental health professional is strongly recommended for further help.
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B Vitamins
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For natural anxiety and depression relief, take an extra B-complex vitamin supplement in conjunction with your normal multivitamin. B vitamins are linked to stress relief, and they assist the body in balancing neurological and emotional health. It is recommended to also take an additional vitamin C supplement as this helps to metabolize the B vitamins more efficiently.
St. John's Wart
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St. John's Wart is an herbal treatment for mild to moderate depression. This herb, commonly considered a weed in America, has a similar effect on the neurotransmitters in the brain as doctor prescribed anti-depressants. If you are a woman, there have been reports of St. John's Wart effecting birth control medication.
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Omega 3 Fatty Acids
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Omega 3 fatty acids attack depression from a different angle. This is most effective in unipolar or major depression rather than bipolar disease. Omega 3, found in foods such as fish and flaxseed, improve the amount of action in the serotonin and dopamine pathways of the brain to assist in stabilizing mental health.
Exercise
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Exercise releases endorphins to improve your current mental state, relieves anxiety and improves sleep patterns. Exercise, in conjunction with other natural treatments for depression, can help control and stabilize your mood and temperament by reducing stress.
Diet
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Refined and processed foods are an enemy to depression. They decrease circulation and blood flow, and create a lazy and lethargic disposition. A cheeseburger or slice of pizza every now and then is fine, but if you are suffering from depression, it is wise to steer clear of unhealthy foods. Fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables are rich in antioxidants and help to keep cells healthy.
Aromatherapy
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Aromatherapy is used to help ease mild anxiety and depression by changing your mental state with the scent of essential oils. A popular essential oil to start with is lavender. This popular oil is used in aromatherapy to relax the mind and body by increasing the alpha waves in the back of the brain.
Light Therapy
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Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) refers to people who become depressed in the winter months. The shortness in days and cooler weather can leave some people with the blues. If you experience SAD, the Reader's Digest book, "Great Health Hints & Handy Tips" recommends light therapy. Spending between 30 minutes and 2 hours a day under bright lights of 2,500 to 10,000 lux can relieve depression caused by SAD in as little as 3 days.
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