Depression is everywhere. It has become a rampant epidemic. Around 1 in 7 people suffer from symptoms of depression at some point in their life. With depression being so common, why don’t we talk about it more often?
Having dealt with Depression and Anxiety alone for so long, I think it is time to take a stand. I want to raise awareness and shine some light on natural ways to fight depression.
While prescription medications help, they can have some pretty major side effects. If you suffer from depression you might benefit from these natural options. These are some of the things that have helped me in the past.
If you feel your depression is pretty severe, please reach out and talk to a doctor or counselor. Let them help you through the process of whatever method you choose to try. I always want to stress to you that no matter how alone you feel, there is always help. There is no need to deal with it all by yourself.
If you have been feeling a bit “off” lately and are not sure what may be causing it, here are a few symptoms of Depression.
Some Of The Most Common Symptoms Of Depression
- Anxiety
- Feelings of being hopeless
- No interest in life
- Moody
- Concentration issues
- Thoughts of suicide
- Lack of appetite or increase in appetite
- Same thoughts running through the mind
- Disconnecting from work and people
- Restless or Unable to sleep
- Excessive sleeping
If you struggle with any of these issues, please talk to your doctor. When caught early and dealt with head-on, you can bounce back quickly. Your doctor can help you establish a new lifestyle and routine to help combat the symptoms naturally.
Some Causes of Depression
Every person is different and there are many different reasons Depression could enter your life. Here are some of the most common causes that are known to trigger depression.
- Trauma of some kind
- Death of a loved one
- Hormone imbalance
- Stress
- Work issues
- Emotional and/or relationship issues
- Food allergies
- Lack of sunlight
- Alcohol or drug addiction
- Deficiencies in nutrition
How to Treat Depression Naturally
Get Outdoors
If you didn’t know sunshine is great for increasing dopamine levels in your body. This will help give you a mood boost naturally and help fight those recurring thoughts of depression. Sun is a source of Vitamin D, which most people do not get enough of. Trying to get outdoors every day or even a few times a week is a great way to really try to overcome depression. Try having your morning tea on the deck or porch. Take your four-legged for an extra walk. I know it sounds simple but it truly will help you.
Exercise
Getting up and moving whether yoga, pilates, Zumba class or a walk around your neighborhood will help release endorphins. These hormones are known to make you happy. When you exercise daily it really helps boost your mood and outlook on life. Wake up and do a couple sit-ups. Do some stretches before you go to bed at night. Play a round of tug-a-war with Pupper. Every little bit of energy counts!
Diet
Caffeine and sugar can actually help aid in your depression. Try to limit them. Better yet, try to cut them out. If you are unable to cut them out completely, take a couple weeks and detox your body of them. Then mark a day on your calendar for a special treat. Have a cup of joe or go out for ice cream. Make sure you are eating a nutritional diet with a mix of healthy fats, protein, vegetables, fruits, etc. When you feed your body with healthy foods it helps fuel your mind and body. Foods with Omega-3’s are known to help treat your mood in the brain. If you are not a fan of fish, try taking Fish Oil each day.
Positive Attitude
Each day write 10 things that happened that day or week that you found positive. From simple things like making it through the day without anxiety, a raise at work, able to spend time with family, or anything else. This is a great way to help remind yourself and be aware of all the great things in your life, no matter how small or big they are. After you do this for a few weeks it will begin to train your brain in a positive way.
Essential Oil
You can use essential oils in so many ways. Lavender is great for helping relax and calm your mind and even allowing you to sleep more soundly. While lemon and other citruses can help boost your moods. If you are fighting anxiety diffuse or even inhale Lavender oil. You can learn so much about essential oils that are therapeutic and find they are just as good as medications.
Counseling
I know some people don’t want to seek help but this can really help. If you have underlying issues that could be leading you to feel depressed whether guilt, feeling unlovable or unworthy, you might see a bigger picture from your counselor. Sometimes we allow others to project feelings on us, and when we see they aren’t real it can be very freeing to our minds. I highly recommend, talking is a great way to break free from wrong thoughts.
Start a Howl!