Holistic Ways to Combat Depression and Anxiety
Over 6% of the U.S. adult population suffers from depression each year (source) while anxiety disorders affect nearly 20% of the U.S. adult population (source). Both mental illnesses, left untreated, can wreak major havoc on one's life. Therefore, it's of the utmost importance that you do everything you can to combat depression and anxiety. Try out some of these natural/holistic alternatives to see if they lessen any of your symptoms.
Chamomile Tea
The apple isn't the only thing that keeps the doctor away. Chamomile tea (or chamomile supplements) has demonstrated properties to help relieve nerves and calm anxiety-related symptoms. A study at the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center found that people taking chamomile supplements regularly saw a decrease in symptoms related to GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder).
Check out some chamomile supplements here.
Establish and follow a routine
Depression can often leave you with a feeling of emptiness, a desire to do nothing but lay down and sleep life away. By establishing a routine, even when you aren't suffering from depression, you are putting into place a preventive measure, an action plan that is repeated daily to stave off any signs of GAD or depression.
Exercise
In "Legally Blonde," Elle Woods famously said,
Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don't shoot their husbands, they just don't.
She was right. Exercise has the power to release a stream of endorphins. But more than that, exercise allows you to be fitter and healthier, both mentally and physically.
The trick is finding a form of exercise that you're excited to do, that gives you joy. Try this quiz to discover what type of physical activity you need today.
Sleep
Sleeping all day can feed your depression. But not getting enough sleep can result in increased anxiety as well as increase your depression. Aim to get 8, or as close to 8, hours of sleep a night. If you're having trouble sleeping, try to increase your exercise a bit and see if that helps you get more shut-eye.
Lavender
Lavender has a soothing effect that people have been taking advantage of for decades. In Florida, a study was conducted in which students inhaled lavender scent before sitting for a tough examination. Those students reported having lower levels of anxiety!
Green Tea
Green Tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which has been shown to lower anxiety symptoms. Plus, green tea's caffeine will help boost physical and mental energy, giving you the buzz you need to complete that workout or start a project or even just get out of bed. And that's not all:
Start drinking your way to better health!
