Do you relate to this expression? Do you bear a constant dark grief or feel trapped for no or little apparent reason?
Do you feel your normal personality has crucially changed and you are experiencing certain withdrawal symptoms? Similarly, do you often feel anxious, nervous, worry a lot? Do these feelings result in palpitations, sweating, dizziness or numbness etc.
Such symptoms might indicate an anxiety disorder!
A diagnosis of depression and anxiety may follow an emotional battle for acceptance. Patients tend to ignore or downplay it owing to the social stigma attached to mental ailments. This tendency to ignore the illness or procrastinate treatment is a common havoc people commit! Depression and anxiety left untreated may lead to grave repercussions.
Considering the same it is important that ailments like depression and anxiety are kept in check to lead a life full throttle.
These are 6 useful tips for people battling depression and anxiety:
- Consult A Doctor
It is most vital to seek medical intervention in case one notices symptoms of depression and anxiety. It is important to find a doctor with whom you share comfort and can easily emote your issues explicitly. Analyzing your symptoms, the doctor might suggest medicines and counseling sessions.
Please note the treatment of depression is not simple. The causes of depression are multifarious and so are the drugs used to treat it. So the doctor has a big challenge to prescribe a suitable drug after considering tolerance to side-effects, and other health parameters.
Also, treatment can take some time. While many people begin to feel better within two weeks, it can take more time to feel the full effect of your medication. Just remain patient!
- Be More Active
There is ample empirical evidence which suggests that taking up any exercise (especially which results in enjoyment) can result in uplifted mood and thus easing depression and anxiety levels. If you haven’t exercised for a while, start gently by walking for 20 minutes every day.
- Eat Healthy
As the saying goes, you are what you eat! Eating a balanced diet and avoiding any junk food, is the key to achieve healthy gut which would support and aid improved brain/ mind functioning. Brain-friendly foods like almonds, walnuts, coconut oil (in moderation), foods rich in vitamin E and B12, omega-3 such as fish, flax seeds etc will ensure both healthy body and mind.
- Try Alternate Modes OF Treatment
There are times when one feels that the conventional allopathic mode of treatment is not helping
in curing depression and anxiety and rather its causing side effects like drowsiness, memory
issues, mood swings etc.
Considering the same many patients opt for natural ways of treatment to help reduce their
depression and anxiety. Certain natural foods like walnuts, coconut oil, flax seeds, salmon which
are rich in omega-3 are highly recommended for anxiety and depression. Natural foods
containing vitamin B-12 is recommended for depression and anxiety patients as Vitamin B-12
and other B vitamins play a role in producing brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain
functions. Low levels of B-12 and other B vitamins such as vitamin B-6 and folate may be linked
to depression. Fortified breakfast cereals also are a good source of vitamin B12 and other B
vitamins.
Also, CBD oil for anxiety is found to be useful. Experts have reasoned that CBD oil contains
brain receptor called CB1. Receptors are tiny proteins attached to human cells that receive
chemical signals from different stimuli and help your cells respond by the production of
serotonin. Low serotonin levels are common in depression. Not having enough serotonin may
also cause anxiety.
Another unconventional method of treating anxiety is found in aromatherapy. It is believed to work through the subtle interaction of aromatic molecules with mood receptors residing in the brain thereby elevating the mood and relaxing the brain. It is known to have a direct impact on the nervous system of the human body. Terpenes like chamomile oil, Frankincense oil, jasmine oil are known to have a relaxing effect on the brain and help uplift the mood.
- Join A Community
Meeting like-minded people who are facing similar challenges in life as you are. This acts as a great respite and boosts your spirit. Join any such community where you can discuss explicitly your ailment and get inspiration from other people who are facing the similar problems.
- Face Your Fears
Don’t avoid the things you find hard. Hold the bull by its horns! If you want to discuss or
confront people with issues, do it! If you fear traveling alone, Book a ticket now!! Help yourself,
take initiative and such actions would boost your confidence and satisfaction levels.
Lastly, just know that you are not alone, your loved ones are there for you and with their help you can fight the demons of depression.