Are You Just A Little Down, Or Are You Depressed?
Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses in America today, but despite that, many people do not know what the depression symptoms are or how to recognize them.
Being a little sad does not make you depressed. You might be depressed if your sadness persists despite good things happening, if you find yourself losing interest in activities you normally enjoy or if you are fatigued all the time. Depression can also be associated with anxiety.
Doctors no longer recommend anti-depressants for mild to moderate depression symptoms. Recent studies have indicated that only the most severely depressed individuals benefit from medication. For those less severely effected, there are a number of lifestyle changes that can help.
Exercise is key to fighting depression. Regular exercise is clinically proven to be more effective than anti-depressants. Many people also benefit from learning meditation techniques, which can also help with reducing stress and fighting phobias. Meditation techniques for depression often include focusing on mantras such as ‘I am worth something’ or ‘My life makes a difference’.
Herbal remedies for anxiety and depression include St. John’s Wort, which is effective for some people but should not be taken by women who are on oral contraceptives. Adding Omega-3 fatty acids to your diet can also help. Fish oil is the easiest way to get this. Supplementing Vitamin B6 and magnesium can also help. Herbal remedies for anxiety include valerian (which should be used with caution as it is a sedative and has been known to be addictive). Passionflower is another good herb that helps reduce anxiety and stress.
Essential oils can also help many people who are depressed, and, for that matter, people who are just having a bad day. Recommended oils for depression include bergamot and neroli (both made from bitter orange), rose and chamomile. Essential oils have no side effects and are excellent if you are not sure if you are depressed or just feeling a little stressed and blue. One of the best ways to use them is to add them to a bath and soak for a while with a good book.
Depression does not have to mean a trip to the psychiatrist for ‘happy pills’ and natural remedies can be both safer and more effective.
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