Depression and anxiety disorders are on a rise nowadays. They can make us feel helpless and lonely. Most people suffering from them avoid seeking treatment and discard it as a temporary feeling. Disruption of a normal life, loss of energy, lack of confidence and avoidance of people are some of the indicators that characterize depression. Anxiety and depression affect the poor and the rich alike. Wealthy people with their high profile jobs are equally plagued with these ailments as those who are not as well-off. However, this does not imply that there is no cure for these problems. In this article, we shall delve into the natural remedies for tackling the menace of anxiety and depression.
1. Eliminate sugar
People having a sweet tooth struggle specifically more in avoiding sugar. But, it needs to be done for achieving optimal health. A study suggests that the intake of sugar is linked to the onset of depression in the people. People who eat processed foods laced with sugar are more likely to suffer from it than those who indulge in whole foods.
Sugary foods have been found out to be the cause of inflammation in the body as well. What follows is a loss of appetite, improper sleeping patterns and the high chances of contracting diseases like cancer and digestive disorders. All of this contributes to anxiety and depression over time. You can switch to healthier alternatives like brown sugar, stevia or maple syrup. Hence, aim to reduce the intake of white and refined sugar both directly and indirectly. Eliminate it once your dependence on it lessens.
2. Reduce the intake of caffeine and alcohol
The morning joe is known to wake you up from sleep and banish the laziness. Yet, caffeinated drinks worsen the depression, anxiety as well as insomnia. As per a study, those who drink caffeine even moderately show signs of despondency. The reason being that caffeine disrupts the blood sugar control and increases stress in the brain. When combined with sugar, the caffeinated drinks spike the blood sugar significantly. This further causes uneasiness, irritability and anxiety disorders.
Even alcohol causes the similar ailments. Even though it may provide temporary relief, it is damaging in the long run. Drinking within limits is not harmful. However, alcohol abuse can spiral relationship problems, low academic results, and poor work performance. Hence, those who wish to counter anxiety and depression must limit the consumption of caffeine and alcohol.
3. Indulge in exercises
Taking out time for yourself should be on your priority list. Neglecting your health can show up on your energy levels and performance. To feel happier and boost satisfaction levels, one must exercise. Beginners can begin by indulging in light exercises such as cycling, squats, and planks. With time, you can move on to the intense ones like push-ups, lifting, and deadlifts.
Exercises can treat insomnia with time. Indulging in it helps in getting a good sleep at night. Studies suggest that working out can make you happier and smarter. This creates the room for tackling anxiety and depression. It is also known to invigorate the organs, boost the mood, increase self-esteem and reduce stress. The more you sweat, the fitter you get. It is thus said that a healthy mind resides in a fit body.
4. Good nutrition
We are what we eat. This quote has become quite popular nowadays. This implies that our diet has a significant impact on our physical as well as mental well-being. Hence, we must inculcate a balanced diet in our schedule. Foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grain, dishes, and low-fat dairy contribute to the peace of mind.
Apart from the above, there are certain nutrients that relax the nervous system and promote a good mood. These include magnesium, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. Foods high in these nutrients such as nuts, whole grains, dark chocolate, legumes, salmon and green vegetable aid in driving the irritability away and stabilize the mind well.
5. Sufficient sleep
Sleeping less than enough prevents the body from getting the rest it requires. Sleep deprivation is known to be one of the primary reasons for anxiety and depression. Your energy levels might see a dip, the performance at work will be hit and can even harm the fertility. These factors contribute to one feeling low at first and can spiral into depression over a period of time. Hence, it is absolutely necessary we sleep for about 7-8 hours a day.
Sleeping well shall aid in the rehabilitation and recovery of the cells of the body. It makes us feel fitter and gives a boost to our confidence. In case you have trouble sleeping on time at night, try remaining devoid of mobile phones, TVs, laptops and any other screen around you. You can also use essential oils for relaxation and acquiring uninterrupted zzz’s.
Anxiety, depression, sadness, and hollowness might sometimes make you feel that there is no way out of it. Everything might appear gloomy. Not for long, though. Spend time with your friends, take part in activities you like and include these natural remedies in your daily schedule. You might take some time to adjust to the new routine. However, the benefits you shall reap out of it are worth all the effort.
Author Bio: Jessica is an avid reader who enjoys getting lost in the world of books. She co-authored Supercharge Organic Traffic: A popular course focusing on Organic Traffic for E-commerce. Holding on to her passion for fitness, She Believes that a healthy diet is a key to healthy living.
