If you experience a low mood consistently, to the point that it begins to interfere with your daily life, you may be going through depression. It can be a painful struggle for both the person dealing with the symptoms and their loved ones. Here are 4 ways to get to the root cause of your depression and fight it.
1. Understand Why You May Be Feeling Depressed
While depression can be brought on by biochemical imbalances, it can sometimes be a result of your circumstances. Do you have a strained relationship with your boss? Are you contemplating ending your marriage? Has your body been letting you down? Or are you facing a financially unstable future? Be completely honest with yourself about the reasons why you may be feeling depressed. Getting to the root of the problem is the first step towards understanding what to do about it.
2. Build Positive Relationships
A lack of positive relationships in your life can make symptoms of depression worse. It can also lead to low self-confidence and a lack of purpose. Depression is most commonly brought on by emotional issues, so it is important to value your loved ones and seek their support. It can be helpful to seek out people who are undergoing the same experiences and find a strong community of friends. Many people have also benefited greatly from therapy. A licensed counselor can help you manage stress and guide you towards your goals.
3. Use Herbs to Fight Depression
Various herbs and supplements can help alleviate the symptoms of depression. St. John’s wort is probably the most well-known among these. It has anti-anxiety effects and has long been used to treat mild to moderate depression. Lavender oil is another useful remedy that reduces anxiety and induces calm. You could also try other natural herbs like Kava and valerian root that have proven antidepressant effects.
4. Follow A Serotonin-Enhancing Diet
Many anti-depressants work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain and inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin. You can increase your brain’s serotonin levels naturally by eating the right foods. Eat a high protein diet and include healthy fats like coconut oil into your meals. Some of the best serotonin-enhancing plant-based foods you can consume are butternut squash seeds, soy, walnuts, cucumbers and leafy greens.
Final Thoughts
Depression is a serious illness, and it is important to do what you can to fight it. Fortunately, there are natural remedies for depression like lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, herbal remedies and supplements that can help. You could also seek counseling or community support to start on the path to better mental health.
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