The daily challenges people face include losing a loved one, failed relationships, battles of life, and inner insecurities. These difficulties have led to increased depression, and now more than before,mental health has become a serious issue. Depression cases are increasing daily due to the many factors that contribute to damagedmental health. Unhealthy food, poor social life, social media, and illnesses are things we fight against daily, and it’s not surprising that they all result to one thing-poor mental status.Sometimesthe sadness can pass, and one can gain the normal self, while sometimes, it may take longer. In chronic cases, depression can be treated through lifestyle changes, medication, therapy, or herbal and supplements. Focusing on the herbs and supplements, let’s discuss how theseremedies can help you deal with depression.
Herbs for depression
Ginseng
Ginseng is traced back to the older days, and up to now, it still serves as a great herb for improving mental health. It’s an effective option because of its ability to reduce the effects of stress and boost energy. Try taking this natural plant in the morning or at night, and you’ll have the motivation and mental strength to deal with any hardship that may come your way.
Lavender
Probably you’ve seen lavender in the list anytime you search for self-care tips. Well, that’s exactly why it couldn’t miss in our options.Lavender oil is popular for its relaxation effects and minimizing anxiety or mood killers in individuals. More so, it’ll improve your sleep pattern and help you get a beautiful sleep that you’ve always crave for but denied by life’s anxieties.
St john’s wort
This herb can treat mild to moderate mental issues. It’s a perfect antidepression medication that’ll improve your mental status. However, you may need more guidance before using this type of plant. It may be helpful to some people, but to others, it may worsen their condition.
Chamomile
Chamomile has been useful in managing anxiety and depression for years. It offers relief from depressive effects and will be a great help in your dark mental moments.
Saffron
With this spice that you can add to any diet, you need to consider itbecause of its health benefits. It’s a powerful antioxidant with benefits like boosting mood, increasing sexual function, and ofcourse, our main interest-an antidepression medication.
Supplements for depression
Vitamin B
Vitamin B is a great supplementfor improving neurological abilities and boosting mood.Vitamin B12, B6, and folate have an important function in producing and regulating important neuro substances like dopamine, serotonin, and gamma-aminobutyric acid. According to research,lack of enough Vitamin B12 and folate are linked to depression. Supplementing your meals with these nutrients will help you recover from depressive feelings.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a multi-beneficial mineral that can also help those suffering from depression. You can start focusing on foods rich in it to boost your capacity to deal with poor mental health. You may need foods like whole grains, greens, nuts and seeds, and dry beans.
Zinc
Zinc is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions. More so, it helps promote brain health andregulate neurotransmitter activities. Lacking this nutrient will increase the chances of getting depressed. Increaseit in your diet to reduce the risks of getting a mental breakdown.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an important nutrient if you want to stay healthy. It’s helpful even with maintaining goodmental health. Having enough levels of this vitamin will lessen inflammation, boost your mood, and prevent you from getting neurocognitive disorders.
Creatine
Sometimes all you need is a high energy, and everything else will be okay. Creatine, an organic acid, will boost your activeness, help you maintain good brain energy, and reduce depression symptoms.
Which is better, herbs or supplements?
As individuals get more health-conscious, especially mental health, it may not be easy to choose what will work best for you. You may be confused ifit’s herbal or nutrient supplements that you need. Only you can know what’s best for you, but your doctor should help you make the right decision. Also, you may have to consider factors like your body needs, the accessibility of your choice, and your allergic reactions. Some herbs are difficult to get compared to supplements whichyou can easily buy from stores. With herbs, you may find yourself using a plant that your body is allergic to and end up hurting your body. You can choose to combine both herbs and supplements. It’s all on you. All you have to do is ensure the herbal product and supplement you take is regulated by FDA and it’s friendly to your body.
How do you know you need herbs and supplements for depression?
There are many victims of depression, yet not all cases are reported. Many individuals either don’t know they’re depressed or still in denial and can’t accept that they need mental help. If you have the following symptoms, you may need to seek help;
- Feeling too sad at all times
- Easily irritated and frustrated
- Becoming disinterested in activities you used to love
- Sleep problems
- Fatigue
- Lack of appetite
- Concentration issues
- Frequents thoughts of committing suicide
- Physical pain like headache, stomach ache
Areherbs and supplements the only way of dealing with depression?
Although herbs and supplements are effective in helping you recover from depression, they’re not entirely the best solutions. Some other ways can help you improve your mental status faster and have a long-term recovery. Other alternatives include finding emotional support from groups experiencing the same issue with you, family, mentor, or friends. Also, get engaged in your hobby, adapt healthy habits like avoidingfatty and sugary foods, get enough sleep, spend time outdoor, avoid social media, exercise regularly, and focus on the positives.
Conclusion
Depression is often dismissed and considered something unreal that does not need treatment. But for how long will people live sad lives, and even some losing their lives because of unstable mental health? If you’re struggling with depression, you can make your life better and live happily just the way you always want. Before you seriously get affected by depression, seek treatment immediately you realize your mood and mental health is getting damaged. If you’re helpless and facing difficulties because of life’s anxieties, you’re not alone. You can overcome this, my friend. Let this article be your wake-up call!
Credits
We would like to thank the below contributors who have helped us to write this article:
MS, Lund University, Sweden
Nutrition plays an important role in human life. Eating habits are one of the factors that affect our health. There is often a misconception among people that nutritionists force a very restrictive diet, but that is not true. In fact, I don't ban any products, but I point out dietary mistakes and help change them by giving tips and new recipes that I've tried myself. I advise my patients not to resist change and to be purposeful. Only with willpower and determination can a good result be achieved in any area of life, including changing eating habits. When I don't work, I love to go climbing. On a Friday evening, you are most likely to find me on my couch, cuddling with my dog and watching some Netflix.
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