Natural Remedies For Depression
Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, offers several natural treatment options for depression that are both effective and easy for you to implement in your life.
According to the World Health Organization, depression affects more than 300 million individuals worldwide. In any given year, 6 and 10% of the population will experience a depressive episode.
The prevalence of depression in South Africa is close to 10%. Yet only 8% of people who have experienced depression seek medical assistance.
“Depression can lead to feelings of helplessness but know that you are not alone. In addition to treatment and medicine, there are many things you may do on your own to fight back. Changing your physical activity, lifestyle, and even your way of thinking are all natural therapies for depression,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
Possible Signs and Symptoms of Depression
There are various symptoms of depression, but you may not have them all. Their intensity and duration differ from person to person. Possible signs of depression may include:
Persistent sadness
Ruminating on mistakes
Self-criticism
Anxiousness
Irritability
Less interest in activities
Less energetic
Trouble concentrating
Changes in the way you sleep
Changes in appetite
Aches and pains
These suggestions by Affinity Health may help you feel better.
Be Active
Exercise increases endorphins, which are feel-good hormones. It may also have long-term benefits for depressed individuals. According to Affinity Health, regular exercise appears to help the brain to remodel itself in good ways.
How much exercise is needed? It is not necessary to run marathons to boost endorphins. Walking a couple of times each week can be beneficial.
Eat Healthily
There is no miraculous diet that can cure depression. However, if you tend to overeat due to depression, gaining control of your eating will help you feel better.
While research is still ongoing, studies suggest foods containing omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon and tuna) and folic acid (such as spinach and avocado) may help alleviate sadness.
Get Enough Sleep
Depression can make it difficult to sleep, and lack of sleep can exacerbate the condition.
Start by making some lifestyle adjustments. Every day, sleep and wake up at the same hour. Try not to nap during the day. Remove any distractions from your bedroom, including your computer and television. Over time, your sleep quality may improve.
Confront Negative Beliefs
A significant portion of your battle against depression includes mental labour — altering your thinking. Depression causes one to jump to the worst conceivable conclusions.
Recruit reasoning as a natural antidepressant the next time you feel bad about yourself. You may believe no one likes you, but is there evidence to support this? You may feel you are the most worthless person in the world, but is this the case? You can beat negativity with stress management strategies.
Take Supplements
There is promising news about antidepressant supplements. However, additional research is required to be sure. Always consult your physician before beginning any dietary supplement, especially if you are currently taking medication.
Schedule Enjoyable Activities
As weird as it may sound, enjoying fun requires effort when you are depressed. Plan activities you formerly enjoyed, even if they now feel like a hassle.
Avoid Alcohol and Other Substances
Substance abuse is widespread among depressed individuals. Depression may increase your likelihood of abusing alcohol, marijuana, or other substances to alleviate its symptoms. It is unknown whether alcohol and drug usage induce depression. However, long-term alcohol and drug use may alter brain function and exacerbate or cause mental health disorders.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
Everyone experiences low moods, sadness, and depression. How are you supposed to know when your symptoms have progressed to the point where you should seek professional assistance? A good rule of thumb is: If your low mood lasts for more than two weeks, is severely interfering with your ability to function at work, with your family, and in your social life, or is prompting you to consider suicide, you should visit a mental health professional immediately.
About Affinity Health
Affinity Health is the leading provider of affordable medical insurance in South Africa. Members enjoy access to a network of healthcare providers. We have designed healthcare products to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.