Initially often dismissed, Nigerians are slowly beginning to take anxiety and depression more seriously. People with chronic anxiety face symptoms like nervousness, agitation, tension, a racing heart, and chest pain – which can disrupt normal day-to-day activities and general wellbeing.
Depression affects adults, adolescents, and children and can be life-threatening. The World Health Organization has named depression the main cause of disability worldwide.
Commons symptoms of depression include a feeling of hopelessness that lingers, reduced interest or pleasure in activities previously enjoyed, changes in sexual desire and appetite, unintentional weight loss or gain, excessive sleeping, fatigue or general loss of energy, etc.
Natural remedies for anxiety and depression in Nigeria
Natural remedies are effective for mitigating the health problems associated with depression and anxiety. Natural remedies are generally safe to use alongside other conventional medical therapies. You should, however, consult your doctor for professional advice on the best way to proceed.
Here are top natural remedies for anxiety and depression that works:
1. Exercise
Regular exercise can boost your mood if you have depression, and also help relieve some of the harsh symptoms of anxiety. You don’t need to run a marathon or spend the whole day in the gym – a 15 to 30-minute jog down the street or around the park will go a long way. Understandably, both anxiety and depression can have you feeling sapped out all the time. You should aim to engage in at least a moderate form of physical activity every day and gradually pick up the pace.
2. Massage
A good massage session can help relieve physical and emotional pain and also improve your mood. Whether you suffer from persistent anxiety and depression or experience stress from time to time, massage therapy can help you feel better. Working the knots out with a massage feels good physically and mentally to help you overcome whatever is causing your anxiety. If you feel like your anxiety is becoming overwhelming, reach out to the licensed therapists at BetterHelp to get the support you deserve.
3. Mediation
Numerous studies have confirmed that meditation can help individuals sleep better and cope with some symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. Meditation can also reduce some of the psychological difficulties associated with chronic pain. Meditation has been proven to speed up recovery from physical injury. There is no right way to meditate and you can explore different options for what works best for you.
4. Writing
You don’t need to write a 500-page novel – not like there is anything bad with it. Many mental health experts recommend journaling as a way to manage anxiety and depression because it can improve your mood and awareness. Penning down your experiences is a great way to feel more control of your thoughts and decisions. Your writing can also serve as a form of self-talk to maintain a more positive outlook on life. You can also start an online diary and form a community of like minds with everyone sharing their experiences.
5. Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of fragrant essential oils to improve your mood and general mental state. Essential oils are natural compounds extracted from plants. The sweet scent of many essential oils can be very relaxing. Some of the oils that work great for depression and anxiety are chamomile, sweet orange, grapefruit, neroli, frankincense, jasmine, sandalwood, lavender, cannabidiol (CBD) oil, etc. Some of these essential oils have been found to lift mood and balance hormones, generally improving the unfavourable signs of anxiety and depression.
Other natural remedies that work for anxiety and depression are:
- Taking nature walks
- Petting an animal
- Going on a getaway with some friends
- Using herbal teas
- Gardening
