How To Cure Mild Depression Naturally
Everybody feels blue from time to time. For others, however, feeling sad and depressed happens every time and for little or no reason at all. In some cases, some individuals find it tough to snap out of mild depression after dealing with financial losses, job woes, or other problems.
If you are one of the people who are experiencing occasional blues, then there is no need to worry about anything. You can easily deal with depression naturally. However, if you feel sad and blue for most of the time, then you might want to consult with an expert to help sort things out for you. For mild depression, you do not need to pop an anti-depression drug. Just follow the tips below and you will surely find sunshine back into your life.
Get out of the house and get moving. Mild depression can often be caused or worsened by not getting enough physical exercise. Plan to spend time walking every day. Also consider riding a bike or joining a gym. Aim for 30 minutes of physical exercise 4 to 5 times a week. Exercise has been clinically proven to increase production of seratonin, a chemical in the brain that creates a sense of satisfaction and happiness.
Spend some time in the sun. Seasonal depression during the winter has been linked to lack of sunlight. There are lamps available for a modest cost at hardware stores that are about 5 times brighter than an office light. These lamps can simulate the sun's bright light during the winter. This type of treatment is known as phototherapy.
Speak with your friends and family about how you are feeling. Loneliness is one of the symptoms of mild depression. While it may be difficult to open up your feelings at first, it gets easier the more that you talk about it. Therapists will help you discover the root of your depression so you can make natural adjustments to your lifestyle.
Change your diet. Mild depression has been linked to vitamin deficiencies. Vitamin C, as well as vitamins B1, B6 and B12 are important for the body to naturally treat depression. Consider taking vitamin supplements, which can be inexpensive, or possibly changing your diet to include more vitamin-rich vegetables and fruits.
Try taking St. John's wort as an alternative for treating mild depression. According to the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2002, St. John's wort helps mild to moderate depression. The research reveals that St. John's wort works as well as older tricyclic antidepressants. St. John's wort helps increase serotonin levels. There may be mild side effects such as sensitivity to light, dry mouth and dizziness; however most people find the benefits outweigh the mild side effects. There are medications and other supplements that interact with St. John's wort, so make sure to check with a doctor or pharmacist about any drug interactions
Meditate every day to ease symptoms of mild depression. Taking a few minutes during the day. Find a quiet, relaxing place. Close your eyes, and focus on a work like peace or tranquility. Repeat the word over and over while slowly tensing and then relaxing the muscles in your body. Start with your feet. Move up your legs towards your waist, arms and finally neck and face muscles.