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Treating Anxiety, Stress And Depression – Part 2

Posted Tuesday, September 23rd, 2014 by

anxiety, depression, stress, mental health, acupuncture, scottsdale, az

This post is the second part of a series titled “Treating Anxiety, Stress And Depression”. If you’ve not already done so, we recommend that you first read part one, as it provides information about the causes of these emotional challenges—as well as certain characteristics that differentiate the three. Please click here to view that post: [Link]

What are some natural ways of treating anxiety, stress and depression?

Western medicine has created “solutions” for those experiencing mental health issues. However, many (if not all) of these treatments lack a natural and/or holistic perspective—and oftentimes fail. When patients do not get the help they need, it can propel them into a deeper and darker place in life. That is why it’s so important to provide alternatives that support the patient’s entire mental, physical and spiritual well-being.

In part 1 of this series we provided some information as to how anxiety, stress and depression differ. It is important to identify which challenge a person is facing, as the treatment styles and methods will vary greatly. While experiencing stress can be undesirable, it is far easier to handle than anxiety. With that said, anxiety is a considerably different experience than being depressed. All three of these mental-health issues are on the same continuum, but they vary significantly with regard to symptoms experienced and emotions elicited.

Stress is something that most people encounter on a daily basis. Anxiety, on the other hand, is defined as experiencing a stressor long after the event or stimulus has passed. While being under stress is quite common, there are also many people suffering with anxiety on a regular basis. Regardless of whether you are experiencing stress or dealing with anxiety, there are many ways of treating yourself using natural remedies that have no side effects.

Before we provide a list of remedies, we want to mention that it is best to focus on resolving the core issue(s) that is causing the stress. There are times when this isn’t possible, or times when resolution can take extended periods of time. In those instances, having tools and natural solutions is quite helpful. A list of safe non-drug remedies for stress and anxiety are: exercise, getting sufficient amounts of sleep, eating breakfast, not skipping meals, drinking chamomile or green tea, exploring nature, hiking, meditating, practicing stillness, being mindful, using affirmations, making lists of daily accomplishments, being present, spending time with pets and children, putting things into perspective, talking to loved ones and journaling. These are only a few of the many natural remedies that can help to alleviate stress and anxiety. It is important to note that natural remedies are helpful in relieving stress and anxiety, but if the stress or anxiety becomes a chronic issue, you should seek help. Natural remedies are helpful but are not a replacement for professional assistance. [Link]

Depression is a more serious emotional challenge that needs to be viewed separately from stress and anxiety. Depression can easily take over a person’s life. That said, we want to provide specific natural solutions and remedies that can be used in conjunction with professional assistance.

One of the best things a person suffering from depression can do is to alter his or her behaviors and routines. Just the simple act of being outside in the sun can help to boost the mood of those suffering. WebMD has provided a list of 10 natural depression treatments that can be a complement to working with a professional (and possibly taking medication.) Here is the list they have provided: get into a routine, set goals, exercise, eat healthy, get enough sleep, take on new responsibilities, challenge negative thoughts, check with your doctor before taking supplements (some can have adverse drug interactions), do something new and try to have fun. [Link] Many of these tips might seem trite or obvious, but even the smallest action can have a profound effect on a person’s mood. Having the correct intention and following through on the action will help to keep a person focused on the task at hand and begin to shift his or her energy and attention. Suffering with depression can make even the simplest of activities extremely difficult; just getting up and going outside or doing something new can seem daunting. Bearing that in mind, we suggest starting off slowly and keeping things simple. Make sure to pace yourself. Then give yourself credit for being brave. Acknowledge what you’ve achieved and reward yourself accordingly.

In part 3 of this series we will explore how acupuncture and Chinese herbs can help those suffering with anxiety, stress and depression. If you are struggling with any of these emotional challenges, we urge you to seek help as soon as possible.