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Are There Natural Alternatives To Fight Anxiety And Depression?

Many people avoid going to a doctor about their Mental Health because they don't want to have to take drugs to fight it. 

And while it is urged to always seek professional help from a Physician, here are some more natural-based things you can do to help in your battle against Mental Health.

Exercise

Trust me, I know how hard it is to exercise when you don't have time, are super stressed, or if you are depressed and don't want to do anything. If you have the natural will to be able to drag yourself outside even just for a walk, it will do you a world of good to get your heart rate up and your endorphins firing. If you're more of a person that needs a specific goal to make something happen, walk to the nearest convenience store to get your favorite treat, that way there's a reward attached. Or if you're into some form of gaming, start playing something like Pokemon Go, or download the new game coming from 'The Walking Dead' coming to iOS or Android on July 12. These things will give you goals to reach, whether that be walking to hatch an egg, or heading to an area full of zombie activity.

Don't Underestimate Essential Oils

People tend to think that Essential Oils can be very hippie-like, but it's something to consider if you would rather take a natural route. Lavender for relaxation, Eucalyptus for concentration, a combo of Lavender and peppermint, as well as Geranium can help relieve stress, and you can use any of those alone. Adding Basil or Rosemary to that combo can help for stimulating yourself against mental fatigue. Personally, Lavender has been very helpful to me in terms of warding off a panic attack, and Dr. Teal's has a Lavender Bath or Eucalyptus/Spearmint mixture to help you relax as well.

Vitamins

Yeah, taking Vitamins may seem like taking medication to some people, but believe me when I say that if you need a boost, grabbing a Vitamin or two won't hurt. Especially in cases of seasonal depression, many pick up a Vitamin B Complex for energy, and Vitamin D to add to the lack of sunshine you receive in Winter. There have also been murmurs from Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont that just 248mg of magnesium per day leads to an astounding reversal of depression symptoms in study subjects -but has not been confirmed as a legitimate form of treatment by physicians.

Alternative Methods

Though not an endorsement by this station or by Beasley Media Group, there are some studies that have found that Medical Marijuana has helped cases of anxiety and depression in individuals where Marijuana has been legalized for health reasons. As many states are moving toward a legalization argument for Weed, pharmaceutical companies are feeling the pocketbook strain, but in quite a few cases, not only has marijuana helped relieve pain, but many can take it in different forms to ward off panic attacks or get specific strains that are grown to help combat depression symptoms. It is noted by Men's Journal that treating Bipolar Disorder or Schizophrenia with Marijuana has been a no-no. Always consult a physician before starting any regimen and be perfectly honest with them about what you've considered taking before taking it.

As always, do your research before starting any of these natural alternatives.