Mental health has been a highlighted issue in recent years, but is rapidly gaining more attention during this pandemic. With all the changes of the world; people losing jobs, not being able to get together with friends or family, more parents remote or homeschooling and working from home our brains are dealing with a heavy load.
Personally I struggle with a panic disorder, and the recent pandemic has set back some of my progress towards getting better. I’ve been able to lean on some things I’ve learned on my journey to keep me level, or at least on this side of sane most days. But with everything going on the last few months those tricks were barely getting me through most days.
There was a period of time I did take a prescription for my disorder, but it stopped working after a while. My Doctor had me try a few other prescriptions that didn’t work and had awful side effects. So I decided to look into alternative solutions. I did get to see a counselor, which helped so much! I also did a ton of research on natural remedies. There’s actually a lot of different herbs that are great for helping curb anxiety, depression and panic attacks. I’ve found these herbs to be especially good for my mental health since this pandemic started!
My Favorite Remedies for Anxiety and Depression
- Chamomile is my most favorite! It’s delicious and can be easily mixed with other herbs. The polyphenols and antioxidants in Chamomile go to work on your central nervous system and detox your body from stress. Very useful as a tea, tincture or essential oil.
- Lavender is most popular as an essential oil, but it’s tea has some great benefits as well! It helps to promote relaxation. It has been used in alternative medicine for its mild sedative properties. It’s a lifesaver for those nights when you have insomnia. It also has a variety of other health benefits.
- St John’s Wort has been used for its antidepressant properties. It also helps to regulate hormone levels in the body which helps curb anxiety and depression. This, like most herbs, also has a wide range of other health benefits.
- Holy Basil has powerful adaptogen properties which helps promote Mental balance and help your body adapt to stress. It’s also packed with antioxidants and aids in increasing your stomach’s defenses, among so many other benefits.
There are so many other herbs, foods and remedies out there, but these are the ones that have worked best for me. I encourage you to do your own research or talk to an alternative medicine Dr. if you want to try a more natural way of combating any mental health issue or illness. As always it’s best to check with your doctor before taking any new herb or supplement especially if you are on any medication.
Another Great Mental Health Boost I’ve come across is an Amazing Brain supplement.
An amazing company that actually launched in the middle of this pandemic created a supplement specifically for brain health; Brān Reimagined. Scientists used Nano-technology to combine 16 vitamins and nutrients to better absorb into our body. Therefore these vitamins and minerals are more effective and do a better job. I started to take it in July when I was really starting to feel the weight of this pandemic. Though I’ve still struggled a little here and there, I really noticed a difference in how I was responding to and thinking about all the changes. It didn’t feel like everything was falling apart as much as it did before. If you want to learn more about this all natural supplement CLICK HERE. This supplement has been a game changer for my mental health during the pandemic.
It’s more than self care
Self care is important no matter your state of mental health. But if you’re struggling a little more than usual or have a mental disorder there are a few extra things you can do to help. Our mental health during this pandemic requires a little more than simply self care.
- Take a walk or do some lite exercise a few days a week. This will trigger the endorphins in your brain, which makes you feel happier.
- Cut back on sugar, as it actually feeds anxiety, plus it’s really not good for your gut health.
- Meditation is extremely helpful. It’s hard for some people(me including) to sit still and learn how to meditate. But once you get the hang of it/ practice it more it gets easier and you start to see the benefits from it.
- Get some sunshine! Wait a little while before putting sunscreen on so your skin can absorb that Vitamin D, which actually helps your brain feel happy.
- Eat healthy. Keeping a balanced diet is a huge help in taking care of your mental health.
- For me making a weekly schedule helps a lot! Planning for kids schooling, work, grocery shopping and meal planning. Which I understand is a lot to balance these days, but it helps add a little certainty in a world today that is so uncertain. But don’t forget to schedule in some self care and or “Me Time” as well! Taking care of yourself is so important in battling stress of any kind.
- Visit with a friend or your family. Even if it’s just a video call on any platform. ( i.e. Zoom Facebook Messenger, Google Duo or Google Meets.) Even with social distancing and in some cases having to quarantine, It’s important to connect with people!
- Take a hot bath with a glass of Fine Wine. Red wine is good for your heart health, so this suggestion is a win-win! (Mental and heart health all taken care of in one step!)
- Spend some time relaxing a little bit every week. No matter what it is; reading a book, watching a favorite movie/ TV show, painting/drawing, journaling, giving yourself a manicure or anything that helps you calm down and unwind.
- There are so many ways you can take time for yourself as long as you spend a little time each week doing so. GO HERE for more ways to unwind and relax.
Response Magic