Struggles with anxiety and depression are very common, especially as we continue to adapt to the lasting effects of the pandemic. There’s no doubt that prescription medications can be very effective, but essential oils can also help you support your overall mental health.
What Are Anxiety Disorders?
Anxiety disorders are characterized by feelings of worry, tension, and fear. These disorders can make it difficult to function in day-to-day life. There are several different types of anxiety disorders, including:
- Generalized anxiety disorder: This type of disorder is characterized by chronic and exaggerated worry and tension. People with generalized anxiety disorder may feel anxious about a variety of things, including their health, work, or family life.
- Panic disorder: This type of disorder is characterized by sudden and repeated episodes of intense fear. These episodes may include physical symptoms, such as a racing heart or sweating.
- Social anxiety disorder: This type of disorder is characterized by extreme fear of social situations. People with social anxiety disorder may avoid social situations, or they may experience intense anxiety and discomfort when they are in them.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a mood disorder that is characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. Depression can affect a person’s ability to work, study, eat, sleep, and enjoy activities.
Common symptoms of depression include:
- Feeling sad or empty most of the time
- Loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feeling tired all the time
- Unexplained physical symptoms such as digestive issues or frequent headaches
- Changes in appetite
- Thoughts of death or suicide
While there is no one cause of depression, it can be triggered by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and social factors.
Depression is different from feeling down or sad. It is a more severe problem that can last for weeks, months, or even years.
What Essential Oils Are Used to Treat Anxiety and Depression?
Essential oils are a natural and effective way to treat anxiety and depression. The best essential oils for anxiety and depression include:
- Lavender essential oil: Lavender oil has a calming and relaxing effect on the mind and body. It is one of the most popular essential oils for anxiety and depression.
- Lemon essential oil: Lemon oil has a refreshing and uplifting effect on the mind and body. It can help to improve mood and reduce stress.
- Rosemary essential oil: Rosemary oil has a stimulating and uplifting effect on the mind and body. It can help to improve mood and reduce stress.
- Bergamot essential oil: Bergamot oil is a citrus oil that has an uplifting and refreshing effect on the mind and body.
- Ylang ylang essential oil: Ylang ylang oil has a sweet and floral aroma that is known to be very calming and relaxing.
- Chamomile essential oil: Chamomile oil has a sweet and herbaceous aroma that is known to be very calming and relaxing.
How Can I Use Essential Oils to Treat Anxiety and Depression?
Essential oils are natural oils that have been extracted from plants. They can be used in many ways, including inhaling them (aromatherapy), rubbing them on the skin (topical application), or adding them to a bath (bath salt).
Aromatherapy is a popular way to use essential oils because it is thought to be one of the most effective ways to receive the benefits of the oils. When you inhale essential oils, they travel through your nose and down to your lungs where they are absorbed into your bloodstream.
Topical application is another popular way to use essential oils. You can add a few drops of oil to a lotion or carrier oil and rub it on your skin. The oils will then be absorbed through your skin and into your bloodstream.
Adding essential oils to a bath is a relaxing way to use them. Simply add a few drops of oil to your bathtub filled with warm water. You can also add a few drops of oil to a diffuser to spread the scent throughout your home or office.
What Other Home Remedies Can Help With My Mental Health?
There are a number of other home remedies that can help with mental health. Some people find that journaling, spending time in nature, or practicing meditation can help to reduce anxiety and depression. Others find that acupuncture, yoga, or Tai Chi can be helpful. Talk to your doctor about what might work best for you. Remember, you are not alone and there is help available.