Major depressive disorder is certainly one of the most common mental health disorders out there. However, it’s still among the most ignored issues. People confuse depression with everyday life stress when in reality, stress is just a symptom and depression is a psychological disorder.
Though the symptoms of major depressive disorder are different for everyone, a few of the common ones are as follows:
- Reduced interest in daily life activities
- Feelings of emptiness and hopelessness
- Sleep-related issues; for example, insomnia
- Binge eating or loss of appetite
- Body aches and hormonal changes
- Loss of energy and constant fatigue
- Suicidal thoughts or possible attempts
Regardless of the symptoms of major depressive disorder, whatever they might be, the treatment remains the same. People usually go for antidepressants when it comes to the treatment of depression. Although antidepressants work well for treating the symptoms of depression, they bring along a plethora of side effects.
Thus, many people these days are turning to lifestyle rehabilitation instead. Yes, a few lifestyle changes can help you successfully get rid of major depressive disorder. They include:
Regular Exercise
First and foremost, you need to get moving. If you don’t exercise regularly, you must add it to your daily routine right away. I know depression doesn’t allow you to get up and be active but please know that it’s the best way to combat the symptoms of this all-consuming disorder.
Regular exercise boosts the levels of endorphins in your bloodstream while eliminating stress and uplifting your mood. It also helps regulate your energy levels, which are mostly down when you’re depressed. If you ask me; I suggest you go for a walk in a nearby park. Nature also has healing properties, so it can be of great benefit.
Herbs and Plants
Many herbs and plants are known as natural alternatives to antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. That’s right, guys. They’re loaded with natural healing properties and therefore, they work well for the treatment of depression. Not to mention, they have minimal to no side effects, which makes them a better option.
A few such herbs and plants include ashwagandha, valerian root, passionflower, and cannabis. Yes, you’ve heard that correctly. Many states in the US and Canada have legalized cannabis, owing to its magical health benefits and stress relief happens to be one of them. You can buy hash online in Canada and the US to try it for yourself.
Psychotherapy
The third and last is psychotherapy. Though it isn’t the first option as it’s relatively expensive, it is another way to cure the disorder without any side effects. Psychotherapy usually involves talking your heart out, the things that bother you, the things that keep making rounds in your head, but in a professional setting.
Once your therapist knows everything that has you consumed, he or she starts working on your case. They talk you out of it and provide you with a fresh perspective on life. It may require you to visit your psychotherapist back and forth but if nothing else works, it’s a remedy worth considering. Thus, you must give it a try.
Lastly, I just want to say that depression is a severe mental health disorder and you must not take it lightly. Immediate treatment is the only way to combat its symptoms, so be sure to cater to it right away. I wish you well!
