Most of us have had bad days and have experienced depression at least once in our lives. For some, it’s chronic, while for others, it is passing. No matter what you experience though, it is completely common to feel down every now and then. So we wanted to dedicate today’s blog to natural ways to fight depression and to spring back (and possibly prevent) those down days.
Facts about Depression
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population every year.
To break that down even further, Major Depressive Disorder affects more than 16.1 million American adults, or about 6.7% of the U.S. population aged 18 and older. So when we say it’s common, we mean it! But what is it?
Depression is a medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. It can cause feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. Many people describe it as feeling unmotivated or empty.
Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include:
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Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
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Changes in appetite
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Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
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Loss of energy
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Feeling worthless or guilty
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Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
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Thoughts of death or suicide
Thankfully, there are natural ways to fight depression so you can feel better, faster.
Natural Ways to Fight Depression
Depression is treatable. Before we jump into it, it is important to know that different things work for different people. Natural methods may not be enough to fight off your depression completely. If that’s the case, then consider going to a therapist or getting on antidepressants to help reduce the symptoms.
Talk with your doctor. They’ll know how to help. There is no shame in admitting you need help — the strongest person is the one who does what is right for themself, even when it’s hard.
Vitamins B6 and B12
B vitamins are vital for your brain health and mood regulation. In fact, being deficient in B12 and B6 could be a major contributing factor of your depression.
Vitamin B6 has also been found to improve depressive symptoms when used in combination with other nutrients, including tryptophan and a form of vitamin B3 called nicotinamide.
Additionally, supplementing with vitamin B12 has also been shown to reduce symptoms in people with Major Depressive Disorder when used alongside antidepressants.
A 2020 review similarly suggested that taking vitamin B12 supplements early may delay the onset of depression and improve the effects of antidepressant medications.
Zinc for Depression
Zinc is a mineral that’s critical to brain health and the regulation of neurotransmitter pathways. It’s most commonly known for its anti-inflammatory properties and as an antioxidant. Beyond that, zinc is strongly linked to how severe depression and its symptoms are!
One analysis of 17 studies found that people with lower levels of zinc in their blood exhibited stronger symptoms of depression than those with normal levels, suggesting the zinc deficiency can be a factor in depression as well.
Similarly, a review that included four randomized control studies found that when participants took zinc supplements alongside their antidepressant medications, they experienced significantly lowered depressive symptoms. So, zinc is a powerhouse for fighting depression too!
You can get zinc, B6, and B12 in our IV treatments! Book an appointment online or give us a call at 602-755-9525 to set up your 100% mobile appointment. Our registered nurses will come to you and administer the IV. You’ll be feeling better in no time!
Saffron Boosts Your Mood
It’s not all about vitamins and healthy diets, though those do play a significant role in your mood. If you’re healthy and still have depressive moods or depression, we recommend trying saffron.
It is a brightly colored spice that’s packed with antioxidants, including the carotenoids crocin and crocetin. Studies have shown that saffron can increase levels of serotonin in the brain. While it’s unknown exactly how this process works, it’s thought that saffron keeps the serotonin in your system for longer.
However, larger trials with longer follow-up periods are needed to better assess Saffron’s long-term ability to help treat depression. Right now, it’s widely considered a quick pick-me-up!
We at IV Revival understand that depression is hard and low-mood days are horrible to deal with. You shouldn’t have to suffer through it. Talk with your doctor about antidepressants and/or try these natural vitamins to help relieve your symptoms. Remember, there is no shame in healing!