Beat Depression and Anxiety Without Drugs

In light of the shocking suicides of fashion icon Kate Spade at 55 and Anthony Bourdain at 61, experts encourage us to take anxiety disorders and depression seriously.

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults aged 18 and over according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. The ADAA points out that is it not uncommon for those who suffer from these disorders to also suffer from depression. And the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) states that 16 million adults in America suffer from at least one major depressive episode every year.

“Depression can be a dangerous health condition which can lead to severe consequences, including suicide, if not addressed correctly,” Dr. Ellen Kamhi, Ph. D, RN and author of Cycles of Life, Herbs for Women, tells Newsmax Health.

“Therefore it is a health concern that should be evaluated by a licensed professional. However, there are times when self care is appropriate. For example, if the depression is mild, seems to be a passing phase within a short period of time, caused by a specific event such as moving, retiring or some other life change or linked to SAD (seasonal affective disorder), natural therapies can be helpful.”

One of the most powerful anti-depressant therapies is the use of pure essential oils.