Depression and anxiety are fairly common disorders obtained by a multitude of people. Depression can be caused by reasons such as biological, psychological, and social sources of distress. Persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest are just a few symptoms of depression. Anxiety and depression are different conditions, but they often have similar symptoms and treatments. Depression is normally associated with feelings of sever sadness and unhappiness, while anxiety is an intensive, excessive worry or fear of everyday situations. Many people become stressed before a test or during public speaking; however, patients are diagnosed with anxiety when they are not able to function regularly with daily living.
Treatments for both anxiety and depression include psychological counseling and medication, such as antidepressants. Changing lifestyles, such as improving sleep habits, exercising, social support, and stress reducing techniques are all effective on improving the patient’s mental health. These natural methods of treating anxiety and depression are proven to be successful. On the other hand, strong medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as desvenlafaxine and remeron, can lead to side effects and health complications. It is essential to find more natural medications rather than synthetic drugs to further cure patients with anxiety and depression.
Have you ever considered potted plants as a cure for mental illness? According to the Telegraph, there are specific herbs that are selected for mood-boosting and other benefits. For example, lemon balm is used in aromatherapy and helps with relieving stress and anxiety. Catmint also helps reduce tension and helps with insomnia. Many people grow pot plants at home, since they germinate and grow quickly. Pot plants can be useful in many ways. Produce like beans, carrots, squash, wheat, and many more can be grown in your own home. Due to the trouble-free factors of having a pot plant, they are now being prescribed instead of sedatives and antidepressants for those suffering from mood disorders. Patients are given a tub of herbs or pot plants in hope that caring for a plant may raise their spirits. Patients usually bring back these plants which they cared for, and plant them in a garden. Augusta Ward, a medical secretary at Cornbrook Medical Practice said, “Having something to care for brings so many benefits to people – especially for those who may not have a garden or be able to have pets.” Hence, pot plants are great for those who do not have the tools or environment to own a big yard or a costly pet. Many studies have shown that the presence of pot plants in a workspace, schools, or hospitals have mood-boosting effects and lower blood pressure. Working in gardens can alleviate the sad feelings of depression, while the social nature of group gardening can benefit a person’s psychological health as a whole.
Overall, caring for a pot plant or working at a garden can relieve feelings of depression or anxiety. It can improve the patients’ physical and mental health, which would most likely cure patients with these conditions. The next time you are feeling bad, how about buying a pot plant?
Rachel Lee
The Science Academy
