Seeking Professional Help: A Psychology Student's Journey and Lifestyle Strategies for Overcoming Anxiety and Depression

As a psychology student, it's essential to navigate the challenges of mental health effectively. This journey of overcoming anxiety and depression can be daunting, but with the right steps, significant progress can be made. In this article, we explore the importance of seeking professional help and share some valuable lifestyle strategies based on personal experience and research.

Getting Professional Help: A Personal Experience

It's perfectly alright to seek professional help, and your teachers can often be a valuable resource. In my own experience, I started experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression over a year ago. Initially, I considered professional help and decided to reach out to my teacher for suggestions. This approach worked well for me, as they not only provided guidance but also pointed me in the right direction towards finding a competent professional.

When I first approached a doctor about my depression, they prescribed medication and scheduled a follow-up appointment in just four weeks. However, my instincts told me that there were better, more holistic ways to address my mental health. After contacting numerous organizations and nearly giving up hope, I stumbled upon a less conventional support system. This organization, though not primarily designed for assistance, provided me with a name of a doctor and some valuable pointers. This opened up a new chapter in my mental health journey.

My first consult with the new doctor was transformative. They discontinued the prescribed medication and explained the potential side effects. They prescribed a different set of medications and enrolled me with a government-funded psychologist. They also provided me with actionable steps to start my recovery process, along with a clearer explanation of what to expect in the coming weeks. The right professional can make a significant difference in transforming one's mental health journey.

Exploring the Benefits of a Teacher's Support

It's highly beneficial to have someone close by, like a teacher, who can provide support and guidance as you navigate your mental health journey. Teachers are often knowledgeable and empathetic, and they can offer you a different perspective that is grounded in their experience and understanding of mental health.

If you trust and confide in someone, talking to them can be incredibly helpful. Ventilating your mind and seeking help is a significant step in the right direction. However, if your teacher is a regular professional, like a counselor or therapist, you can seek their help more confidently and effectively. Trust and confidence in your support system are crucial for recovery.

Lifestyle Strategies for Overcoming Anxiety and Depression

Based on my personal experience and years of research, I can confidently recommend a few natural and free lifestyle strategies that have significantly helped me overcome chronic major depression and anxiety. These include:

1. Phasing Out Recreational Drugs and Sugar

Alcohol, marijuana, nicotine, and other recreational drugs can provide temporary relief but can also cause long-term harm. The science is increasingly confirming that these substances can worsen anxiety and depression over time. By living a sober lifestyle, you can experience a clearer mind and a more stable emotional state.

Phase out foods with added sugar, sweeteners, salt, and MSG. These foods may taste delicious in the short term but are likely to contribute to worsened anxiety, depression, and health issues in the long run. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods and drink plain water and unsweetened milks.

2. Engaging in Daily Physical Exercise

Regular physical activity is crucial for mental health. Aim to do something that gets you to break a sweat or makes you breathe heavily. This kind of exercise is not only therapeutic but also backed by extensive scientific evidence that supports its effectiveness in reducing anxiety and depression.

3. Embracing and Processing Daily Aches and Hardships

It's important to acknowledge and experience physical and emotional pain, rather than trying to numb it. Avoidance only prolongs the inevitable and can exacerbate your symptoms over time. Pain, whether physical or emotional, is a meaningful signal that guides us in our journey of growth and resilience.

4. Phasing Out Mindless Entertainment

Enjoyable but mindless or hyperstimulating entertainment, such as TV shows, movies, music, video games, pornography, or social media, can offer temporary amusement but lead to worsened mood, anxiety, and pain in the long term. Instead, engage in activities that promote learning, growth, and connection, such as reading, chatting with friends, playing with children, spending time in nature, and meditating.

Conclusion

Seeking professional help and adopting a healthy lifestyle are both critical in overcoming anxiety and depression. The support of a trusted professional, like a teacher, can be invaluable as you embark on this journey. Personal experience and scientific research show that natural lifestyle changes can make a significant difference. Embrace these strategies and give yourself time and persistence, as overcoming these conditions is possible with the right approach.

For more information on overcoming depression and anxiety naturally, I have recently published a free 100 page book called The Suddist Way. You can download it for free from the link below or from popular online bookstores. My goal is to help others overcome their anxiety and depression so they can live their lives to the fullest.

Wishing you good luck in your journey to recovery. It can be done.