Checking in with ourselves and taking stock of our mental and emotional well-being is one of the most important, yet challenging things for us to do. Although many strides have been made in recent years to erase the stigma associated with mental health disorders, there remains a lot to be done. And with 1 in 5 American adults experiencing some form of mental unease in a given year, it’s imperative that these conversations be had. That’s why we’re here to provide you with some resources that can help you on your personal journey, or that you can share with a loved one. One such resource is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) helpline, which can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).
There are many conditions that fall under the umbrella of mental health, and each presents in nuanced and various ways for each individual. That being said, here are a few conditions and essential oils that can help ease their effects. It must be noted that if you or someone else is experiencing one of these mental health disorders, the following information should be used in addition to the care and support of a health provider.
Anxiety
Most of us get anxious about things in our lives, but those with Anxiety Disorder experience worries and fears that get in the way of day-to-day life. Some ways that anxiety manifests is an inability to focus, irritability, lack of sleep, and/or rapid heartbeat.
Beneficial essential oils include: Basil, Bergamot, Chamomile, Clary Sage, Coriander, Frankincense, Geranium, Hyssop, Lavender, Marjoram, Myrrh, Vetiver, and Ylang Ylang
Depression
There are many forms of depression from mild to severe, persistent to short term (i.e. post-partum depression, seasonal affective disorder), but what remains the same is the overwhelming sense of sadness and hopelessness. Some of the signs of depression include changes in appetite, lack of concentration and energy, and/or physical aches and pains.
Beneficial essential oils include: Allspice, Basil, Bergamot, Chamomile, Clary Sage, Grapefruit, Lavender, Lemon, Mandarin, Petitgrain, Rosemary, Sweet Orange, Vanilla, and Ylang Ylang
Substance Abuse
Addiction is when an activity, such as drinking or gambling, starts to have a negative impact on a person’s life and generally affects their relationships with others. Addiction often involves engaging in behavior that’s physically and/or emotionally harmful to themselves and others.
Beneficial essential oils include: Angelica Root, Basil, Bergamot, Clove, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, and Rosemary