One of the areas where aromatherapy shines is depression. It’s a hidden disease and while we’re getting much better at having honest discussions about depression, we still have a long way to go.

As an aromatherapist, I know how valuable and easy essential oils are in helping you with depression. 

What Is Depression?

Just about everyone experiences periods of sadness or helplessness. It’s a natural reaction to have when life goes sideways. When the sadness lingers and becomes a continual part of your life, it’s time to talk to your medical professional. Here are some of the symptoms:  

• Intense sadness
• A feeling of hopelessness
• Irritability and anxiety
• An empty feeling
• Lack of energy and many times, extreme tiredness
• Minor aches and pains that can’t be explained

These are not all the symptoms and I want you to understand the information I offer here is general in nature. If you’re looking for honest information or just beginning your education on depression, this is a good starting point.

How Do I Know If I’m Really Depressed?

Not everyone has the same (or all) symptoms and the duration and intensity can vary. Sometimes (as in my case), it’s seasonal. The closer we get to winter solstice, the more intense my Seasonal Affective Disorder is. I now understand what I’m dealing with and through aromatherapy, I’ve got a handle on it.

According to WebMD.com, there are certain universal symptoms of depression. If you’re concerned that you’re depressed (again – talk to your medical professional), think about these symptoms and see where they apply to you:

• You’re not sleeping well – either way too much or not enough
• Sex and intimacy don’t interest you
• You feel tired or have very low energy during the day, but especially in the morning
• Concentrating for more than a few minutes seems impossible
• Everyday activities are difficult to perform
• You have thoughts of suicide
• You’ve lost or gained weight for no apparent reason
• Feel achy all over and don’t know why
• Either overeat or don’t feel hungry at all
• Feel restless and at “loose ends”

Again, these aren’t all the symptoms but this gives you a good idea of patterns that have emerged in your life if you really think about it. If you’re not sure, please talk to your medical professional. If you’re clinically depressed, this mental illness is very treatable with medication and therapy.

Just know that depression medication usually comes with negative side effects. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, this may not be the best solution for you especially if you don’t have health insurance.

How Can Aromatherapy Help With Depression?

Aromatherapy has proven to be invaluable in working with Seasonal Affective Disorder as well as the mild depression that I’ve experienced. The blends I’ve created for depression (especially when you feel anxious on top of it) have helped many people – including me – get through to the other side.

Peaceful Ease Aromatherapy Rollerball has been a huge help in lessening the severity and intensity of depression. I created this blend for a case study during aromatherapy school and it’s one of my biggest sellers.

Bergamot is an excellent essential oil to use for depression along with lemon and lavender. Lavender is very well-known for its’ balancing properties and can also help with the minor aches and pains.

Use these oils by diffusing, inhaling or applying to your skin along with a carrier oil of your choice. depression and essential oils

Getting Real About Depression

Depression doesn’t have to take over your life. Yes, it’s REAL. Please don’t hide and seriously, have an honest discussion with your medical professional. I want to help take the shame out of depression and one way to do that is through honest and open discussion.

If you have concerns and want to talk, please fill out this simple contact form and let’s talk today – don’t wait!