While we don’t know what exactly causes depression, a number of things are often linked to its development. Depression usually results from a combination of recent events and other longer-term or personal factors, rather than one immediate issue or event. We can usually see a similar pattern from one person suffering from depression to another.
PERSONALITY, HABITS, FAMILY HISTORY, DRUG USE. Patients usually have 1 or all of these points. But no matter what the reason for their depression may be, just leave it to the experts.
We can easily find places that offers counselling, therapies and assistance for depression and anxiety patients. Most will offer the same type of services. Depending on how severe the condition is, the cost varies and may go up to hundreds or maybe even thousands of dollars.. Not everybody is willing to spend a huge sum of money for somebody to remind them that they are insane. Apart from the counselling, the drugs and supplements, there is a more natural way to heal oneself from depression and anxiety which is surrounding yourself with nature. Either going outside to meet plants, or bringing some home.
Plants can give us a clear view on how life really is and should be. When you’re stuck in the ebb and flow of life, it can be really hard to keep perspective on life’s own seasons, and how they’re not always the same. Being close to plants can help you appreciate how our lives and internal states can mimic nature. Sometimes struggling, not always blooming, but always real. With the cycles of life on display in front of us, it’s easier to plunge into the wisdom of how we view life.
Some might ask "wouldn't it worsen the condition when the plants die?" or even "wouldn't it be worse when they make a mistake?" No it will not. There is absolutely no reason for healthy minded people to overthink to that extend. An ex-depression patient once shared,
“It sounds crazy, but a lot of times watching a plant wilt because I maybe forgot to water for a couple of days is a good reminder that I need to also take care of myself. I might not be physically wilting the way a plant does, but I definitely feel like something is lacking when I neglect to nurture myself.”
The best part of plant ownership is how it gives us a little glimpse into how we’re handling our own responsibilities. If your plants aren’t thriving due to your care, it’s probably a good time to look at the rest of your life as well.
Research has already proven that just by being close to nature can affect one's judgement, memory, health, eyesight, emotion and overall well-being - Positively. By having plants in our homes we have the added benefit of boosting the air quality of our living spaces. NASA studies have shown that plants improve air quality by removing toxins and of course add more oxygen which will alleviate stress and fatigue. Some plants like the Snake Plant can also perform CAM which is a process that produces oxygen even at night thus helping us to rest and sleep better.
Fortunately, we share some of the same requirements to thrive that plants do. Here are some self-care tips that work for plants and humans alike:
Stay hydrated.
Get lots of fresh air and sunlight.
Make sure you’re getting the proper nutrients.
Talk nicely about, and to, yourself.
Know that it’s possible to perk up after you wilt.
Give yourself the right conditions to thrive.
Cut off “dead weight” that’s bringing you down.
Tidy up your environment.
Allow yourself to have “seasons.”
If something isn’t working, troubleshoot.
See below for sources and researches:
Lee, M. S., Lee, J., Park, B. J., & Miyazaki, Y. (2015). Interaction with indoor plants may reduce psychological and physiological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity in young adults: a randomized crossover study. Journal of physiological anthropology, 34(1), 21. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40101-015-0060-8
Legall, A. (2019, December 16). 15 Plants That’ll Help With Stress, Anxiety and Depression. Retrieved January 05, 2021, from https://www.hgtv.ca/green-living/photos/plants-stress-anxiety-depression-1934534/
Hillside, H. (2019, April 05). Psychological Benefits of Plants & Horticulture Therapy. Retrieved January 05, 2021, from https://hside.org/plants-improve-mental-physical-health/
Blumberg, P. (2020, October 29). 5 Ways Houseplants Can Improve Your Mental Health. Retrieved January 05, 2021, from https://thebeet.com/5-ways-houseplants-can-improve-your-mental-health/