By Liesa Goins; Originally published in Reader’s Digest
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the United States, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Yet only 36.9 percent of those suffering receive treatment. That leaves millions of people in need of relief from treatable symptoms. Studies have shown that a lack of some nutrients may contribute to the development of mental disorders and supplementing essential vitamins and minerals can help ease the symptoms of conditions like anxiety. “I always think of supplements as a potential therapeutic intervention,” says Ellen Vora, MD, a holistic psychiatrist. “They can help jump-start the treatment process and play a part along with nutrition, lifestyle, and conventional medication.” Before taking a new supplement, it’s important to speak with your doctor to discuss any possible drug interactions and see if you need a blood test to diagnose deficiencies. But these key nutrients have been shown to quell the symptoms of anxiety. If vitamins and supplements aren’t enough, here are some other ways to cope with anxiety.
