Weekly Blog #1
The Importance of Mental Health: How Anxiety, Stress, Tension and Lack of Sleep Affect Us
We’ve all been there. Many are there now. The winter months are hard on some people-especially the holidays. The holidays are behind us, but sometimes the effects can be everlasting for some. The effects of trying to make ends meet, eat right, take care of a family, work, and maintain relationships take their toll on us in many different ways. Multiple aspects of stress and anxiety are unavoidable in everyday life, and some stress is good for us. Stress (good) can push us to achieve goals, and get through stressful situations. However, what happens when stress and anxiety take over our lives? Mental health for men and women is no different between the two, but both have slight differences in how they manage their symptoms. For example…The top ten stressors in life are as follows:
Death of a spouse (or child*): 100
- Divorce: 73
- Marital separation: 65
- Imprisonment: 63
- Death of a close family member: 63
- Personal injury or illness: 53
- Marriage: 50
- Dismissal from work: 47
- Marital reconciliation: 45
- Retirement: 45
So, looking at the list above, we can see that death (in any form close to you) and separation from a loved one top the list. Seems losing ones we love is one of the hardest, along with loved ones walking away from us can push us to our limits which can push some into breaking points. It is important to monitor our own mental health, but the mental status of our loved ones as well which can take the form of anxiety and depression. How do we spot anxiety and depression in ourselves or loved ones? Here is some good information to consider:
If you ask someone to name two common mental health problems, chances are they will think of anxiety and depression. Despite the fact that they are commonly referenced in conversation, people still struggle sometimes to determine the difference between these two conditions. This is because many people with anxiety also develop depression and vice versa. Roughly 50% of people diagnosed with depression with also be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. However, it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis in order to treat the correct conditions.
Many people with depression may experience what is known as anxious distress in addition to their low mood. People with anxious distress often feel tense, restless, and have trouble concentrating because they worry so much. They are deeply afraid that something bad is going to happen or that they might lose control of themselves. People who experience anxious distress with depression may be at higher risk for suicide or need more intensive treatment, so it is important to identify these symptoms along with the depression.
Above all, it’s important to remember to let a doctor or mental health professional evaluate you to see if your symptoms meet the criteria for a depressive disorder or an anxiety disorder.
Symptoms of Major Depression
- depressed mood
- lack of interest in enjoyable activities
- increase or decrease in appetite
- insomnia or hypersomnia
- slowing of movement
- lack of energy
- feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- trouble concentrating
- suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- excessive worry
- restlessness
- being easily fatigued
- trouble concentrating
- irritability
- sleep disturbance
- muscle tension.
It is important to know the difference between depression and anxiety. There are two main points to make here. First, our customers and their health are vital to us. Take care of yourselves. Take care of each other. Please know that if anybody you see close or not is considering suicide or has intentions thereof, please please please contact your local suicide prevention hotline to save a life. Second, the list of depression and anxiety symptoms are generalized and beyond the scope of this article, and there are other conditions that can mimic anxiety and depression which need to be ruled out by a qualified physician to ensure quality life. However, if you are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and/or depression, don’t fret there are options.
The typical recommendation of health professionals for patients with anxiety and depression are anxiolytics and antidepressants. Both of these come with side effects that can be troublesome. Many are unable to function due to sedation effects of such drugs. If you are looking for an alternative to these drugs read on. A viable option for many with stress and anxiety should consider stopping into the Olive Branch and sitting down with one of our members who can help you find alternatives to help you effectively manage your stress and anxiety. Second, consider looking into adding these into your supplement regimen:
- B vitamins
- L- Theanine
- 5-HTP
- Ashwaganda
- Terry Naturally AnxioCalm (non-sedating)
- adrenal support herbs
Also consider:
- eat a balanced nutritious diet
- get plenty of quality sleep
- exercise
- get plenty of vitamins and minerals
- seek out the advice of a therapist/counselor when needed
A little about Terry Naturally AnxioCalm:

AnxioCalm is clinically studied to quiet your nerves and relieve your occasional anxiety without drowsiness!
It’s the safe and effective way to help relieve
- Occasional anxiety and nervousness
- Everyday stresses
- Excessive worry
- excessive sweating
- upset stomach
- muscle tension
- insecurity
- occasional restless sleep
AnxioCalm
is perfect for everyday use, or occasionally when you need extra
support. It provides relief when you need it, without drowsiness or
mental fogginess.
In summary, life is tough. Stress in small amounts can be helpful, but in the long term stress can wreak havoc on our lives. Knowing what to look for, getting a proper diagnosis, and having an action plan are crucial. The key is being informed about all of your options for treatment. Stop in today and talk to us to see if Terry Naturally AnxioCalm, or the other supplements mentioned could help you get back on track mentally.
Do you have a testimonial about your stress journey with one of our stress-relieving products? Have a story you want to share? Let us know below!
~In Good Health
by Mikele K. @ The Olive Branch
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