Are These Bad Habits Making You Moody, Anxious & Depressed?

Procrastinating

Sometimes anxiety and depression itself can cause a person to procrastinate on their to-do list simply because they lack the energy or ambition to complete a task. But, putting things off can also worsen a person’s anxiety or depression, as they will begin to feel like there is always a task that needs to be completed. If something becomes too overwhelming, it is best to break the task up into smaller projects and get rid of any distractions that can be holding an individual back from completing their work.

By preventing or even stopping procrastination in its tracks, an individual will be able to complete their task and achieve their goal, which will release dopamine within the brain. Dopamine is the chemical responsible for experiencing pleasure and reward, thereby accomplishing tasks can help defeat lingering symptoms of anxiety or depression.

Not Getting Enough Essential Vitamins

Along with an improper diet, not getting the necessary vitamins that are essential for neurological health can greatly affect a person’s mental stability. Specifically, omega-3s and vitamin D are vital for optimal brain health and mental performance. Omega-3 fats are the building block of brain tissue, and can only be derived from our diets, and an omega-3 deficiency can leave the brain vulnerable to depression. The best sources of omega-3s are found in wild, cold-water fish such as salmon and mackerel, other seafood such as sardines, as well as in walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and fish oil supplements.

Vitamin D is not just essential for building strong bones, but it is essential for optimum brain health as well. Approximately eighty percent of Americans are vitamin D deficient, and the best source of vitamin D is the sun. From March to October, midday sunlight exposure stimulates vitamin D production within the skin, which is ideal for absorbing those essential nutrients for a few minutes throughout the day. For darker, colder months, an individual can take a vitamin D supplement to ensure they are getting enough.