Treating Anxiety Naturally: A Whole-Body Approach to Feeling Calm Again
Anxiety is on the rise in Canada - the number of people over 15 with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) has doubled since 2012.
Recognizing Anxiety
Anxiety looks different for everyone. It can be a constant sense of worry or sudden, overwhelming moments of panic. Common symptoms include:
Emotional & Cognitive: panic, restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating
Physical: muscle tension, insomnia, heart palpitations, digestive distress
Naturopathic medicine goes beyond symptom relief - it focuses on the root causes of anxiety. It takes a holistic approach, supporting physical, mental, emotional, and even spiritual well-being to build enduring management and coping strategies.
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Natural Ways to Manage Anxiety:
Nutrition: Whole foods - fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats - help stabilize mood and brain function.
Nutraceuticals: Omega-3s, L-theanine, B vitamins, and magnesium can help support brain health and calm the nervous system.
Botanical Medicine: Herbs like ashwagandha, passionflower, valerian, and lavender can help gently ease symptoms of anxiety.
Acupuncture: This Traditional Chinese Medicine technique can ease anxiety and its physical symptoms, such as insomnia and digestive discomfort.
Lifestyle: Regular movement boosts endorphins, while mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing, and quality sleep build emotional resilience.
When to Seek Help: If you've been feeling on edge, restless, or unable to control your worries for more than two weeks, it's time to reach out for support. Mental health is just as important as physical health - you don't have to navigate anxiety alone.
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Why Work with a Naturopathic Doctor?
Naturopathic doctors treat anxiety holistically, focusing on the root causes, not just the symptoms. With a personalized plan, we aim to restore balance to your body and mind. We’re also trained in pharmaceuticals and can work in parallel with any medications you're taking, ensuring a safe and integrated approach to your health. Working with a naturopath means addressing anxiety from all angles, leading to long-lasting relief and better general health.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a licensed naturopathic doctor or other healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan.
About the Author
Dr. Madison Sangster-Newbery, ND is driven to help you achieve optimal health. Having personally navigated the challenges of anxiety, Dr. Madison, ND understands the profound impact it can have on daily life. This experience ignited a deep commitment to finding natural and sustainable approaches to manage anxiety. She integrates a variety of naturopathic modalities, including herbal medicine, nutrition, lifestyle counseling, and mind-body techniques, into personalized treatment plans with the aim to empower individuals to regain control of their mental health by addressing the root causes of anxiety, offering support that goes beyond symptom management.
Dr. Madison Sangster-Newbery ND is currently licensed and registered to practice in Ontario under the College of Naturopaths of Ontario. She is a member of both the Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors and the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
Want to know more about how naturopathic medicine can support your mental health?
Book a 15 min complimentary consultation with Dr. Madison Sangster - Newbery ND. Let’s get you mentally and physically healthy!
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