Have you ever felt overwhelmed by anxiety or haunted by the shadows of PTSD? You’re not alone.
Many sufferers are on a constant search for effective ways to treat their condition, often turning to numerous treatments like medication and therapy.
But what about those looking for a natural complement to these conventional methods? This is where “crystals for anxiety and PTSD” come into play.
These minerals, used throughout history to heal, protect, and purify, are believed to have special properties that can aid in treating PTSD.
In my years of working with crystals, I’ve seen first-hand how they can serve as a powerful tool in managing anxiety disorders.
Crystal therapy, a range of complementary and alternative therapies, is often used alongside, or instead of, more conventional treatments.
Despite the limited scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of these alternative therapies, the interest in them has increased significantly.
For instance, Australian research has found that 63% of study participants tried some form of complementary medicine in the previous 12 months (Steel et al., 2018).
It’s crucial for anyone considering this path to carefully evaluate the available evidence.
I have personally rounded up a list of the best crystals that have been a part of my practice and have helped clients find a sense of calm and emotional balance.
This article focuses on providing current information on the effectiveness of healing crystals specifically for anxiety, and briefly explains the disorders themselves.
It is intended to provide information, not advice, and it’s important for anyone concerned with a disorder to see an appropriately qualified practitioner for advice and treatment.
Also Read: 39 Best Crystals For Crown Chakra
What Is PTSD?
PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a type of anxiety disorder that some people may develop after experiencing or witnessing severe trauma.
This trauma can be from physical abuse, sexual assault, emotional abuse, military combat, natural disasters, or war.
Those with PTSD might feel intense feelings of fear, loneliness, anger, sadness, or guilt, and some may have thoughts of suicide.
Symptoms Of PTSD
PTSD is a serious mental health disorder that can occur after someone experiences or sees a traumatic event.
Common symptoms of PTSD include:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Avoidance behavior
It’s very important to seek professional help if you believe you are experiencing PTSD because there is no substitute for therapy and a supportive support system.
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling that can be clinical, and everyone experiences it from time to time.
For example, a job interview or writing a test can cause nervousness. Extreme and long-term anxiety might be categorized as an anxiety disorder.
Types include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Social Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Panic Disorder, which involves sudden panic attacks.
These disorders are best treated by a psychologist, who can offer a variety of treatment options.
Also Read: 21+ Best Third Eye Chakra Crystals
What Causes Anxiety Disorders?
Causes of anxiety disorders aren’t due to a single identifiable cause but a mix of factors.
Genetics can play a role, and anxiety may run in families, although a parent or close relative experiencing it doesn’t necessarily mean that an individual will also develop it.
Stressful or negative events, like work issues, family or relationship problems, and medical conditions, can also lead to these disorders.
Lastly, alcohol and substance use can aggravate existing anxiety conditions.
What Are Anxiety Disorders?
An anxiety disorder is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, excessive nervousness, fear, worry, and stress.
People may experience physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, or feeling ill.
These feelings often recur frequently over weeks or months. There are different types of anxiety disorders, ranging from mild to severe.
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) involves persistent, excessive, and often unrealistic worries over small day-to-day responsibilities like paying bills.
Specific phobias trigger an intense, sometimes irrational fear of particular objects or situations—for example, the fear of flying, dogs, or driving.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterized by repetitive, often compulsive behaviours like foot tapping or repeating words to stay calm.
Social Anxiety occurs in social situations where people fear being judged.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is often triggered by a major traumatic event like being assaulted or in an accident, leading to upsetting memories, flashbacks, and nightmares.
It’s not uncommon for someone to experience just one type of disorder or to experience multiple conditions in conjunction with other mental health issues (Neura, 2021; Beyond Blue, 2021).
According to BetterHealth Channel (2021), around 25% of the population will experience an anxiety disorder that warrants treatment at some time in their life.
How Are Anxiety Disorders Treated?
Treating anxiety disorders involves a tailored approach because the symptoms and impact of these disorders can vary from one individual to another.
The treatment must be tailored to the specific disorder and the individual’s needs.
Consultation with an appropriate professional is considered the most effective way to identify the best treatment or combination of treatments.
There are a range of psychotherapies—sometimes called talk therapies—that are used to help individuals by exploring the underlying causes of their condition and developing coping and problem-solving skills.
This approach is considered one of the most effective treatments to help a person manage the issues causing their anxiety.
Medications are also available, which do not cure the disorder, but can ease symptoms, providing temporary relief, especially when undertaking other therapies.
Self-help, complementary, and alternative therapies can also be helpful for some types of disorder, whether used alone or combined with medication and psychotherapy.
Examples include yoga, massage therapy, relaxation techniques, and breathing techniques.
Crystal therapy, another form of alternative treatment, uses the natural energies of crystals to promote healing and calm, and is considered a viable alternative treatment (Marshall, 2018; Beyond Blue, 2021).
Also Read: 29 Best Crystal For Stomach Chakra
Do Crystals Actually Work To Heal PTSD?
While crystals do not replace professional medical care, they can serve as a complement to traditional medicine.
Most people who get into crystal therapy appreciate its simplicity and accessibility.
In addition, using crystals is safe, noninvasive, and does not require any special training.
It’s important to understand that crystals aren’t magical and don’t produce miracles.
However, harnessing the benefits of nature can help create a happier, healthier environment to live in.
Do Healing Crystals Help With Anxiety?
Healing crystals have seen a growing popularity as a method to manage anxiety, with many reports of successful outcomes.
However, most of these reports are anecdotal, and there is little scientific evidence to back up these claims.
No solid evidence exists that diseases or mental health conditions are a result of energy flows in the body being corrected by crystals.
Nonetheless, many believe that crystals can help induce relaxation.
Research, such as that by Palermo in 2017 and Vyse in 2013, indicates that while crystal therapy might induce a placebo effect, this doesn’t detract from the positive impact people experience.
Studies, including those conducted by Harvard Medical School in 2012 and later explored by psychologist Christopher French, have tested the placebo effect in crystal therapy.
In one study, eighty people were asked to meditate for five minutes while holding a crystal.
Each participant was given either a real or fake quartz crystal, though all believed they held real crystals.
Before meditating, half of the participants were primed to be aware of specific effects like tingling and warmth in the hand holding the crystal.
After meditation, they answered questions about what they felt. Interestingly, both groups—those with real and fake crystals—reported similar effects, indicating that the warmth and increased overall well-being could indeed stem from a placebo effect.
The researchers concluded that while there may not be scientific proof of the intrinsic characteristics of crystals, the positive results people experience can still be meaningful in the context of therapy.
Also Read: Top 25 Protection Crystals For Travel
15 Best Crystals For Anxiety And PTSD
Here are the best crystals for anxiety and stress:
1. Lapis Lazuli: The Stone Of Strength And Peace
Lapis Lazuli, a blue jewel with deep tones, is said to give strength and clarity to both minds and bodies.
Its gentle energy encourages you to remain connected and present in the moment, which is especially helpful in staying centered during stressful circumstances.
Beyond its calming influence, this blue stone helps you let go of past emotional wounds and negative energy, allowing you to move forward.
In my experience, clients often report a profound peace within themselves and a stronger connection with others after incorporating Lapis Lazuli into their daily routine.
2. Carnelian: The Stone Of Emotional Balance And Confidence
A necklace made from Carnelian can be an excellent way to support someone suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Known to boost self-esteem and promote confidence, Carnelian also radiates positive energy.
This rich, red stone is known for promoting emotional balance and self-discipline.
Wearing a piece of Carnelian jewelry acts as a constant reminder to continually progress towards better times.
From personal observations and feedback from clients, Carnelian has proven effective in uplifting spirits and enhancing resilience in challenging times.
One of my clients, Sarah, shared her story about how she struggled with low self-esteem and emotional turmoil due to PTSD.
During her therapy sessions, she incorporated a Carnelian necklace into her routine as a symbolic reminder of her inner strength.
Over time, she reported noticeable improvements in her self-esteem, confidence, and ability to manage her emotions.
The Carnelian necklace became a physical and emotional anchor that encouraged her to keep moving forward.
Sarah felt more resilient and better equipped to face challenges, crediting the consistent energy of Carnelian for significantly contributing to her improved emotional balance.
Also Read: 27 Best Sacral Chakra Crystals
3. Black Tourmaline: The Stone Of Protection And Balance
Black Tourmaline is an excellent crystal that helps individuals find passion and gives the courage to follow it wherever it takes us.
Known for its protective aura, it shifts the energy field around the body, bringing it back to balance.
This mineral is often said to enhance mental clarity, increase mental concentration, and help with grounding, making it especially beneficial for those suffering from PTSD.
Wearing a Black Tourmaline pendant can play a role in alleviating depression and anxiety, as it helps to release stored emotional trauma, bringing deep relaxation and healing to the nervous system.
Both men and women can benefit greatly from wearing this beautiful mineral, as its energies are universally soothing and restorative.
4. Rose Quartz: The Heart Healer
Rose quartz is a pink crystal that’s often used to bring love, happiness, and understanding into someone’s life.
It helps to clear negative energy and open the heart chakra, providing protection against psychic attacks.
This amazing stone can help one let go of emotional baggage, heal past wounds, and move forward.
Healers recommend Rose Quartz to help clients address trauma and grief.
Research shows that Rose Quartz can enhance self-esteem and improve mood, ultimately bringing peace of mind.
Also Read: 25 Best Crystals For Heart Chakra
5. Pink Calcite: The Crystal Of Emotional Freedom
Pink Calcite is a gently hued crystal that appears almost magical due to its tiny crystals of calcium carbonate embedded within.
Pink calcites are often used for healing, stress relief, meditation, and sleep induction.
Their ability to enhance emotional freedom while purifying negative influences makes them a fantastic remedy for PTSD.
These beautiful crystals help focus on the positive aspects of life and aid in tackling emotional challenges.
6. Rhodochrosite: The Healer Of Emotional Baggage
Rhodochrosite, known for its vibrant pink, red, and raspberry colors, is a powerful healing stone that helps release painful memories associated with past experiences.
It provides the kind of insight that allows you to fully integrate and accept these events without letting them weigh you down with emotional baggage.
For relief from PTSD symptoms, place a Rhodochrosite specimen under your pillow at night, or carry it throughout the day if you suffer from anxiety.
Simply hold a piece in your hands, breathe deeply, and repeat the mantra “I am safe and protected.”
7. Lepidolite: The Protector Of Inner Peace
Lepidolite offers protection from the common side effects of PTSD, including nightmares and triggers that can cause terrifying flashbacks.
This emotional healer eases anxiety and depression while helping those suffering from PTSD.
Lepidolite is known to bring peace and stability, allowing the mind to heal itself.
Additionally, it acts as a psychic protector against mental illness, reducing the intensity of bad dreams and easing emotional stress.
8. Amethyst: The Stone Of Inner Peace
Amethyst, known for its calming purple color, is a protective stone that reduces anxiety and relieves depression.
It represents confidence and inner peace while protecting against negativity.
People are often drawn to Amethyst for its calm, peaceful aura and its ability to increase self-esteem.
Wearing Amethyst brings courage, clarity, and intuition—qualities that help in dealing with PTSD.
This stone brings mental tranquility so you can make sound decisions and feel confident in your choices.
Also Read: 45 Healing Crystals For Organ Health
9. Howlite: The Serenity Stone
Howlite is a white, calming stone marked by black veins. It’s widely known as a healing crystal for trauma, emotional wounds, and grief.
From personal and client experiences, this stone helps you relax and eases feelings of anxiety or worry.
I often recommend placing howlite on your nightstand or under your pillow at night for better sleep. Its presence leads to more restorative sleep, reducing insomnia.
Holding howlite during meditation also helps manifest positive energy and keeps your mind focused on positive thinking.
10. Smoky Quartz: The Earth Healer
Smoky Quartz is an earth-rooted stone that is highly sensitive to emotional imbalances like depression, anxiety, and rage. It can boost self-confidence and enhance your mood.
I’ve personally used it to enhance self-love and become more aware of what truly matters in life.
This awareness allows you to let go of the past, move forward in life, and focus on your mental health. It’s also helpful for concentration and clearing your mind to focus on new goals.
11. Green Fluorite: The Grounding Gem
Fluorite usually comes in purple hues but can also occur in beautiful green tones.
Green Fluorite offers strong emotional healing benefits, connecting with higher dimensions and providing powerful protection.
With intent, it can help open blocked chakras and clear negative energies while harmonizing imbalances within the body.
From my experience, it aids in creating a sense of calm, peace, and harmony while boosting self-confidence.
It’s like a guardian that balances and grounds your energy so you can thrive.
12. Azurite: The Soothing Blue Stone
Azurite is an extremely gorgeous crystal with a brilliant blue color that’s known for its soothing energy.
It calms emotions and brings peace, helping alleviate depression. When placed near a strong light source, it emits a blue glow that helps ease your mind.
Blue crystals like this are powerful stones to use as an energy healing tool.
They can help clear emotions that are stuck in our bodies due to traumatic events like abuse, violence, illness, or drug addiction.
I’ve seen how well it absorbs painful energies and aids in emotional release.
13. Blue Lace Agate: The Gentle Communicator
Blue Lace Agate gives off a gentle, calming energy that eases anxiety, tension, and nervousness.
It’s linked to the throat chakra, which governs communication and self-expression.
In my experience, it promotes inner peace and clarity of thought, making effective communication much easier.
Whether you’re preparing for an important conversation or simply want to feel grounded, this crystal can help align your words with your intentions.
14. Obsidian: The Deep Healing Stone
As someone who’s explored the benefits of crystals firsthand, I’ve found that Obsidian is not just a rock; it’s a lifeline for many.
This glassy, hard mineral, celebrated throughout history for its use in jewelry, weapons, and tools, plays a crucial role in healing today.
Many of my clients share stories of how Obsidian jewelry has helped soothe their emotional wounds and manage anxiety.
Obsidian is ideal for those dealing with depression, anxiety, or trauma. It encourages deep meditation, making it easier to cope with daily stresses.
One client, in particular, told me how placing pieces of Obsidian around their house and meditating while holding it against their head helped them absorb negativity and combat persistent headaches.
Placing Obsidian under the pillow at night can also help those suffering from sleeping disorders like insomnia.
It’s fascinating to see how this ancient tool has become an importantly modern remedy, promoting healing and offering power over one’s mental health challenges.
Also Read: 17 Best Crystals For Vagus Nerve
15. Citrine: The Crystal Of Clarity And Power
Citrine embodies both fire and earth elements, creating a powerful crystal that promotes healing and success.
These beautiful, sunny crystals encourage clarity, helping you become grounded while balancing intuition and inner wisdom.
Through working with clients, I’ve seen how citrine brings a powerful energy vibration that balances negative energy and eases depression, stress, and anger.
When used regularly, citrine points can help manage anxiety and trauma, bringing positivity and peace into everyday life.
How To Use Crystals For PTSD Relief?
Using crystals as a form of therapy can be a personal journey, and finding the best method that resonates with you is key.
Here’s a simple yet effective way to use crystals to help cope with PTSD, based on my experiences and those of my clients:
- Hold your chosen crystal in your hand while meditating. This can help center your thoughts and bring calm.
- If PTSD manifests as nightmares, place a crystal under your pillow before going to sleep. Many find that this helps improve the quality of their rest.
- Experiment with what feels right; there’s no wrong way to use crystals. You might start with a simple practice that I often recommend.
- Bring your hands into a prayer position with palms facing upwards.
- Place your crystal of choice at the center point of your forehead, just between the middle of your eyebrows—a spot often referred to as the third eye.
- Hold the crystal firmly but gently, close enough so you can focus on it. Breathe deeply and feel free to speak out loud any requests for guidance, protection, or anything else you desire. This may feel silly, but it can be quite powerful.
- Choose to chant a mantra or simply hum to deepen your connection with the crystal.
- When you feel ready, slowly lower the crystal just below your brow bone, maintaining your focus solely on the crystal’s energy.
Also Read: 30 Best Crystals For Forgiveness
How To Create A Crystal Meditation Routine For PTSD?
A crystal meditation routine can be a powerful way to incorporate healing crystals into your daily self-care routine. Here are the steps to follow:
- Choose the right crystals: Select crystals that resonate the most with your needs based on their healing properties and personal preferences.
- Find a quiet space: Choose a peaceful location where you won’t be disturbed during your meditation.
- Set an intention: Before you begin, set an intention for what you hope to achieve or heal with this practice.
- Hold the crystals: Hold your chosen crystals in your hands or place them on your body where you feel tension or discomfort.
- Focus on your breath: Take deep, slow breaths and focus on the sensations in your body.
- Visualize healing: Imagine the healing energy of the crystals flowing through your body, releasing negative energy and promoting balance.
- End with gratitude: When finished, take a moment to express gratitude for the healing energy of the crystals and the opportunity to care for yourself.
How To Treat Your PTSD?
If you suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), you’re not alone. It affects veterans and civilians alike, sometimes impacting their loved ones left behind.
Using crystals can help bring inner peace, but it’s crucial to seek treatment from professionals who specialize in trauma.
A trained professional can help you figure out ways to cope during this difficult period of life.
Also Read: 26 Best Crystals For Emotional Healing
FAQs About What Crystals Are Good For PTSD And Anxiety
1. What Crystal Is Good For Anxiety And PTSD?
Crystals with healing properties can help with anxiety and PTSD. Black Tourmaline grounds energy, while Lapis Lazuli and Carnelian offer emotional protection. Cordierite (Iolite) is a guiding stone that clears the mind. Rhodochrosite works with the Heart chakra to release suppressed emotions. Black Obsidian deeply cleanses the aura, and Pink Calcite gently brings suppressed emotions to the surface to be processed and released. Rose Quartz is known for its emotional healing qualities.
2. What Chakra Is PTSD?
The Vishudha Chakra, located in the throat, governs self-expression. Those who suffer from PTSD often face blockages in this chakra, especially if PTSD results from emotional abuse. This blockage causes fear of speaking and self-expression, making it difficult for the sufferer to seek help.
3. What Gemstone Heals Anxiety?
Amethyst is a gemstone renowned for calming strong emotions, such as anxiety. It helps with overcoming emotions that prevent you from enjoying life. Meanwhile, Apophyllite aids in working through suppressed memories and can help when you need to be reminded of good times.
4. What Stone To Wear For Anxiety?
Black Tourmaline is often recommended as the best crystal for protection against anxiety. This striking black stone shields against negative energies and stress, offering an essential calming effect. Its grounding effect is one of Black Tourmaline’s key features.
5. Can Crystals Cure Anxiety?
There isn’t scientific proof that crystals have a significant impact on energy, emotions, or mental health. They shouldn’t replace medical treatment for anxiety, depression, or other diagnosable conditions, but they can be a supportive addition.
6. How Do You Meditate With Crystals For Anxiety?
Pick a crystal and hold it in your hand or place it on your body. You can also put it where you can easily see it. Take grounding breaths and focus your gaze on the crystal. If your mind begins to wander, simply bring your attention back to the crystal.
Final Thoughts
Crystals for Anxiety and PTSD can be helpful in promoting inner calm and self-expression.
Amethyst is well-known for calming strong emotions like anxiety, while Black Tourmaline shields against negative energies and offers a grounding effect.
Vishudha Chakra blockages, often present in those who suffer from PTSD, can cause fear in self-expression.
Although there’s no scientific proof that crystals significantly impact energy, emotions, or mental health, they can still support traditional treatments by helping ground your attention and bring inner peace.
Meditating with crystals can assist in focusing your mind, making these powerful tools a worthy addition to your self-care routine.