The prevalence of depression is rising in today's world. Perhaps this is due to economic issues leading to unemployment and financial hardships. Hardships then lead to stress, which creates stress on entire families and interferes with their emotional well being. No matter the cause, depression is a serious problem that also leads to panic attacks.
The link between depression and panic attacks is quite obvious because anxiety tends to accompany depression. This can result in very severe problems because the two conditions can aggravate one another. The two conditions can also be difficult to treat. Nevertheless, there is a proper treatment. It just takes time for that treatment to be found.
Without treatment, an individual will continue to have debilitating attacks with depression that makes them feel as if their worthless and going crazy. Most individuals do not know what is happening to them, so there is a great deal of confusion involved as well.
When depression and anxiety aggravate one another
When depression and anxiety aggravate one another, they feel very extreme emotions. For instance, depression consists of feelings of boredom, hopelessness, sadness, and lonesomeness. Anxiety consists of feelings of urgency or an exaggerated feeling of readiness. Anxiety can also consist of a feeling of dread, such as the dread of social situations or dreading facing another day because of the unknown.
Those that have anxiety that accompanies depression are quite susceptible to frequent panic attacks. Those with frequent panic attacks can actually develop a phobia of whatever triggered the attack. All it takes is for something to trigger one attack for a person to become afraid. Add in the fact that the individual experiencing the attack has a rather glum view of the world and the end result is a person with no joy in their life.
It has been found that depression accompanied by panic attacks are more common than what was initially thought. Of course, not everyone suffering from depression will have anxiety attacks, but many with panic attacks may be depressed. Fortunately, there are some medications on the market that are made to deal with depression that is supplemented with anxiety.
You are not alone!
If you suffer from panic attacks and depression, then you should speak to your doctor so that you can discuss treatment options. It is true that after a panic attack you may not think about it until it happens again. Then again, you may have fear everyday that an attack is around the corner. Just know that you are not alone. There are millions of people suffering from depression and panic attacks at the same time.
In the end, don't hesitate to seek treatment. Individuals feel that they are going to be committed or their doctor will think ill of them. This is not true. Doctors treat individuals with such disorders all of the time. Sometimes therapy will help and other times a combination of therapy and medications are the solution. In the end, the right treatment will lead to a much happier life.
Sunday 18 September 2011
Tuesday 13 September 2011
How To Get Over Break Up Depression
Break up depression is something that could leave you dazed and confused. You could actually suffer from break up depression for a long time depending on how long you were in the relationship. Although you may think as though there's no chance for you anymore, you should know that there still is. People can be very resilient and could bounce back from most trials.
One thing you could do to help you with break up depression is by consulting a counselor. Your counselor will not only help but could also point out a psychiatrist who will provide you with medication for depression. Although it may sound terrifying at first, this is actually a logical method of approaching the problem. You can also deal with break up depression by reconnecting with friends and family members. It would be healthy for you to surround yourself with people who value you as a person. It will be easier if you get rid of all the reminders of your sadness so that you can move on from the break up. Boxing items and hiding them in the attic is one way of ensuring the reminders are no longer about. Of course, you shouldn't do this immediately and wait until you are ready.
Recovery is not something you can just fast forward. You may find yourself succumbing to temptation like having a one night stand or drinking until you puke.
The thing is that you should be focusing on something more productive even as some people may find what you're doing understandable. One good way to prevent break up depression is to get some physical activity.
An exercise would really help although you may not think so. The depression could actually be alleviated thanks to all those endorphins. Also, make sure that you are living a healthy lifestyle with eight hours of sleep each night.
It's likely that you are dining on junk foods right now so try to discard them and eat healthy. Lastly, you shouldn't be blaming yourself. These things happen with the involvement of both people.
Forgive both you and your ex before moving on. Soon enough, you'll be ready to start going round the dating scene again. There's no specific length of time that you need to stay single so don't pressure yourself into a decision. Only you know what would be the right thing for you, so make sure that you devote yourself to figuring out what you want.
One thing you could do to help you with break up depression is by consulting a counselor. Your counselor will not only help but could also point out a psychiatrist who will provide you with medication for depression. Although it may sound terrifying at first, this is actually a logical method of approaching the problem. You can also deal with break up depression by reconnecting with friends and family members. It would be healthy for you to surround yourself with people who value you as a person. It will be easier if you get rid of all the reminders of your sadness so that you can move on from the break up. Boxing items and hiding them in the attic is one way of ensuring the reminders are no longer about. Of course, you shouldn't do this immediately and wait until you are ready.
Recovery is not something you can just fast forward. You may find yourself succumbing to temptation like having a one night stand or drinking until you puke.
The thing is that you should be focusing on something more productive even as some people may find what you're doing understandable. One good way to prevent break up depression is to get some physical activity.
An exercise would really help although you may not think so. The depression could actually be alleviated thanks to all those endorphins. Also, make sure that you are living a healthy lifestyle with eight hours of sleep each night.
It's likely that you are dining on junk foods right now so try to discard them and eat healthy. Lastly, you shouldn't be blaming yourself. These things happen with the involvement of both people.
Forgive both you and your ex before moving on. Soon enough, you'll be ready to start going round the dating scene again. There's no specific length of time that you need to stay single so don't pressure yourself into a decision. Only you know what would be the right thing for you, so make sure that you devote yourself to figuring out what you want.
Monday 12 September 2011
Anxiety and Depression After Drinking
In today's fast-paced world, one of the most significant health threats that many people are forced to endure is chronic depression. Chronic depression can be incredibly detrimental to your well-being and, if left unchecked, can wreak havoc on your health. Fortunately, one way to help combat depression and anxiety is through the use of Rhodiola Rosea. Also known as Golden Root, Roseroot, and Aaron's Rod, Rhodiola Rosea is a medicinal herb that was originally discovered centuries ago in Siberia and consumed in order to help cope with the cold climate and stressful life. Today, because the herb has such profound relaxing effects on the central nervous system, Rhodiola Rosea has become a very popular treatment for ailments such as anxiety and depression.
Rhodiola Rosea is a natural plant in the Crassulaceae family and typically grows in very cold regions of the world such as the Arctic. In order to prepare Rhodiola Rosea for consumption, extracts of the herb are taken and made into capsules or tablets. These capsules or tablets are then typically tested for their rosavin and salidroside content, as these are two of the chemicals that are believed to contribute to Rhodiola's powerful effects on the body. The amount of Rhodiola extract used in pills will then be modified to ensure a 3:1 ratio between rosavins and salidrosides, as this is the naturally occurring ratio found in nature and is believed to be most effective.In order to get the most out of Rhodiola Rosea, it is essential to adhere to an intelligent dosing regimen.
In general, a typical dosing regimen consists of consuming 200 mg at three different times of the day. One potential side effect that some people have experienced from the consumption of Rhodiola is difficulty falling asleep if taken immediately before bedtime. In order to prevent this, it is recommended that you do not take Rhodiola within the hour preceding your bedtime to ensure that sleep is not impaired. For those who wish to purchase Rhodiola, the herb does not require a prescription and can commonly be found at local supplement stores. Because the herb is not dangerous and has ample research to support its use, Rhodiola is allowed by the FDA to be sold and marketed with moderate health claims.In the past, many people may have questioned whether or not an obscure herb from the Arctic could actually produce favorable results in those suffering from anxiety and depression.
Fortunately, research in the "Nordic Journal of Psychiatry" has clearly demonstrated that subjects with depression who consumed a Rhodiola Rosea supplement demonstrated significantly improved symptoms compared to those who were given a placebo. Clearly, for those who suffer from such devastating conditions as chronic depression or anxiety, the supplementation of Rhodiola Rosea is a safe and effective method for helping you recover from these ailments.
Rhodiola Rosea is a natural plant in the Crassulaceae family and typically grows in very cold regions of the world such as the Arctic. In order to prepare Rhodiola Rosea for consumption, extracts of the herb are taken and made into capsules or tablets. These capsules or tablets are then typically tested for their rosavin and salidroside content, as these are two of the chemicals that are believed to contribute to Rhodiola's powerful effects on the body. The amount of Rhodiola extract used in pills will then be modified to ensure a 3:1 ratio between rosavins and salidrosides, as this is the naturally occurring ratio found in nature and is believed to be most effective.In order to get the most out of Rhodiola Rosea, it is essential to adhere to an intelligent dosing regimen.
In general, a typical dosing regimen consists of consuming 200 mg at three different times of the day. One potential side effect that some people have experienced from the consumption of Rhodiola is difficulty falling asleep if taken immediately before bedtime. In order to prevent this, it is recommended that you do not take Rhodiola within the hour preceding your bedtime to ensure that sleep is not impaired. For those who wish to purchase Rhodiola, the herb does not require a prescription and can commonly be found at local supplement stores. Because the herb is not dangerous and has ample research to support its use, Rhodiola is allowed by the FDA to be sold and marketed with moderate health claims.In the past, many people may have questioned whether or not an obscure herb from the Arctic could actually produce favorable results in those suffering from anxiety and depression.
Fortunately, research in the "Nordic Journal of Psychiatry" has clearly demonstrated that subjects with depression who consumed a Rhodiola Rosea supplement demonstrated significantly improved symptoms compared to those who were given a placebo. Clearly, for those who suffer from such devastating conditions as chronic depression or anxiety, the supplementation of Rhodiola Rosea is a safe and effective method for helping you recover from these ailments.
Saturday 10 September 2011
Depression Cures - Easy Steps to Feel Happy
Some people think happiness is illusive, but I'm here to change your mind and give you the answer in 2 simple steps.
There are just two components which will help you enormously to find happiness: Your thoughts and your actions!
Have you ever heard the saying: "It's the thought that counts". I believe a truer word (or words) have never been spoken. It is critically important to be aware of your thoughts because what you are thinking about on a consistent basis is likely what you will get on a consistent basis.
The other critical component is: taking action!
These two relatively simple strategies will assist you to find happiness every day of your life.
If you commit to combine thoughts and actions you will undoubtedly join the ranks of those who 'intend to be happy'.
By taking small steps regularly, you can over ride your tendency to feel depressed. It may take regular practice on a consistent daily basis, and you may find that not all days will be easy, but it is well worth the effort to find happiness and to increase your chances of living a happy and good life.
Here are some tips to help to get you started:
- Try to find the time to do something that interests you...action is much more likely to boost your mood than doing nothing. It may be as simple as going out for a cup of coffee with a friend or taking a walk.
- When you set bigger goals, be sure to break them down into small, achievable goals; so when you do something towards your goal, just do it in manageable bits, and don't be disappointed if it takes a little longer than expected, you are still moving towards achieving your goal.
- It will be easier to work towards something that means a lot to you; achieving something really important to you is a very strong source of happiness and well-being and will bring a great deal of satisfaction.
- It's important to start some form of action, however small it may seem at the time, something that will create a meaning for you, family or friends, and provide you with renewed hope for happiness. Equally important is that you do some exercise every day, or any form of healthy activity such as walking out in the fresh air.
- It is also a good idea to take time out to meditate or just relax by looking out a window to take in the wonder of nature or reading an uplifting book, or having a massage. (these things can be done without even moving!)
- Do something kind for someone else, you'll be surprised how grateful they are, and you will enjoy seeing them smile. Random acts of kindness are always good for your well-being.
- Take time to nurture a talent or skill that you may have. This will give you confidence and will naturally enhance positive emotions.
- Chill out and have fun. You might like to watch a funny movie, go bowling, or play a game.
If you find yourself stuck and can't think of anything at all to do, try calling a friend and asking for some suggestions!
So go enjoy yourself...do something now and start finding happiness!
Thursday 8 September 2011
Tips for Relieving Depression That Work!
Feeling down, disgusted, fatigued and suicidal are only a few attributes of depression, which sufferers have to face daily. Symptoms as such make living a difficult task and often interfere with victim's both social and private life by interfering with their cognition and overall motivation. In other words depression can turn a physically fit, highly motivated person into a fatigued, blank minded vegetable. As harsh as this state of mind may sound and be, the symptoms can be alleviated, if not completely extinguished by following some of the most basic depression/anxiety combating methods:
1. Exercise - if you are not already involved in some regular physical activity why not give it a try? Exercise has proven to be as effective as a secondary anti-depressant in alleviating troubling symptoms. Spending as little as 20 minutes a day on jogging (going for a walk will initially suffice until your stamina has increased) or other aerobic exercise can greatly lift your mood in the long run since it promotes the secretion of many mood enhancing neurochemicals such as serotonin.
2. Healthy habits - smoking tobacco or drinking alcohol may seem like a great help in combating depressive symptoms, but it is only a short-term solution with detrimental long-term consequences as these substances are neurotoxic with a high risk of developing dependency. Eating excess of sugars may seem to lift your mood, but a sugar rush is only a short lived experience which only adds to mood swings and severity of symptoms if practiced long enough. Introducing a more protein rich diet, eating fruits and vegetables and drinking water instead of flavored drinks will result in a greater mental clarity and an enhanced feeling of well-being. I personally have found that avoiding carbohydrates and eating rather frequently and in small increments allows me to think more lucidly
3. Knowing your enemy - what I like to do is research depression and find the possible chemical/mental sources. Once you are aware of the exact mechanism of action of your depression you will be much more efficient at defeating the disorder. The obtained knowledge will guide you to a relief as you will be able to recognize depressive triggers and resist them. Eventually you will be able to just tell yourself: "its only depression trying to make me feel miserable" and hence you will not let it take over you. This is probably the most helpful and crucial step in combating any psychiatric illness. So spend some of your free time learning about depression by reading books and articles (there are plenty on the web) and see for yourself the progress you will be able to make.
Depression, as any mental disorder, requires a lot of patience as results will not be seen immediately, but rather gradually in an augmenting intensity. Therefore it is important to learn to appreciate each small step you make, because in the end these will add up to a one ample achievement.
1. Exercise - if you are not already involved in some regular physical activity why not give it a try? Exercise has proven to be as effective as a secondary anti-depressant in alleviating troubling symptoms. Spending as little as 20 minutes a day on jogging (going for a walk will initially suffice until your stamina has increased) or other aerobic exercise can greatly lift your mood in the long run since it promotes the secretion of many mood enhancing neurochemicals such as serotonin.
2. Healthy habits - smoking tobacco or drinking alcohol may seem like a great help in combating depressive symptoms, but it is only a short-term solution with detrimental long-term consequences as these substances are neurotoxic with a high risk of developing dependency. Eating excess of sugars may seem to lift your mood, but a sugar rush is only a short lived experience which only adds to mood swings and severity of symptoms if practiced long enough. Introducing a more protein rich diet, eating fruits and vegetables and drinking water instead of flavored drinks will result in a greater mental clarity and an enhanced feeling of well-being. I personally have found that avoiding carbohydrates and eating rather frequently and in small increments allows me to think more lucidly
3. Knowing your enemy - what I like to do is research depression and find the possible chemical/mental sources. Once you are aware of the exact mechanism of action of your depression you will be much more efficient at defeating the disorder. The obtained knowledge will guide you to a relief as you will be able to recognize depressive triggers and resist them. Eventually you will be able to just tell yourself: "its only depression trying to make me feel miserable" and hence you will not let it take over you. This is probably the most helpful and crucial step in combating any psychiatric illness. So spend some of your free time learning about depression by reading books and articles (there are plenty on the web) and see for yourself the progress you will be able to make.
Depression, as any mental disorder, requires a lot of patience as results will not be seen immediately, but rather gradually in an augmenting intensity. Therefore it is important to learn to appreciate each small step you make, because in the end these will add up to a one ample achievement.
Monday 5 September 2011
Quick Help For Depression
It's a fact: Depression symptoms will often improve with exercise.
Getting started and staying motivated is the key...
Of course when you are suffering from depression or anxiety, probably the last thing on your mind is exercise. But consider this: once you decide to make a start and get motivated to help yourself, exercise has the potential to make a huge difference in your life.
Recent research has been carried out which has revealed that not only will depression and anxiety symptoms improve, but there will be a positive affect in other areas such as: potential lowering of high blood pressure, assisting in the control of sugar levels for people with diabetes, and improving chronic arthritis symptoms.
Keeping up a regular routine of exercise is very important as it can definitely help a person to relax and feel better for long periods of time. If exercise is practiced on a regular basis the results will likely be significant. Walking at least 3 times a week for an hour is recommended. If that seems too much, then start with just a 10 minute walk, 3 times a week, and build up from there. As you start feeling fitter and start to enjoy the experience even more, you may find yourself wanting to walk for pleasure everyday.
The benefits of exercise include:
The word 'exercise' may strike fear into some people as they imagine themselves having to run a marathon race. However this is certainly not the case, as there are several much less strenuous and more enjoyable activities to choose from such as:
It is not necessary to dive headlong into a strict exercise routine. It's more important to find activities that suit your circumstances and your interests. For example: If you were out shopping and were faced with the option of taking the elevator or stairs, just take the stairs to incorporate a little more exercise into your day. Perhaps if you were going to the shops, you could park your car a couple of blocks away and walk the rest of the way there. Take the dog for a walk to the park, or if you don't have a dog, borrow the neighbors! They'll love you for such a kind gesture, and so will the dog!
Getting started and staying motivated is the key...
Of course when you are suffering from depression or anxiety, probably the last thing on your mind is exercise. But consider this: once you decide to make a start and get motivated to help yourself, exercise has the potential to make a huge difference in your life.
Recent research has been carried out which has revealed that not only will depression and anxiety symptoms improve, but there will be a positive affect in other areas such as: potential lowering of high blood pressure, assisting in the control of sugar levels for people with diabetes, and improving chronic arthritis symptoms.
Keeping up a regular routine of exercise is very important as it can definitely help a person to relax and feel better for long periods of time. If exercise is practiced on a regular basis the results will likely be significant. Walking at least 3 times a week for an hour is recommended. If that seems too much, then start with just a 10 minute walk, 3 times a week, and build up from there. As you start feeling fitter and start to enjoy the experience even more, you may find yourself wanting to walk for pleasure everyday.
The benefits of exercise include:
- Increased self-confidence
- Satisfaction in achieving goals
- Less time to think about worries and concerns which are a major component of anxiety and depression
- The chance to engage in more social contact with others to lift your mood
- Doing something positive and enjoyable to guide you away from negative thoughts and feelings
The word 'exercise' may strike fear into some people as they imagine themselves having to run a marathon race. However this is certainly not the case, as there are several much less strenuous and more enjoyable activities to choose from such as:
- walking
- fishing
- playing a team sport
- getting together with a group for a card game
- volunteering at a local community centre
- washing the car
- gardening
It is not necessary to dive headlong into a strict exercise routine. It's more important to find activities that suit your circumstances and your interests. For example: If you were out shopping and were faced with the option of taking the elevator or stairs, just take the stairs to incorporate a little more exercise into your day. Perhaps if you were going to the shops, you could park your car a couple of blocks away and walk the rest of the way there. Take the dog for a walk to the park, or if you don't have a dog, borrow the neighbors! They'll love you for such a kind gesture, and so will the dog!
Sunday 4 September 2011
Treating Depression - 8 Ways to Reduce Symptoms and Overcome Low Moods
Whether it's the lack of mental energy and stamina, self-loathing, or sitting around the house vegetating, most depressed people find themselves falling into a hopeless rut. The good news is that with practice and discipline, you can reduce depression symptoms in just weeks by taking a few simple steps. By following these eight lifestyle adjustments, you can treat depression naturally and soon be on a path towards recovery
Reclaim The 'Old You'
When a person becomes depressed, they tend to fall into a new routine of thoughts and habits, different than during 'more joyful' times in their life. In order to exit your funk and better manage depressive thoughts, this pattern of lifestyle and thinking must be altered. Getting back to the 'old you' is difficult while in a state of depression, but trying to overcome low moods should be attempted. Every effort should be made to reduce depression symptoms and start enjoying and experiencing the life you once knew. To better remind yourself of happier times, start making (and constantly updating) a list of things you once enjoyed doing and save them to a computer or handheld device. When practicing this exercise, many people are surprised how lengthy this list can become. Then print & post them somewhere that they'll be seen every day (for example, next to the refrigerator handle). Read this list each time you see it. By doing so, you are subconsciously invigorating your pattern of thinking. When you feel a need to overcome low moods, force yourself to take part in one of these activities, until everything on the list has been checked off. This exercise can help reclaim the 'old you.'
Take On New Challenges
Breaking out of a rut means incorporating new thoughts, ideas, habits and ways into your life. To help reduce depression symptoms, start listening to a new radio station, take on a new hobby, start going to a different supermarket etc... the possibilities are endless. 99% of the thoughts we have today, we will carry over into tomorrow. Why not replace the old, stale, negative and repetitious thoughts with new positive ones. Slowly, over the course of weeks and months, you'll treat depression naturally by infiltrating your brain with healthy new thoughts and slowly rid yourself of the same old negative thought patterns.
Listen To A Life Coach
Another natural depression remedy is to listen or watch recordings or shows from great life coaches such as Wayne Dyer, or Anthony Robbins. If you're willing to be a little more alternative, ayurvedic mind-body guru Deepak Chopra may help you when you need to overcome low moods. All of these professional speakers may help you reduce depression symptoms and find meaning in life, assist you to seek forgiveness in others, help boost your self-worthiness and help you better manage depressive thoughts. Dyer and Chopra can frequently be seen on PBS television shows teaching spirituality and life motivation. Anthony Robbins is seen less on public TV, but like Chopra and Dyer, has penned many books and videotaped many lectures. He also participates in many live lectures throughout North America.
Stay Busy
It is natural for many depressed individuals to lay around and sulk all day. Staying busy is a great way to overcome low moods and keep your mind occupied and away from negative self-absorbing thinking. Lying around feeling sorry for yourself will not solve anything.Instead, reduce depression symptoms by going outside to do some simple yard work (weather permitting), start a garden, take walks around the block, start a diary -- whatever you can think of to manage depressive thoughts. By utilizing this natural depression remedy, you will feel better about yourself and maybe start looking forward to what the next day brings, rather than loathing about yesterday's problems.
Stop Being So Self-absorbed.
Begin to focus your attention on other people. Self-loathing only helps to remind yourself of how miserable you are. By focusing more on others (or even your pet) you'll treat depression naturally by feeling more 'open' and not as 'closed in.' And best of all this natural depression remedy will get you more love in return (there literally is truth to the saying "if you give, you shall receive"). By keeping your depression a secret (or not wanting to talk about it), it not only hurts yourself but it's also not fair to loved ones or others in your life who may be confused by your behavior.Talking about your feelings is extremely therapeutic and is also a good step towards recovery. In addition, you'll be surprised how understanding others are, and how willing they'll be to help you overcome low moods and depression. Another good way is to join a discussion group or other online forum where you can anonymously discuss ways to manage depressive thoughts with fellow sufferers in the online community.
Lift The Bodily Stagnation
Reduce depression symptoms by getting the blood flowing throughout your brain and body. Yes, I'm talking about the dreaded "e" word, exercise! Consider exercising on a regular basis (or at least 3 times per week, at least 15 minutes per session). Exercise is a natural depression remedy, well documented to decrease bodily stress as it helps the body produce natural chemicals which may promote overall well-being. In addition to creating pure adrenalin, exercising helps the body treat depression naturally by creating mood enhancing chemicals such as serotonin or norepinephrine. Aerobic exercises such as jogging or brisk walks appear to work well, as do strenuous activities such as weight lifting. Studies show simple long walks may be nearly as effective. If you have joint pain, swimming has great physical (and mental) benefits. As always consult with your physician before beginning a serious exercise program.
Don't Be Afraid To Cry
Many depressed people already cry a lot, but surprisingly some depressed patients get very stoic, impassive and unemotional. For these people, crying can be a great way to reduce depression symptoms both emotionally and physically. Some people call this natural depression remedy as 'an orgasm of the emotions.'But how does such a "stoic" person tap into his/her emotions? Confronting your feelings "head-on" is one way manage depressive thoughts -- impassive people frequently avoid delving too deep into their "issues." Instead many pretend these issues don't exist and then become cynical with thoughts such as "it just doesn't matter" or "it'll do no good, what's the point?" To overcome low moods during these times, start writing your thoughts down on paper, one-by-one, as they enter your brain, or start a daily diary. Read (out loud if you can) and review these thoughts every day. By visually seeing what you wrote down, you may treat depression naturally by finding clarity and solutions to your problems that you otherwise could not do.
Learn More About Depression
Education is knowledge and knowing everything there is to know about depression is a great starting point. Do free research on the internet, visit a library or go buy a good book on depression. The more you know about depression, the more you may understand that having this condition is NOT a life sentence. Millions of people in America alone suffer from this disease right now, and many more millions have also completely cured themselves. You're not stuck with depression forever. Other factors to consider include better, more regular and consistent diet and nutrition, and taking the proper herbal and vitamin supplements to combat depression. For long-term relief consider taking 1,000 to 3,000 mg./daily of the herb St. John's Wort (allow 4-8 weeks to see results). To treat depression naturally and quickly, take 5-htp as needed to overcome low moods. Defeating depression does not occur overnight. The causes for your depression may be deeply rooted within your soul. Using your willpower and all of the advice above (on a daily basis) can speed your healing process significantly.
Reclaim The 'Old You'
When a person becomes depressed, they tend to fall into a new routine of thoughts and habits, different than during 'more joyful' times in their life. In order to exit your funk and better manage depressive thoughts, this pattern of lifestyle and thinking must be altered. Getting back to the 'old you' is difficult while in a state of depression, but trying to overcome low moods should be attempted. Every effort should be made to reduce depression symptoms and start enjoying and experiencing the life you once knew. To better remind yourself of happier times, start making (and constantly updating) a list of things you once enjoyed doing and save them to a computer or handheld device. When practicing this exercise, many people are surprised how lengthy this list can become. Then print & post them somewhere that they'll be seen every day (for example, next to the refrigerator handle). Read this list each time you see it. By doing so, you are subconsciously invigorating your pattern of thinking. When you feel a need to overcome low moods, force yourself to take part in one of these activities, until everything on the list has been checked off. This exercise can help reclaim the 'old you.'
Take On New Challenges
Breaking out of a rut means incorporating new thoughts, ideas, habits and ways into your life. To help reduce depression symptoms, start listening to a new radio station, take on a new hobby, start going to a different supermarket etc... the possibilities are endless. 99% of the thoughts we have today, we will carry over into tomorrow. Why not replace the old, stale, negative and repetitious thoughts with new positive ones. Slowly, over the course of weeks and months, you'll treat depression naturally by infiltrating your brain with healthy new thoughts and slowly rid yourself of the same old negative thought patterns.
Listen To A Life Coach
Another natural depression remedy is to listen or watch recordings or shows from great life coaches such as Wayne Dyer, or Anthony Robbins. If you're willing to be a little more alternative, ayurvedic mind-body guru Deepak Chopra may help you when you need to overcome low moods. All of these professional speakers may help you reduce depression symptoms and find meaning in life, assist you to seek forgiveness in others, help boost your self-worthiness and help you better manage depressive thoughts. Dyer and Chopra can frequently be seen on PBS television shows teaching spirituality and life motivation. Anthony Robbins is seen less on public TV, but like Chopra and Dyer, has penned many books and videotaped many lectures. He also participates in many live lectures throughout North America.
Stay Busy
It is natural for many depressed individuals to lay around and sulk all day. Staying busy is a great way to overcome low moods and keep your mind occupied and away from negative self-absorbing thinking. Lying around feeling sorry for yourself will not solve anything.Instead, reduce depression symptoms by going outside to do some simple yard work (weather permitting), start a garden, take walks around the block, start a diary -- whatever you can think of to manage depressive thoughts. By utilizing this natural depression remedy, you will feel better about yourself and maybe start looking forward to what the next day brings, rather than loathing about yesterday's problems.
Stop Being So Self-absorbed.
Begin to focus your attention on other people. Self-loathing only helps to remind yourself of how miserable you are. By focusing more on others (or even your pet) you'll treat depression naturally by feeling more 'open' and not as 'closed in.' And best of all this natural depression remedy will get you more love in return (there literally is truth to the saying "if you give, you shall receive"). By keeping your depression a secret (or not wanting to talk about it), it not only hurts yourself but it's also not fair to loved ones or others in your life who may be confused by your behavior.Talking about your feelings is extremely therapeutic and is also a good step towards recovery. In addition, you'll be surprised how understanding others are, and how willing they'll be to help you overcome low moods and depression. Another good way is to join a discussion group or other online forum where you can anonymously discuss ways to manage depressive thoughts with fellow sufferers in the online community.
Lift The Bodily Stagnation
Reduce depression symptoms by getting the blood flowing throughout your brain and body. Yes, I'm talking about the dreaded "e" word, exercise! Consider exercising on a regular basis (or at least 3 times per week, at least 15 minutes per session). Exercise is a natural depression remedy, well documented to decrease bodily stress as it helps the body produce natural chemicals which may promote overall well-being. In addition to creating pure adrenalin, exercising helps the body treat depression naturally by creating mood enhancing chemicals such as serotonin or norepinephrine. Aerobic exercises such as jogging or brisk walks appear to work well, as do strenuous activities such as weight lifting. Studies show simple long walks may be nearly as effective. If you have joint pain, swimming has great physical (and mental) benefits. As always consult with your physician before beginning a serious exercise program.
Don't Be Afraid To Cry
Many depressed people already cry a lot, but surprisingly some depressed patients get very stoic, impassive and unemotional. For these people, crying can be a great way to reduce depression symptoms both emotionally and physically. Some people call this natural depression remedy as 'an orgasm of the emotions.'But how does such a "stoic" person tap into his/her emotions? Confronting your feelings "head-on" is one way manage depressive thoughts -- impassive people frequently avoid delving too deep into their "issues." Instead many pretend these issues don't exist and then become cynical with thoughts such as "it just doesn't matter" or "it'll do no good, what's the point?" To overcome low moods during these times, start writing your thoughts down on paper, one-by-one, as they enter your brain, or start a daily diary. Read (out loud if you can) and review these thoughts every day. By visually seeing what you wrote down, you may treat depression naturally by finding clarity and solutions to your problems that you otherwise could not do.
Learn More About Depression
Education is knowledge and knowing everything there is to know about depression is a great starting point. Do free research on the internet, visit a library or go buy a good book on depression. The more you know about depression, the more you may understand that having this condition is NOT a life sentence. Millions of people in America alone suffer from this disease right now, and many more millions have also completely cured themselves. You're not stuck with depression forever. Other factors to consider include better, more regular and consistent diet and nutrition, and taking the proper herbal and vitamin supplements to combat depression. For long-term relief consider taking 1,000 to 3,000 mg./daily of the herb St. John's Wort (allow 4-8 weeks to see results). To treat depression naturally and quickly, take 5-htp as needed to overcome low moods. Defeating depression does not occur overnight. The causes for your depression may be deeply rooted within your soul. Using your willpower and all of the advice above (on a daily basis) can speed your healing process significantly.
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