Sorry Folks

I just wanted to let all my readers know how sorry I am that I haven't been able to post helpful articles for the past couple of days. I've been extremely busy with my daughter who's been real sick lately. I promise to post some more helpful articles later today, if not tomorrow for sure.

Thanks for always coming back here and reading the articles.

Enjoy,
AA

Helping Somebody with Depression - By Roopam Dhawan

If you want to help somebody suffering from depression or whom you suspect is depressed, following are the three simple things you can do.

* Understand the perspective and the situation of the person.

* Help him or her get an appropriate diagnosis.

* Get appropriate treatment for him or her.

Understanding the situation in regard to the possibly depressed person.

Remember that depression is a complex “illness”, and not something just in the mind. So, never ridicule the concerned person of faking an illness or lethargy. Do not expect or tell the person to just “snap out of it.” Most people will get a great deal of sympathy and attention if they have broken an arm or a leg, because the problem is so obvious and visible. The pain and suffering of anxiety and depression are no less real because we cannot see them, in fact they can be greater because we can forget they are there.

Tell the person that you understand and with appropriate diagnosis and treatment, he or she will get better for sure. Also tell the person not to think of himself or herself as inferior to anybody. Keep reassuring the person that he or she will be cured. Exude hope, confidence and optimism and promote treatment.

Offer emotional support to the depressed person. This involves understanding, patience, affection, and encouragement. Engage the depressed person in conversation and listen carefully. Do not disparage feelings expressed, but point out realities and offer hope. Do not ignore remarks about suicide. Report them to the depressed person's therapist or the doctor immediately.

Invite the depressed person for walks, outings, to the movies, and other activities. Be gently insistent if your invitation is refused. Encourage participation in some activities that once gave pleasure, such as hobbies, sports, religious or cultural activities, but do not push the depressed person to undertake too much too soon. The depressed person needs diversion and company, but too many demands can increase feelings of failure.

Understand that you may find the experience physically and emotionally draining, trying, distressing, maddening and downright exhausting at times. This is obviously more intense for those who live in close proximity with the person who is ill, rather than those who have frequent but less day-to-day contact. On the other hand, the sense of delight, sheer relief and pleasure that comes from watching the definite signs of recovery take place can more than compensate for the negative experiences of supporting someone who is severely depressed.

A lot of characteristics of a depressed person's behavior are such which repel people from them. In fact, although being alone is something that is not consciously desired by the depressed person, the sad reality is that he or she may end up acting in such a way that friends and relatives keep their emotional and physical distance from him or her. Once you understand this basic dilemma, it may make it possible for us to see that a depressed person may be crying out for company and attention, even when they are behaving in what is an apparently anti-social way. In such a situation, it can be helpful not to have a knee-jerk reaction to the alienating behavior, but to try to stand back for a moment and try to communicate at a deeper level with the person who is depressed by showing as much warmth and understanding as you can. It is common for those who are depressed to feel deeply unlovable and unloved: if you can respond in a genuinely compassionate and non-judgmental way it provides the depressed person with an opportunity to respond in a positive way.

Any suggestion that the depressed person is contemplating suicide requires professional support and input. Under no circumstances should this responsibility be shouldered alone by whoever is supporting a severely depressed and/or anxious person.

Diagnosis of the exact situation and problem

If you feel that a close friend or relative may be suffering from undiagnosed depression, make sure that he or she sees a doctor in order to ask for help. This can be a particular problem for men, who may feel instinctively uncomfortable about asking for help and advice if they feel depressed, since they may feel that this is partly an admission of weakness. This male fear of vulnerability is thought to be part of the reason why far more women than men are diagnosed as suffering from depression, since women on the whole are thought to be more comfortable with acknowledging problems of a non-physical nature. Since there are so many avenues of support open to anyone suffering from depression, it is very sad if these positive opportunities for treatment are missed due to avoiding asking for appropriate help when necessary. If someone is in too passive a state to go out and see their doctor, arrange for the doctor to come and see them. This may be especially appropriate if the person who is depressed is elderly or suffering from limited mobility.

If the person who is depressed is living alone, keep in touch regularly by a combination of visits and telephone calls. Preparing the occasional meal or giving help with household chores can be a lifesaver to someone who is going through an especially down phase, since at times like these it can take what seems a superhuman effort to accomplish even the most basic of tasks.

Make sure, as far as possible, that the depressed person takes frequent exercise. This need be nothing more ambitious than taking a regular walk each day, or having a swim at a nearby pool. Since it is natural for someone who is depressed to become very introspective and disinclined to take the initiative to go out, even when it may be very necessary, suggest going out for a coffee, a brief shopping trip, or for a drive into the country for a change of scene.

Try to counter negative statements with appropriate positive perspectives. Although this may not always be appreciated or appropriate, in certain situations it can be extremely important to balance an unrealistically bleak perspective with a more rational one. If someone who is depressed comes out with a comment that his or her life is worthless and nobody likes him or her, remind him or her of all of the people who care for him or her, including yourself.

Getting appropriate treatment for the depressed and sticking to it

This involves getting treatment for the depressed person from a qualified healthcare professional. Encourage the individual to stay with treatment until symptoms begin to abate. This may take several weeks. If no improvement occurs for a substantial period, seek a different treatment. You may be required to make an appointment and accompanying the depressed person to the doctor. Also monitor whether the depressed person is taking medication. The depressed person should be encouraged to obey the doctor's advice about the use of alcoholic products while on medication.

Roopam Dhawan is a health enthusiast and writes for http://www.health-bible.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Depression Among College Students - An Essay - By Michael Cooper

Depression among college students, with a focus on Freshmen.

Who is at risk, and what can be done?

Graduation time rolls around, and you already know where you will end up next year for college. Your two best friends will be joining you there, where you will all live in the same apartment complex. You have already put your first payment, and deposit in preparation. Now you wait.

When the time comes around, you pack up and move thousands of miles just to go to college. You haven't heard from either of your friends yet, and you can feel the anticipation welling in your gut. You are so excited, you haven't heard from them all summer. Then you find out they never came. Both decided on going to a different college without you, or telling you. You keep telling yourself you will cope, and make new friends, but you still feel lonely and rejected. Once you are actually in college, things are harder than you expected. You don't have a car, so it is harder to get around buying food, finding a bank, and getting school supplies. Often times you find yourself taking naps, or just sleeping, because you can't focus, or feel overwhelmed. One of the many signs of depression.

Money is tight, and you don't have a job, because you can't find any job openings within walking distance, you are afraid to ride the bus, because it is such a big city, compared to the one you came from. You biggest fear is getting lost, and not being able to make it home.

You often times feel overwhelmed by homework and such. You can never do it quite good enough, and are often times to shy to ask for help, so you sit in silence, confused, and helpless, like a grain of sand on a beach. Not noticed and not much potential.

This is the story of a college freshman. Probably many. That guy who sits next to you in math class, struggling with theorems, or that girl in your chem. class, under pressure to learn her Periodic Table of Elements. Who ever it is, they are there.

Depression effects 76 out of a 100 college students. Mainly freshmen entering a new world so to speak. Often times you won't see it right away or not at all. This is an age group that's tricky, states a psychologist at Davidson College in North Carolina, DeWitt Crosby said, They are adults by law, but they're still dealing with making decisions on their own.

More attention is spent on alcohol consumption, and crimes among students, so that little energy or money is left for the awareness or the treatment of mental health. Often times the only funding is for counselors who will perform â scattershot therapy. They don't actually treat what is wrong, but try to cover many possibilities of what could be wrong within a short period of time.

USA TODAY states in a recent study 14% of the 701 students who took a survey in the Boston area showed significant symptoms of depression, and over half of them could qualify as having major depression. If treatment of the depression was sought, at least 80% would get better.

The National Survey of Counseling Center Directors reported an 85% increase in severe psychological problems over the past five years. Also 30% reported at least one student suicide on their campus within the last (2001/2002) school year.

A hard part in treating depression is recognizing it. Some major symptoms of depression as told by www.campusblues.com are as follows.

1. Sadness, anxiety, or empty feelings
2· Decreased energy, fatigue, being slowed down
3. Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities
4.· Sleep Disturbances (insomnia, oversleeping, or waking much earlier than usual)
5· Appetite and weight changes (either loss or gain)
6· Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, and worthlessness
7· Thoughts off death or suicide, or suicide attempts
8· Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering
9· Irritability or excessive crying
10 · Chronic aches and pains not explained by another physical condition

It's normal to have these feelings at one time or another, but five or more, for a two week or longer period is something to pay attention too. Also watch for changes in the way the person functions. The anxiety is normal in college, when you are studying for classes, or preparing to take a test, but when it rules your life, and they way you think and act is a time to seek help and gain control again.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

The Past Cannot Be Changed, but Today Can. - By Roberta Barnes

Changing ourselves requires deprogramming. Reiki is one of the gentlest, most effect ways of making changes today, which affect yesterday and tomorrow. You might think deprogramming is for cults and wars, but it is most commonly used for the every day brainwashing that often causes depression and physical illnesses. Reiki is Natural Healing for the mind, body, and spirit. You cannot learn any of the many styles of Reiki from a book or video, but in today’s world there are many qualified Reiki Shihans(master/teachers)with an energy and technique lineage back to Mikao Usui,the founder of Reiki.

I will use person X as an example of every day brainwashing. You might find that person X sounds a lot like you. As a young person X was told s/he never listened, always procrastinated, and always wanted ridiculous things. Schoolteachers added to the list of things X did wrong. Then from a spouse it was, you never know what you are talking about, and you never do anything right. From children it was, I wish you were nice like the other kids’ parents, and you never know what is good for anyone. Good things were said to X as well. However, all the negative combined over time can create a block that can harm a person both mentally and physically. Often times these blocks keep a person from enjoying compliments and the good things in life. Physical and mental symptoms that medical doctors say they can find no reason for, sometimes appear as well.

A Reiki Shihan (teacher) or Reiki practitioner never diagnoses or promises a cure, but Usui Reiki Ryoho, heals by balancing and surrounding with harmony. Usui Reiki Ryoho, commonly shortened to Reiki, is the name Mikao Usui gave to the vibration of love and harmony he connected to in 1921. Techniques taught in such styles of Reiki as Gendai Reiki-ho and Komyo Reiki, release the negative from the whole person and fill the void with positive energy. Reiki is not a quick therapy that promises an immediate cure. The negative that has taken years to harm a mind, body, or spirit requires time to release. Multiple Reiki sessions or hours of Reiki training is best. The nice thing about a qualified Reiki Shihan or practitioner is that with Reiki, your actions are never out of your control as with hypnosis, and you never have to be exposed to alcohol or smoke. Reiki does not replace professional licensed medical care, but it can work with conventional medicine as it promotes and speeds healing at all levels.

Humans are said not to have instinctive behavior, but often the imprinted behavior we acquire happens when we are looking the other way. Pulling your hand back from a flame or ducking as an object or a fist comes toward you are learned behaviors to help keep us safe. Unfortunately, some reactions we blend into our everyday life are not helpful to our well-being. If you have ever seen those five simple lines of the Gokai (five Reiki precepts or principles), it might make you think that Reiki is too simple to be good.

Reiki does not require any elaborate rituals or any material objects to give it strength. Love and harmony are very strong energies and the combination is very powerful. Reiki practitioners spend immeasurable hours in study with his or her teacher learning and practicing self-healing and self-growth. A Reiki Shihan(teacher) has gone through at least four levels or degrees in whatever style of Usui Reiki Ryoho she or he practices. Within each of the first three levels of Reiki, numerous exercises and techniques are practiced for self-healing. Then remember that Reiki is the name given to the vibration of combined love and harmony. When all is balanced within you, and you are surrounded by harmony blocks are healed.

Living in Maine, in the United Stated I began by studying styles of Reiki commonly practiced in North America. I then learned the simple yet very strong Japanese Reiki techniques of Gendai Reikiho and Komyo Reiki from Japanese teachers. You can find out more about how Reiki balances on my website at www.naturalhealinglearning.com, and links to other factual Reiki websites.

Roberta R. Banres, Reiki Gendai Reikiho and Komyo Reiki Shihan and practitioner, and Herbalist. Teaching Reiki in her healing room nestled in the trees in Maine or anywhere a group of people has been organized. Through Reiki, herbs, and meditation healing journeys into the past she is dedicated to helping others in the art of well-being. Check out her website at http://www.naturalhealinglearning.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Major Depression is the Leading Cause of Disability in the World - By Charles Donovan

According to the World Health Organization, major Depression is the leading cause of disability in the world. The only FDA approved long term treatment option for major depression is vagus nerve stimulation.

It is the most common and widespread of all psychiatric disorders, and it takes a significant toll on individuals, families, and society. Depression also negatively affects the economy through diminished productivity and use of healthcare resources.

At the 2005 American Psychological Association Annual Meeting, the subject of the co-morbidity of substance abuse and mental illness was discussed. In a symposium focusing on the wide-ranging impact of substance abuse on health, Mark B. Sobell, PhD, of Nova Southeastern University,[10] discussed the high comorbidity and impact of substance use. With regard to psychiatric illness, he quoted data from analyses of the National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (n = 43,093) that showed that among persons with alcohol disorders, 40.69% experienced at least 1 mood disorder, 33.38% experienced at least 1 anxiety disorder, and 33.05% experienced at least 1 drug disorder. Among those with drug disorders, 60.31% experienced at least 1 mood disorder, 42.63% experienced at least 1 anxiety disorder, and 55.16% experienced at least 1 alcohol disorder. Concerning the impact of substance use on physical illness, Dr. Sobell cited data from a study of Medicaid beneficiaries (n = 26,332)[11] indicating that those with comorbid psychiatric and substance use disorders had the highest prevalence of 6 of 8 chronic medical conditions (eg, asthma, heart disease).

Next, Kate B. Carey, PhD, of Syracuse University, discussed assessing and treating individuals with comorbid substance abuse and mental illness. She observed that these individuals have specific health concerns that often occur at higher rates than in others with psychiatric disorders. Patients with dual diagnoses often do not comply with medication regimens and suffer symptom exacerbation, psychiatric hospitalization, social isolation, and interpersonal impairment. These are all classic symptoms of major depression.

If you suffer from major depression and have not had an adequate response to at least four different antidepressants, you should consider the only FDA approved long term treatment for chronic or recurrent depression: vagus nerve stimulation. This should be seriously discussed with your psychiatrist. A prescription for the procedure is required for the ninety-minute out patient procedure.

Charles Donovan was a patient in the FDA investigational trial of vagus nerve stimulation as a treatment for chronic or recurrent treatment-resistant depression. He was implanted with the vagus nerve stimulator in April of 2001. The treatment completely changed his life. He chronicles his journey from the grips of depression thanks to vagus nerve stimulation therapy in his book:

Out of the Black Hole: The Patient's Guide to Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Depression.
The book was exhibited at the American Psychiatric Association's Annual Meeting in late May. It is available on his web site http://www.VagusNerveStimulator.com or by clicking the link on the right side of this blog.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Watch for suicide risk factors in elderly patients: depression, social isolation - Clinical Rounds - Michele G. Suvillan

CHICAGO -- Primary care physicians may be the only ones to see the red flags associated with suicide in elderly patients, because most elderly suicide victims never come to the attention of psychiatrists.

Primary care physicians should be highly alert to signs of depression and increasing social isolation among their elderly patients, particularly those who live alone, Dr. George El-Nimr said in a poster session at a meeting of the International Psychogeriatric Association.

"Previous studies have shown that attempted suicide and deliberate self-harm are associated with social isolation, which was also round to be associated with the onset of suicidal ideation," said Dr. El-Nimr of Hollins Park Hospital in Warrington, England. Yet data suggest that more than 80% of" elderly who commit suicide never see a psychiatrist before their death and that only about 15% are under psychiatric care when they commit suicide.

Dr. El-Nimr conducted a retrospective study of 200 suicides of people aged 60 years and older that occurred in Cheshire from 1989 to 2001.

Women, whether living alone or with someone else, were more likely than men to have contacted their primary care physician and to have been known to psychiatric services before suicide.

"Women seem to have a higher tendency to utilize services and ask for help," Dr. El-Nimr said. "They also appear to present their problems in a way that attracts the attention of relevant psychiatric services."

And, he added, children who urge an elderly parent to get help are more likely to have an impact on mothers than on fathers. But since most suicide victims never get a psychiatric referral, their primary care physicians must be alert for any danger sign: depression, which can present as physical ailments; alcoholism; social isolation; and living alone.

It's also important to note the presence or absence of close family members, whether spouses or children, he said. 'According to our study, childless women and widowed men, as well as the socially isolated, are at a particular risk."

If danger signs emerge, an integrated care approach is likely to be most successful.

Michele G. Suvillan
OB/GYN News, Dec 1, 2003

Treating minor depression and dysthymia in the elderly - By Caroline Wellbery

It is well known that elderly persons are subject to major depression, albeit at a lower rate than younger persons. Elderly persons also may have minor depression or dysthymia, which might be amenable to treatment with medication or behavioral intervention. Ciechanowski and colleagues examined whether an intervention focused on problem solving would be more effective than usual care in the treatment of dysthymia and depression in elderly patients.

Persons 60 years and older who received senior services or lived in senior housing projects were screened for depression, as were self-referred persons. They were randomized to usual care or a program used to treat dysthymia and minor depression, the Program to Encourage Active, Rewarding Lives for Seniors (PEARLS), adapted to a home-based problem-solving treatment. The program involved eight 50-minute in-home sessions given over 19 weeks, with evaluation at baseline, six months, and 12 months. In patients with insufficient improvement, the primary care physician was contacted to evaluate the patient for antidepressant use and previously unidentified risk factors for depression. Outcomes included rates of depression (as assessed by a validated scale); health-related quality of life, including physical, emotional, and social function; health care utilization; and antidepressant use.

Most patients were low-income women. Intervention patients received a mean of 6.6 visits. There were no differences in antidepressant use between the groups at any time during the study. Significant differences favoring the intervention group were noted in depression scores, improvement of more than 50 percent, and remission. The scores in all of these categories dropped, but not significantly, between six and 12 months.

The PEARLS intervention resulted in greater remission of depression at 12 months in study subjects compared with the usual-care group (36 versus 12 percent). Depression severity also was decreased in patients who received the intervention. Functional and emotional well-being improved in the intervention group at 12 months. The lack of improvement in social and physical well-being may have been a result of physical and practical barriers in the target population. In addressing the nonsignificant decline in improvement in depression between six and 12 months in the intervention group, the authors speculate that better overall improvement may have been obtained with ongoing intervention sessions. In spite of the modest gains, this study demonstrates a successful, community-based, nonpharmacologic intervention for depression.

CAROLINE WELLBERY, M.D.
American Family Physician, Jan 15, 2005

When Someone You Know Has To Deal With Depression, Anxiety And Fear - By Stan Popovich

What do you do when you someone you know has to deal with persistent fears and anxieties or even depression? Well the first thing you need to do is to get the person to seek the services of a professional and/or counselor who can lead them in the right direction and give them the help they need. In the meantime, here are some other things you can do to help the person cope.

Learn as much as you can in managing fears, anxieties and depression. There are many books and information that will educate on how to deal with fear and anxiety. Share this information with the person who is struggling. Education is the key in finding the answers your looking for in managing your fears.

Be understanding and patient with the person struggling with their fears. Dealing with depression and anxiety can be difficult for the person so don't add more problems than what is already there.

As for the person dealing with the anxiety, he or she must realize that managing anxiety and fear takes practice. So when experiencing an anxiety related situation, begin to learn what works, what doesn't work, and what you need to improve on in managing your fears and anxieties. As you do this, you will become better in dealing with your anxieties.

Don't forget to Pray and ask God for help. A person can only do so much. Asking God for help can give us additional resources to help manage our fears and anxieties. It is not always easy, however God is in control and he will help you if you ask him.

Another thing to remember is that things change and events do not stay the same. For instance, you may feel overwhelmed in the mornings with your anxiety and feel that this is how you will feel the rest of the day. This isn't correct. No one can predict the future with 100 Percent accuracy. Even if the thing that you feared does happen there are circumstances and factors that you can't predict which can be used to your advantage. You never know when the help and answers you are looking for will come to you.

As a Layman, I realize it is not easy to deal with all of our fears. When your fears and anxieties have the best of you, seek help from a professional. The key is to be patient, take it slow, and not to give up. In time, you will be able to find those resources that will help you with your problems.

About the Author

Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods"-a book that presents a overview of techniques in managing Fear. For more info go to: http://www.managingfear.com For free articles on managing fear please go to: http://www.managingfear.com

Let's Alter Your Mind - By Randall Stafford

“It’s a chemical imbalance.” I’ve heard those words so many times in the last decade, it’s becoming routine for Doctors to blame everything on it.

Have you been listening to the News, the talk shows, the media, and other people lately. It’s pathetic. I am not a doctor, or scientist of any kind. I am just an ordinary man just listening. I guess that would make me a shrink, right? Nope, I’m not that either.

Now, I grew up in a house where mother took prescription drugs by the handfuls. She had 3 doctors, 2 or 3 pharmacist, and naturally she smoked 3 packs of cigarettes per day.

Some doctors gave her uppers while some gave her downers. Some gave her “in-between-ers”. No, that was a joke. She took diet pills and she took blood pressure pills. She had asthma and bronchitis. If you read any of my stories in the past, you know the doctor told her that she needed to start smoking to build her lung up since one of them was taken out. I don’t need to go into that here.

You wonder where I am going. It appears that every doctor around is selling mind altering drugs. I want a full explanation to what “Chemical Imbalance” is. If it’s a vitamin deficiency then shouldn’t we give the person a banana instead of a liver killing pill?

I was diagnosed as having arthritis in the lower back. I told the doctor, lets cure it. He said, there is no cure. We can treat it. But you may as well get used to it.

Bull S___. I’m not going to get used to it. Treat it! What he means is, you can pay me every month and become a permanent customer. No way. The only way that’ll happen is if I bow down to that crap.

Guess what happened next? I showed signs of depression. Now why on earth would I be depressed. All this time I thought I was out of shape and now I find out that I have some sort of incurable disease! Should that make me happy? Of course not. I bet you know what the doctor did. You got it.

He started writing a prescription for depression. I’m wondering about the arthritis and he writing a prescription for my head. Something is totally wrong here.

I have a little experience with this mind altering crap. Most likely, I am wrong according to all the pen writing legal drug dealers. You must keep in mind throughout this whole story that this is just my opinion. “Nothing more!” I have no intentions to sway any person away from the advice of their doctors. It’s not my fault they still need practice.

My kid Lewis was 7 years old and started 2nd grade. Boy was he happy. He was like a wild horse. The teacher couldn’t get him to pay attention to her in class so instead of letting him go out and burn that energy up, she punishes him by making him sit in the room while everyone else goes out and plays. Later, she convinces my part time wife that my son Lewis belongs on ridlin. The once happy boy turned into a Zombie. That was 17 years ago. He’s also been in jail since the age of 15. I wonder if turning him onto drugs at an early age did anything to him.

Shoot, no wonder our kids are fatter than we want them to be. We are not happy when they are running so we shoot em full of drugs to slow them down. Why not run them. More exercise would have done Lewis better than sitting him in a corner.

Oh yeah, I know, those doctors have been trained. Trained at what? To collect money, keep your kids sick so that they have a never ending supply of patients. In my opinion, the doctors have too many patients. Half the time, you sit out in the waiting room for an hour after your appointment and then they call you to wait another 30 minutes in a closed room.

Yes, I do believe there is a cure for cancer, arthritis, colds, and other things. I just don’t believe they are through using the term PRACTICE here in the US. Now don’t get me wrong. I am an American and proud of it. I just ain’t to proud of our government right now. Maybe I should be attacking the FDA or whatever they call their selves.

Is it all about the money? Is everything about Lies?

I read somewhere that we are living longer now than we did a hundred years ago. If this is true, are we feeling better or are we living longer with PAIN? I don’t know about you but it seems like every time you turn around someone tells you they are bi-polar. Geesh!

Who knows, I may be bi-polar too according to the definition. However it fits my marriage better. My marriage has been bi-polar for years. I may have even had ADD or whatever. I remember going to a superman movie and dreaming that I was superman and I could not pay attention in class. To be quite honest, I don’t pay much attention now. It’s called being bored.

With what I have learned, some doctors call it a chemical imbalance while others call it a vitamin deficiency. Maybe they are not the same. Maybe they are.

About the Author:Randall Stafford has recently been doing quite a bit of research in the health industry since he was diagnosed with arthritis. If you'd like to read more information, you can get that at his web site. http://www.randallsquare.com or http://www.starmotivators.com

Article source: ArticleWorld.net Free Articles

What is seasonal affective disorder and depression? - By Diana Maree

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is the clinical name for cloudy day blues, and it can have serious effect on the lives of sufferers. Read these suggestions to keep wintertime depression under control.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is the clinical name for "the winter blahs." More than just a "down" feeling, it is a form of depression that descends on its victims in the dark, winter months. Triggered by a decrease in daylight hours, it's more prevalent in the northern parts of the world, in those countries most impacted by the rotation of the earth in relationship to the sun. Generally, symptoms appear in late fall, worsen through the holiday months, (possibly aggravated by seasonal celebrations of those around them), and lessen when the springtime sunshine reappears. Most sufferers report no complaints from late spring through the early fall.

Symptoms are similar to those of clinical depression, but disappear when the sun shines again. Sufferers find themselves wanting to hibernate, avoid contact with people, sleep either too much or too little, gorge on carbohydrates. Unplanned weight losses or gains are common, as is generalized ennui and fatigue; SAD sufferers frequently find their thought processes foggy and have to force themselves to exercise, go outside their homes, and maintain daily routines.

If you find yourself feeling more blue on overcast days, followed by a brighter disposition when the sun breaks through again, you may be among the millions dealing with SAD. Some people are so severely afflicted they've found it necessary to relocate, to move to a climate with mild, sunny winters, to maintain a normal disposition. Others, who are able to adjust their lifestyles to accommodate multiple residences, find relief by becoming "snowbirds." During the winter months living in the southern hemisphere, and returning north to avoid the equatorial heat.

If you have to stay where you are, and that happens to be a region with a gloomy winter season, you can take steps to "bloom where you are planted." Here are some important things you can do to minimize the SAD disruption in your life.

First, check with your doctor to determine if you are facing a physical problem that has depression as a side effect. He may recommend medication as wintertime boost. (This should be no more discomfiting than if you were given a prescription for vitamins to compensate for an iron deficiency.)

Then take a look at some of these self-care tools you can use to keep the deep doldrums at bay.

LIGHTING:

Light therapy has tremendous impact on SAD. Studies have shown that fluorescent light boxes can simulate daylight well enough to relieve SAD in many mild to moderate cases. The most effective amount seems to be 2500 lux of white light for two hours per day, although some studies demonstrate that 10,000 lux for half an hour a day may work just as well. A light box can be purchased from medical suppliers, or, if you're handy with tools, made at home. A search on the web will lead you to places to purchase them or to directions for building your own.

Light boxes may be covered by your medical insurance if a physician prescribes them. Do check with your provider to be sure.

To increase the amount of light in your home, replace your normal light bulbs with full spectrum ones. Available from medical supply houses, photographic supply sources and sometimes from chain departmetn stores, these are available in many wattages, as fluorescent or standard, and made to fit most fixtures, either as screw in bulbs or fluorescent tubes.

Use white or pastel colors on your walls. A light, bright room helps to lift moods more than, for example, a paneled den.

Allow as much daylight into your home as you can; keep drapes and curtains open except at night.

DIET:

Carbohydrates seem to intensify the sluggishness of a depressive, so even though winter menus historically call for rich soups and other heavy foods, be careful to balance them with fruits, vegetables, and extra proteins.

EXERCISE:

Some studies show that a half an hour of exercise every day is at least as effective as medication in fighting off depression. To keep yourself motivated, find a friend who will commit to joining you for a daily walk, think about exercise as a reward for your body rather than an unpleasant task, and find a way of exercising that you enjoy. Walking, swimming, and dancing appeal to some more than aerobics or weight lifting.

SELF AWARENESS:

Journal keeping and meditation can be helpful in identifying stress factors in your life that contribute to sadness. Use these tools to become more conscious of times that you avoid speaking what's really on your mind, find yourself headed in a direction you don't want to go, or are involved in unhealthy relationships.

MENTAL HEALTH THERAPY:

Talking over your feelings with a counselor can help you get a grip on what's going on at the sub-conscious level, and to identify patterns of coping that may not be in your best interest. Group therapy can put you in touch with others experiencing SAD; there, you can share productive ways of dealing with your blues and learn, too, that you are not alone, or "crazy." Therapy sessions also make you get yourself dressed and out of the house.

ROUTINE:

When the fog of depression attacks, maintaining a routine becomes both crucial and difficult. This is not the time to forego regular haircuts, to cancel lunch dates, or quit your job. While it's not a good idea to overload yourself with NEW commitments in the midst of a depressive episode, neither is it the time make major life changes or abandon connections with healthy habits and people.

What can work is to create time for self indulgence. Snuggling up in a blanket with a good book in front of the fireplace, for example, or going on a weekend retreat, nourishes our spirits without pushing our limits to cope.

Making copies of an "everyday" to-do list helps to keep the focus on well-being; include such things as taking vitamins, using your light box, journaling, going for a walk, making contact with other people, eat lunch, eat dinner--all important facets of healthy living that are easily forgotten by sufferers of any form of depression, including Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Written by Diana Maree - © 2002 Pagewise

Suicide warning signs in teens and adults

Here are proven suicide warning signs to look for in a suicidal person. Knowing them may help prevent a tragedy.

Suicide is a devastating thing. Unfortunately, it is a real problem, especially among teens. Every year 30,000 people commit suicide. It is the second leading cause death among college students. It is the third leading cause of death among people ages 15 to 24 years old. And the suicide rate among children ages 10 to 14 has doubled in the last 10 years.

Here are proven signs to look for in a suicidal person. Knowing them may help prevent a tragedy.


-changes in behavior or mood

-withdrawn

-unusual anger

-total apathy

-inappropriate behaviors

-change in eating and/or sleeping habit

-any illness without cause

-fatigue, loss of energy

-unusual changes in social habits

-loss of interest in life, activities and simple pleasures

-unusual amount and depth of sadness, crying, depression

-talk of death, preoccupation with death

-talk of suicide

-giving away personal possessions

-start of using or increased use of alcohol, and/or drugs

If you suspect someone is contemplating suicide, don't be afraid to ask them. You won't put the thought into their head. Chances are, if you suspect they might be thinking of it, they HAVE thought about it or they are thinking about it already. Talking about it, may make them realize the seriousness of it, the reality. Also, TELL SOMEONE IMMEDIATELY!! Don't keep it to yourself. You may help save a life. Also never leave the patient alone.

Care for those with bipolar disorder: guide for caregivers

What caregivers need to know about symptoms of manic and care for those who are depressive or bipolar mood disorder, and the medications that are used to treat this condition?

What was once called manic, or manic-depressive behavior is now called Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorder, based on the presenting symptoms. The focus here will be on manic, or Bipolar I illness.

There are three levels of mania, beginning with cyclothymic disorder. This is not considered a major mental illness, and there are plenty of people with this condition, who we all think of as very moody, with strong ups and downs. No medication is needed and the individual is able to function in all areas.

The second level of mania is hypomania, which means below mania, and it is more intense, and can be seen by spending sprees, food binging and minor disruption of daily living. There may be some absentism from work or school, and the tendency to engage in questionable and impulsive behavior exists. However, it is the degree of disruption of daily life and ability to function that determines the degree of mania.

Full blown mania is a frightening thing to see.

While the patient feels confident, attractive and able to perform above and beyond his normal abilities, this false eupohoria is the beginning stage of true Bipolar Disorder. Loved ones and family members often mistake this phase for drug use, and manics will describe this as a cocaine-like high.

Typical symptoms include rapid and sometimes violent mood swings, with laughter, crying and even rage. Insomnia is common, and often there is a decline in personal attention to grooming and hygiene, eating and concern for one's physical needs.

A manic may run outside in shirt sleeves or nightgown in a downpour, or may dress in a provocative and exposing way. They may refuse meals stating they will eat later or there is no time to eat, and you may have trouble even expressing your concerns before the patient's attention is directed elsewhere.

As the attention span decreases, the mind continues to race, and the manic likes to think of himself as the most clever and humorous individuals. Frequent jokes with an emphasis on punning and rhyming are classic presentation.

Also typical is a train of thought termed tangential.

In tangential thinking the individual in an acute manic phase will "go off on tangents." If you say "it is raining cats and dogs, you better put on a jacket", the patient will say "dog my cats!" or make reference to the movie "Full Metal Jacket and The Dog Days Of War." While initially entertaining, this rapidly becomes both tiring and exasperating for those attempting to co-exist with the manic patient.

Mania is caused by a biochemical imbalance in the brain, and there are a variety of medications used in its treatment. The classic medication is lithium carbonate, a naturally occuring salt, which has a narrow range of effectiveness, and can be toxic at high dosages.

Another medication, used for both mania and seizure control is carbamazepine, (Tegretol). It is the drug of second choice, but may be used if there are health problems such as heart or thyroid conditions that may preclude the use of lithium.

Bipolar patients have difficulty seeing that their behavior is out of line or that they can endanger themselves in an acute manic episode. The massive high, which seems abnormal to us seems normal to them, and there is an unfortunate tendency to self medicate or avoid medication whatsoever.

A manic who has been up for days without sleep or proper nutrition is at risk for developing manic related psychosis. Symptoms may include increased vigilance, paranoia, hallucinations such as believing others are whispering about them or are devils. In this phase acute, and frequently locked psychiatric observation and treatment is required.

At this extreme level of mania, it is common to find no therapeutic level of Lithium or Tegretol in the bloodstream. Strong medications called anti-psychotics or psychotrophics often are given such as Haldol and Thorazine. The goal is to rapidly reduce the mania, using the above medications, anti-manic medications and sometimes tranquilizers in combination with close observation.

At this level patients cannot safely be managed in the home environment, and may suddenly turn on loved ones or friends. Some hostage situations and murder-suicides have been linked to this extreme and disorienting level of manic behavior.

In the home setting, once regulated on a maintenance dose of medication, it is important to follow the Doctor's stated regime exactly.

Medication side effects such as weight gain and edema can be expected but more severe adverse effects such as tremors, lethargy and metallic taste in the mouth and vomiting should be reported immediately.

Be alert for increasing euphoria or high energy levels as the patient commonly decreases the amount of medication they are taking or flushes it from the body with abnormal amounts of fluid intake. A loved one who tells you everything is fine and brushes off your concerns is liable to be heading for another full blown episode.

One way to avoid this is to be vigilant for sudden mood swings, noncompliance with regular lab tests and Doctor's visits, (these help to regulate the safe dose of medication in the blood stream and will pinpoint non medication compliance), and return of previously risky patterns.

It is said the patients with a Bipolar I diagnosis are often intelligent but not wise. It is then up to the caregivers to educate themselves, attend available support groups and be alert to help loved ones, and themselves, maintain the highest quality of life.

The depressed child - By Julia Nielsen

Twenty million children in the United States alone suffer from clinical depression. What is happening and how can we help?

All kids feel sad some time in their childhood, whether it be from a friend moving away or a pet that died. Nevertheless, there is also an estimated two million children who are clinically depressed--scary numbers for parents and doctors. In researching for this article, I have come away with some sobering statistics in this, the beginning of the twenty-first century.

1.Depression in children is rising. In a study done at the National Institute of Mental Health, it was concluded that depression onset is occuring earlier in life than that of the past, and that children who suffer from depression will turn either to alcohol or to crime and will at least attempt suicide in adulthood, if they don't get the necessary treatments now. My eyes grew wide when I learned of this report.

2. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among children between the ages of 10-24.

3. If you, as a parent have suffered anxiety or depression, your child has a greater than fifty percent chance that they too will develop anxiety or depression.

4. It is estimated that half of the children who have depression will never get the proper help they need.

5. Depression can lead to poor grades, poor health and poor communication skills with children.

6. By the time children who have not gotten help, reach adulthood--they will have more health problems than those who sought out help when they were children.

7. Often times, parents think the child will just, "snap out of it." Those children never get help, and therefore end up in far worse circumstances.

8. Depression is treatable. By finding the right doctor and treatment for your child, depression can be controlled and even cured.

So, what is depression and more importantly, what can we, as parents do to prevent it from occurring in our children?

Depression is characterized as having imbalances in the brain's neurotransmitters, the chemicals that allow communication between nerve cells. The neurotransmitters, Norepinpherne and Serotonin, are two chemicals whose low levels are thought to play an important role. Some doctors believe depression is heridatary, in that if parents or grandparents suffer from it, their children most likely will to. No one knows for sure why the chemicals are deficient; it could stem from genes, traumatic events, like a death or a move or from illness. Whatever the reason, depression in children is not normal. Kids need not be sad all the time. The question is, can depression be cured, before it causes major problems in the family?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression can be controlled or cured, if we catch the signs early.

· Frequent vague, non-specific physical complaints such as headaches, muscle aches, stomachaches or tiredness

· Frequent absences from school or poor performance in school

· Talk of or efforts to run away from home

· Outbursts of shouting, complaining, unexplained irritability, or crying

· Being bored

· Lack of interest in playing with friends

· Alcohol or substance abuse

· Social isolation, poor communication

· Fear of death

· Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure

· Increased irritability, anger, or hostility

· Reckless behavior

· Difficulty with relationships

If your child exhibits these signs, talk to a counselor as soon as possible. The earlier parents get help, the better. Children do not need to suffer needlessly nor do they need to feel as if they are alone.

There are all sorts of treatments out there for adolescent depression, but before you call a psychiatrist or stock your medicine cabinet with drugs, talk to your child and your doctor. Not all drugs are right for children and some can make the depression worse or have bad side effects. The most important thing you can do for your child is to discuss treatment options. The more the child feels in control of their depression, the better. If they are hesitant about medication, listen to why they are afraid and then come to a decision that will benefit everyone. Not all depressed children need drugs; some just need someone to listen to, someone they can relate to and someone who will understand and accept what they are feeling. The same with psychiatrists; children have different needs. It is vital that you pick someone that the child will feel comfortable talking with and expressing their feelings. Get on the Internet and research medications; if you feel that is the route, you would like to take.

The worst thing a parent can do is give up on their child. They need their parents more than anything. Often times, children do not know why they are feeling sad and they are scared. If the depression is because of a friend or loved one who has died or the fact that someone is bullying then in school, make it a point to talk to the school counselor and even the principal. Let them know what is going on so they can be aware and help the child.

I do not think we can necessarily prevent depression from ever entering out child's life. Just by watching the news or reading the newspaper, children get a sense of the real world around them and the things that make them fearful. In depressed children, these feelings can be overwhelming. We can help by not setting their feelings aside. We can be there for them; we can strive to help them have self-confidence and self-esteem. We can listen to their fears, hopes and dreams.

I still feel--and this is my opinion--that children need to be heard. Talk to them; find out what could be the reason that they are sad. If they are hesitant about speaking to you, or just do not want to, have a close relative or friend try to talk to your child. Sometimes, anxious parents can be a deterrent for children when they are feeling sad. We, as Parents mean well, but we could be the reason they are depressed. Children need to feel that by talking to us they will not feel as if we are judging them or making them feel bad for feeling the way they do.

Depression among adolescents is rising; let's do something before it gets out of control and help kids become kids again.

Written by Julia Nielsen - © 2002 Pagewise

1st 2 Cure Depression - By: Kenny Goh Jern Yue

As our society progresses, we often find ourselves in challenging situations and tough scenarios which often challenge our wits and abilities to the extremes. So what happens if we fail? Depending on individual characters, some may get up and keep going, while others may suffer a heavy blow to their self confidence and slump into depression.

Why does anyone get depressed? Ever felt that time is running out on you and life is passing you by? When a person isn’t engaged in productive activities, he or she may feel stagnant and begin to feel depressed. Inactivity and lack of purpose can result in feelings associated with loss of hope. Life seems to be devoid of any sense of purpose.

So if purpose is what we lack, then how can we turbo charge ourselves with worthy purposes? Even if we found worthy causes to pursue, how can we always be focused in our purpose and goal? Besides loving them, there is a way which we can attain higher focus and involvement in pursuing our goal.

The secret is to live it like a game show. Ever watched the Apprentice? Ever noticed that all the contestants are very pumped up and engaged in their tasks? This is because they are treating their tasks very seriously and are constantly pushing themselves. Irregardless of their achievement level, most of them have pushed their abilities to the max.

Game shows participants have a much higher focused frame of mind. Their eyes are set on the prize and the goals. No room is left for depression or thoughts of failure. Fear factor contestants realize this and we can see many attempted and still continue to negatively influence their competitors with negative thoughts and verbal assaults.

Everyday we need to set our objectives and rewards. Set out to achieve them. It isn’t life or death if we fail, but when attempting the task, we need to put our very best into it. Do not punish yourself if you failed. Learn instead from the experience and equip yourself with the knowledge to start off with a better footing next time.

When you have successfully applied this attitude in your life, you will begin to see that life is meaningful and beautiful. Realize that there are so many beautiful things to be enjoyed in life.

About the Author: Kenny is the publisher of http://1st-2-cure-depression.com, http://1st-natural-acne-treatment.com/ and http://1st-health-insurance-quote.com/.

Source: www.isnare.com

The Blues: Healing Your Depression - By Jodie Foster

Living with depression, sadness and grief puts quite a damper upon you. Knowing when to say, "Enough!" and to ask for help is the first step on the road to freedom and happiness.

Working with traditional counseling or even intuitive counseling can signal the turning point in your life. Intuitive counseling, unlike traditional counseling, offers a unique perspective into the energetic and emotional patterns that you have been holding. Allowing information to be delivered through the intuitive realm, the counselor has access to not only the mental and emotional layers of your energy body, but the physical and spiritual layers as well. It is a ‘wholistic’ approach to healing, meaning your entire being is supported and incorporated into your healing process.

I know that many people look for a psychic reading to give those answers about what steps to take next, or when will they meet Mr. Right. However these answers may make you feel in the immediate moment, has your relationship pattern change? Are you still going to attract the same sort of person the next time? Have you release the emotions that you have been carrying as a burden? Does the depression actually lift?

Changing the emotional patterns, releasing the pent up feelings and listening to your inner self are key to changing the overall dynamic. Even without the label of depression, underlying feeling of sadness, unhappiness and monotony can bring about a need for change.

Intuitive insight can be a powerful ally to have as a support system. Developing your own intuition is just as important. Knowing what to do with that intuition however, is the real key to your healing process.

Depression, whether it comes from suppressed grief, hurt or anger, is still a powerful energetic blockage to face alone. You require support, tools and techniques to relieve the pressure and allow the emotion to be released gently and constructively. Intuitive counseling provides you with a support system structure and techniques to work with. This process compliments other forms of depression treatment. Meditation, yoga, tai chi, journaling and other holistic modalities may be incorporated with the intuitive energy healing process.

No one deserves to live with sadness, grief, depression or unresolved anger. Life is too precious to waste on waiting to feel better. It’s up to you to take action and choose to begin your healing. It’s always wise to hire a guide to lead you through the forest of your fears and feelings. An intuitive counselor is a capable guide with a map to help you when you can’t see the forest for the trees.

© 2005 Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is an Intuitive Counselor who assists clients to create extraordinary transformations in their daily lives. Her work is uplifting, empowering and success-oriented. You can visit Jodie’s website at http://www.illuminationsnetwork.com for further information and to schedule a private intuitive session. You can also look for daily updates to her blog at: http://intuitiveinnovations.blogspot.com .

Publisher's Guidelines: You may freely publish this article online, in email newsletters, or in print so long as the resource box and byline are in tact and all links are active. Author would appreciate a notification, but that is optional.

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Mood Stabilizers & Mood Enhancers - A Remedy To Naturally Boost Mood & Alleviate Depression - By: Danna Schneider

Depression and mood disorders are very prevalent mental health issues today. In an increasingly health conscious society, more options are being put forth in the realm of natural medicine, allowing people to stabilize and enhance mood naturally, without addictive and often harmful prescription antidepressants.

Natural mood stabilizers and mood enhancers usually work by encouraging the production of serotonin and other "pleasure" chemicals such as norepinephrine in the human brain, thereby promoting a sense of calm, well-being and revitalization.

Herbal mood enhancers may contain several different herbs and vitamins in concentrated form ranging from St. John's Wort, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin B12 and various other proprietary blends of botanical extracts and powders. The goal of natural mood stabilizers is to simultaneously alleviate stress and anxiety, while increasing energy and vitality levels (this is where Vitamin B12 usually comes into play - as an energy enhancer). All of this is done through precise blends of complementing ingredients to produce the desired outcome chemically in the human body.

A mood stabilizer is an excellent way to help make it through life's rough patches or particulary stressful events in life, since they are natural and non-habit forming, but very effective at enhancing mood for those who need some temporary help from time to time. Please note that individuals who suffer severe clinical depression should seek the help and guidance of a therapist and/or psychiatrist though, as therapy and medication may be needed in extreme cases.

Mood enhancing herbs have actually long been used in ancient civilizations as a means for mood stabilization and mood elevation. Natural mood enhancers, in contrast with prescription antidepressants, actually do not produce many of the common side effects of prescription antidepressants.

Side effects of the more common antidepressants (Zoloft, Paxil, Effexor, Lexapro and more),may include any of the following: suicidal tendencies, sexual disfunction, dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation, blurred vision, headache, weight gain, gastrointestinal disturbance and more.

Most people actually discontinue the usage of prescription mood enhancers (antidepressants) due to the simple fact that the side effects are worse than the actual depression. Many critics of prescription mood stabilizers argue that we don't know enough about how or why they work in the human brain, and that it is the "overkill" approach to treating depression or the "sledgehammer to crack a nut" approach, which is not necessary to effectively treat many cases of depression.

One thing is certain. There are countless people who suffer from moderate depression and mood disorders from time to time. There is simply no reason to not try a natural method to stabilize and regulate your mood by using a natural mood enhancer to get through emotionally difficult times. It's simply not worth the risks associated with antidepressants if it is not severe enough to warrant a psychologist's supervision.

About the Author: Danna Schneider is the webmaster and founder of Herbal-Therapeutics.com, http://www.herbal-therapeutics.com providing the latest and most effective alternative medicines and herbal remedies for maximum life enjoyment and fulfillment.

Source: www.isnare.com

Depression in America. Is medication the easy way out? - By chanele "therockstar" lovelace

Depression & Anxiety are words a lot of people throw around. I have talked to several people in the baby boomer generation who literally think its a trait for my generation to be labeled as depressed. That its one of the new fads and a excuse that my generation has for not putting in effort to manage when we are sad, mad or angry. Through my research I have had been told by a alarming amount of people who's heritage isn't rooted in America that its a American thing, pop pills to feel better. The easy way out and I have even been told that its an excuse to not parent your children. This is all prior to me doing to hard research on the facts. I can tell you that it seemed the majority felt that this whole depression and anxiety thing was just a hoax. So, I got on the Internet and called some therapist and was very startled to find out that America is the highest country of individuals that actually get a prescription for anti depressants & anxiety medication. Which does indeed back up the majority of those I have already talked to claims.

Yet, the interesting thing I found out is yes, we are the highest basically with a paper trails -- yet in a lot of other countries you can go down without a paper trail and purchase the prescription drug without a prescription. That the reason the facts show America in a dark light is because America is one of the few countries in which are being responsible and holding both doctors and patience accountable to make sure the right treatment is being given for the right illness. Illness, sickness, & disease is a very common word amongst both patients & doctors. A word I have grown to respect and is now second nature is saying when referring to these growing problems. Although allot of people who don't have these types of illness usually disregard it, as being a disease. I have learned that these are serious sickness' that need to be treated and acknowledged. Doctors have explained and shown me just as much if not more scientific proof proving depression and anxiety are diseases, as they do about proving HIV, Aids, Cancer ...Etc are diseases. Yes, I find the need to reinerate I have been shown just as much proof that anxiety and depression disorders are a disease. So, just as we wouldn't disregard. Cancer, nor should be disregard Anxiety & Depression disorders. It's not fair to just hear the words from my mouth. Admittedly it is hard to get people to talk on tape or camera about this sensitive subject. The stigma that has been portrayed by this "growing trend of pill popping lazy loonies" --AJay. Has made people shameful and hidden. Sounds very similar to gay/lesbian people coming out of the closet. However, I did a very impacting interview, that best displays the importance of both therapy and medication. That displays it isn't a hoax. Understandably Sharon age 29 from: as she describes a little bit of everywhere, would like to remain as anonymous as possible.

I would like to explain it is hard to get people to talk on tape or camera about this sensitive subject. The stigma that has been portrayed by this "growing trend of pill popping lazy loonies" --AJay. Has made people shameful and hidden. Sounds very similar to gay/lesbian people coming out of the closet.

Here is the interview verbatim:

Chanele "therockstar": If there isn't anything you don't want to answer feel free not to. Okay?.

Sharon: yeah

Chanele "therockstar": For the audience can you tell us, why are you taking medication and going to therapy?

Sharon: I have been diagnosed with Bi-polar disorder.

Chanele "therockstar":And what does that mean?

Sharon: My mood and feelings changes from being extremely happy and likeable to extremely depressed and suicidal.

Chanele "therockstar": and why is it because of a bad day, family issues boyfriend, what?

Sharon: honestly there isn't a reason for it. If am not taking my medication regularly the chemicals in my brain aren't balanced and I don't react to things normally.

Chanele "therockstar": What do you mean normally? Describe to me a situation.

Sharon: Well, I have had several bad situations but, the worse happened about a year ago, I found out my father had passed away and I became very light headed, dizzy and extremely angry. At that time I didn't know why I was so angry but, after having time to look back it was because he left me and I hadn't seen him since I was 10 years old and he had the nerve to up and die To leave me again but, this time forever. I was in a fog I went out to a party and refused to drink because for some reason I wanted to feel this anger. I went to the bathroom and threw up but when I went to the sink to wash my face. I punched the mirror broke it, picked up a big piece and started cutting deep into my thighs and arms. Not to kill myself to feel something anything other than being mad at him. I kept cutting until I woke up in a hospital bed strapped down. I didn't even remember it happening for 3 days it was like a dream where you only remember parts of it.

Chanele "therockstar": wow, how did your mom feel about this?

Sharon: She was angry, said I just wanted attention. A doctor there tried to recommend I go to a therapist since I tried to kill myself. I told him didn't want to kill myself, and my mom kept interrupting him saying no one tries to commit suicide they do or they don't. She didn't she just wanted attention. She always acts out.

Chanele "therockstar": Did you go to a therapist or doctor?

Sharon: They kept me under suicide watch at the hospital and I some counslor but, I just told them what they wanted to hear so I could go home.

Chanele "therockstar: Did anyone mention being Bi-polar?

Sharon: Yeah, but they also thought I was schizophrenic too. So, I figured I just had another bad day. The next month I was just so, happy I met a guy and when started dating. He was very understanding and didn't judge me. I figured I was so, happy because I was in love. Everyday I was super happy about everything, like a natural high.

Chanele "therockstar": So that is good doesn't sound like you suffer from depression.

Sharon: I was going into a manic mood change, I still had no focus I was still in a fog but, this was a happy fog. So no one cared. I was so happy and even though my grades were slipping and house cleaning wasn't getting done my mom and I was having the greatest relationship ever. We went out shopping which we hadn't done since I was young. I began to uncontrollably cry and couldn't stop. I didn't know why but, I was so sad. She then decided to take e to a therapist.

Chanele "therockstar": Did the therapist put you on medication immediately?

Sharon: Yes. I took it for 2 weeks and still felt the same. My boyfriend broke up with me and I stop taking the medication. One day I decided I wasn't going to leave my bed ever. I was going to stay there what was the point. My mom tried to talk to me and asked if I had been taking my pills I threw the bottle at her saying NO! I didn't eat or drink for 2 days, then I found a bottle vodka under my bed I drank all of it, about a litter. Then I began trashing my room throwing up and crying. It was a bad night my mom came home found me crying in a corner under a coffee table and took me to the hospital. Sharon: From then on I have been medicated and go to my therapist regularly.

Chanele "therockstar": So would you say the medication would work without the therapist?

Sharon: Yes because it is pill that balances out the chemicals in my brain. But, I still need someone to talk to. I don't feel I am ready to do it on my own.

From this interview of many with others very similar, should show that these are diseases that deserve to be acknowledge and treated as any other disease. With understanding, caring, compassion and no judgment.

written by: Chanele"theRockStar" Lovelace http://arockstarproduction.blogspot.com

Article source: ArticleWorld.net Free Articles

Depression, Suicide, Aging, and EQ - By Susan Dunn

There are so many myths about aging. For instance, do you think, as many do, that “all old people are alike,” and that nobody changes after about the age of 50?

Nothing could be farther from the truth. Freud’s famous statement that people couldn’t change after the age of 50 simply isn’t true. At the time he formed his theories, most people didn’t live past 50, and that of course shaped his views. He may not have seen a lot of people over 50.

In fact this limited exposure to people in older age groups continues to confound our understanding. A lot of the psychological assessments available weren’t normed on enough people over the age of 60 to make them reliable for individuals in that age group. It’s all about developmental stages and you wouldn’t expect “normal” to mean the same thing for a 75 year old as a 42 year old and more than for a 6 year old and a 12 year old.

Seniors are not alike as individuals or as a group. Surveys show that the most “contented” people are people aged 60-69, but at the same time, the highest suicide rates of any age group occur among individuals 65 and older. 81% of senior suicides are male and Anglo males are particularly vulnerable. White males over 65 have the highest suicide rate, second only to white adolescent males. Suicide rates are higher for those who are divorced or widowed, and cause is attributed first to physical ailments, and then to depression.

The percentage of seniors in the population has risen steadily from 3% in 1900, to about 12% now. It’s projected to increase to 21% in the next 30 years. Since most emotional problems are often presented first to a primary care physician, as physical problems (headache, backache), medical schools are hastening to add exposure to geriatric medicine and psychology in the training of doctors. Psychology licensing boards are also beginning to require it.

It’s important to understand that depression manifests itself in different ways. We usually think of the “lethargic” depressed person, the one who moves and thinks slowly, can’t sustain eye contact, talks negatively, is disinterested or unable to enjoy their usual pleasures, and wants to sleep all the time. But depressed people can also be agitated, angry, restless, irritable, eyes darting around, frantically trying to enjoy things (but not able to), and not able to sleep much.
In either case, women may talk about the feelings, but men tend to complain about physical ailments when they see a doctor.

It’s important to understand that depression isn’t a “normal” part of aging, and that it's treatable. If you think you’re depressed, or that your loved one is, it’s good to start with a physical checkup. You should be make a list of all medications being taken, and also consider the normal routine. Many seniors, especially those who live alone, neglect nutrition and exercise.
As I say in my ebook, “EQ and Depression,” you aren’t supposed to be depressed as you age. You’re supposed to feel good. Many seniors have a high EQ, are resilient, and are experienced copers. EQ intends to increase with age, but not if you don’t work on it. Skills such as flexiblity, creativity and resilience can be learned, and it pays to start developing them in early adulthood, as they take time to learn. Barring physical problems, you can learn to manage your emotions and the thoughts that accompany, and cause, them.

We know that isolation is worse on our health than high blood pressure and obesity combined, and it not being isolated depends upon your interpersonal skills – your ability to make new friends and keep the old ones.

Creativity is needed to learn to work around things that change. It tends to take longer, for instance, to learn new things as we age, but many seniors are adept at “many ways to skin a cat.” Likewise there are ways to make the short-term memory loss less bothersome. Short-term memory loss is one of the things that does come with aging, but the vast experience of seniors in coping gives them a vast store of tricks to pull ou of the bag to help them remember.

As one of my senior coaching clients tells me, “My short-term memory’s off about 10%, but since it used to be far above-average, I’m doing fine. Now I just write things down, like I’ve seen others do for years.”

The ability to creatively meet challenges depends upon having an optimistic attitude, which also can be learned. I coach people in learned optimism and emotional intelligence competencies all the time! If you want to, and are willing to, you can learn to change self-limiting beliefs, once you realize they aren’t working for you. It depends upon correct information (like it’s not “normal” to be depressed at any age, including old age) and then becoming aware of your emotions and self-talk, and changing them.

Depression usually responds best to a regime of exercise, good nutrition including neutraceuticals, medication, and cognitive work. Coaching can help you move forward, make goals and stay accountable to them.

We also know that resilient seniors are lifelong learners. While we don’t make any more brain cells as adults, we can continue to form new connections throughout the lifespan IF we learn new things; the more radical the better. This means if you’re an engineer, take a literature course. If you’re a Spanish teacher, study some physics. If you’re a left-brained mathematician, take an EQ course and develop the other side of your brain. As someone said, “fall in love with learning and you’ll never end up with a broken heart”.

Intentionality is a high-order emotional intelligence competency. Why not intend to be one of those seniors who’s resilient and contented, who ages gracefully? Look to your wellness now, whatever age you are, and don’t leave out the EQ skills. The time to be developing them is now.

Our emotions directly effect our immune sytem, which is our health. They also effect our ability to get along with, and enjoy, others and ourselves. Men may particularly want to address the EQ issue. I know from the statistics, and from my coaching practice, that a man living alone at the age of 60 or beyond is in a vulnerable position, and while there are more men at that age than women, the smart women will be holding out for the healthy, EQ-smart men to bless with the health-promoting marital state.

Get started now. It’s never too late to learn!

Please consider this article for your website or ezine. Permission to reprint if byline stays intact and links are activated on the Internet. Courtesy notification appreciated.

©Susan Dunn, MA, The EQ Coach, http://www.susandunn.cc. Susan works with adults of all ages to develop their emotional intelligence for applications to wellness and success in relationships and career. She offers individual coaching, Internet courses and ebooks. She also certifies EQ coaches in an innovative, no-residency program. Mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc for free ezine, and more information.

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10 Simple Coping Strategies When a Family Member Has Clinical Depression - By Elizabeth Tull

1.Remember that it is an illness:

Clinical depression often requires medical supervision as well as professional treatment. Clinical depression is treatable and requires commitment, understanding and patience from all those involved.

2.It is not your fault:

Clinical depression is usually a combination of chemical imbalance and learned behaviors. There may be times when the depressed individual is extremely sensitive, argumentative and/or blaming towards you, the children, the in-laws, the boss and even the world. All the above mentioned are not the cause. What you are responsible for is how you choose to take on the outward symptoms and how they affect you, your home and your relationships.

3.Be well informed:

Educate yourself on what type of depression is present and if there is a dual diagnosis IE: chemical dependency and depression or personality disorders and depression. Know what the symptoms, treatments and follow-ups are. There are suggested guidelines for communication and setting boundaries. Though the illness is not your fault; it benefits you and your family to remain open minded and willing to learn new ways of doing things.

4.Make sure to have a support network:

Depression and dual diagnosis affects the whole family. There are many ranges of emotions from anger and fear to hopefulness and hopelessness. Having others that have experienced it before can help eliminate unhealthy coping mechanisms such as isolation, shame, control and low self-esteem. There are many national and local support groups available on line. For more information check with your favorite search engines or call a local and/or national mental health hotline.

5.Make time for yourself and your children:

Don’t fall into the trap of not taking care of yourselves. Misery and fear love company. Living with and loving someone who is clinically depressed can be incredibly draining. Do not become a hostage or enabler. Remember your flight instructions: “For those traveling with small children; place the oxygen mask on yourself first and then assist the children.”

6.Be a victor not a victim:

Pain is inevitable; suffering is optional: We are all going to feel pain in life never mind a home with mental illness. Surround yourselves with knowledge, self-care, experienced support and nurturing. There are no such things as victims only volunteers.

7.Recognize that clinical depression is episodic Clinical depression comes in waves. People with clinical depression do get better!

8.Understand that medication takes time to work:

In most cases, improvement takes as long as 6-8 weeks. Even early responders require about 3-4 weeks before they notice mood improvement. Even after a person with clinical depression feels better, she or he needs to stay on medication at least six months. People should never stop taking medication on their own; medical supervision is a must. There can be serious physical and emotional complications from sudden withdrawal such as increased depression and suicidal tendencies.

9.Medication alone is fairly ineffective:

Research shows that medication in combination with cognitive behavioral therapy is more effective than medication alone. Combined with therapy, the person who is clinically depressed may need to make lifestyle changes, including dietary and exercise changes. The family needs to find ways to reduce stressors by simplifying their lives.

10.Get a written relapse prevention plan:

Make a list of early symptoms such as sleep, appetite and mood changes. Early intervention is the key to stopping a downward spiral. Determine what worked in the past to get the person with clinical depression back on track and do the things that worked before.

Elizabeth Tull is a Professional Excellence coach who partners with people in crafting and designing Legacies of Excellence. Her focus is on bridging the recovery community to professional coaching as well as support for families dealing with clinical depression in the home. Visit her on the web http://www.agapelegacycoach.com

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Caring for Aging Relatives - By Ryan Joseph

It happens somewhat slowly in the beginning, maybe with a small cough that gets worse as time goes on. It might simply begin with absent mindedness which is totally out of character, followed by total memory lapses. What do we do when our parents eventually need taking care of after they have spent so much of their adult lives taking care of us? What precisely is a child’s responsibility to them? Is it self-centered to relocate them into an assisted home? And which siblings should shoulder the responsibility? These are questions which plague families whenever a parent happens to become sick.

It is certainly very normal for feelings of guilt and even occasionally depression to happen to you because of a deteriorating parent. But happily there are some good associations that do offer expert advice on coping with these problems. And there are specialists in this arena who can work with you to help you through the hard times.

Local hospitals, hospices and nursing homes usually have such names and numbers to assist you in this regard. If your dad feels certain that someone has broken into the house just to steal his chocolate when he has in fact eaten it himself, do not argue with him or say that his theories are irrational. Just calmly acknowledge how he feels and make him feel safe and loved. Do small things to alleviate his fears like simply letting him see you lock the doors or secure the windows at night before going to bed. If you get an unsatisfactory attitude from his physician, take him to a geriatric psychiatrist for further examination.

Erratic behavior is one of the earlies warning signals of dementia. If your mom starts cussing at the dinner table in front of the kids just because her steak is a bit undercooked, correct her calmly by teaching her the appropriate behavior: “Excuse me, my steak is a little undercooked, can you put it back on the grill for me please?”

Never resort to bad language yourself, as this will just perpetuate the unwanted behavior. If you feel yourself losing your own temper, take a few deep breaths until you are able to control your emotions. If you are being verbally assualted then it may be best to detach from being called offensive names. Give 3 warnings, use the silent treatment and then just walk away if the behavior goes on.

This can be one of the touphest problems to cope with, particularly for a very stubborn parent. Driving is so commonly related to having freedom and yet if you get reports that your dad is passing stop signs or driving on the wrong side of the street you have to deal with it. If you take his keys away from him, he may resent you, so it may be best to take a more indirect approach.

Take him or her for a “normal” checkup to check his vision, then ask the physician for a note expressing that the patient should not be driving anymore. Send the letter to the DMV requesting that his license be taken away. This may take a few weeks, but when the DMV takes away his license, be sympathetic and do research on transportation for seniors in the area, which is usually inexpensive and efficient.

For further information go to Fish Oil News and find out some additional facts about aging and the possible effect of fish oil on Alzheimers.

Ryan Joseph is a writer/researcher. For more info. visit http://www.omega3fishoil.org/

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Depression - Practical Suggestions for Positive Change - By Steven Harold

Having discussed the types of depression and the possible cause, in the previous article, it now seems appropriate to discuss how sufferers can help themselves. Remembering that help for chronic, clinical and manic depression should be sought from your doctor. Indeed it is your doctor who would diagnose these types of depression and so even if you feel you have mild depression it is still important to seek your doctor's help first.

Causes and Solutions to Depression

Some of the possible causes of depression have already been listed. The list is not definitive but it is a useful start. If you know the cause of something then at least you have a target for your energies and focus. So if the cause of your depression is work related, then this should be the focus of your energies with the aim of reducing or completely eliminating the cause.

In very few instances do matters change through inaction. If you do nothing about something than that also tends to be the result, nothing. Taking positive action can produce benefits on a number of fronts such as: -

1) You feel better because you are doing something as opposed to just accepting your situation.

2) Doing something or taking action means that it is more likely that there will be a change in the situation.

3) Your options automatically increase if you take action because in doing so you are looking at what choices you have. Looking for something, whether that is your options or something else, means you will discover more than if you just did nothing.

4) The feeling of being trapped starts to dissolve as you realise the only person keeping you trapped is you.

Even if the action you take is to discuss the situation with a close friend, partner or relative at least you get a chance to let it out. Often this by itself will help you feel better.

Changing the Feeling of being Overwhelmed or Unable to Cope People with depression talk about feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with what has happened in their life. Often this occurs when more than one of the major areas in a person's life produces a problem.

You might say that there are 5 major areas in a person's life: -

1) Health and well-being
2) Work (or anything that occupies your time)
3) The personal relationship with another person (wife, husband, partner)
4) The home (rented or bought, living with relatives, friends)
5) Anything else (wider family, friends, social aspects etc.

If you get a problem in one area of your life then you can probably cope. If you get another problem at the same time as the first issue and both of these last for some time then this is when a person may start to feel overwhelmed, unable to cope and therefore depressed.

A change of how you view your situation when you have more than one problem is the first thing to do if you feel overwhelmed. Often the feeling of being overwhelmed happens because you are viewing the two (or more) problems as one. You then may start to think and say that everything is wrong with your life and even good news may be turned into negative news.

So start by keeping the problems (unless they are genuinely connected) separately. A way of doing this is to think of each problem as having a separate box in your mind that you keep them in. Then decide to only tackle or think about opening one box at a time in order to tackle them one at a time.

Now this does not mean that you have to see through one problem to completion until you tackle the other problem. It means that you think about and take action on one problem, take it as far as you can and then start on the other problem. You may have to take a number of bites at a problem before it is dealt with. Some problems may involve waiting for others to do something and come back to you before you can do the next step in resolving it.

It can help to have a separate notepad for each problem. Then write down the main points of the problem. Write down the realistic outcome you would like. Then write down the steps you need to tale for that outcome to be realised. Again keeping a note of any dates and interactions you have with anyone. You may need to combine your notepad with a diary to remind you have a future date for further action.

Keeping unrelated problems separate in your mind by thinking of them as being stored in separate boxes can ease the sense of being unable to cope. Then tackling them one at a time can boost your confidence as you start to take manageable bites out of each.

No one eats a piazza in one bite. Now one goes from one floor to the next floor in one step. Each bite or step you take are small enough to be manageable and yet you know with each one that you are getting closer to finishing.

If you need professional help then seek it out. You cannot know how to do everything and an expert might know how to resolve easily what for you has seemed complex.

To summarise: -
1) Focus your energies on the cause
2) If you need to unload, tell a good friend about it
3) Keep different problems separate from each other in your mind
4) Write down the steps you need to take to resolve the problems
5) Remember one step at a time
6) Don't be too proud to seek professional help with any steps you have to take.

Exercise of any sort is a useful addition to getting back control of your life. Whether it is swimming, running or even line dancing, do make sure your physical body gets exercised. For when we exercise the body a number of positive things happen: -

1) The 'feel good' hormones are released lighting our mood
2) Any stress or tension is released from the muscles
3) Our sleep is likely to be improved
4) Energy levels will increase
5) You will feel healthier
6) Your motivation levels will increase.

Lastly, but by no means least, find a relaxation regime that works for you and you enjoy. This might be meditation, yoga, self hypnosis or any practice that helps with stress release will be more than helpful. You can learn meditation from books or cds. Likewise self hypnosis can be easy to enjoy from an appropriately titled self hypnosis cd.

Above all else, be kind to yourself. You’re doing the best you can. Who could ask for more than that!

Steven A. HaroldClinical HypnotherapistDepression Hypnosis Cds

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Coping with Grief - It's Called Living Through It - By Gail Stone

"Dad, I tried to wake Nana, I think she's dead."

"Grandpa died yesterday."

"Oh my God, Daddy's dead."

"Uncle Jack died today."

"Grandma died last night."

"I'm standing with the body of your deceased father-in-law."

"Hon, I think we should get a divorce."

"I'm sorry, but we weren't able to resuscitate your mother."

"Mike called. He thinks Mary is dead."

"I'm sorry to leave this on your voice mail, but Uncle Andy died last night."

This litany of phone calls and conversations on death or parting has all occurred in the past 30 years of my life, most in the last 20. Whether I was the one delivering or receiving these messages, the speaking of each one was the start of the long, seemingly endless process of grieving. Often, I felt so sucker punched that I doubted I could go on. Getting up the next day seemed impossible, yet somehow I almost always did.

Something deep inside told me I had to, that there was no other way to get through it, but to keep moving. I attribute that to my deep belief in a higher plan and a sense that getting through this trial was like going through a tunnel. I told myself that if I put one foot in front of the other, I would eventually come out the other side and be able to feel somewhat whole again. Sometimes, it was all I could do to put one toe in front of the other, but all forward movement I deemed positive.

The last five instances happened within the past five years, with my mother and sister-in-law and godfather's deaths back to back in '99, '00 and '01. Looking for the reason why I have been given so many opportunities to experience the grip of grief first hand, I now believe it was in order to help others and ease their way.

If you've been here, you know. There's no magic pill to get you through the immense pain, intense sadness and amazing denial, anger and upset that you feel. However, I did create, through trial and error, a few simple practices which have profoundly impacted my journey through the tunnel and I would like to share them with you.

(1) Every single day, let in the love of family, friends and co-workers. On those days that you feel you can't bear to see anyone or when you realize that some of them have moved on, thinking in error that you are "better", read through the cards you've received. Save and then play voice mail messages and re-read e-mails of support. Give your heart a visible reminder that others do care and want to share your pain. Let them - mentally off-load a bit of it onto their shoulders. Don't try to carry it all by yourself. It can crush you and it will try. Don't let it!

(2) Create a morning or evening meditation time. Even if you can't see how to find the time, do it somehow. This was especially helpful to me in getting through the horrible time of adjustment to life alone after my divorce and then again when my Mom died. I had always said a few wake-up prayers, but found I needed more. I started with Jerry Jampolsky's book, "Love is the Answer" and read one (short) chapter a day. Then, I bought the book "A Course on Miracles" and meditated on the daily passages. While the 365 lessons seemed to represent a huge commitment, the daily phrases were so empowering that I continued. Additionally, I saved affirmations from various sources like Science of Mind magazine and The Daily Word and read them daily. Any quote from a book or article that I thought would motivate me to get up and make the day a less painful one than the day before, I saved and re-read daily. I posted the best of them around my office and in my meditation area. I still do. When you actively start looking for empowering passages, you will be touched and inspired by what comes your way.

(3) Finally, but most importantly, express yourself in some way often! I would recommend that you do it daily, as well. I found out the hard way that keeping emotions bottled up or trying to ignore them hurt more in the long run and adversely affected my health. Talk to people about your loved one, write about him/her, start a journal of your thoughts and feelings, scream whenever you can find a place where you won't alarm the neighbors, family members or fellow travelers, do some kind of physical exercise to work off steam - whenever and wherever you can vent, do so daily.

To anyone caught in the black and blue morass of grief, I invite you to consider adding these three emotionally healing practices to your daily life. They have helped me come through some horribly upsetting times, still sad at heart, but feeling more serene in the knowledge that I can and will go on - living my life to the best of my ability - for my dear ones and with my dear ones safely ensconced in my mind and heart forevermore.

2005 © Creative Mastery Coaching, LLC. All rights reserved.

Gail Stone is Founder of Creative Mastery Coaching, LLC. Find out how you can Get a Grip and Go®! and register for your Get A Grip Clips today at http://www.GetAGripAndGo.com
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