As I sit here doing research for this blog and for my main site: http://www.depressionadviceonline.com/index.html, I realize that I have yet to tell my story. Well, that's not totally true. In my very first post, I mentioned my motivation for creating my main website and this blog. I guess, that was partially true.
My main motivation WAS the fact that I've had close family members and friends (who shall remain nameless) experience different types of depression. Some of them even attempted suicide. Luckily, none of the attempts were successful. I don't know what I'd do if they had managed to end their lives. They all mean the world to me and I'm just glad they got the help they needed to get back on track and lead happy lives again.
The other motivation for creating my website and this blog, if I must admit it, was my own experience. Throughout my lifetime, I've gone through some tough times and experienced depression. I failed to seek help from a professional. If I had, I feel I would have gotten over it sooner.
As a teen, I was accused of being a lesbian by a close family member. Now, before anyone gets any bad ideas about me for writing that, let me just say that I am NOT homophobic or bashing anyone who is a homosexual. Now with that out of the way, back to my story. Back when I was first accused, homosexuality wasn't something everyone went around talking about. You didn't hear about it on TV or the movies. It wasn't like it is now. In any case, I was accused and devestated! I couldn't believe that someone so close to me would accuse me of such a thing. The very first thing I wanted to do was go out and get pregnant to prove that person wrong. Then I realized that wasn't the answer. I was too young to be a mother and what would bring a child into the world prove.
After I was accused, I kept wondering if anyone else viewed me like that. I got so depressed I actually thought of taking my own life. I even put the pills in my hand. I was going to do it. I wanted the pain to end. I couldn't stop crying and sleep was something I seemed to had forgotten.
Luckily, I began to think about those dear family members who loved me. I didn't want to hurt them by taking my life. I realized that suicide was not the answer. It never is the answer.
In any case, with the love and support of certain people (and they know who they are), I was able to get my life back on track. I'm glad I didn't give in to depression and let it win.
Always remember, there is a solution and suicide is NEVER a part of that solution.
To Your Health,
Anna
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
What You Need to Know About Depression - By Debra Tullis
What does depression mean to you? Depression is a very serious mood disorder that can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race, social status or ethnicity. Depression is an illness that affects your body, mind, disposition, sleep and your thoughts. This condition can be caused by many factors. There can also be a genetic component to depression.
Have you been told that you have diagnosis of depression? Do some of the feelings and experiences listed here get in the way of living your life the way you want to? For example, do you feel like your life is hopeless and you are worthless? Do you feel anxious or feel like something bad is going to happen? Do you feel out of touch with the world? Have you lost interest in pleasurable activities? Do you feel that others are against you? Are you experiencing a lot of stress, intense sadness, loss of energy and burn-out? Are you having trouble concentrating and have low energy?
When you are depressed it is very hard to think clearly or make decisions. It may be hard to think of anything to do to help yourself feel better. If you are feeling blue most of the time you may have a type of depression. There are three main types of depression: major depressive disorder, manic-depressive disorder and dysthymic disorder.
Major depression is also referred to as unipolar depression and can interfere with a person’s ability to function. A person may have marked difficulty in functioning as this type of depression can disrupt social or occupational functioning.
A second type is manic-depressive disorder and is also known as bi-polar disorder. This type involves episodes of major depression that alternates with episodes of mania. This type can be extremely disruptive and concerning. Everyone has good days and bad days and ups and downs. Therefore, this type must be sufficiently severe that it causes marked impairment in occupational functioning or marked impairment in relationships with others. With this type of depression a person may display different symptoms during different periods of the illness.
The third type is a milder form of depression called dysthymic disorder. This type is diagnosed when a depressed mood is present almost every day for at least two years. This type is referred to as a low-grade depression and can start in the early teen age years and later in life.
Dysthymia may be accompanied by social aloofness, lack of assertiveness and even periods of more severe depression. Psychotherapy and anti-depressant medication can be effective.
If depression is not treated it can get worse. The first step to obtaining treatment for depression is to obtain a medical examination by a physician as there are certain medical conditions that have symptoms similar to depression. A person may not be aware that they are depressed and do not understand why they are experiencing various physical symptoms. A skillful doctor can diagnose the true situation. Psychiatrists are trained to differentiate depression from other medical conditions. At your initial visit a history of your present difficulties will be taken. Other symptoms, family history, past medical problems are other basic steps that may be taken so an accurate diagnosis can be made. If medication is prescribed it is important to learn what you can about the medication and any possible side effects. If you are experiencing side effects it is critical to consult with your physician. It is important to give medication a chance to work and the side effects may be temporary. Do not stop taking an anti-depressant without consulting your doctor. It is important to safely discontinue the medication. Some medications must be stopped gradually.
Finding the right treatment is important. The choice of treatment varies with the kind and severity of the depression. If treatment is needed it is important to find out about the therapist’s qualifications. Having a trained therapist listen carefully can be very helpful in relieving depression. A therapist can help you gain insight into and resolve your problems.
The benefits of treatment include partial or complete remission of the symptoms of depression and reduction of pain and suffering. Treatment can enhance your general well-being. Other helpful strategies include learning all you can about depression. Educate yourself! It is important to express your feelings and accept them.
It is important to obtain an appropriate diagnosis and treatment if needed. Depression is not a character flaw or a sign of personal weakness. Depression is a treatable illness and be assured that with time and good care you will feel better. Involve your family members and friends. If there are community resources take advantage of them. There may be support groups in your area. Do not go through this alone. The best time to address depression is now as the sooner you receive treatment - the sooner you will feel better. Your life is waiting!
Debra Tullis, MSW, LCSW, BCD is a life coach and a clinical therapist. She has a Master's Degree in Social Work and has worked in the social service field for 24 years. She is board certified in clinical social work and is the owner of Coaching for the Good Life. She is a member of the International Coach Federation and the International Association of Coaches. To learn more about Debra's services email her at lifeisgood2@sbcglobal.net or visit her website at http://www.coachingforthegoodlife.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
Have you been told that you have diagnosis of depression? Do some of the feelings and experiences listed here get in the way of living your life the way you want to? For example, do you feel like your life is hopeless and you are worthless? Do you feel anxious or feel like something bad is going to happen? Do you feel out of touch with the world? Have you lost interest in pleasurable activities? Do you feel that others are against you? Are you experiencing a lot of stress, intense sadness, loss of energy and burn-out? Are you having trouble concentrating and have low energy?
When you are depressed it is very hard to think clearly or make decisions. It may be hard to think of anything to do to help yourself feel better. If you are feeling blue most of the time you may have a type of depression. There are three main types of depression: major depressive disorder, manic-depressive disorder and dysthymic disorder.
Major depression is also referred to as unipolar depression and can interfere with a person’s ability to function. A person may have marked difficulty in functioning as this type of depression can disrupt social or occupational functioning.
A second type is manic-depressive disorder and is also known as bi-polar disorder. This type involves episodes of major depression that alternates with episodes of mania. This type can be extremely disruptive and concerning. Everyone has good days and bad days and ups and downs. Therefore, this type must be sufficiently severe that it causes marked impairment in occupational functioning or marked impairment in relationships with others. With this type of depression a person may display different symptoms during different periods of the illness.
The third type is a milder form of depression called dysthymic disorder. This type is diagnosed when a depressed mood is present almost every day for at least two years. This type is referred to as a low-grade depression and can start in the early teen age years and later in life.
Dysthymia may be accompanied by social aloofness, lack of assertiveness and even periods of more severe depression. Psychotherapy and anti-depressant medication can be effective.
If depression is not treated it can get worse. The first step to obtaining treatment for depression is to obtain a medical examination by a physician as there are certain medical conditions that have symptoms similar to depression. A person may not be aware that they are depressed and do not understand why they are experiencing various physical symptoms. A skillful doctor can diagnose the true situation. Psychiatrists are trained to differentiate depression from other medical conditions. At your initial visit a history of your present difficulties will be taken. Other symptoms, family history, past medical problems are other basic steps that may be taken so an accurate diagnosis can be made. If medication is prescribed it is important to learn what you can about the medication and any possible side effects. If you are experiencing side effects it is critical to consult with your physician. It is important to give medication a chance to work and the side effects may be temporary. Do not stop taking an anti-depressant without consulting your doctor. It is important to safely discontinue the medication. Some medications must be stopped gradually.
Finding the right treatment is important. The choice of treatment varies with the kind and severity of the depression. If treatment is needed it is important to find out about the therapist’s qualifications. Having a trained therapist listen carefully can be very helpful in relieving depression. A therapist can help you gain insight into and resolve your problems.
The benefits of treatment include partial or complete remission of the symptoms of depression and reduction of pain and suffering. Treatment can enhance your general well-being. Other helpful strategies include learning all you can about depression. Educate yourself! It is important to express your feelings and accept them.
It is important to obtain an appropriate diagnosis and treatment if needed. Depression is not a character flaw or a sign of personal weakness. Depression is a treatable illness and be assured that with time and good care you will feel better. Involve your family members and friends. If there are community resources take advantage of them. There may be support groups in your area. Do not go through this alone. The best time to address depression is now as the sooner you receive treatment - the sooner you will feel better. Your life is waiting!
Debra Tullis, MSW, LCSW, BCD is a life coach and a clinical therapist. She has a Master's Degree in Social Work and has worked in the social service field for 24 years. She is board certified in clinical social work and is the owner of Coaching for the Good Life. She is a member of the International Coach Federation and the International Association of Coaches. To learn more about Debra's services email her at lifeisgood2@sbcglobal.net or visit her website at http://www.coachingforthegoodlife.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
How to Manage and Conquer Depression - By Jane Morris
Millions of people suffer from a depressive illness. They thought that depression is just a normal occurrence in their lives, which will go away after a short while. They just haven’t realized how serious depression can be.
Did you know that words related to depression have been searched over 993,000 times on the Internet for May 2005 alone? Much attention has been centered to this international health problem as the rigorous challenges of modern times continue to devastate those who cannot cope with it. Extreme depression can ultimately lead to suicide.
No one is safe from being affected by depression because it affects everyone. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a male or female, rich or poor, educated or uneducated. Once a person starts becoming depressed, he or she usually behaves in a manner that intensifies the illness.
HOW DOES DEPRESSION AFFECT THE INDIVIDUAL’S BEHAVIOR? Depressed people have some or more of the following characteristics:
• They lose interest on their love life, career, friends, and family.
• They experience loneliness, hopelessness, gloom, and indifference to their surroundings. It is a feeling of extreme despair.
• They seek to escape from problems and even from life itself. Thoughts of leaving home, running away or avoidance of others is common. They feel life is hopeless and worthless. Suicidal thoughts are lurking in their minds.
• There is a tendency to escape from the company of others because of an unexplained fear of being rejected. Their withdrawal consequently brings on some rejection by other people. They cancel scheduled activities, become uninterested to return phone calls, and seek ways to avoid talking with or seeing others.
• They are overly sensitive to what others say and do. They may misinterpret actions and suggestions in a negative way and become irritable because of those mistaken assumptions. They complain and cry a lot.
• They have a general loss of self-esteem. They feel more and more negative about life’s events, and they even question their own personal worth. Their self–confidence level is extremely low.
• They experience negative changes in physical activities––appetite, sleeping and sex. Some lose interest in sexual activities. Some lose interest in food while others gouge themselves with all the stuffs they can eat. Some sleep constantly while others cannot get to sleep easily, or they wake up in the middle of the night and cannot go back to sleep again.
• There is usually an underlying feeling of guilt. They often feel overly responsible for other people’s feelings.
• Depression often makes the depressed dependent upon other people. This further aggravates a feeling of helplessness, which makes them more upset.
• They have difficulty expressing and handling their feelings. Anger is especially difficult for them to control. Because of a sense of worthlessness and lack of knowledge in dealing with their situation, they get more enraged in themselves. This can be directed outward at others.
Above ninety-five percent of even the most depressed individuals can be totally cured if the condition is identified at the early stages. It is essential to know and take action when the early warning signs of depression are manifesting.
Dealing with depression requires first and foremost an understanding that it is a common and treatable illness. Its symptoms include the following:
MAJOR SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION
• Miserable frame of mind over a period of time, sometimes in a number of weeks
• Expresses grief in activities and life in general, and fails to feel satisfaction
• Disheartened thinking - negative approach about oneself, the present and the future
• Difficulty in focusing and remembering
• Under the dilemma in making decisions - often even the more simple ones
• Feelings of unimportance and desperation
• Anxiety - a sense of being afraid - that something “dreadful” is going to happen
• Phobias or doubts about specific situations
• Loss of appetite and weight loss or, alternatively, increased appetite and weight gain
• Disrupted sleeping patterns - not much sleep or wanting to sleep all the time
• Feeling weary and lacking in energy and inspiration
• Loss of interest in sex
• Physical symptoms - aches and pains, gastrointestinal upsets, headaches
• Incapacity to do the usual everyday activities
• Thoughts of suicide
Various people do not try to find treatment in the early stage of depression as they started to observe such symptoms and thought that it will just pass away in a period of time, not noticing how severe the health problem can be.
UNOFFICIAL SYMPTOMS
People with depressive illness are:
• Indifferent, uncommunicative, silent
• Selfish, unaware or insensitive about the needs of others
• Dominant
• Irrational and unreasonable
• Outgoing and pleasant in public, the opposite at home
• Fickle-minded and unpredictable
• Makes unexplainable and sudden references to separation and divorce
• Cruel, belittling, and critical
• Take alcohol and drugs in excessive amounts
The unofficial list of symptoms demonstrate why depressive sickness threatens good relationships and disrupts families. Identifying, understanding, and learning how to cope with depression is the primary solution to end the sufferer’s misery.
OFFICIAL SYMPTOMS
These official real-life symptoms are the ones doctors use to diagnose depression.
• A consistent sad, empty, or distressed mood
• Irritability, excessive crying
• Sleep and appetite disturbances
• Chronic aches and pains that don't respond to treatment
• Difficulty in remembering, focusing, and making decisions
• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities previously enjoyed, including sex and sports
• Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts
The amazing thing is, is that out of all the so-called ‘mental illnesses’ depression is the easiest to cure. So how come there are hundreds of thousands of people trapped in this very serious state of mind?
Regardless of age, status in the society, or profession, depression may affect anyone. It may exist at times of puberty, after childbirth and/or at mid-life. Thus, this health problem occurs at a specific period of time wherein circumstances of life may influence your mood. Immediate depression may be caused by particular events and losses such as death of a person close to you or reduction of your income. There are also other aspects to be considered, such as inherited factors associated with depression (a history of family depression) or other physical factors (abridged levels of neurotransmitters in the brain).
At various phases of our lives, we have all experienced being “down and troubled.” It is due to the changes in our day-to-day living. It also affects our environment and interaction with others. Sometimes, events apparently cause us to be more upset and we become depressed for over a long period of time.
As everyday events influence our moods, some make the misconception of depression as temporary “blues” or sadness. It might be a normal grief caused by the death of your loved one. People with the “blues” and normal grief might experience short-term symptoms of depression.
MYTHS AND FALSE IMPRESSION
The term “depression” is used to express a depressed mood, simultaneously with other symptoms, that exist for a prolonged period of time. When depression is not cured, it may influence normal performance. It is important to recognize that depression is not a sign of frailty or a lack of determination, and not something that you can easily escape from. It is a condition that can be cured through proper treatment.
Because of the link between grief and depression, some make false impressions to both. Here are some myths that needs to be cleared up.
Depressed People are Mentally Unstable and Inefficient.
As you might experience troubles in making decision and difficulty in concentration and memory, lack of knowledge and misinformation leads to the thought that depressed people are incompetent. This is certainly not true! Because depression is a treatable illness, it can be cured by your own determination and will power. It can be treated faster with the help of others.
Someone Must Have Brought the Depression.
All of us used to admire others and set them as our role models. They might be our parents or other famous personalities. Some people have been mistaken and blamed by others for causing depression. You must understand that depression is a health problem that can only be caused by yourself and nobody is to blame .
Depression is God’s Way of Punishing for Some Wrong Act or Misbehavior.
This is a widespread belief in the midst of sufferers. If a person can’t find the answer for his or her sufferings, then it might tend to make himself or herself more burdened by the depression, causing that person to find something wrong with himself or herself.
This piece of writing describes what depression is and looks at the common causes and symptoms, as well as some of the myths about depression.
No one should be ashamed of being depressed. It might seem so difficult and sometimes unbearable; to draw yourself out of a sinkhole of depression, but it is THE MOST TREATABLE EMOTIONAL PROBLEM. Always remember that you are not a terrible or hopeless person.
Particular self-help methods in this section will seem more suitable for you to use to cope up with your depression. You can try two or three and see if they work. If not, take a break on something else. In general, gaining some optimism about getting better, having a clear viewpoint, and getting family support, along with selected self-help methods, will lead to a better recovery from depression.
Remember – you are not alone in your troubles, and the best way to start is to try and share the load with somebody.
Jane Morris is a member of Horizon Direct Services, and has written a number of articles on self improvement.The book can be downloaded at http://tinyurl.com/e4cbt
http://www.horizondirectservices.com/ Jane’s main site, with links to a number of other self-improvement products and serviceshttp://www.mindpowersite.com/ self-hypnosis CD’s for a number of complimentary self-improvement topics
Email Jane: jane@UKIteam.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
Did you know that words related to depression have been searched over 993,000 times on the Internet for May 2005 alone? Much attention has been centered to this international health problem as the rigorous challenges of modern times continue to devastate those who cannot cope with it. Extreme depression can ultimately lead to suicide.
No one is safe from being affected by depression because it affects everyone. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a male or female, rich or poor, educated or uneducated. Once a person starts becoming depressed, he or she usually behaves in a manner that intensifies the illness.
HOW DOES DEPRESSION AFFECT THE INDIVIDUAL’S BEHAVIOR? Depressed people have some or more of the following characteristics:
• They lose interest on their love life, career, friends, and family.
• They experience loneliness, hopelessness, gloom, and indifference to their surroundings. It is a feeling of extreme despair.
• They seek to escape from problems and even from life itself. Thoughts of leaving home, running away or avoidance of others is common. They feel life is hopeless and worthless. Suicidal thoughts are lurking in their minds.
• There is a tendency to escape from the company of others because of an unexplained fear of being rejected. Their withdrawal consequently brings on some rejection by other people. They cancel scheduled activities, become uninterested to return phone calls, and seek ways to avoid talking with or seeing others.
• They are overly sensitive to what others say and do. They may misinterpret actions and suggestions in a negative way and become irritable because of those mistaken assumptions. They complain and cry a lot.
• They have a general loss of self-esteem. They feel more and more negative about life’s events, and they even question their own personal worth. Their self–confidence level is extremely low.
• They experience negative changes in physical activities––appetite, sleeping and sex. Some lose interest in sexual activities. Some lose interest in food while others gouge themselves with all the stuffs they can eat. Some sleep constantly while others cannot get to sleep easily, or they wake up in the middle of the night and cannot go back to sleep again.
• There is usually an underlying feeling of guilt. They often feel overly responsible for other people’s feelings.
• Depression often makes the depressed dependent upon other people. This further aggravates a feeling of helplessness, which makes them more upset.
• They have difficulty expressing and handling their feelings. Anger is especially difficult for them to control. Because of a sense of worthlessness and lack of knowledge in dealing with their situation, they get more enraged in themselves. This can be directed outward at others.
Above ninety-five percent of even the most depressed individuals can be totally cured if the condition is identified at the early stages. It is essential to know and take action when the early warning signs of depression are manifesting.
Dealing with depression requires first and foremost an understanding that it is a common and treatable illness. Its symptoms include the following:
MAJOR SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION
• Miserable frame of mind over a period of time, sometimes in a number of weeks
• Expresses grief in activities and life in general, and fails to feel satisfaction
• Disheartened thinking - negative approach about oneself, the present and the future
• Difficulty in focusing and remembering
• Under the dilemma in making decisions - often even the more simple ones
• Feelings of unimportance and desperation
• Anxiety - a sense of being afraid - that something “dreadful” is going to happen
• Phobias or doubts about specific situations
• Loss of appetite and weight loss or, alternatively, increased appetite and weight gain
• Disrupted sleeping patterns - not much sleep or wanting to sleep all the time
• Feeling weary and lacking in energy and inspiration
• Loss of interest in sex
• Physical symptoms - aches and pains, gastrointestinal upsets, headaches
• Incapacity to do the usual everyday activities
• Thoughts of suicide
Various people do not try to find treatment in the early stage of depression as they started to observe such symptoms and thought that it will just pass away in a period of time, not noticing how severe the health problem can be.
UNOFFICIAL SYMPTOMS
People with depressive illness are:
• Indifferent, uncommunicative, silent
• Selfish, unaware or insensitive about the needs of others
• Dominant
• Irrational and unreasonable
• Outgoing and pleasant in public, the opposite at home
• Fickle-minded and unpredictable
• Makes unexplainable and sudden references to separation and divorce
• Cruel, belittling, and critical
• Take alcohol and drugs in excessive amounts
The unofficial list of symptoms demonstrate why depressive sickness threatens good relationships and disrupts families. Identifying, understanding, and learning how to cope with depression is the primary solution to end the sufferer’s misery.
OFFICIAL SYMPTOMS
These official real-life symptoms are the ones doctors use to diagnose depression.
• A consistent sad, empty, or distressed mood
• Irritability, excessive crying
• Sleep and appetite disturbances
• Chronic aches and pains that don't respond to treatment
• Difficulty in remembering, focusing, and making decisions
• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities previously enjoyed, including sex and sports
• Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts
The amazing thing is, is that out of all the so-called ‘mental illnesses’ depression is the easiest to cure. So how come there are hundreds of thousands of people trapped in this very serious state of mind?
Regardless of age, status in the society, or profession, depression may affect anyone. It may exist at times of puberty, after childbirth and/or at mid-life. Thus, this health problem occurs at a specific period of time wherein circumstances of life may influence your mood. Immediate depression may be caused by particular events and losses such as death of a person close to you or reduction of your income. There are also other aspects to be considered, such as inherited factors associated with depression (a history of family depression) or other physical factors (abridged levels of neurotransmitters in the brain).
At various phases of our lives, we have all experienced being “down and troubled.” It is due to the changes in our day-to-day living. It also affects our environment and interaction with others. Sometimes, events apparently cause us to be more upset and we become depressed for over a long period of time.
As everyday events influence our moods, some make the misconception of depression as temporary “blues” or sadness. It might be a normal grief caused by the death of your loved one. People with the “blues” and normal grief might experience short-term symptoms of depression.
MYTHS AND FALSE IMPRESSION
The term “depression” is used to express a depressed mood, simultaneously with other symptoms, that exist for a prolonged period of time. When depression is not cured, it may influence normal performance. It is important to recognize that depression is not a sign of frailty or a lack of determination, and not something that you can easily escape from. It is a condition that can be cured through proper treatment.
Because of the link between grief and depression, some make false impressions to both. Here are some myths that needs to be cleared up.
Depressed People are Mentally Unstable and Inefficient.
As you might experience troubles in making decision and difficulty in concentration and memory, lack of knowledge and misinformation leads to the thought that depressed people are incompetent. This is certainly not true! Because depression is a treatable illness, it can be cured by your own determination and will power. It can be treated faster with the help of others.
Someone Must Have Brought the Depression.
All of us used to admire others and set them as our role models. They might be our parents or other famous personalities. Some people have been mistaken and blamed by others for causing depression. You must understand that depression is a health problem that can only be caused by yourself and nobody is to blame .
Depression is God’s Way of Punishing for Some Wrong Act or Misbehavior.
This is a widespread belief in the midst of sufferers. If a person can’t find the answer for his or her sufferings, then it might tend to make himself or herself more burdened by the depression, causing that person to find something wrong with himself or herself.
This piece of writing describes what depression is and looks at the common causes and symptoms, as well as some of the myths about depression.
No one should be ashamed of being depressed. It might seem so difficult and sometimes unbearable; to draw yourself out of a sinkhole of depression, but it is THE MOST TREATABLE EMOTIONAL PROBLEM. Always remember that you are not a terrible or hopeless person.
Particular self-help methods in this section will seem more suitable for you to use to cope up with your depression. You can try two or three and see if they work. If not, take a break on something else. In general, gaining some optimism about getting better, having a clear viewpoint, and getting family support, along with selected self-help methods, will lead to a better recovery from depression.
Remember – you are not alone in your troubles, and the best way to start is to try and share the load with somebody.
Jane Morris is a member of Horizon Direct Services, and has written a number of articles on self improvement.The book can be downloaded at http://tinyurl.com/e4cbt
http://www.horizondirectservices.com/ Jane’s main site, with links to a number of other self-improvement products and serviceshttp://www.mindpowersite.com/ self-hypnosis CD’s for a number of complimentary self-improvement topics
Email Jane: jane@UKIteam.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
What Depression Really Means - By Jeff Herring
At lunch the other day, a good friend said he thought he was depressed. His aunt had died recently and he had lost an important contact at work. I commented that while he might be depressed, it might also be that he was simply feeling appropriate sadness over some disappointing losses.
What this conversation reminded me of is how our culture can take a psychological term such as depression and apply it to almost any and all situations, thus losing the real meaning.
Let's take a look at three distinct emotional states commonly lumped together as depression. We will look at characteristics of each and what you can do about them.
The blues
"And I guess that's why they call it the blues..." - Elton John
The blues are simply a temporary feeling of sadness. Often, they cannot be linked to any particular event or situation.
Characteristics can include a mild feeling of restlessness; a temporary loss of energy and a sort of mopiness.
The blues make you want to curl up on the couch with a good book, or maybe channel surf. You just want to escape.
The blues usually pass rather quickly, and the trick is to just keep on going. Having the blues usually doesn't indicate a problem.
Sadness
"Sad eyes, turn the other way." - Robert John
Sadness, on the other hand, can usually be linked with events or situations. Sadness is a very normal and natural emotional state. Often times, a feeling of sadness is a normal response to the disappointments of life.
In the example of my friend who was afraid he was depressed, it would be normal for him to feel sad over his recent losses and disappointments.
What seems to happen to many people is that, instead of one or two disappointing events occurring far apart, many things happen all at once. There is a "pile-up" of disappointments and losses, resulting in a feeling of being overwhelmed.
Typically, when you add up all the recent painful events in a person's life, the question changes from "how could I be feeling this way?" to "how could I not be feeling this way?"
While sadness is a normal human emotion, our culture does not make many allowances for it. We have been taught either to find a quick fix or to fight the feeling.
But with sadness, as with many emotions, the more you resist, the more it persists.
My suggestions for dealing with sadness include simply feeling what you feel and allowing it to run its course; taking a fewdays to relax, talking with friends and family, and perhaps talking things over with a counselor.
Depression
"Stayed in bed all mornin' just to pass the time."- Carole King
True depression can come in many forms. Clinical depression, post-partum depression and bi-polar disorder are all treatable forms of depression.
Characteristics can include the following:
• sleeping more, or less
• eating more, or less
• loss of energy
• loss of interest in hobbies, etc.
• mood swings
• feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
• thoughts of suicide
Any of the true forms of clinical depression call for a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medication.
Check with your physician and a therapist familiar with treating depression.
Whether it's the blues; sadness or clinical depression, we all go through low times in life.
The smartest and strongest folks are the ones who know how and when to ask for help and then make sure they get it.
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
What this conversation reminded me of is how our culture can take a psychological term such as depression and apply it to almost any and all situations, thus losing the real meaning.
Let's take a look at three distinct emotional states commonly lumped together as depression. We will look at characteristics of each and what you can do about them.
The blues
"And I guess that's why they call it the blues..." - Elton John
The blues are simply a temporary feeling of sadness. Often, they cannot be linked to any particular event or situation.
Characteristics can include a mild feeling of restlessness; a temporary loss of energy and a sort of mopiness.
The blues make you want to curl up on the couch with a good book, or maybe channel surf. You just want to escape.
The blues usually pass rather quickly, and the trick is to just keep on going. Having the blues usually doesn't indicate a problem.
Sadness
"Sad eyes, turn the other way." - Robert John
Sadness, on the other hand, can usually be linked with events or situations. Sadness is a very normal and natural emotional state. Often times, a feeling of sadness is a normal response to the disappointments of life.
In the example of my friend who was afraid he was depressed, it would be normal for him to feel sad over his recent losses and disappointments.
What seems to happen to many people is that, instead of one or two disappointing events occurring far apart, many things happen all at once. There is a "pile-up" of disappointments and losses, resulting in a feeling of being overwhelmed.
Typically, when you add up all the recent painful events in a person's life, the question changes from "how could I be feeling this way?" to "how could I not be feeling this way?"
While sadness is a normal human emotion, our culture does not make many allowances for it. We have been taught either to find a quick fix or to fight the feeling.
But with sadness, as with many emotions, the more you resist, the more it persists.
My suggestions for dealing with sadness include simply feeling what you feel and allowing it to run its course; taking a fewdays to relax, talking with friends and family, and perhaps talking things over with a counselor.
Depression
"Stayed in bed all mornin' just to pass the time."- Carole King
True depression can come in many forms. Clinical depression, post-partum depression and bi-polar disorder are all treatable forms of depression.
Characteristics can include the following:
• sleeping more, or less
• eating more, or less
• loss of energy
• loss of interest in hobbies, etc.
• mood swings
• feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
• thoughts of suicide
Any of the true forms of clinical depression call for a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medication.
Check with your physician and a therapist familiar with treating depression.
Whether it's the blues; sadness or clinical depression, we all go through low times in life.
The smartest and strongest folks are the ones who know how and when to ask for help and then make sure they get it.
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
The Formula for Preventing Depression - By Paul M. Jerard Jr.
While it is arguable that depression is not always preventable, there are many cases, when using the following ideas, will keep you in good spirits - most of the time. Unfortunately, we cannot be happy all of the time, but there is something we can do about it.
Working with a variety of clients over the years, I have seen how Yoga and exercise changed, and continue to change, them for the better. It is a well-known fact that endorphins are produced from a variety of exercise routines, including gentle Hatha Yoga.
Endorphins reduce stress and enhance good moods. Just that information alone is enough to start an exercise program, but weight control, muscle-tone, circulation, flexibility and a variety of other health benefits, should be an incentive to start a mild exercise program.
If you have been inactive, I suggest a beginner Yoga class with a very mild-mannered Yoga teacher. Without pushing this any further, let’s look at other options to start, and things to avoid.
Participate in social activities, support groups, senior centers, or local church activities. The activities could be in your local mosque, temple, or shrine, as well. There is always an activity that you can find around any religious center.
You could also join a league for golf, tennis, fishing, bowling, bocce, or any other activity where people gather to share a few laughs. Take competition in stride, and don’t take anything too serious.
Many social groups also function as support groups. The collective activity is good for all involved. Stay away from “alcohol drinking” clubs. This is not just bars, or nightclubs, but local clubs, who organize for the common good, and then, routinely get together to drink.
There is a conflict here, in that alcohol is a depressant, and if you are prone to depression, this is not a good combination. On top of that, there are plenty of health problems that accompany alcohol abuse.
Substance abuse is not a solution to depression, and you won’t find a purpose in life through it. So, let’s keep it simple and stay away from drinking alcohol - altogether.
If your friends and family abuse alcohol, they need counseling, and you will have to look outside your normal circles to get guidance. You need to surround yourself with positive and energetic people.
Also, don’t hang around your house too much, especially in dark or unlit areas. Get outside, take a walk, go shopping, get a little sunlight, and if you are in the house all day, open the curtains during daylight hours. If you have a sunroom to relax in - that’s good, too. Lack of sunlight can cause elevated levels of melatonin, which is sometimes called the “sleep hormone.”
Lastly, visit the self-improvement section of your local bookstore. It is a hidden treasure within itself. This is a great reason to leave the house.
Audio books are also good for traveling in your car or listening to in your sunroom. Pick out books that really captivate your imagination. If your local bookstore has CD’s, you may want to pick up some relaxing music for your ride home.
Paul Jerard, is a co-owner/director of Yoga teacher training at Aura Wellness Center. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
Working with a variety of clients over the years, I have seen how Yoga and exercise changed, and continue to change, them for the better. It is a well-known fact that endorphins are produced from a variety of exercise routines, including gentle Hatha Yoga.
Endorphins reduce stress and enhance good moods. Just that information alone is enough to start an exercise program, but weight control, muscle-tone, circulation, flexibility and a variety of other health benefits, should be an incentive to start a mild exercise program.
If you have been inactive, I suggest a beginner Yoga class with a very mild-mannered Yoga teacher. Without pushing this any further, let’s look at other options to start, and things to avoid.
Participate in social activities, support groups, senior centers, or local church activities. The activities could be in your local mosque, temple, or shrine, as well. There is always an activity that you can find around any religious center.
You could also join a league for golf, tennis, fishing, bowling, bocce, or any other activity where people gather to share a few laughs. Take competition in stride, and don’t take anything too serious.
Many social groups also function as support groups. The collective activity is good for all involved. Stay away from “alcohol drinking” clubs. This is not just bars, or nightclubs, but local clubs, who organize for the common good, and then, routinely get together to drink.
There is a conflict here, in that alcohol is a depressant, and if you are prone to depression, this is not a good combination. On top of that, there are plenty of health problems that accompany alcohol abuse.
Substance abuse is not a solution to depression, and you won’t find a purpose in life through it. So, let’s keep it simple and stay away from drinking alcohol - altogether.
If your friends and family abuse alcohol, they need counseling, and you will have to look outside your normal circles to get guidance. You need to surround yourself with positive and energetic people.
Also, don’t hang around your house too much, especially in dark or unlit areas. Get outside, take a walk, go shopping, get a little sunlight, and if you are in the house all day, open the curtains during daylight hours. If you have a sunroom to relax in - that’s good, too. Lack of sunlight can cause elevated levels of melatonin, which is sometimes called the “sleep hormone.”
Lastly, visit the self-improvement section of your local bookstore. It is a hidden treasure within itself. This is a great reason to leave the house.
Audio books are also good for traveling in your car or listening to in your sunroom. Pick out books that really captivate your imagination. If your local bookstore has CD’s, you may want to pick up some relaxing music for your ride home.
Paul Jerard, is a co-owner/director of Yoga teacher training at Aura Wellness Center. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
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