Psychiatry - llnesses or Conditions - By Pradeep Chadha

John was a highly intelligent young boy. With higher than average intelligence, he was also emotionally sensitive. He was obviously a handful for his parents because they did not know how to deal with him. His father was strict with him. His mother was too busy to pay much attention to him because he had five other siblings. He felt not heard or appreciated. When he was in his early twenties he became elated. He was admitted into the hospital where he was diagnosed as having a psychiatric condition that he and his family was told, was untreatable.

Today many years later, he has sometimes to take a little bit of medication when his mind starts to race. He is not on all the drugs that he was told he would be taking for the rest of his life. He lives a settled life and is married being in gainful employment for last many years.

This is a real life example of a psychiatric ‘illness’ that was alleviated with intensive therapy work dealing with traumatic issues in John’s life. Illnesses, in psychiatry, refer to thinking and behaviour patterns that do not fit the norm. It is impossible to know what someone is thinking of or perceiving till they talk about it and behave in a manner that is damaging to lives, including their own. It is presumed that the perception, behaviour and thinking are mediated through hormones and neurotransmitters in the body.

From psychiatric viewpoint there are references to ‘stressful’ life events that contribute to mental illnesses. These events are those that cause emotional distress to the individual at the time of their occurrence. We do not know scientifically as to how these events cause a mental ‘illness’. To treat an‘illness’ medication is necessary. So we see an excessive use of medicines in psychiatry.

In a physical illness- the ‘ill’ or diseased part of the body has to be kept free of any infections. The healing of the part is a spontaneous process that is done by Mother Nature. The best a surgeon can do is cut away the part that is cancerous, for example. He can do no more. We have to rely on Mother Nature to do the healing. The other ways in which cancer can be treated or prevented is by irradiation, changing the lifestyle or changing the diet or even with visualisation and imagery.

In psychiatric conditions, unfortunately, the medications do not help to heal the emotional ‘wound’ or emotional distress. When the body goes through an emotionally distressful experience, the chemicals in the body that are hormones and neurotransmitters, go through a stage of turmoil. This turmoil needs time to settle. In order for this turmoil to end, the body needs to ‘finish’ the processing of the emotional distress. This distress is experienced as ‘psychiatric illness’. When medication is introduced to treat the ‘illness’ the body stops processing the emotions that the person is going through. The sufferer actually becomes emotionally ‘numb’. This creates the impression of the ‘illness’ being controlled rather than being cured.

And ‘control’ is an interesting word that is prevalent in the field of psychiatry. When the sufferer falsely believes that they have been ‘cured’ as the symptoms are no longer there, they discontinue medications. The ‘illness’ then returns in most cases.

It is because of this reason that the emotional distress that is at the root cause of the condition is only a condition. If it is allowed to be expressed and emotional healing takes place, the ‘illness’ does not happen. Psychiatric illnesses are therefore only conditions that become more permanent because a person has not expressed the emotions to a point of completion. Recent researches are proving that expression of emotions is healthier than having a ‘stiff upper lip’.

Pradeep K Chadha is a psychiatrist who specialises in helping patients with meditation and imagery using little or no medication. He is the author of The Stress Barrier-Nature's Way To Overcoming Stress published by Blackhall Publishing, Dublin. He is based in Dublin, Ireland.His website address is http://www.drpkchadha.com

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Mother, Child and Depression - By Monalisa Hyden

"I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life."

These are a few words said by Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865). Mom is the first word uttered by a child, the guardian angel “Mom” is the sole source of love and affection to the child, and the security and warmth of her lap remains there for a long time, even if she is not there, giving us strength and urge to live when we are need it most. The centre of his life is his mother, so, her love, care, smiles, tears, anger, frustration, depression, prayer… affect the child. A child’s intellectual and social development flourishes closely around his mother, influenced by her immensely. A cheerful mother makes everything seem so perfect for him, in the same way the behaviour of a depressed mother may give an impression that he is unwanted and he is not able to make her happy. That creates confusion in a child’s mind about his worthiness and he also may become depressed.

Depressed mother’s depressed child and a bleak future…

Research studies show that parental depression is a major risk factor for anxiety, depression and troublesome behaviour in the children and make them violent at the same time. Children of depressed mother are more vulnerable to be victimized by depression than those of normal mothers. The children of mothers suffering from depression during postnatal period are found to be fighting with their peers more often and resulted in injuries followed by suspension from school. “Although it appears that violence is not an inevitable outcome of postnatal depression, it is one that is made more likely under conditions of continued adversity. Early and recurring exposure to maternal depression puts children at risk for the overt pathway toward serious violence” says researcher Dale F. Hay, Ph.D., of Cardiff University. The severity of mother’s depression has more impact on the child than the chronicity of the mother’s depression no matter what is the age of the child. The reason being, a child finds it difficult to regulate attention and emotion from a mother who is depressed. The feeling of lack of love and attention makes the child angry and inattentive, so the propensity to violence increases. The loss caused by his psychological condition is so serious that the whole future of this depressed and angry child remains at stake. A mother’s depression strangulates his childhood’s innocence and faith, and his whole future may be ruined afterwards.

Psychological help for both mother and child is necessary

This is a strong acknowledgement of environmental influences on the child’s mental health. The depression in the mother or in the family should not creep into the child. The importance of psychological help under the given circumstances is beyond question. Both mother and child should be treated with medications of depression, like therapies and antidepressants, for obvious reasons. Children respond more quickly to environmental changes and psychological therapies. If a mother is depressed due to problems in the marital relationship, it is important for the child’s normal growth that the couple considers psychological help for the same. For example if a father does not protect the child from his mother’s assaulting and do not cover up for the attentions he needs from his mother, the child may turn to a timid and panicky person who would be frightened by darkness, a close door, nightmares and a list of similar aspects. The connotation more simplified is, the depressed mother needs to treat herself for the sake of the child. Taking antidepressants, something like Xanax, during the postnatal months prove to be helpful in cognitive and temperament development of the child. At the later stage, if the depression continues with the mother, psychological therapies from a psychiatrist becomes very important for the normal mental health of the child.

My Mom is the best!

If you ask a child who is the best, he would answer instantly with a big confident smile, “My Mom is the best!” A simple memory of the mother brings smile to his face. A mother’s depression may take away that precious smile forever. Let every mother save that smile, and save the future of the child.

The author, Monalisa Hyden, addresses psychological issues. If you wish to help yourself and your loved ones to fight depression, you can log on to http://www.buy-xanax-online-now.com for more information and advice.

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Trapped by Depression? - By Stan Lewis

If you have a sound sense of purpose for your life, it is more difficult for you to find yourself trapped by depression the hustle and bustle of today's workplace. The way to have this sound sense of purpose is to have an understanding of priorities, set your priorities, and maintain your priorities by setting reasonable life goals.

Depression is a state of unhappiness and hopelessness. With depression, comes feelings of dejection, lack of energy, sleeplessness, and, sometimes, suicidal tendencies. Depression is a trap that can catch you in two different ways. First, it can wear on you when you do not know what your sense of purpose is. Second, when you have a purpose, but, for whatever reason, you have lost focus regarding your purpose in life.

When you do not know what your sense of purpose in life you have no direction for your life. At best this will leave you with feelings of uncertainty and at worst it will leave you with feelings of hopelessness. It is important that you pray about your purpose in life. That you seek out your personal gifts or talents and then develop them. As you both develop your skills and seek God's will, God will point you towards your niche in life. It is also important to set your priorities of God first, then your spouse & family, your job, your personal ministry, etc. This will help to keep you focused as you carry out God's purpose for your life.

When we lose focus in our lives, it is usually because we have, in some way, disregarded our priorities. God needs to be first among our priorities. His word says we are to love God with all of our heart and all of our might.

Our next priority should be our spouse (or if your single, your family). In both words and action, we need to keep them readily aware that they are loved, cherished and important. We most make "quality" time to pour ourselves into our spouse and our children lives.

Next should be our jobs. Many would think that our personal ministry would come next, but that is not so. Our job is our means to support God's house with tithes/offerings and to support our families. We should do our jobs as if we are working for God himself. That means always seeking to personally grow and develop your talents.

Lastly you should find a place in God's house to serve others and give of yourself. When you open yourself to serve others, God will give you direction as to where to serve. You will get more out of it than you ever put into serving others.

There are forces in this world that will affect your thinking. Once this is done, Satan will seek to change your focus. If he can change your focus, he can affect your emotions. No longer are you pursuing your purpose through your priorities. The further and further you move from your purpose, the more it will bring negative emotions to surface. The negative emotions expose you to the abrasive nature of unhappiness and hopelessness. As unhappiness and hopelessness wear away at you, you begin to lose energy and the ability to find peace - to be at rest.

This is the trap of depression and it is something that many of us can slide into. Sometimes it's a slow slide and sometimes it is a rapid slide into depression, but if unchanged it can have a devastating effect upon not only you, but those who are close to you.

So ask God for direction in your life. There is no woman or man, which God has not given a gift or talents to. You need to discover the marvelous talents he has given you. Then develop and grow them with a personal coach or mentor. Then set your priorities and life goals so that you have a positive focus for your life. There is a saying, "...it is hard to stop a good man that keeps on coming." Ladies - men, it is going to be hard to stop you if you maintain your purpose and priorities. If you are feeling lost, then set yourself free by setting priorities and goals for yourself. After doing so, stick with your priorities - your goals and you will find that you have escaped the trap of depression. Maintaining your focus with Godly purposes and priorities will greatly aid you in avoiding the snare of depression.

Copyright 2006 Stan Lewis

Stan Lewis is a Christian Leadership & Life Coach. If you liked this article, you should really check out his new “Thinking Style” assessment by Clicking Here - http://www.assessmentgenerator.com/H/cRstanlewis1134788755.html If you would like a complimentary chat to talk about any issue, goal setting, or problems – Click here - http://realleadership4coachinglife.com/wst_page3.html Please take advantage of other FREEBIES by at http://www.realcoach.org
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What is Neurotransmitter Deficiency Disorder and How Can It Cause Depression, Anxiety, and... - By William Nelson

Neurotransmitters (NTs) are essential chemical messengers that regulate brain, muscle, nerve and organ function. The most common NTs are serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. Low levels of these important chemicals is extremely common in the general public and is due to innumerable lifestyle, environmental, and dietary factors. This article is intended to help the reader determine whether they may be deficient in NTs and how evaluation and treatment of this disorder can help.

People with neurotransmitter deficiency disorder can suffer from one or more of the following conditions: obesity, depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, insomnia, attention deficit, learning disorders, panic attacks, migraines, pms, menopausal symptoms, digestive complaints and many more.

Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other drugs working on the neurotransmitter biochemistry such as Prozac, Zoloft, Effexor, Celexa, Wellbutrin, etc. are currently some of the most commonly prescribed drugs. They work by artificially increasing the amount of serotonin in the synapse of the nerve which allows a temporary improvement in the chemical messaging system.

The problem with this approach is that these drugs DO NOT increase serotonin levels and in fact deplete reserves of the NT. This occurs because the SSRI class drugs cause an increase in an enzyme called MAO. It is common for people to experience only temporary improvement due to this effect.

The most effective way to correct a neurotransmitter deficiency is to perform a simple urine test to measure the NT levels. The treatment for optimizing the neurotransmitter levels is to provide the basic amino acid precursors or building blocks so the body can replenish the inadequate levels.

The true value of any treatment is the results it produces. Using this approach over the last year, I have helped coach many patients to a higher level of wellness. Patients with chronic depression, anxiety, and or insomnia have experienced a new sense of wellbeing while continuing their prescription, others have successfully weaned themselves off their prescription SSRI drugs after their symptoms have improved. Weight loss patients using slightly higher amino acid dosing consistently lose 1.5-2.5 lbs. per week without hunger while improving their lean muscle/body fat ratios.

FAQs regarding Dr. Nelson’s NT program for anxiety and depression

Q. If I am already taking SSRI drugs, can I safely use this amino acid approach?

A. In my clinical experience I have seen great results with patients who have been on SSRI drugs for many many years. First, we get the person feeling better, then if the patient chooses, we slowly wean them off their prescription drugs.

Q. How does amino acid therapy increase NT levels?

A. 5HTP is converted into serotonin and then melatonin. Phenylalanine is converted into tyrosine, then dopamine, L-Dopa, norepinephrine, and lastly epinephrine.

Q. How do you measure for the neurotransmitter levels in order to determine appropriate treatment?

A. The levels for epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin, GABA, PEA, histamine, and many others can be measured with a simple urine test. An initial urine test can be given and then repeated after 6 to 12 weeks of therapy to determine optimal neurotransmitter levels have been obtained.

Q. Are there any side effects associated with the amino acid neurotransmitter therapy?

A. Not only are there no side effects, but there are numerous side benefits. People with depression often find relief not only from depression but also insomnia, fatigue, GI symptoms, chronic pain, pms, menopausal symptoms, obesity, food cravings, etc. In a small amount of people (less than 5%) people could have gastro intestinal symptoms such as nausea, cramping, diarrhea, etc. This occurs in people with severe neurotransmitter deficiency. This usually occurs within the first three days and is solved by stopping all amino acids. Therapy is continued at very low dosing after symptoms abate and then slowly increased to therapeutic levels over three to six weeks.

Q. How long will it take until my symptoms of depression/anxiety improve?

A. Each individual responds differently to treatment. Some patients have noticed incredible improvements in moods in a few days, others don’t notice any improvements for a period of time (sometimes 3-4 months) and then notice gradual improvements over the following 3 to 6 months, most patients notice gradual improvements beginning after 1 month of treatment and then continue to improve.

Q. What should I expect during a normal course of evaluation and treatment?

A. Evaluation involves an initial office visit to determine overall health history, prescription drug levels, severity of symptoms, and any related health concerns. There is an optional urine test for neurotransmitter levels. Treatment consists of the following:

1. Conditioning Phase – a one to two week period to prepare the patient for higher levels of therapeutic amino acid dosing.

2. Therapeutic Phase – a period lasting anywhere from two months to 1 year+ where high levels of amino acids are given to restore the neurotransmitter levels.

3. Maintenance Phase – ongoing treatment with a small amount of amino acids to maintain the levels of neurotransmitters. This provides enough amino acids to replace the neurotransmitters excreted throughout the day.

Q. Will I need to stay on amino acid therapy indefinitely?

A. Most people need to stay on a low level maintenance dose in order to continue to feel well after their 2 month to 1 year plus treatment phase. If people stop taking the amino acids, their neurotransmitter levels will slowly decrease over time.

Q. What amino acids are used in this therapy?

A. The amino acids used depend on the unique situation. The therapy will include any number of the following: 5HTP, tyrosine, phenylalanine, cysteine, mucuna (herbal L-Dopa), theanine, glutamine, taurine, methionine, GABA, phosphorylated b vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants.

Q. What is the approximate cost of the therapy?

A. The cost of the neurotransmitter replacement therapy can range from $80 to $120+ during the therapeutic phase. After the patients symptoms have improved and the urine tests show optimal levels, the cost for the maintenance therapy is significantly less.

Q. What’s the success rate for anxiety and depression using this approach?

A. Anxiety and Depression are conditions that are multi-factorial. Patients that follow the dietary recommendations, take the supplements and don’t give up before the neurotransmitters levels have been restored have a very high success rate. This natural therapy corrects the biochemical imbalance associated with these conditions. Patients working with a qualified counselor or therapist to address the mental and emotional aspects of these conditions have an even higher success rate.

William Nelson, NMD is a Naturopathic Medical Doctor in private practice in North Scottsdale. He specializes in the treatment of depression/anxiety and weight loss using amino acid therapy. Dr. Nelson combines time honored natural therapies with the latest advances in medical science for the treatment and prevention of all other chronic and acute health concerns. 7500 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd. A207 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 480-563-4256

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A Look at the Different Depression and Anxiety Medications - By Charles Donovan

While it may be easy to recite the various brand names and generalize their benefits enough to know they put us (or are supposed to put us) in a better mood, for lack of a better term, the drugs themselves can all be categorized individually, each working in a slightly different way.

The following is a list and very brief description, by category, of depression and anxiety medications currently prescribed by physicians.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs, which are fairly new to the arsenal of depression and anxiety medications, have gained immense popularity among prescribing psychiatrists within the past 10 years. They are usually prescribed during the early stages of depression, if a person has sought help and behavioral and/or psychotherapy has not proven effective enough. With appropriate dosage, SSRIs can "catch" depression before it becomes severe. Although they do not work for 20% to 40% of people who try them, their ability to work for people with minor (and even major) depressive illnesses makes them attractive enough to prescribing psychiatrists to try them first before moving on to more serious depression and anxiety medications and methods, if need be. SSRIs work on serotonin, one of the brain's three neurotransmitters.

SSRIs Brand name (chemical name)

Celexa (citalopram), Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate), Luvox (fluvoxamine), Paxil (paroxetine), Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline)

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MOAIs)

MAOIs are the type of depression and anxiety medications that work for people who are mildly depressed, develop mild depression over a long period of time, are overly sensitive to their environment, or who are easily able to emerge from periods of depression. People who demonstrate an excess of a particular activity (ie, overeating, oversleeping, emotional overreaction) as compensation with stress can benefit from MAOIs, which work on the three neurotransmitters (called monoamines) found in the brain: norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. These are usually only prescribed when a person hasn't responded to any of the other types of depression and anxiety medications.

A strict diet must be followed if taking an MAOI, because in conjunction with certain foods, the body can react with elevated blood pressure, headaches, fluctuating blood sugar (for people with diabetes), and in more severe cases, brain hemorrhage. Because of these risks, MAOIs were taken off the American market for a while, but were reintroduced for patients who haven't had luck with any other depression and anxiety medications.

MAOIs Brand name (chemical name)

Nardil (phenelzine), Parnate (tranylcypromine)

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

Tricyclics have been available longer than any other depression and anxiety medications. In 1958, the first tricyclic, imipramine (Tofranil), was released to help combat major depression, and physicians saw a 70% positive response within their patients. Previously the only treatments for severely depressed patients were amphetamines and electroshock therapy.

TCAs increase the brain's supply of serotonin and norepinephrine, two of the brain's three neurotransmitters, but it also affects some of the brain's other nerve impulses as well, and this allows for more side effects.

Severely depressed and/or hospitalized patients see the most benefit from taking TCAs because of its sedative effect. In the past, patients were usually prescribed tricyclics before anything else, but with the movement of psychiatrists (and patients!) toward heading off depression before it becomes severe and/or chronic, TCAs are now usually only prescribed if the other types of depression and anxiety medications don't work.

TCAs Brand name (chemical name)

Adapin (doxepin), Anafranil (clomipramine) , Elavil (amitriptyline), Endep (amitriptyline), Ludiomil (maprotiline), Norpramin (desipramine) , Pamelor (nortryptyline), Pertofrane (desipramine), Sinequan (doxepin), Surmontil (trimipramine), Tofranil (imipramine), Vivactil (protriptyline)

Non-specified or "Other" depression and anxiety medications Because their chemical make-ups do not fit into any of the other categories, the following list of depression and anxiety medications can only be termed as "other." Wellbutrin, Desyrel, Remeron, and Effexor are prescribed most. Each of the four drugs affects at least one of the brain's three neurotransmitters (norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine), and as a result, each has its own particular set of side effects. As a result, psychiatrists are much more likely to prescribe one of the other types of depression and anxiety medications (SSRIs, MAOIs, TCAs) before switching to one of these. In some instances, a patient's regimen is augmented by combining an SSRI or TCA with an"other" depression and anxiety medications, but because of an MAOI's particular chemical make-up and dietary requirements, it is prescribed alone.

Brand names (chemical names) of Non-specified depression and anxiety medications

Buspar (buspirone), Cymbalta (duloxetine), Desyrel (trazodone) , Effexor (venlafaxine), Edronax, Vestra (reboxetine), Remeron (mirtazapine), Serzone (nefazodone), Wellbutrin (bupropion).

In August of 2004, the FDA approved the investigational drug Cymbaltaâ„¢ (duloxetine HCl), which demonstrated rapid relief of anxiety symptoms associated with depression that was sustained for the length of the study period, according to new data published in the journal Depression and Anxiety. In clinical studies, researchers attribute the medication's effect on a broad spectrum of depression symptoms, which include emotional and painful physical symptoms as well as anxiety, to its dual reuptake inhibition of both serotonin and norepinephrine.

Learn more about treating depression at http://www.e-mentalhealth.com

Charles E. Donovan

Author Out of the Black Hole: The Patient's Guide to Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Depression

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Practical Spirituality—Dealing With Depression IIIB - By John Gilmore

In Practical Spirituality IIIA we discussed ways to improve your social life. We mainly focused on how you could find the right group of people. We explored choosing to interact with friends and peer groups with the right qualities, instead of just engaging with any group, especially those who considered themselves the in group. We also spoke of letting go of groups that might be damaging to your psyche. In this entry we will explore ways that you can use to prepare yourself to interact with you new found group. Are you a quiet contemplative person, or a shy person, are you a person with a lot of anger or one who is very confrontational? Does this get in you way sometimes?.

In our journal on Dealing With Anger, we addressed ways that you can change anger to a more positive and productive type of energy. You can stop being confrontational and become a loving person through the exercise of Tang Lin as described in that previous entry. Tang Lin can also be done to change fear and shyness. The main idea here, however, is that you can take control of your life and your behaviors. When you see a person that is very likeable and socially active, someone that you would like to be like, look at the way that they interact with other people.

Study their behavior; that person can be your model for behavior.

You will probably notice how relaxed they are. You will probably notice they have the gift to draw other people out in the conversation, and they know when to disclose information about themselves. In order to be this way you have to fully accept yourself. If you don’t think your own life is interesting you won’t say much about yourself. If you don’t think that other people’s lives are interesting you will talk too much about yourself and won’t allow them to say anything about their lives. I guess the main point in interacting with others, therefore, is to really care about the person with whom you are speaking and yourself.

You can work on doing things like smiling, practicing the behaviors that connect you with other people, and developing a more positive social aura. Here is something concrete that you can do. If you would like to say, increase the amount of time you smile, what you do first is take a baseline of the behavior. Try to be aware and notice when you are smiling. Take a small pad with you and make a check mark each time you smile. Do this for about 3 days to a week. You can even make a chart with the time of day on it, or the type of place you were in so that you can track that too. After you have completed this baseline take a look. You will probably be surprised at how little you smile.

Look for the places and circumstances when you were smiling and when you weren’t. Next you work at increasing your smiling behavior. Go in front of the mirror and smile daily. When you exercise, watch TV, or engage in any activity habitually, smile throughout the activity, even if it is something that is grueling and unpleasant.

Smile as much as you can purposely. Make a contract with yourself. Measure the baseline every week and give yourself something really great each week if you smile the right amount of times, or the right length of minutes per week, depending on your baseline and contract. Make yourself earn something that you really like to do, like going to the movies, or taking a walk at the beach. If you don’t get the right amount of smiles that week, don’t do it.

Smile, smile, smile, especially when you are in nervous situations. You can even set up a series of exercises, or meditations where you smile throughout the exercises. If you can learn to smile naturally through grueling exercises or during nervous experiences, when you first meet a person and you are a bit nervous, you will smile automatically.

As you do more meditation, if you are meditating, you will become more aware of the thoughts and feelings that rise up and create awkwardness in your relationships. You can then work to change those behaviors by recognizing them early, before they manifest themselves. Until then this is a good model to use, along with the meditation. This model can also be used to decrease behaviors too.

Meditation, however, is most crucial in taking control of your life. It may seem boring to you, or tiring, or difficult, but meditation is the medicine for the psyche and the soul. It is worth struggling in order to reach the place of peace that only meditation and prayer brings us too, especially if you have a tendency to move toward depression. Some psychologists think that depression comes as a result of a chemical imbalance. As long as you take you medication, they say, things will be all right.

Other psychologists think that depression comes as a result of horrible external situations, or because we have learned to be helpless and to give up on life. Some mystics and spiritual counselors think that depression comes from the fact that more attuned people realize what the world can be, but when they look around and see all the pain and the suffering that is created by human beings and have to live in that world themselves, they feel empty and trapped.

Depression, in this case, is a hunger for connection with the Divine.

Whatever you believe, these tips will be helpful. These articles come primarily from the mystic point of view. They are not meant to take the place of psychotherapy, but to compliment it. If they are not working for you, however, there is always help from mental health professionals. Do not discount them, because they do a great deal of work and depression can be a very serious problem.

In our next journal entry we will write our final article on depression. We will discuss how we can find the core of the problem and then begin to deal with it. Until then, keep going in and looking up, because the same beauty out there in the heavens is inside of you at the center of your own being.

Dr. J. W. Gilmore is a Writer, Spiritual Director, Anti-oppression Consultant and Wellness Consultant. He is a Certified Massage Therapist and Reflexologist, a Reiki Master Teacher, a Martial Arts Instructor and a Spiritual Coach living in Costa Rica. For our practical spirituality journal visit: http://www.dswellness.com

On Being Love´s Warrior: A Warrior´s Manual on Becoming the Compassionate Warrior Within, Dr. Kendall Ronin.

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Comment from one of my readers:

Thanks so much! I'm so glad I found your post. My son's best friend, 14, just spent some time in a hospital for cutting. He is doing much better...and we just spent a week with him in Orlando for Spring Break. It is so hard to watch these young children hurt themselves...because of unresolved inner pain. Knowledge is power...so is love! Diane

A Short Self-Injury Primer for Parents, Teachers and Friends - By Jill L. Ferguson

Angelina Jolie was on Inside the Actors Studio last year and she mentioned that when she was younger and life got too painful for her, she used to cut herself. This remark was made by her almost in passing. It wasn’t questioned by host James Lipton. He didn’t ask her why or what she meant by cutting herself. Yet cutting, burning and other forms of self-injury are very serious issues around the world.

At any given time, one percent of the population is using or has used “self-inflicted physical injury as a means of coping with an overwhelming situation or feeling”, according to the American Self-Harm Information Clearinghouse. Self-injurers come from all walks of life; they are from every socio-economic group, from a diverse range of ethnicities and countries, from any sexual persuasion, from any level of education. Self-injurers can also be of any age and gender. The main thing they have in common is that they cut, self-abuse or self-mutilate in an effort to relieve themselves from pain or distress. And as the ASHIC website points out, “Self-mutilation implies falsely that the primary intent is to mark or maim the body, and in most cases this isn’t so.”

People start to self-injure for a variety reasons. They may have a biological predisposition to hurt themselves or a lack of experience dealing with strong emotions. Or they may have done something—picked at their skin, bit themselves or hit a wall—during a time of stress and realized that this action released some pent-up negative feelings. Because of this one-time, quick relief, the person may start to repeat the action in the middle of the next tense episode or the next time she needs to alter her mood. Preteens or teens who start this behavior may continue it for a long time, by wearing covering clothing or by always offering excuses as to how the injury happened, before someone realizes what they are doing.

If you are a teacher, a parent or a friend of a self-injurer, don’t get angry or tell the person what they are doing is stupid. You need to understand why the person feels the compulsion to do the behavior. What triggers his actions? Is something horrible going on in his life that needs to be addressed? Is he in an abusive situation or living in a place where emotional expression is forbidden or invalidated? Other coping mechanisms will need to be learned, especially if the person will have to continue being in the stressful situation. Help for self-injurers usually involves professional therapy. But self-injury, like any learned, addictive behavior, usually cannot be overcome by forced treatment or forced hospitalization; the self-injurer has to want help.

Some treatments use medications (mood enhancers, anti-depressants, anxiety calmers) to ease the urge to self-harm. Therapy and medicinal combination can be done on an inpatient basis with an understanding hospital staff, or on an outpatient basis with a psychiatrist or other medical professional.

The most important thing for you as a friend, a teacher or a family member of a self-injurer is to try not be frightened, isolated or feel helpless (things that the self-injurer may be feeling too). Know that support groups (in person and online) exist for self-injurers and their loved ones. Educate yourself about self-injury.

Visit LifeSigns’ website at http://www.selfharm.org, Self Injurers Anonymous at http://www.selfinjurers.com and Showing Our Scars at http://www.showingourscars.org for more information. Share the information you find with the self-injurer to let her know you understand, that you aren’t being judgmental and offer to help in any way you can.

Self-injury can be stopped, with the right tools. Angelia Jolie is just one success story of that.

Jill L. Ferguson is a professor, editor, writer, public speaker and the author of the novel Sometimes Art Can't Save You (published by In Your Face Ink, http://www.inyourfaceink.com) about a self-injuring teenage artist who struggles one summer to balance painting, friendship, sex, travel and family issues while still maintaining her health and sanity.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jill_L._Ferguson

Manic – bipolar depression facts and reality - By Dave McEvoy

Manic depression - Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function.

Some mornings can start with overriding feelings of joy, elation and power. By the time the afternoon has arrived this can shift to feelings of desperation, despair and depression.

More than 2 million American adults, or about 1 percent of the population have bipolar disorder, the percentage figures are the same for the United Kingdom.

These figures are only an estimate, the true figures will probably never be accurately known, this is probably due the stigma attached to mental health issues and the signs and symptoms not being correctly spotted by friends, family, professionals and even the individual themselves. It is fair to say that manic depression is under diagnosed.

Signs and symptoms of mania (or a manic episode)

• Increased energy, activity, and restlessness

• Excessively "high," overly good, euphoric mood

• Extreme irritability

• Racing thoughts and talking quickly, jumping from one idea to another

• Distractibility, lack off concentration

• Little sleep needed

• Unrealistic beliefs in one's abilities and powers

• Poor judgment

• Spending sprees

• A lasting period of behaviour that is different from usual

• Increased sexual drive

• Abuse of drugs, particularly cocaine, alcohol, and sleeping medications

• Provocative, intrusive, or aggressive behaviour

• Denial that anything is wrong

A manic episode is diagnosed if elevated mood occurs with three or more of the other symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for 1 week or longer. If the mood is irritable, four additional symptoms must be present.

The above signs and symptoms of mania can be very difficult to spot in an individual who has manic depression as all of the EXACT symptoms and time frames may not be prevalent in every person as each individual is unique.

A good example of this would be a rapid cycle manic depressive who in the mornings is high and elated, followed by despair and depression in the afternoons. This rapid cycle could happen for 2 or 3 days then level off for a relative period of calm for a few days before it starts again.

Due to the stigma attached to mental health problems individuals may try and mask their symptoms to avoid any embarrassment they may feel. Thus making it even more difficult to spot and diagnose. Some of these symptoms of mania may be the only symptoms that you see in a person who has manic depression, as they are easily passed of as having a “larger than life personality”

Signs and symptoms of depression (or a depressive episode)

• feeling sad, anxious, or empty mood

• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, including sex

• Decreased energy, a feeling of fatigue or of being "slowed down"

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions

• Restlessness or irritability

• Sleeping too much, or can't sleep

• Change in appetite and/or unintended weight loss or gain

• Chronic pain or other persistent bodily symptoms that are not caused by physical illness or injury

• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts

A depressive episode is diagnosed if five or more of these symptoms last most of the day, nearly every day, for a period of 2 weeks or longer.

A manic depressive will definitely have 5 of these symptoms. This is truly the worst time for a manic depressive, this is where the most support and help is needed.

Again the diagnosis is not 100% correct, as some people will have rapid cycles, i.e. High and elated in the morning then desperation and depression in the afternoon, these symptoms may only last a few days; sometimes they last a few weeks and in some very bad cases months.

In some people however, symptoms of mania and depression may occur together in what some people are calling a” mixed bipolar state.”

Symptoms of a mixed state often include agitation, trouble sleeping, and significant change in appetite, psychosis, and suicidal thinking. A person may have a very sad, hopeless mood while at the same time feeling extremely energized.

So again this shows that manic depression or bipolar disorder is not as straight forward as highs and lows.

Diagnosis of manic depression - Bipolar Disorder

Like other mental illnesses, bipolar disorder cannot yet be identified physiologically—for example, through a blood test or a brain scan. Therefore, a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is made on the basis of symptoms, course of illness, and, when available, family history.

Treatment of Bipolar Depression

It is absolutely vital that the correct medication is administered once the diagnosis has taken place, as recent research has indicated that people with bipolar disorder are at risk of switching into mania or hypomania, or developing rapid cycling, during treatment with incorrect antidepressant medication.

Therefore, correct "mood-stabilizing" medications are generally required, alone or in combination with the correct antidepressants, to protect people with bipolar disorder from this switch.

Lithium and valproate are the most commonly used mood-stabilizing drugs today.

Side effects

As any person who is open about their Bipolar will tell you, all of these medications have side effects these can include:

• Weight gain

• Dependence on the medication

• Nausea

• Tremors

• Reduced sex drive or performance

• Anxiety

• Hair loss

• Movement problems

• Dry mouth

• Disturbed sleep

Alternative treatments

Herbal or natural supplements, such as St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), have not been well studied, and little is known about their effects on bipolar disorder. Before trying herbal or natural supplements, it is important to discuss them with your doctor.

There is evidence that St. John's wort can reduce the effectiveness of certain medications. In addition, like prescription antidepressants, St. John's wort may cause a switch into mania in some individuals with bipolar disorder, especially if no mood stabilizer is being taken.

Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are being studied to determine their usefulness, alone and when added to conventional medications, for long-term treatment of bipolar disorder.

One such study was carried out by Dr Andrew Stoll over a four month period. The study was performed to examine whether omega 3 fatty acids also have mood stabilizing effects with people who have bipolar disorder.

He found that the omega 3 fatty acid patient group had a significantly longer period of remission than the placebo group.

In addition, for nearly every other outcome measure, the omega3 fatty acid group performed better than the placebo group.

With almost no adverse side effects apart from a slight gastric upset. This was thought to be due to the large doses of fish oil administered.

The study was published in the archives of general psychiatry in May 1999. Since then far stronger Pharmaceutical grades of omega 3 fish oil have been developed and brought on to the world market so such large doses need not be taken.

Conclusion

Manic depression – bipolar disorder is a condition that is often under diagnosed and in some cases very difficult to spot and treat correctly. A lot of people with this condition will try and mask either their true feelings and or symptoms due to the unfortunate stigma that is attached to mental health. Receiving the correct diagnosis, treatment and medication is vital if they are to stand any chance of trying to live a normal life. It is also crucial for friends and family to also try and understand this condition as it can help them come to terms with certain types of behaviour that are being displayed. As far as alternative remedies go, to date our best bet is very strong omega 3 fish oil as there are no side effects and it is the only remedy that’s had any kind of scientific study performed using people with our condition . It is also safe to run along side any form of medication apart from blood thinning medication.

About the Author:

Dave McEvoy: A great resource for high grade omega 3 Ethyl EPA fish oil in a vegetable shell with a 90% concentrate of EPA and Zero DHA visit http://www.mind1st.co.uk

Article source: ArticleWorld.net Free Articles

What's Causing My Depression and Fatigue? - By Paul Shearstone

Chronic Fatigue and Chronic Depression are absolutely systemic in our society today. Recent studies done by the AMA and CMA purport one in four people in North America are suffering from some form of chronic fatigue or depression and it’s expected eight out of ten of us will experience similar afflictions in our lifetime. But numbers like these don’t speak to the cause and only tell half the story.

In June of this year, my new book entitled, “Until You’ve Walked the Path” hit the bookstores. In it, I chronicle my own real life battle and recovery from CFS [Chronic Fatigue Syndrome]. I am pleased to say that from the responses I’ve received, the book has touched many people in a positive way, both those suffering from the disease, as well as caregivers, looking for new ways to aid the afflicted.

In conversations about CFS, the one question I am asked the most is, “What’s causing My [their] chronic depression and fatigue?” Followed by, “Is it just stress?”

I’ll admit I am not a doctor and have no medical training, however, I have done a fair bit of research over the last decade and I am a real CFS Survivor. That said, it is my belief there are three fundamental ‘Camps’ if you will, that can cause depression or fatigue and it is absolutely essential to determine what camp you are in to expedite speedy recovery.

Camp #1: CFIDS [Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome]

CFIDS is the new acronym for most immune dysfunctional disorders which covers a broad base of causes and outcomes. More specifically, the factors that can bring on CFS are viral. In my case I was diagnosed with the Epstein-Barr Virus [EBV]. Another common virus known to cause CFS is the ME Virus [Myalgic Encephalomyelitis]. An outcome associated with CFS sufferers is Fibromyalgia; an excruciatingly painful disease that effects all the muscles and joints in the body.

I could go on but the important point to understand is that most of what causes ‘Real’ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is most often viral. These viruses attack the immune system causing acute un-wellness, fatigue and depression. Stress is another immune-weakening phenomenon and is often a major cause for CFS. On the other hand, motivators like post viral infection – as it was in my case – is known to be much of the cause because of the damaging consequences it can affect to an otherwise healthy immune system. One outcome is Depression and Fatigue.

Camp #2: Mood Disorders

Mood disorders are perhaps easier for most people to understand. Not the diseases themselves but rather the fact that there are commonly known diseases like: By-Polar, Manic-Depression and Schizophrenia, to name but three. We all know they can cause behavioral – often unpredictable -changes in those afflicted. Another outcome is Depression and Fatigue.

Camp #3: Substance Abuse

Whether it’s drugs or alcohol, [prescribed or otherwise], many people fall victim to their affects that over time, can clearly evolve into conditions of un-wellness.

Stress-relief is often the reason for those who use drugs and alcohol on a regular basis and one need not be addicted to experience many of the health deteriorations that ultimately come about. Another outcome, of course, is Depression and Fatigue.

By now you may be seeing a bit of an assertion I am making in this article which now compels me to make two important points:

1. Depression and Fatigue can be outcomes from many different motivators.

2. It is critical for sufferers to seek out immediate professional help in determining precisely what is causing their fatigue and depression.

I have seen too many people needlessly wither away with diseases like these, never getting the right help. Many of them try to hide their problem and shrink into the shadows because it’s not a glamorous disease and for the most part, is still a little misunderstood – even by many in the medical field.

My advice is to find the right medical specialist who deals specifically with what’s causing your fatigue and depression. Understand that no doctor can be a specialist at everything and that the medicine, treatment and care for someone with Schizophrenia would be entirely different from what’s required to treat someone with substance abuse or a viral infection. The specialist would be just as different.

It’s also vitally important for those afflicted and caregivers alike to know that there is a short window of opportunity in getting diseases like these under control. That is to say, from my observation and experience, the longer one goes without proper diagnosis and treatment, the harder it is and less likely it is, recovery can be achieved.

Chronic Depression and Fatigues is not something one chooses to have and treatments like “Suck it up soldier!” or love deprivation do not work. Ignoring it works even less.

The Bottom Line:

What’s causing Your Depression and Fatigue could be many things. You need to align yourself with the right specialist, the right medication and the right treatment As Soon As Possible!
The good news? You can recover from it and you can triumph over it! I am living proof.

About The Author

Paul Shearstone is President of The CFIDS Foundation of Canada Inc. He is an International Keynote Speaker, Author, Writer, Motivation, Corporate Ethics, Sales, Time & Stress Management Specialist.

Paul enlightens and challenges audiences as he informs motivates and entertains.

To comment on this article or to book Paul for your next successful event we invite to contact Paul Shearstone directly @ 416-728-5556 or 1-866-855-4590 www.success150.com or paul@success150.com.

For more information and how to order Paul’s new book, “Until You’ve Walked the Path” please visit www.paulshearstone.ca

"Every day millions of people struggle valiantly with the pain of CFIDS and Depression... the very real physical pain and the excruciating psychic pain of the soul. Paul gives both voice and face to their pain. More importantly, he gives expression to their courage, resilience, and valour. By his account of his own remarkable journey, he gives hope to the millions of others who are still on theirs".

Karen Liberman
Executive Director
Mood Disorders Association of Ontario

paul@paulshearstone.ca

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Shearstone

One of my readers sent me this informative article: Enjoy!

Children with ADHD

There is a perplexing state of affairs in today's society, there lies a strong correlation between the affluence of a society and the amount of disease that is present. There is also another correlation that troubles many a people and that is with affluence comes disease at an Earlier age.

Working with children and the parents of these children I often get asked the question, 'Why are Children with ADHD on the increase?'

The answer as you shall find is one that is both interesting and challenging.

Children of today are really no more different from the children of yesterday in terms of genetic makeup. However, if you examine the issue more closely you will tend to find that many children today have been given labels. For example, 'Oh, those are children with ADHD' or 'Those are the children who can't sit still.' Or 'That is the kid that always gets into trouble.'

These labels are not only destructive but also become a self fulfilling prophecy as it is repeated adnauseum. So as a 21st century parent or a parent with a child with ADHD or a parent with children with ADHD, what knowledge framework do you need to equip yourself with to ensure your children live out their true potential?

Here is a quick reference list for thinking about ADHD

* ADHD is a source of great frustration because it is misunderstood

* ADHD medications are a great short term time buying device and should be avoided long term

* The above point goes for any sort of drug consumption. Think about it for a minute. Unless you have a biochemical deficiency in your body like Type 1 diabetes where your body fails to produce enough insulin or any at all, why would you take an external drug? A body that is in balance is totally healthy. It is only when the body is out of balance that dis-ease symptoms start to creep up.

* ADHD is a biochemical imbalance of the mind and body.

* The Head of Psychiatry in Harvard states that drugs for ADHD simply mask the effects of ADHD. It does not cure ADHD. This is an important point because a cure implies never to have to take the medication. This means that once you start on medication you will have to be on it for the rest of your life i.e. you have medically acquired a dependency for a biochemical imbalance. That is like stuffing all your rubbish (problematic behaviors) into a closet (medication) where no one can see it. But if you continue to stuff more rubbish into that closet, one day you will not have enough space and need to do one of two things. You either empty the rubbish (the natural conclusion) or you get a bigger closet (i.e. change to stronger medication to control the symptoms). The choice is obvious but sometimes when you don't have the necessary tools to deal with ADHD you tend to think the bigger closet is the only option.

* ADHD children are super sensitive to the emotions around them. Often they pick up emotional cues from their parents without realizing. Many parents come home frustrated or annoyed from work, the child with ADHD picks this up and starts to 'cause trouble' by becoming restless. Parents frustration increase because they just want some peace and quiet. They get angry which in turn is picked up by the child who then intensifies their activity. Things get way out of hand and some sort of punishment is handed down to the child who has no idea what just happened. The cycle repeats itself every so often.

* Our brains are wired emotionally. Positive praise is interpreted as an analytical/thinking exercise. Negative criticism including scolding, name calling, physical punishment all go directly to the emotional brain of children with ADHD. This means in order to ensure you get your message across in the most optimal way, you need to learn how to communicate with your ADHD children the way they like to be communicated with.

* Every negative comment requires 16 positive comments to neutralize the emotion. Save yourself the frustration and agitation by practicing positive communication.

The list is by no means complete. In dealing with children with ADHD there are a certain set of behavioural principles to follow. I will detail these steps in the coming weeks. I'll also build on the list as you continue to learn about what appears to be a mystical disorder known as 'Children with ADHD'

Can a Neurotransmitter Imbalance be Causing Your Mood Problems? - By Valerie Balandra

Neurotransmitters are powerful chemicals that regulate numerous physical and emotional processes such as cognitive and mental performance, emotional states and pain response. Virtually all functions in life are controlled by neurotransmitters.

Interactions between neurotransmitters, hormones, and the brain chemicals have a profound influence on overall health and well-being. When our concentration and focus is good, we feel more directed, motivated, and vibrant. Unfortunately, if neurotransmitter levels are inadequate these energizing and motivating signals are absent and we feel more stressed, sluggish, and out-of-control. Disrupted communication between the brain and the body can have serious effects to ones health both physically and mentally.

Depression, anxiety and other mood disorders are thought to be directly related to imbalances with neurotransmitters. Some of the more common neurotransmitters that regulate mood are Serotonin, Dopamine, and Norepinephrine. Serotonin imbalance is one of the most common contributors to mood problems. Some feel it is a virtual epidemic in the United States.

Serotonin is key to our feelings of happiness and very important for our emotions because it helps defend against both anxiety and depression. You may have a shortage of serotonin if you have a sad depressed mood, anxiety, panic attacks, low energy, migraines, sleeping problems, obsession or compulsions, feel tense and irritable, crave sweets, and have a reduced interest in sex. Additionally, your hormones and Estrogen levels can affect serotonin levels and this may explain why some women have pre-menstrual and menopausal mood problems. Moreover, stress can greatly reduce your serotonin supplies.

Dopamine and Norepinephrine are responsible for motivation, energy, interest, and drive. They are associated with positive stress states such as being in love, exercising, listening to music, and sex. These neurotransmitters are the one's that make you feel good. When we don't have enough of them we don't feel alive, we have difficulty initiating or completing tasks, poor concentration, no energy, and lack of motivation. Low neurotransmitter levels drive us to use drugs (self medicate) or alcohol, smoke cigarettes, gamble, and overeat.

For many years, it has been known in medicine that low levels of these neurotransmitters can cause many diseases and illnesses. A neurotransmitter imbalance can cause Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, irritable bowel, hormone dysfunction, eating disorders, Fibromyalgia, obsessions, compulsions, adrenal dysfunction, chronic pain, migraine headaches, and even early death.

What causes neurotransmitter dysfunction?

• Prolonged periods of stress can deplete neurotransmitters levels.

Our fast paced, fast food society greatly contributes to these imbalances.

• Poor Diet.

Neurotransmitters are made in the body from proteins. Also required are certain vitamins and minerals called "cofactors" If your nutrition is poor and you do not take in enough protein, vitamins, or minerals to build the neurotransmitters, a neurotransmitter imbalance develops. We really do think and feel what we eat.

• Genetic factors, faulty metabolism, and digestive issues can impair absorption and breakdown of our food which reduces are ability to build neurotransmitters.

• Toxic substances like heavy metals, pesticides, drug use, and some prescription drugs can cause permanent damage to the nerves that make neurotransmitters.

• Certain drugs and substances such as caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, NutraSweet, antidepressants, and some cholesterol lowering medications deplete neurotransmitter levels leading to neurotransmitter imbalances.

• Hormone changes cause neurotransmitter imbalances

Testing is now available to detect Neurotransmitter Imbalances. Basing a treatment on symptoms alone (traditional medicine) will not provide the information needed to address the underlying imbalance. A visit to a doctor or practitioners office for depression involves telling them how you have been feeling emotionally. The typical depressed person leaves the office with a prescription for an antidepressant without ever having any conclusive laboratory evidence of what is causing their symptoms. New sophisticated equipment and tests are now available to evaluate neurotransmitter imbalances using a urine or blood sample. This provides a neurotransmitter baseline assessment and is useful in determining the root causes for diseases and illnesses such as those mentioned above. Laboratory analysis can now provide precise information on neurotransmitter deficiencies or overloads, as well as detect hormonal and nutrient co-factor imbalances which influence neurotransmitter production. Individuals require individual solutions. Testing helps to determine exactly which neurotransmitters are out of balance and helps to determine which therapies are needed for an individualized treatment plan. It also helps in monitoring the effectiveness of an individual's treatment.

Treatment

Nutrient therapies greatly increase the levels of neurotransmitters that a person has been found to be deficient in. Studies have shown that it is both safe and effective. These nutrients will cross the blood brain barrier into the brain where they will be synthesized into neurotransmitters and this will raise the number of neurotransmitter molecules needed by the brain. They are prescribed according to the results of laboratory testing giving the imbalanced person a more individualized plan of treatment. Prescription drugs such as antidepressants do not increase the overall number of neurotransmitter molecules in your brain, they merely move them around or stop the breakdown.

If your levels are too low to start with, medication may work initially, then "poop out" or not work from the beginning. There is also the issue of side-effects and more recently the FDA warning that SSRI antidepressants could cause suicidal thoughts in some children, teens and adults. There are specialized nutrient formulas which help antidepressant medications work more effectively. Under the supervision of a trained practitioner these treatments may be used in addition to the persons existing medication to boost their effectiveness or to target another neurotransmitter that is also causing symptoms. Many antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications just target one neurotransmitter but many mental health disorders involve multiple neurotransmitters.

Valerie Balandra is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and holistic health practitioner. Her integrative psychiatry practice focuses on identifying the cause of the chemical imbalance and provides natural treatments for depression and anxiety.

http://www.integrativepsychiatry.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Valerie_Balandra

Depression Symptoms: Disease or State of Mind? Learn How Vagus Nerve Stimulation Can Help - By Charles Donovan

A major survey on depression symptoms from the National Mental Health Association (NMHA), released in July 2004, revealed a dramatic degree of progress in public understanding. Yet even amid this promising trend, the survey sheds light on the difficulties.

The NMHA survey shows a major shift in public opinion in the last decade about the cause of depression. A majority (65 percent) of those polled who have never been diagnosed with depression symptoms understand depression is a disease, and not "a state of mind that a person can snap out of." In 1991, only 38 percent recognized depression as an illness.

The survey also sketches a troubling portrait of the socio-economic lives of some people with depression symptoms. Survey respondents with depression symptoms reported higher levels of unemployment and divorce than respondents who don't have the disorder.

"We set out to get a snapshot of the state of depression and its treatment," said Michael M. Faenza, president and CEO of the NMHA. "The good news is that there is greater public understanding of depression and that people living with depression are finding substantial relief by following their treatment plans. The challenging part is understanding the degree to which public perceptions impact those in treatment," said Faenza.

In this year's survey, nearly one in three Americans say they believe depression symptoms is a state of mind. "Fifty-five percent understand the truth about depression. That is good, but it is not enough," said Faenza. "You'd never hear 31 percent of the population deny that diabetes and heart disease are real. Erroneous beliefs about depression fuel stigma, bad public policies and poor personal choices by those living with the illness and may impede their recovery."

The survey also describes a strong correlation between clinical depression symptoms and diminished social and economic circumstances for families. Survey respondents with depression report greater rates of divorce and unemployment than the general public. What's more, respondents who have experienced multiple depressive episodes are even more likely to be divorced or unemployed. They also are more likely to have lower income and educational levels.

The NMHA survey, conducted by Public Opinion Strategies LLC, comprised interviews with 500 adults currently being treated for depression, 300 primary care physicians, psychiatrists and psychologists and 800 members of the general public.

Gap Between Knowledge and Behavior

Survey respondents who are living with depression symptoms overwhelmingly feel that treatment, including medication, psychotherapy or both, works. (Their average self-rated symptom severity dropped from 8.5 before treatment to 3.6 within six to 12 months after starting treatment, using a severity scale of one to 10, with 10 being the most severe.)

Yet people are finding that staying with treatment is hard work. While they seem to understand the value of long-term treatment (in fact, most respondents believe that adhering to treatment is not difficult) nearly one-third (29 percent) of people on antidepressants report skipping doses during the week and nearly one-fourth (24 percent) have difficulty attending regular psychotherapy sessions. However, physicians and psychiatrists surveyed believe adherence is much lower than people in treatment profess. Almost 40 percent of doctors believe those they treat have difficulty staying with their medication regimens (a number consistent with most studies), and half (52 percent) say those they treat have difficulty staying with their psychotherapy regimens.

The survey suggests many reasons why some people don't stick with treatment. In addition to struggling with the nature and demands of the depression symptoms, they may find the requirements of long-term vigilance overwhelming. A majority of doctors (70 percent) say those they treat for depression symptoms might find adherence easier if they could take medication less often. But medication is not the only issue. Though people with depression symptoms believe diet and exercise to be beneficial to long-term wellness, they nevertheless report not adhering with these regimens either.

"The survey clearly shows that the fewer episodes of depression people reported, the more likely they were to have stayed with treatment, whatever that treatment may be," said Faenza. "Facing up to this illness and taking personal responsibility for its treatment are vital. Yet some may not acknowledge and seek treatment for depression because of negative public attitudes and misperceptions."

In fact, even as people with depression symptoms struggle with the illness itself, they also seem to be searching to determine their best course of treatment, how long they should stay in treatment, what they might expect from treatment and whether they will ultimately recover.

As a result, more people are employing a combination of techniques to get and stay well.

Perceptions Diverge

Public perceptions about depression symptoms often diverge significantly from the perceptions of people in treatment and may discourage them from seeking effective therapeutic approaches. For example, the survey results showed that the general public ranks regular exercise, a healthy diet and psychotherapy higher than medication for effectiveness in warding off future episodes of depression symptoms. In contrast, doctors and people in long-term treatment rate staying on medication as the most effective way to prevent a relapse, even as they seek the right mix of psychotherapy and lifestyle choices.

Perceptions also diverge when it comes to understanding what treatment can deliver. Thirty-five percent of the general public believe that a person can be cured completely of depression symptoms, a belief held by only 12 percent of people in long-term treatment for the illness. It is likely that many in this group are struggling to achieve realistic expectations for treatment because the majority of subjects in the survey sample are in long-term treatment for multiple episodes of depression symptoms.

About half of those who experience depression symptoms will never have another episode; half will. The findings suggest that people treated for clinical depression symptoms understand the frequently episodic nature of this common illness. More than three-quarters (76 percent) believe that they will need some type of treatment for the rest of their lives, and most understand that their treatment will control, but not necessarily cure, their depression symptoms.

However, even as more people come to terms with the long-term demands of depression symptoms, too many still find it difficult to make a treatment plan work for them. "The upshot is that people living with depression conduct highly individualized searches for the right mix of therapies—medical, psychological or lifestyle. The last thing they need is for stigma or public misperceptions to diminish their efforts," said Faenza.

Learn how the FDA approved therapy can change your life at http://www.VagusNerveStimulation.com

The therapy completely changed my life.

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. 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 is availalable on Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com, 1-888-VAGUS-88 and on his web site, http://www.OutoftheBlackHole.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charles_Donovan

Teen Depression: Is There A Hopeful Outlook? - By Sandy Baker

Teen depression strikes one in five children. This is a very frightening number. Depression is anything but a good thing. It happens to anyone, in any lifestyle, in any income range. Most of the time, it will not be noticed until it becomes a large problem. This should be the most sobering of all news about this epidemic. Yet, one thing that is hopeful about teen depression is that more and more individuals are learning about it and in this area of health, knowledge is power.

Tips To Noticing Depression In Teens

Teens are typically quite unpredictable, but when it comes to their health parents as well as friends should keep an eye out for these things and other things that you will find at http://www.avoiddepression.com.

* Sudden changes in their mood, appetite or weight can be indications of depression. While these things can also be something that is attributed to just being an adolescent, when it is coupled with other conditions, it should be taken note of.

* A loss of interest in doing the things that they used to love to do can be depression. Now, this is not necessarily something from their childhood, but something within the past few months.

Perhaps they enjoyed horseback riding and just stopped doing it within the last months.

* Traumatic situations can cause teen depression to come on fast. For example, divorce or separation of their parents, death, economic changes, or even just friendship and significant other changes. Often, teens blame themselves for these conditions.

* A lack of emotion is a sign that something is definitely wrong. If they do not seem happy any more, for any reason, there may or may not be something bothering them. Depression doesn’t have to be brought on by something, it can just be there.

* Pulling away from family, friends and from school is something many teens with depression find themselves doing. They just withdraw into their own world. This is not normal teen behavior but a serious condition.

One thing that must be said about teen depression is that this is a serious, life threatening condition and one in which help should be sought for as soon as possible. There are many tragic stories of young teens harming themselves because they are suffering from depression and no one took notice.

Finally, on the good note, those teens that do get treatment for the depression that they are experiencing can actually recover quickly and completely from it and get back into doing the things they love to do. Talk to your doctor if you feel that you have been in any of these conditions or you know someone that is. They can determine what is happening and get life back on track for you.

Learn more about teen depression and depression in general at http://www.avoiddepression.com Get help now or help a friend in need.

Sandy Baker is a well respected writer and recommends visiting a good teen depression site, to learn more about this, as this is a major issue affecting most teens.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandy_Baker

The Suicide/Antidepressant Link in Adults - By Jeannine Virtue

The FDA has acknowledged the link between antidepressants and the increased risk of suicide in children, adolescents and adults are also at risk for suicidal thoughts and actions while taking SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressants.

In 2004 the FDA acknowledged the suicide/antidepressant link with children and now requires "Black Box" labeling to alert parents of the harm that can befall their child while taking antidepressants. That warning has now spread to all age groups. The FDA has now issued a Public Health Advisory (PHA) calling for an update to health care providers and patients about the recent scientific research and publications that there is an increased risk of suicidal thought and behaviors in adults taking antidepressant medication.

The FDA, using a similar approach that was used in the evaluation of the risks of increased suicidal thoughts and behaviors in their pediatric studies, requested that manufacturers of antidepressants drugs provide doctors with information from their drug trials.

In accordance with the 2nd FDA warning the Public Health Advisory advises patients and health care providers be aware of the following:

_ Close observation of adults may be especially important when antidepressant medications are started for the first time or when doses for the specific drugs prescribed have been changed.

_ Adults being treated with antidepressant medicines, particularly those being treated for depression, should be watched closely for worsening of depression and for increased suicidal thinking or behavior.

_ Adults whose symptoms worsen while being treated with antidepressants, including an increase in suicidal thinking or behavior, should be evaluated by their health care professional.

The above recommendations are also consistent with the existing warnings that are in the approved labeling, or package insert, for antidepressant medications.

Antidepressants have their place but it is our belief that other options should be exercised before resorting to the potentially dangerous drugs. There are many options in between the wide gap between doing nothing and taking antidepressant medication. In dealing with depression, diet and exercise changes are highly beneficial. Herbal and homeopathic remedies can also offer valuable help in the battle against depression.

Jeannine Virtue is a freelance writer who focuses on health related issues. For information about effective and natural treatments for Attention Deficit Disorder and Depression in adults and children, visit the Attention Deficit Disorder Help Center at http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com

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Addiction And Depression - By Sober Mom

Depression and addictions sometimes seem married to each other to different degrees. In seeking help for addictions we often find that there are many other underlying issues that are simmering just below the surface and are initially covered by substance abuse. Many addicts spend a great deal of time wondering what came first. Were we addicts because we couldn't handle our feelings, our sadness and our mind numbing depression or did the years of substance abuse weaken the ability to cope with life on life's terms?

12 step programs, if worked properly, give us the tools to drop the baggage, come to terms with who we are and eventually become comfortable in our skins and ultimately realize that feelings, good or bad are a way of life. If I'm having a bad day my sponsor will effortlessly remind me that 'this too shall pass'. But likewise when I'm having a good day she quickly reiterates 'this too shall pass'.

In any case it's a reminder that there is hope after mental struggles, we will always come through to the other side a little stronger, a little wiser and with a little more hope the next time around that we are not prisoned in a life of unhappiness.

But what if the depression is too much? What if your quality of life is directly affected by your lack of motivation, enjoyment and verve for life? Depression is a real, clinical condition that many people in the world suffer from. We also live in times that recognizes this condition without condemnation.

Keep in mind that we're addicts and that we naturally want a pill or an immediate solution to our problems. Don't look to anti-depressants as a quick fix for a small problem. Life is full of ups and downs and we didn't get sober to not partake in life.

On the other hand, If depression is not a small problem for you don't feel as though you have to 'buck up and tough it out'. Living life also means having a quality experience. It's important that you talk to doctors, research your options fully and monitor your progress.

The good news for us and for millions of people is that we have options today. When life seems to be too much we have support, fellowship, doctors, families and a surplus of information to aid in our mental recovery. The even better news is that we don't have to drink or use over it - ever again.

About the Author: Copyright http://www.sobermoms.com"

Source: www.isnare.com

Acknowledge Your Depression - By June23

Depression is an illness and needs to be acknowledged as such. It is not a reason to be ashamed. The reason so many people fail to seek help for their depression is that they are ashamed. Unfortunately, this is one of the feelings associated with depression anyway and makes the illness difficult to acknowledge.

If you are constantly feeling particularly low, well-meaning friends might tell you to “snap out of it” or even start to get irritated by your mood. Your depression will feed off this negativity and you start to wonder why you can’t just “snap out of it”. You then start to feel that there’s something wrong with you because it should be so easy and it’s just “not right” that you feel so bad all the time. Well, it’s not right and there is something wrong with you. You have a medical condition and you deserve treatment in the same way as any other patient. If you had a cold for six months would you ignore it and hope it would pass? No, you would dose yourself up with anything you could find and maybe see a doctor to find out if there’s an underlying reason for it to last so long.

Depression is sadness that lasts too long. Everyone is sad at some point in their lives but depression is more than that. It is a feeling that you can’t bring yourself up from the bottom. In the end you give up trying. People start to avoid you. You feel worse. You need to find external help to treat the problem in the same way as you would if you had a long-lasting cold. You could try herbal remedies – there are some in your pharmacy – or you could see your doctor. There may be an underlying physical cause for your depression.

If your doctor cannot help you they may refer you for counselling. Don’t be embarrassed to go for counselling but do make sure you are comfortable with your counsellor. If not, try another one. Counselling should not be discounted because you don’t feel comfortable with your first choice of practitioner. In everyday life you will naturally find that you get on with some people and clash with others. You cannot afford to have a personality clash with your counsellor. On the other hand you must be sure that it is a personality clash and not just that you don’t agree with what they are saying. A general rule is to go with your instincts. If you like the person and seemed to get on well in the first couple of sessions then stick with it because they might just have touched on the root cause of your problem.

In some cases, acknowledging depression may be difficult because you have lived with it so long that you don’t know whether it is depression or not. If you have grown up with depression it is possible not to realise that you are actually depressed because you have no concept of how normal people should feel. You may feel angry all the time or you may feel like going to the middle of an empty field and simply screaming. You may feel anxious, have trouble sleeping or even sleep too much. You may think that your family would be better off without you (and actually believe that to be true) and may have considered running away or suicide. You may worry about death all the time (yours or someone else’s) and not let yourself be happy just in case…… (or even “I must enjoy this now in case………..”). If you are feeling any or all of the above then you need to consider talking to someone. Even if it is just a friend or family member to start with, they may be able to advise you and encourage you to seek professional help.

Once you have acknowledged that you have depression please remember that it is a medical condition and can be cured. You don’t have to feel this way for ever. Nobody actually thinks of you the way you think they do. Talk to someone. Seek and accept help and you will find that there is a different way of seeing life.

About the Author: June23 maintains the depression/'>http://www.depressiononlinesite.com">Depression Online Site - a collection of articles for people living either with depression or with someone with depression.

Source: www.isnare.com

Starting Over - By Kim Olver

How does one start over after the loss of a loved one? It is a monumental task that just feels overwhelming at times. Similar rebuilding occurs after the death, divorce or separation of a loved one.

First comes the shock of the loss and an almost denial that is has happened, particularly if there was no warning. We have hopes and dreams of the future that include our loved one and suddenly he or she is not there. How will we cope? How can we go on?

But go on we must and we will. Often times our first step is to attempt to regain what we have lost. This is impossible if our loved one has died but that doesn’t stop us from trying. A lot of what we go through in our grieving process is our best attempt to keep that person alive and well in our perception. So, we do things like go over the memories, look through picture albums, talk about our loved one to everyone who will listen, think about him or her every minute and even speak to him or her out loud.

If a loved one has not died, but has chosen to walk out of your life, it can be more challenging. In this instance, you not only have to get over the shock of the loss but also cope with the feelings of rejection.

In our best attempt to get our loved one back, we may engage in all the behaviors someone who has lost their partner to death would. But in addition, we may beg them to take us back, follow our loved one around, try to get our friends to intervene on our behalf, and a host of other maladaptive behaviors.

Everyone grieves at his or her own pace. I am in no way suggesting that this process can or should be rushed. What I am saying is that when a person is ready, he or she can turn the grief into a new hope for the future.

There's a quote I've learned that is very helpful during this phase. Unfortunately, I do not know its source. The quote is: " Don't cry because it's over; smile because it happened." This is a highly evolved place to get and not everyone gets there.

However, if you find yourself in the process of starting over, adopting this particular attitude can be fairly helpful. You would begin by brainstorming all the possible benefits of no longer being in relationship with the person who's gone. This may seem uncomfortable at first, almost a betrayal of the love you shared, but it is the most healing thing you can do at this point.

You may feel that moving on will, in some way, send the message that you didn't really love enough. In an attempt to show the world how much you loved your partner, you use the depth of your grieving as the message. And if you are someone who wants to continue grieving, then nothing I have to say will get in your way. You don't even have to continue reading.

This article is really for those people who are tired of being depressed, who are ready to us start again and who want to actually believe that things can get better.

In 1999, my husband died of leukemia when he was 37 years old, leaving behind our two sons ages 13 and 15. Initially, there was no positive benefit I could see from that event at all. However when I was ready to look for the positives, they did appear.

One of the first positives I saw is that I actually had the opportunity to say goodbye. My husband's entire family had the opportunity to say the things they wanted to say to bring closure to their relationships with him. Many people do not have that opportunity when loved ones pass.

A second benefit is that when my husband learned he was sick, he stopped working. He didn't stop because he was too sick. He stopped because there was some research link between his type of leukemia and the chemical benzene -- something he worked with at his job.

Prior to his illness, my husband was a workaholic. Once diagnosed, he began to spend lots of quality time with our children. He coached soccer, coached Little League, taught our boys how to work on cars, and spent long hours with them hunting and fishing. This would not have happened had he lived to be a hundred years old with his workaholic behavior.

You too, can find the benefit in the loss of your last relationship. It merely involves putting on the proper lenses that will allow you to see it. Just like in science, there can be no positive without the negative and no negative without the positive. You can't have protons without neutrons -- and you can't have a devastating event in your life without it also bringing some positive benefits. Healing and moving on requires these lenses.

While you continue to mourn the loss of your relationship, you're only staying stuck in the past. Let's return to the quote mentioned above. Instead of mourning the loss of the relationship, focus on how fortunate you were to have that relationship in your life for as long as you did.

There are no guarantees in this life. When a loved one enters our life, there is no surety for how long he or she will stay. They're not possessions to be owned, but rather our gift to be cherished for as long as we have it.

One of the first steps to take in healing our grief is to reach out to others in our life who love us. When someone we love leaves us, it creates a huge void in our life. Some try to fill this void with drugs or alcohol, but that only results in a temporary reprieve from the pain.

If love is what we lost, then the only thing that will help us to feel better is more love. During this time you may confuse sex with love and go looking for meaningless encounters. However, this again will only postpone the inevitability of the pain of the loss of love.

We must replace love with love. Reach out to friends, family and co-workers --- anyone who will fill some of the gap left by your loved one. It's not the same, it's not what you are really craving, but it will help heal the pain.

After that temporary reprieve with those who love us, you must start rebuilding your life and your strength. You can go on. You can laugh again. And yes, you can love again. Love has many forms.

You may develop another relationship in time. You may find a cause that you love and believe in. You may "adopt" a neighborhood child. You may find or create work you love. You may get a pet that you can love unconditionally. You may become involved (but not too involved) in the lives of your extended family. Whatever form love takes, it will fill the void that was left by the relationship you lost.

But none of this will truly do the trick unless you learn to love yourself again. How does one accomplish this task? You must take inventory. Make a list of all that you have to offer the world. What are your strengths? What are your interests? What are your talents and abilities? What do you love?

If you're having difficulty completing your list, ask someone you trust for help. An objective viewpoint can often point out positives of which we are unaware.

And if, after taking this step, you are still unsure of your special talents and skills, then make a list of the person that you want to be. What is it that you would like to be able to offer the world? Describe a person that you admire whom you would strive to become. As long as there's breath in your body, it is never too late to learn to expand and grow to become the person that you truly want to be.

If you feel as if your life is over, you are truly wasting the gift of life that you have been given. There is only one you. You have something unique inside you to offer the rest of us. Please don't keep it hidden, lost in your grief

Do not climb in the grave with your loved one. It is not your time. Do not wither and die behind the door your loved one closed on his or her way out of your life. Find someone less fortunate than you, and do something for them without expecting anything in return. You'll be surprised what that does to elevate your mood.

About the Author: Kim Olver has a degree in counseling, is a certified and licensed counselor. She is a certified reality therapy instructor. Kim is an expert in relationship, parenting and personal empowerment, working with individuals who want to gain more effective control of their lives and relationships. Visit http://www.therelationshipcenter.biz/PersonalGrowth.php"

Source: www.isnare.com

Depression and Suicide - Don't Ignore the Warning Signs - By Angela Thompson

We hear a lot about depression today. I seems everyone is on some medication for depression, ADD, or ADHD, but do we really understand it or know what to do if we sense someone is severely depressed or suicidal?

I have suffered from depression for most of my life. I’m 50 now and just learning how to recognize the symptoms before they take hold and how to deal with them. When I was growing up, depression was not talked about. People feared they would be thought of as being crazy, so they never admitted to feeling this way. They thought people would look at you differently or be afraid to associate with you. They were too embarrassed to discuss their feelings, so they did not seek help. How sad was that? Do you know how different my life could have been had I or someone else realized I suffered from depression and I got help?

Depression was hereditary in my family so it would not have been unusual for me to suffer from it. My uncle tried to commit suicide several times and was institutionalized at one point. My aunt tried to commit suicide. My Dad was told he desperately needed help and my mother tried to commit suicide twice. Once was when she was pregnant with me and the other time was when my brother and I left home within months of each other and she felt she had nothing left to live for. Of course, I did not know all this until years later. Had I known, I may have recognized the symptoms. I would have been able to get help instead of struggling and not knowing why I had no energy, or slept all the time or had such low self-esteem. Medication may have helped. It is not the answer to everything, and in some cases can make things worse, but I would like to have had the option to know if it would have made a difference in my life. It would have made those years so much more bearable and possibly changed the course of my future.

If someone you know is, or might be suffering from depression, please urge them to seek help. You may think that suicide only happens in other families, but my daughter and I came dangerously close to losing her best friend this past week. Why? Because we did not take her talk of suicide seriously or realize just how depressed she was. Especially with children and teens, we tend to write if off as just “those difficult” teenage years. We may think they are just being moody. Do not take that chance. You do not want to wonder if there was some sign you missed or something you could have done and live with the guilt the rest of your life.

Here are some signs to look for:

• Change in sleeping patterns. Sleeping more than usual or unable to sleep at all.
• Lack of interest in anything or taking pleasure in things they once enjoyed.
• Irritability. They are very sensitive and get upset at things or comments that normally would not bother them.
• Withdrawal. Because they feel different and may not understand what is happening, they withdraw from their friends. They will not leave the house and feel it is easier to avoid their friends that to have them think they are crazy. They do not understand why they may sleep so much or feel so bad. My daughters' friend thought people would think she was just lazy and judge her, so she avoided contact.
• Change in eating patterns or physical condition. They may stop having an interest in food, lose weight or vomit due to stress.
• Talk of suicide. Do not make the mistake of thinking this is just talk. It may be or it could be a cry for help, but do not take that chance. Get them to a doctor or psychiatrist whether they want to go or not. You may risk making them mad at you or saying they will not forgive you, but the alternative is much worse.

I have experienced all of the above symptoms but like a lot of people, did not recognize them for what they were. I thought of suicide of but never voiced it. I almost followed through on it on a particularly bad day. It was only by the grace of God that a friend stopped by unexpectedly, which she never did, or I might not be here right now.

Many people at one time or another may have had thoughts of suicide. They may have made statements that they would be better off dead, but they were just fleeting thoughts for most, made out of anger or stress. For those that are deeply depressed, they are more than that. I wanted to think I would never really follow through. I could not hurt my family that way. I remember being furious with my Mom when I found out she had tried, yet found myself in the same situation years later. That is why it is so important to never take it lightly. We often do things we could not imagine in a million years doing. Yet, we never know when we will hit rock bottom and feel like we cannot get up. When you are in that place, your thoughts are not rational. You are not thinking of the people you would hurt, you just want out of your pain. After being “saved by the bell” when my friend stopped by, it hit me what it would have done to my daughter had I succeeded. She would have experienced the same anger I felt at my mother. She may have experienced guild and wonder what she could have done to stop me.

That was a wake up call for me. I had been in counseling before, but it had always left me more depressed than when I started. Focusing on where I went wrong and how my life was nothing like I expected, just left me feeling worse and guiltier than before. Of course, guilt was my middle name. I felt everything was always my fault and I deserved how my life had turned out. I must have been jinxed or being punished for something. It’s amazing the thoughts we have when we are in that frame of mind.

Last February was a particularly difficult time for me. Fortunately, I was now able to recognize the signs of depression and know when I was slipping into one. I knew I needed to seek help. I was hesitant because of my past experiences with psychologists, but I knew I had to try.

I was lucky enough to be referred by my family physician to a wonderful woman. I feel she truly changed and possibly saved my life. I am stronger now than I have ever been. I have learned not to define myself by my physical limitations and that I have a lot to offer. I no longer feel guilty for things I had no control over. She made me realize that the more I focused on what was wrong, the longer my life would stay in that condition. She taught me to let go of the past if I wanted to have a future. I could not change what had happened in my past, but I could change my attitude, accept where I was today and move forward with joy and anticipation.

If you or someone you know has been to counseling and feels it did not help, do not let that stop them from trying again. I found the key; just like in a friendship, is finding someone you connect with and feel comfortable with. Each relationship is different. Help is there if you really want it.

When suicide occurs, the worst part is that the family members are left to suffer with the guilt. They ask themselves if there was something that they could have done that would have made a difference. I have witnessed attempts in my own family and wondered the same thing. Had I done something to make my mother want to take her life? What had I missed? Why did I not look closer to see she was hurting? Once you have experienced this, you are never the same.

Never treat a statement of suicide lightly. Do not think it cannot happen to you. You do not want to be left asking “what was it I did not see? Why did I not try harder to understand?”

Life is a gift to be treasured. Each individual has something of value to offer this world. Do not take anything for granted. Live in the moment. Really see the beauty around you and never pass up a chance to tell the people you love how you feel about them. See each day as if for the first time, and live it as if it were your last. Tim McGraw sings in one of his songs, “I hope you get the chance to live as if you were dying.” If you knew you were, you would want to do all the things you never dared, see all the things you wanted to see, and tell everyone you loved how you felt. Today can be that day. Do it now. Cherish it and never forget how precious life is.

http://www.TheJoyofSoy.com

Angela Thompson is the owner of a cleaning company, has a Realtor’s License and has been involved in several home-based businesses. She and her daughter are currently independent distributors for Mia Bella Gourmet Candles. Her desire is to help people realize their potential and fulfill their goals.

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