Saturday, October 14, 2006
Natural cure for depression by DR RAO
This depression also enters the life in such a way that it makes difficult for a person to work, to study, eat and enjoy once the pleasurable activities. This does not occur once it can occur any times in life. But the treatment is needed for it so that it may not become serious illness.
There are some types of depression like major depression, dysthymia, bipolar disorder and others. But the conditions of the health changes in these types of depression disorder.
Some of the symptoms of this depression are: • persistent sad, anxious or empty mood, • feeling of hopelessness, pessimism, • feeling of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness, loss of interest in the hobbies and the activities that were once enjoyed, • decreased energy, fatigue, slowed down, • difficulty in concentrating, making decisions, remembering • insomnia that is early morning awakening and over night sleeping • appetite or weight loss/ weight gain • thoughts of suicide or death, and also sometimes attempts to suicide also • restlessness or irritability • Some of the other conditions are headache, digestive disorder or chronic pain. This depression can be completely stopped and get safe treatment from herbal and natural supplements are mist power full and miracle cure for depression.
There are many causes for this depression. This depression may start at any place that is at family, working place, school or at any place. In some of the families this depression seems to occur generation after generation or the people who does not have any family history of depression. But this depressive disorder is associated with the changes in brain structure or brain function. People who have low self- esteem or who think that they are stressed by this world then these people are more vulnerable to this disease. In recent years the researches have shown that the physical changes in the body can be accompanied by mental changes as well. If the person is suffering with any of the chronic disease then he is surely addicted to this depression. It is said that the man if he is addicted with sadness and gloom then he is at initial stage. But this must not go deeper as he will become abnormal from his daily activities. So, he should get treated at its initial stage. He may get upset for the small things but these should not contribute as a major part for his depression disease. There is good news for this disease that it can be healed with the proper treatment given by the physician whom you consult for the treatment.
This clinical depression is a treatable disease. Many people have who ever have been suffered by this disease are healed. The treatment depends on the condition, pattern and severity of the illness, its persistence and the history of the illness. If it is in its initial stage it would be alleviated than it turns into serious reoccurrence. IF you are suffering with the symptoms of the clinical depression then it is must that this should be treated by a physician or a qualified mental health profession before it takes a long way for curing of it. This clinical depression can be cured with the counseling if needed. But if it is really higher then it is better to turn your attention towards the natural and herbal treatment which have been proved as miraculous and marvelous improvements in heal of the suffer. These natural remedies are good as they do not harm and treat us as soon as possible. The primary thing what you can do is you can consult the doctor as early as possible. The check ups that are needed should be regularly as it should be narrowed at its first stage. Keeping oneself with enthusiasm and being away with the tiredness. To have confidence in doing the works which are daily activities or others? This depression can be helped when we encourage the people to get active in their work, thinking and all the factors. He should have a loved atmosphere that can cure the disease. Dr Jack is a Conventionally Trained Western Medical Doctor from India and fellow of American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). He is also trained in traditional supplements since the age of 5 years to practice complimentary alternate supplements. More information contact: dr jack.
Article source: www.amazines.com
Friday, October 13, 2006
Teen Depression - Milos Pesic
Everyone feels down at some point. It’s normal to feel the “blues.” But if you are sad most of the time and the feeling is starting to affect your grades, relationships, and your behavior in many ways, then the problem may be more than just the “blues.” It may be teen depression, a serious illness that approximately four out of a hundred teenagers suffer through each year.
How do you when you’re depressed? Or when a friend might be depressed?
The signs of depression are numerous that there is usually no hard and fast rule to identifying all the symptoms of teen depression. But the most important thing to remember is that there are generally two types of teen depression.
Under the first type, you will find two other types of depression which vary only in their intensity – major depression or clinical depression (severe) and dysthymia or chronic depression (moderate but lasts for a longer period).
The second type of teen depression is referred to as bipolar depression, the depressive state of manic-depressive disorder, a condition wherein the subject suffers periodic bouts of mania or elevated mood and depression where the subject is often too low in energy that he would not be able to move.
It would take a health professional to distinguish the particular type of teen depression. It is advisable therefore that you consult professional help when you notice any of the following signs of teen depression:
* Persistent feelings of sadness (You cry a lot and for no apparent reason)
* Persistent feelings of guilt, again, for no real reason (You feel like you are no good or are worthless)
* Loss of confidence or low self-esteem
* You feel as though life is meaningless and that nothing good will ever come out of it.
* You always seem to be exhausted and you do not feel like doing the things that you used to enjoy a lot, like music, sports, being with friends, or going out. Most of the time, you just want to be left alone.
* You keep getting distracted and you can’t seem to concentrate. You also forget things, or you do things without any recollection of doing them.
* Little things make you lose your temper. You get irritated very easily, or you overreact.
* Your sleep pattern changes. Either you sleep more or you sleep less or you can’t seem to fall asleep or stay asleep. You wake up too early most mornings and have difficulty falling back to sleep. Insomnia (too little sleep) or hyposomnia (too much sleep) sets in.
* Your eating habits also change. You have lost your appetite or you eat a lot more. Weight gain or weight loss is drastic.
* You think about death, or feel like you are dying, or you have thoughts about committing suicide, whether or not you have the energy to actually harm yourself.
Milos Pesic is a successful webmaster and owner of popular and comprehensive href="http://overcome-depression.blogspot.com/">Overcome Depression blog. For more articles and resources on Depression related topics, visit his blog at:
=>href="http://overcome-depression.blogspot.com/">http://overcome-depression.blogspot.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Milos_Pesic
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Hope For Those Suffering From Manic Depression - Athlyn Green
A bombshell has dropped! You or a loved one have been diagnosed with manic depression. After the initial shock has lessened, you find yourself trying to understand this disorder. It makes sense to educate yourself about bipolar disorder, when attempting to deal with and recover from this condition.
Questions may arise regarding the origin or cause of manic depression. Do genetics influence whether a person is born with it or will be affected later in life? Are early experiences significant and can stressful events trigger onset of symptoms? Much has been said about chemical imbalances. Is there a correlation between nutritional deficiencies and biochemical imbalances in the brain?
Although the illness appears to have a genetic link, seemingly running in families, no gene has been identified that can be said to be responsible or the cause of manic depression and experts are divided in their opinions as to whether genes actually play a part.
Psychological factors may also play a role. Children who have experienced traumatic events and suffered emotional damage may be at greater risk. Some sufferers can pinpoint a period of great stress precipitating or triggering onset of their condition and feel this may be at the root of or the cause of manic depression in their case.
More significantly, however, extensive research shows that nutritional deficiencies in the brain and nervous system can have an impact on the brain's delicate balance, with neurotransmitters and the nervous system being compromised. These deficiencies can contribute or may be a cause of manic depression because nutritional imbalances and deficiencies may cause neurotransmitters and brain impulses to malfunction, leading to thought and mood fluctuations and changes in energy or behavior. These changes can last for hours or days, weeks or even months. For someone living with manic depression, life can be a roller coaster. Moods can swing between highs (mania) and lows (depression).
When examining characteristics of or defining what is manic depression it may be helpful to describe how a brain deficient in the right nutrients may present chemistry consistent with bipolar disorder. During a manic phase a person may feel a heightened sense of self-importance, increased self-confidence, and euphoric feelings. In this overactive state, a person may experience racing thoughts and rapid speech and may be bubbling over with plans. Impulsivity and poor judgment may lead to spending sprees and debts; irritation and anger may be more readily activated. When we continue to define what is manic depression the most consistent symptom and the one presenting the biggest challenge, is often the depression sufferers experience. The sadness, worry, anxiety, guilt, and worthlessness can feel overwhelming. Appetite and sleep patterns may be affected. Trying to concentrate and remember can make even the simplest tasks seem monumental. All of this can combine to provoke suicidal feelings.
Thankfully, promising new treatments offer hope. One effective treatment option is the use of natural remedies. Natural remedies incorporate essential and key ingredients, providing nutrients that work to correct deficiencies and imbalances in the brain, restoring positive mood, repairing neurotransmitter malfunction, and increasing emotional energy. Key nutrients found in natural supplements are: Choline Bitartrate or Phosphatidyl Choline, L-Valine, Selenium, and Valerian, to name a few. These nutrients address deficiencies that may be a cause of manic depression and offer hope to sufferers.
We have discussed what is manic depression what causes it, symptoms, and how use of natural remedies is a safe and scientifically backed alternative treatment approach for bipolar disorder. More information about the cause of manic depression can be found at our site.
Athlyn Green is an avid health enthusiast with an interest in natural remedies for treatment of health disorders. She is a regular contributor to several health sites, including Beat Your Depression, a site dedicated to treating depression safely and effectively.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Athlyn_Green
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Depression Can Effect Seniors Too - Joanne King
One common myth about aging that many people believe is that as you grow older, you have a significantly greater risk of suffering from depression. That is simply not true, just because you are aging, does not mean you have to suffer from depression as well. All of us have to face difficult situations as we age, the loss of loved ones, the inability to do the things we once could, health issues, etc., but there are ways of dealing with all of these problems without letting yourself succumb to depression.
Current depression studies indicate that out of all adults who are at least sixty-five years young, only about fifteen percent show any symptoms that could be associated with depression. Since many of the symptoms that accompany depression can limit one’s ability to perform even daily care tasks, factor that in with the similar problems that come with aging, and many of those adults end up needing help in caring for themselves. So, if you are a senior citizen, it is important that you find ways to deal with your depression before it impacts your life, especially if you value your independence.
Another scientific study shows that elderly people who often have symptoms of severe depression for at least a six year time period are at a much greater risk of being diagnosed with cancer sometime in the near future. Not only are you more prone to develop cancer, leaving your depression untreated can also put you at risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease, which is the reason that many seniors end up in skilled care facilities each year. Family members just do not have the skills needed to handle this disease, no matter how much they want to care for their elderly, they are just unable to do so. Sooner or later, they will realize that they have got to seek help.
Depression should be treated, before it impacts your life. It is often more difficult to diagnose and treat in aging adults, but it can still be done. There are many diseases that have similar symptoms, which may cause a physician to overlook the underlying cause of all of the problems, severe depression. If there is a simultaneous medical illness, it is easy to focus on treating the illness, bypassing the depression altogether.
Elderly people often feel ashamed or embarrassed to discuss their feelings. They fail to seek treatment, thinking that they are just in a funk, and will get out of it on their own. Another reason that many elderly fail to seek medical treatment for their depression is the fact that they often live off of very limited incomes, and simply cannot afford to pay for an extra visit to the doctor, or for a new medication each month. If they do have Medicare, chances are they will still be left with a hefty bill that Medicare will not cover, especially due to all of the prescription plan changes that have been taking effect recently. They may have family that they could turn to for financial help, but for many it is a matter of pride, they don’t want to ask their children for money because they feel as though they should be helping their children, not the other way around.
If they do bite the bullet and schedule an appointment with their physician, they may have problems with the medication that is prescribed. The elderly tend to be more susceptible to the dangerous side effects of many medicines, and antidepressants have a long list of side effects with them. If they are taking medicine for other conditions, their antidepressant medication may cause dangerous interactions, especially if they see a new doctor and forget to tell him all of the medications they currently take. Seniors are often on so much medication that they have a hard time remembering when they are supposed to take what, and what the correct dosage of each is. The best thing that a senior who is suffering from depressive symptoms can do is talk to their physician. The physician should be told what medications are currently being taken, what the problem is, and how the patient feels about treatment. The physician should work with the patient to help find the best treatment plan, so they can start feeling normal again.
Seniors may respond better to treatment sessions with a mental health therapist, or a combination of therapy and medication. If you seek help and don’t feel that your treatment program is working for you, don’t be afraid to speak up and say so. You are the best judge of how you feel, and your doctor cannot help you if there is a communication problem. They take the information that you give them, and combine that with test results to try to come to a diagnosis and treatment plan. You are in integral part in your own treatment, regardless of the condition!
Disarm Anxiety Attacks --- Free “Anxiety Symptoms” Ebook here -> Anxiety
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joanne_King
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
What is Postpartum Depression? - Joanne King
There’s no more joyful event for most women than the birth of a child. In the best case scenario, after the months of doctor visits, prenatal vitamins and extra healthy eating, the mother is rewarded with a tight fisted and wailing bundle of joy. Afterwards, mommy and the new baby go home to spend the next few weeks happily getting to know one another. At least, that’s the way it is supposed to happen.
Sometimes mommy doesn’t fair too well, and becomes a victim of postpartum depression, also known as peripartum depression. This illness can strike up to a year after the mother has given birth. After pregnancy, the woman’s body goes through hormonal changes which can cause symptoms of depression. Estrogen and progesterone are produced heavily during pregnancy, however twenty four hours after delivery, these hormones slide quickly back down to their normal pre-pregnancy levels. These fast hormone level changes are thought to be the cause of postpartum depression, just as hormonal changes prior to a woman’s menstrual cycle can cause mood swings.
Thyroid hormones may also be partly to blame, as they too may drop quickly after giving birth. Located within the neck, the thyroid gland that helps regulate how your body stores and uses the energy gained from eating food, this process is called metabolism. Once the hormone levels from this small gland begin to dwindle, the results can be loss of interest in anything, trouble in sleeping, fatigue, weight gain, irritability and difficulty in concentrating on any specific task. Luckily, depression from thyroid dysfunction can be detected by taking a blood test to check the hormone levels of the thyroid. Depression caused by thyroid dysfunction can be treated easily with proper medication prescribed by a physician.
Postpartum depression can also have its onset stem from the circumstances which occur after the mom and child have returned home. When a new mom comes home with her child, she may doubt her ability to take proper care of the child, and feel as though she is not a good mother, or even that she is unfit to raise a child. This feeling may even strike a mother who already has one child or more already.
After delivery a mother may have to get up several times during the night, losing sleep and not getting the rest required to keep up with the demands of an infant. Coupled with the fact that a woman may not be back up to full strength for several weeks, this loss of sleep can severely and adversely affect the woman’s mental well being.
If you or someone you know seems to be a victim of postpartum depression, then you should know that it is treatable. By seeking the advice of a physician early, you can rest assured that Mommy will be there for baby, and all will be well.
Disarm Anxiety Attacks --- Free “Anxiety Symptoms” Ebook here -> Anxiety
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joanne_King
Monday, October 09, 2006
How To Recognize Depression - By: Ray Stone
Suffering from depression or mental health problems, is something that most people feel ashamed to admit. Who wouldn't, with comments like those above aimed right at you. If you have suffered from major depression or have had an episode of depression that has contributed significantly to a change in your daily life, facing up to comments like those above is something that you will have to accecpt sooner or later.
What about those people who don't suffer a major depression or severe episode, whether life-threatening or not? Those of us who definately don't have depression and definately don't need to see a shrink to confirm what we already know: that we are not depressed! This brings me to the core of this article: How do you recognise depression?
It is so very important to be vigilant. To be aware of the warning signs, and the earlier they are spotted, the better. Why? Because being depressed leads to behaviour that is not helpful. Behaviour that over time, is reinforced day after day, month after month. Slowly but surely getting a firm grip on your life. It is much harder to spot a change in behaviour if it occurs and develops gradually over time. But what are these signs and behaviour that we should look out for?
The most common symptom of depression and one which most people think is the only one is having a persistant empty or 'sad' mood. This is not what can sometimes be reffered to as feeling 'down in the dumps'. The mood will last from several weeks at least. At which point you should see a psychiatrist or doctor. A feeling of pessimism, hopelessness or helplessness and being critical of oneself for never being good enough at anything no matter what we do. Depression can lead to a lack of interest in persuits someone usually enjoys. Feeling lethargic or having no enegry or drive, even for sex, is another symptom of depression that can slowly be re-enforced over time. Trouble with sleeping and eating is a symptom that most people would not usually associate with depression. Sleeping disorders are often dismissed as having developed a mild case of insomnia that will surely go away over time. Some people wake early in the morning and are unable to fall back asleep. Eating disturbances to, especially in women, can hide the depression, because the first thing that will come to mind is anorexia or bulimia. This is true, but we also need to place these symptoms in context, which is why it is so important to know the facts and symptoms of depression so that we can see the bigger picture.
Depression often goes hand in hand with anxiety. Anxiety can also cause sleeping disturbances, as well as a feeling of dread, increased heart rate and more severely, panic attacks. Depression and anxiety can easily knock our confidence levels as both can lead to difficulty concerntrating and remembering or making decisions. These symptoms can climax with devistating effect. Within the workplace they can lead to a complete nervous breakdown where the person no longer knows, or can't remember how to do their job or how they even got there. Nothing makes sense and it can be very frightening when you are faced with a situation like this where you no longer know what is happening around you, or much less, why you are feeling this way. Depression can also manifest itself through persistent physical symptoms or pains that do not seem to respond to treatment. Irritable and losing ones temper are also symptoms of deppression, seen more often in males than females. Thoughts of suicide, attempts and plans are never to be taken lightly. Often, suicide attempts are a cry for help. Sometimes they are not.
A person can be diagnosed with depression if four or more of the symptoms above have been present in a two week period or more. Not everyone will have the same symptoms so it is important to be aware and look for signs of all symptoms of depression. Remember, only a doctor or psychiatrist can diagnose depression.
Article Source: http://www.ContentArticles.com
Ray Stone Discount Prescription Drug (c) 2006, PerfectDrugRx.
Sunday, October 08, 2006
A Review Of Techniques In Managing Your Depression - By Stan Popovich
Some people have a difficult time in managing their depression. Sometimes, their depression and fears can get best of them. As a result, here is a short list of techniques that a person can use to help manage their depression.
I was told by a counselor that one of the ways to manage depression is to challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make your fearful or depressed, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. For example, your afraid that if you do not get that job promotion then you will be stuck at your job forever. This depresses you, however your thinking in this situation is unrealistic. The fact of the matter is that there all are kinds of jobs available and just because you don’t get this job promotion doesn’t mean that you will never get one. In addition, people change jobs all the time, and you always have that option of going elsewhere if you are unhappy at your present location.
Some people get depressed and have a difficult time getting out of bed in the mornings. When this happens, a person should take a deep breathe and try to find something to do to get their mind off of the problem. A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read the newspaper or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things. Doing something will get your mind off of the problem and give you confidence to do other things.
Sometimes, we can get depressed over a task that we will have to perform in the near future. When this happens, visualize yourself doing the task in your mind. For instance, you and your team have to play in the championship volleyball game in front of a large group of people in the next few days. Before the big day comes, imagine yourself playing the game in your mind. Imagine that your playing in front of a large audience. By playing the game in your mind, you will be better prepared to perform for real when the time comes. Self Visualization is a great way to reduce the fear and stress of a coming situation.
Another technique that is very helpful is to have a small notebook of positive statements that make us feel good. Whenever you come across an affirmation that makes you feel good, write it down in a small notebook that you can carry around with you in your pocket. Whenever you feel depressed, open up your small notebook and read those statements.
As a Layman and author of an anxiety book, I have done many interviews with various counselors in how to manage fear, anxiety and depression. The techniques that I have just covered are some basic ways to manage your depression, however your best bet is to get some help from a professional.
About the Author: Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods”-a book that presents a overview of techniques in managing Fear. For more info go to: http://www.managingfear.com
For free articles on managing fear please go to: http://www.managingfear.com
Source: www.isnare.com
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Depression After Divorce - by Stephen White
Divorce may be sad, but that doesn't mean you have to let yourself fall into a spiral of depression that you can't get out of ever again. Divorce is a reason why many men and women alike find their selves fighting depression. Depression is a problem when you rely on another person, and your marriage ends. Splitting up can be difficult. The changes in your life can feel as if they are overwhelming but with the right treatments, they dont have to be. Realize that for some, divorce is the best option especially if there are children involved.
Depression treatments are available for those suffering from depression due to a divorce. Remember, children are affected by divorce too. This type of treatment could be short term, depending again, on the individual and their personality. If you are a strong willed person, and are finding that depression is seemingly overwhelming you, you can get a hold on it, and put your life back in order. Treatments for depression could include natural methods, therapy, rest and relaxation, group therapy, and even medications. Every person is a bit different in regards to changes in life, and how these changes are handled. Children need special attention during a divorce. Let them know that you still love them.
Relationships as long as a marriage should not be broken off easily and without much forethought. There is no limited to those who could suffer with depression. The main symptoms that a person will notice involving depression are those of feeling unhappy, unfulfilled, and even unworthy of living. If you are feeling different after a major break up or divorce, this is because you are different, your life is different. If you feel that you just cant handle it anymore, that you need help, you most likely are suffering from depression. Depression is brought about often times, by major changes in life. If you are sure you are getting divorced, and you need a little assistance in handling the situation, you can seek help by visiting with your family doctor. At the very least, they can give you some options for you to consider.
For more great anxiety depression related articles and resources check out http://depressionresources.info
Article Source: www.ContentArticles.com
Friday, October 06, 2006
The Ultimate Drug For Treating Depression - By Dr. Joseph Mercola
More and more researchers and physicians are coming to the conclusion that exercise can be as effective as antidepressants in reducing the symptoms of major depression.
Group or Solitary Both Work
Many studies have shown that exercise in a group setting is highly effective, and new research is beginning to suggest that solitary exercise, such as workouts at the gym or a daily jog, can be equally helpful.
Better Than Zoloft
Research on the subject has demonstrated that:10 months of regular, moderate exercise outperformed a leading antidepressant (Zoloft) in easing symptoms in young adults30-minute aerobic workouts done three to five times a week cut depressive symptoms by 50 percent in young adults
Boosts Energy
One probable cause is that exercise affects key brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, but physical activity may also trigger positive changes in other areas, such as by boosting energy. A more intense exercise regimen may be the most effective for that purpose.
As depressed individuals may have trouble breaking into an exercise routine, however, starting on a small scale and building up may be the key to success.
Yahoo News November 6, 2005
~~~~~
Dr. Mercola's Comment:
Over 20 million Americans suffer from depression. The World Health Organization identified major depression as the fourth leading cause of disease worldwide, causing more disability than heart attacks or strokes.
If you start to feel depressed, especially with the decreasing sunlight of winter in the northern hemisphere or the coming holidays, I would encourage you to review my signs and symptoms of depression page to help you understand if you suffer from this disease.
Fortunately, there has been an increasing acceptance in conventional medicine that there are better, safer and healthier alternatives to treating depression than prescribing an antidepressant.
More and more evidence is accumulating that for most people exercise is more powerful than drugs in treating depression.For exercise, though, it needs to be used like a drug and must be prescribed very carefully. Going out for a simple walk after dinner will not likely provide as much benefit as a comprehensive exercise strategy.
It has been my experience that most Americans have a serious exercise debt. I've found patients need to move toward 90 minutes of cardiovascular exercise every day during the treatment phase to repay this exercise debt. Of course when you are feeling depressed the last thing you want to do is exercise intensely for 90 minutes, so you need to move gradually and as fast as your body will allow you to progress.
The key, as thearticle states,is to get started in some way, no matter how small. Fortunately, I have plenty of free tools to help you get started, including a comprehensive exercise guide and an exercise table you can use to monitor your progress.
It is also important to make sure you have a regular supply of either fish or cod liver oil, as the animal-based omega-3 fats of DHA and EPA are probably the single most important nutrient to battling depression. Avoiding sugar and grains will help normalize insulin and leptin levels, which is also another powerful tool in addressing depression.
Bright light exposure is crucial to prevent SAD (seasonal affective disorder), and the use of full-spectrum lights in the winter is a vital tool in helping solve the depression mystery. We will be offering some of the best and least expensive full-spectrum bulbs in the next few weeks for this purpose.
I also encourage you to review the strategies Paul Chek and Dr. Ben Lerner share with readers every week in my 'eHealthy News You Can Use' newsletter.
About the Author: This article is reprinted from http://Mercola.com, the world's #1 most visited and trusted natural/alternative health website. For a limited time only, you can take the FREE "Metabolic Type Test" to help you learn the right foods for your particular body type so you can achieve optimal fitness & health. Just go to http://www.mercola.com/forms/mt_test.htm right now to take this quick test!
Source: www.isnare.com
Thursday, October 05, 2006
How To Recognise Depression - By Ray Stone
Mental health, not the sort of thing most people choose to talk about seriously. We've all heard the comments about 'Sad Sack', 'Mr Grumpy' or phrases like 'Smile, I'll pay for the stitches' or 'Stop moping around'. It saddens me every time I hear a remark like that, something insensitive or said out of plain ignorance, usually by people who have little or no contact with people who suffer from depression, and most certainly do not have a loved one or family member that suffers from depression or any other mental disorder, that can so easy get a tight grip on a sufferers life. It's almost tabboo if you think about it.
Suffering from depression or mental health problems, is something that most people feel ashamed to admit. Who wouldn't, with comments like those above aimed right at you. If you have suffered from major depression or have had an episode of depression that has contributed significantly to a change in your daily life, facing up to comments like those above is something that you will have to accecpt sooner or later.
What about those people who don't suffer a major depression or severe episode, whether life-threatening or not? Those of us who definately don't have depression and definately don't need to see a shrink to confirm what we already know: that we are not depressed! This brings me to the core of this article: How do you recognise depression?
It is so very important to be vigilant. To be aware of the warning signs, and the earlier they are spotted, the better. Why? Because being depressed leads to behaviour that is not helpful. Behaviour that over time, is reinforced day after day, month after month. Slowly but surely getting a firm grip on your life. It is much harder to spot a change in behaviour if it occurs and develops gradually over time. But what are these signs and behaviour that we should look out for?
The most common symptom of depression and one which most people think is the only one is having a persistant empty or 'sad' mood. This is not what can sometimes be reffered to as feeling 'down in the dumps'. The mood will last from several weeks at least. At which point you should see a psychiatrist or doctor. A feeling of pessimism, hopelessness or helplessness and being critical of oneself for never being good enough at anything no matter what we do. Depression can lead to a lack of interest in persuits someone usually enjoys. Feeling lethargic or having no enegry or drive, even for sex, is another symptom of depression that can slowly be re-enforced over time. Trouble with sleeping and eating is a symptom that most people would not usually associate with depression. Sleeping disorders are often dismissed as having developed a mild case of insomnia that will surely go away over time. Some people wake early in the morning and are unable to fall back asleep. Eating disturbances to, especially in women, can hide the depression, because the first thing that will come to mind is anorexia or bulimia. This is true, but we also need to place these symptoms in context, which is why it is so important to know the facts and symptoms of depression so that we can see the bigger picture.
Depression often goes hand in hand with anxiety. Anxiety can also cause sleeping disturbances, as well as a feeling of dread, increased heart rate and more severely, panic attacks. Depression and anxiety can easily knock our confidence levels as both can lead to difficulty concerntrating and remembering or making decisions. These symptoms can climax with devistating effect. Within the workplace they can lead to a complete nervous breakdown where the person no longer knows, or can't remember how to do their job or how they even got there. Nothing makes sense and it can be very frightening when you are faced with a situation like this where you no longer know what is happening around you, or much less, why you are feeling this way. Depression can also manifest itself through persistent physical symptoms or pains that do not seem to respond to treatment. Irritable and losing ones temper are also symptoms of deppression, seen more often in males than females. Thoughts of suicide, attempts and plans are never to be taken lightly. Often, suicide attempts are a cry for help. Sometimes they are not.
A person can be diagnosed with depression if four or more of the symptoms above have been present in a two week period or more. Not everyone will have the same symptoms so it is important to be aware and look for signs of all symptoms of depression. Remember, only a doctor or psychiatrist can diagnose depression.
About the Author: Ray Stone
Discount Prescription Drug (c) 2006, PerfectDrugRx. All rights in all media reserved. Reprints must include byline, contact information and copyright.
Source: www.isnare.com
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
How to Prevent Suicide - by Michael G. Rayel, MD
A British weapon?s inspector was found dead in the woods after he slashed his wrist.
For the past few weeks, he was entangled with a controversy about the war in Iraq.
On Monday, a Hyundai executive leaped to his death from the 12th floor. He was on trial for allegedly paying off North Korea $100 million to agree to a 2000 summit between North and South Korea.
In both urban and rural areas, many more suicide cases do not go unnoticed. Through local papers and the town?s rumor mills, suicide becomes a sad tale and a mystery.
Why would people kill themselves?
Recent studies have shown the correlation between suicide and serotonin deficiency in the brain. Moreover, the presence of significant stress has far-reaching consequences especially if such stressor, such as legal entanglements, results in profound hopelessness and depression. Frequently, when there is no immediate resolution to the problem, suicide becomes an attractive escape.
It then becomes obvious that suicide is not only a medical disorder but a psychosocial issue. It is more than just a manifestation of emotional distress. It is a complication of an unresolved state of affairs.
There is no question that suicide is devastating to everyone. I have seen loved ones grapple with the pain of the loss and shame associated with the manner of death. Pain and grief among relatives persist for months despite efforts to feel better though counseling and medication.
Can suicide then be prevented? '
Suicide prevention is as much a science as it is an art. Although applying scientific psychotherapeutic techniques can be effective, the gentle art of dealing with the suicidal person makes all the difference.
Having stated these, if clues of suicidal behavior can be recognized early and sources of stress addressed immediately, then the risk of suicide can be reduced. The issue of early recognition and remedy therefore becomes crucial. The CARE approach can help loved ones cope.
What is the CARE Approach?
The CARE Approach is a practical four-step process that a person can use in dealing with a disorder such as suicidal behavior and depression. This approach emphasizes early recognition and intervention. The early process includes the following: 1) Check for signs of emotional illness 2) Anticipate complications 3) Remedy with early intervention and 4) Educate yourself about the illness.
Check for signs of emotional illness or distress
Suicide, like any medical disorder, does not happen instantly or ?out of the blue.? Usually, it is preceded by emotional turmoil such as depression, agitation, significant anxiety, impulsivity, feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.
Look for outward sign that shows deviation from the person?s usual self. Observe any changes in functioning. Is the person less motivated to work? Does the person prefer to stay in bed and withdraw from friends and family members? Check also for any physiologic changes such as inability to sleep, eat, and concentrate.
Anticipate complications
Watch out for complications once you know that your loved one is in distress. Be aware of any changes such as suicidal and homicidal behavior and aggression. If not showing actual destructive behavior, ask for any thoughts of death or wanting to die or to kill.
Inquiring about the presence of suicidal or homicidal thought will not push your loved one to act destructively. In fact, your loved one might be encouraged to disclose more information and to express well-kept emotions.
Remedy with Early Intervention
Early intervention requires you to first accept or acknowledge that a problem exists and the urgent need to address it. Being in denial can only make matters worse. Denial interferes in recognizing on-going problem.
Assist in addressing your loved ones pressing issues. Offer to provide some financial support or to contact appropriate government agencies. For someone in legal trouble, suggest obtaining the advice of a good lawyer.
Be available and supportive. Reassure your loved ones that you will be in their side no matter what. Let them talk about their worries and travails. Provide a listening ear. Avoid arguments and criticisms. Show empathy.
Be alert for signs of destructive behavior such as wrist slashing, overdosing, verbalizing death, agitated behavior, writing or changing a will, and giving away properties. If your loved one is in distress, clarify if one has entertained destructive thoughts.
Call for help. Because suicidal and homicidal behavior requires immediate help, further delay is a not an option. Call mental health hotline, mental health services, or emergency rooms to seek guidance and to ask for the next step. Do not hesitate to call law enforcement agencies or mental health crisis team if your loved one refuses to get help.
Educate Yourself
Knowing about the illness, the dos and don?ts, and how to best cope is a powerful way of dealing with suicide or other destructive behavior. Furthermore, education helps you get rid of misconception, self-blame, guilt, and shame.
In summary, suicide, like cancer, has only one goal ? death. It has caused agony, sleepless nights, and oceans of tears for those who are left behind. However, despite its deadly intentions, suicide is also a cry for help. Fortunately, simple steps such as the CARE approach make suicide surmountable.
About the Author
Dr. Rayel, author of First Aid to Mental Illness, is a clinician, a forensic and geriatric expert, and a speaker. As an advocate of first aid for mental health, he has established seminars and workshops on the subject. He can be reached at www.drrayel.com.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
The Silent Killer - Clinical Depression - Matt OConnor
Depression is a common response to health problems and is an often “underdiagnosed” problem in the patient population. People may become depressed because of injury or illness; may be suffering from an earlier loss that is compounded by a new health problem; or they may seek health care for somatic complaints that are bodily manifestations of depression.
Clinical depression is differentiated from daily emotions or sentiments of sadness by its gravity and extent. Most people occasionally feel down or depressed, but these feelings are short-lived and do not result in impaired functioning.
Clinically depressed people usually have had signs of a depressed mood or a decreased interest in pleasurable activities for at least a 2-week period.
An evident impairment in occupational, social, and total daily functioning occurs in some people. Others function appropriately in their interactions with the outside world by exerting great effort and forcing themselves to mask their distress.
Sometimes, they are successful at concealing their depression for months or years and astonish family members and others when they finally succumb to the problem.
Many people experience clinical depression but seek treatment for somatic complaints. The leading somatic complaints of patients struggling with depression are backache, headache, fatigue, abdominal pain, anxiety, malaise, and reduced desire or problems with sexual functioning.
These sensations are frequently manifestations of depressions. The depression is undiagnosed about half of the time and masquerades as physical health problems.
People with depression also exhibit poor functioning and high rates of absenteeism from work and school.
Specific symptoms of clinical depression are:
1. Feelings of sadness
2. Fatigue
3. Feelings of worthlessness
4. Guilt
5. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Changes in appetite, sleep disturbance, weight gain or loss, and psychomotor retardation or disturbance are also common. Often, patients have recurrent thoughts about death or suicide, or have made suicide attempts.
A diagnosis of clinical depression is made when a person presents with at least five of nine diagnostic criteria for depression. One of the first two symptoms present most of the time.
1. Depressed mood
2. Loss of pleasure or interest
3. Weight gain or loss
4. Sleeping difficulties
5. Psychomotor agitation or retardation
6. Fatigue
7. Feeling worthless
8. Inability to concentrate
9. Thoughts of suicide or death
Unfortunately, only one of three depressed people is properly diagnosed and appropriately treated.
In the United States, about 15% of severely depressed people commit suicide, and two-thirds of patients who have committed suicide had been sent by health care practitioners during the month before their death.
When patients make statements that are self-deprecating, convinced that things are hopeless and will not improve, and express feelings of failure, they may be at risk for suicide. Risk factors for suicide include the following:
1. Gender
Women make more attempts. Men are more successful.
2. Family history of suicide
Statistical reports show that nearly 80% of people who have committed suicide have family history of suicide.
3. Dysfunctional family
Family members have experienced cumulative multiple losses and posses limited coping skills.
4. Substance abuse
A person who abuses substances has an inability to make healthy decisions and to solve problems effectively.
5. Severe anxiety
Research studies indicate a reduction in distress when anxiety and depression are treated with psycho-educational programs, the establishment of support systems, and counseling.
Explaining to patients that clinical depression is a medical illness and not a sign of personal weakness, and that effective treatment will allow them to feel better and stay emotionally healthy, is an important aspect of care.
Did you know 16% of the world's population suffer from depression? Author Matthew OConnor runs a site dedicated to the latest news and developments in clinical depression
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_OConnor
Monday, October 02, 2006
Depression - You're Never Really Cured - Michael Russell
There is a misconception about people who suffer from depression that once they are treated, the underlying causes revealed and the proper medication given, they are cured and can go on to live normal happy and healthy lives without ever having to worry about suffering from the symptoms of depression or becoming depressed ever again. Unfortunately, this is far from the truth.
Depression is not a disease with a cure. Depression, like alcoholism or drug addiction, is a disease that a person must constantly fight against, even with all the medication in the world. The reason for this is simple. Most people who suffer from depression are prone to it because of a number of factors, not just physical. Many times the combination of factors makes it so that no one treatment will be effective enough to insure that the sufferer will never experience symptoms of depression again. There are cases where a person suffered from depression for years, was symptom free for years and suddenly developed symptoms again for no apparent reason; though there are always reasons.
Sometimes it's simply a matter of a further chemical imbalance in the brain that the current medication the patient is taking is unable to correct, either because it is the wrong medication, the wrong dosage or just not strong enough any longer. In other cases, where the person's depression stems from an unhappy childhood with many conflicts, the person may have been going through a tranquil period in their life when suddenly something terrible happens, such as illness or injury, that makes a sudden and drastic change in the person's life. Because this person was prone to depression in the first place, it became easy for him or her to sink back into a depressed state, especially if they never were prescribed any medication for their symptoms because they were treated through simple therapy.
So what exactly does this mean? Does it mean that a person who suffers from depression is going to be depressed for the rest of their life? Not at all. A person who once suffered from depression, even if it was many years ago, can go through the rest of their life and never develop any symptoms again. There are things that a person can do to help see that the symptoms don't come back, but it is important to also understand that there are some things that are beyond the person's control.
The best way to make sure that symptoms of depression don't return is to lead an active life. Don't allow yourself to sit around and think too much. People prone to depression often think about things that make them depressed or even about the fear of becoming depressed again. It is important to keep a positive attitude, keep active, keep busy and don't dwell on negative emotions. It is also important to understand your illness and realize that you are never really cured. By understanding this, you can prepare yourself in advance for the unexpected things that life can and will throw at you.
If you're prone to depression, you probably always will be. That doesn't mean you have to give in to it. You can win this war. One day at a time.
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Depression
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Depression And The Sensitive At Heart - By Friedrich Asen
There are beautiful people out there, sensitive and tender at heart. One thing they often have in common: they suffer from low self esteem, depression and the like. Many times they work in the social field, but they may come from any occupation. Often they feel not to fit into society at all. Whatever they try, they cannot find a suiting place.
On the other hand, there are the powerful manipulators out there, often unscrupulous and insensitive. Exploiting mother earth and their fellow men, they blossom. They have found a way to fight depression. They act, control, manipulate and accumulate power. I am sure they are depressed too, but they have found a way to suppress it. A life of manipulation, based on power and might, lacks one of the most important ingredients of life, wich is love. Where love is lacking, there is senselessness. And where there is senselessness, there is depression.
There are people pointing out how wrong the Bible is today, because it proclaims 'the meek shall inherit the world'. "Can you think of a dumber line?", they ask. The only people inheriting the world are the super rich and the ones with big armies and nukes. Nothing meek about that. They say that it has always been the men with the iron fist who lead. From the beginning of time till the end. If your meek, you'll merely end up being the man behind the man.
I don't agree with this statement at all. It is based on a total misunderstanding of the word meek, as it was used by Jesus and so many other powerful personalities. It confuses meek with weak. That's a major blunder. This is not only the fallacy of the powerful (and the ones controlled by them), but of the sensitive and tender hearted as well, who desire a different world of love and respect. They feel threatened by the manipuators and exploiters. They fall into depression and anxiety. They often fall into the trap of becoming passive victims. "The world could be so beautiful", they sigh, "if there weren't this greedy bad people, who seem to never get enough."
I shall proclaim a different concept here: Meekness is absolute power. It is much more powerful than anything else.
Let's first deal with the wrong concept of meekness to weed it out. To be meek in the wrong sense will certainly lead to depression and frustration. It is accompanied by an overwhelming feeling of impotence and powerlessness. Meek persons of this kind always feel dependent on the whim and arbitrariness of the persons in charge.
The most sensitive and intelligent people fall into this trap. They feel that they could never become as cruel, unscrupulous and stone hearted as the oviously successful people. The Darwinian theory of evolution brainwashes you: "If you want to survive, you have to be the fittest. The rest is doomed to drown. Fittest means to be hard, harsh, cruel, calculating and strong."
I have been taught like this in my childhood. My conclusion was that I will probably never become powerful, as I could not even stand an ant to be killed. There is no fitter person, not only to survive, but to live, than the meek one. Indeed the meek shall inherit the world, but this sort of meekness is totally different. It will rid you of depression. It will provide a new outlook to your life. It will give you a sense of power and control. It will guarantee you total independence.
Actually misunderstood meekness and the display of superior manipulative power are of the same kind. They look different from the surface only. Both are a guaranteed source of depression and frustration. Both are based on a lack of internal independence and strength. While the strong guy is actively fighting for recognition and acceptance, mainly from himself, the week ones have abandoned their claim for respect.
But, their weekness is often much closer to real power than the external display of control of the seemingly powerful. The later are often totally weak inside, driven only by their greed for recognition, for which they are eager to transgress all laws of life. The soft and tender person naturally has a lot of respect for these unbreakable laws. When they are carefully guided to discover their inner invulnerability, they will immediately start to blossom. When they are taught to completely step out of the stupid game of artificial competition by accepting the real identity of eternal bliss and knowledge, they will in any way be superior to even the most powerful manipulators. Life itself will be at their disposal, offering them any kind of opulence, strength and independence. External strenght will be reduced to a mere shadow of the power of pure conscious essence.
Those powerful persons, whose power is built upon arrogance and manipulation, will find it almost impossible to abandon their pathological addiction to material superiority.
Therefore rejoice, you, who are sensitive and tender at heart. Come out from depression and anxiety. Reclaim your heritage of power. The only reason, why a false display of artificial power can keep the whole world mesmerized is that more kind and sensitive persons will have to come forward to display the irresistible power of love, kindness and concern for the needs of others. The famous British mathematician, philosopher and author Bertrand Russell (1872-1970) has said the following: "The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are always so certain of themselves, but wiser people so full of doubts." These doubts can be overcome with the right guidance and education. Reality never supports power based on arrogance, cynicism and and unscrupulousness. It may be tolerated for some time, but very soon it is the cause of it's own destruction.
On the other hand reality always supports love, freedom, sensivity, compassion, meekness and respect. These qualities are the characteristics of original life. If you cooperate with lifes inherent nature, who will blossom forever. Get out of the habit of complaining, wailing and accusing. Get out of frustration and anxiety. You may be much closer to your power than you think.
Copyright © 2006 by Friedrich Asen. All rights reserved.
About the Author: For more information on the different types and symptoms of depression and on depression treatment, including natural remedies and powerful alternative healing methods, go to http://www.overcome-depression-now.com/depression_articles.html
Source: www.isnare.com
Friday, September 29, 2006
Amazing Effects of Evolution on Depression - Gabriel J. Adams
What kind of effects have evolution had on depression? Edward Hagen of Humbolt University provides one answer. He believes that being depressed is a good way to get people around you to do more for you. He says that the more depressed you act, the more people around you will pick up your slack. In evolutionary terms a person is not easily replaced, so help will be given to that person to make them happy again, so as not to upset the herd. The reason for these actions is that picking up someone else’s slack is quite a bit easier than replacing the person all together. Hagen also makes comments on the topic of suicide, because depression can often lead to suicide. How can suicide led to sympathy for a person, because they will already be dead, and it does not help them at all. However, the threat of suicide is very helpful for a depressed person, because it is the ultimate cry for help, which is often answered by loved ones.
All of these theories are very intriguing to me, but I just can not buy into them completely. If evolution really did cause amazing effects on depression, then show me the depressed people that live longer, are more successful, or are generally better off than a person that is not depressed. The whole idea behind evolution is natural selection, which basically means that the strong survive to new generations and the weak, or less adaptive perish. The problem with evolution effecting depression is that I do not see any strength in a depressed person that would allow them to survive over a person that is not depressed. I have also seen many cases where a depressed person might be able to elicit help from others by being depressed, but it appears that over time this depression will actually cause anger in the people around them. Many cases of people lashing out in anger and killing depressed people have been documented. This fact also does not show me why a depressed person would survive better than a person that is not depressed. In actuality this shows, in my opinion, that a depressed person might have a smaller chance of survival than a person that is not depressed.
But, that is my opinion. What is yours? Do you believe that evolution has and/or had these effects on depression?
Learn more about Depression Causes and Treatment & Depression Medication
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gabriel_J._Adams
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Kill Your Depression - Five 5 Super Effective Tips - By Rene Graeber
Being lonely is a normal part of our everyday lives. We get sad when we fail in our exams, when we're rejected by the person we love, or when someone very close to us passes away. Depression, however, could be more fatal than just plain loneliness. It could render life-long consequences that could ruin your self-esteem, health, and well-being.
Here are some superb tips to conquer the melancholy mood and get the most bliss out of your daily activities.
1) Get Enough Light and Sunshine.
Lack of exposure to sunlight is responsible for the secretion of the hormone melatonin, which could trigger a dispirited mood and a lethargic condition.
Melatonin is only produced in the dark. It lowers the body temperature and makes you feel sluggish. If you are always cooped up in your room (with the curtains closed), it would be difficult to restrain yourself from staying in bed.
This is the reason why many people are suffering from depression much more often in winter than in the other seasons. It's because the nights are longer.
If you can't afford to get some sunshine, you can always lighten up your room with brighter lights. Have lunch outside the office. Take frequent walks instead of driving your car over short distances.
2) Get Busy. Get Inspired.
You'll be more likely to overcome any feeling of depression if you are too busy to notice it. Live a life full of inspired activities.
Do the things you love. If you're a little short on cash, you could engage in simple stuffs like taking a leisurely stroll in the park, playing sports, reading books, or engaging in any activity that you have passion for and would love to pursue.
Set a goal - a meaningful purpose in life. No matter how difficult or discouraging life can be, remain firm and have an unshakable belief that you are capable of doing anything you desire. With this kind of positive attitude, you will attain a cheerful disposition to beat the blues.
3) Take a Break.
I mean it.
Listen to soothing music. Soak in a nice warm bath. Ask one of your close friends to massage you. Take a break from your stressful workload and spend the day just goofing around. In other words, have fun.
4) Eat Right and Stay Fit.
Avoid foods with lots of sugar, caffeine, or alcohol. Sugar and caffeine may give you a brief moment of energy; but they would later bring about anxiety , tension, and internal problems. Alcohol is a depressant. Many people would drink alcohol to "forget their problems." They're just aggravating their conditions in the process.
Exercising regularly is a vital depression buster because it allows your body to produce more endorphins than usual. Endorphins are sometimes called "the happy chemicals" because of their stress-reducing and happiness-inducing properties.
5) Get a Social Life.
No man is an island. Your circle of friends are there to give you moral support. Spending time and engaging in worthwhile activities with them could give you a very satisfying feeling. Nothing feels better than having group support.
Never underestimate the power of touch. Doesn't it feel so good when someone pats you on the back and gives you words of encouragement during your most challenging times? Hug or embrace someone today. You'll never know when you have saved another life.
Get intimate. Establish close ties with your family and friends. The love and care expressed by others could tremendously boost your immune system and fend off illnesses. Best of all, you'll live a more secured and happy life.
About the Author: Are you sick and tired of being "empty" inside and out? Worry no more! At http://www.depression-self-esteem-stress-management.com you´ll find free and reliable information that gives you the straight facts and solutions to beat depression.
Source: www.isnare.com
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Panic Attacks, Depression Harm Your Mind And Body - By Dr. Joseph Mercola
A study examined the medical histories of nearly 40,000 people who were diagnosed as suffering from panic disorder.
It found that those who suffer from panic disorder are at almost double the risk for coronary heart disease, and those who suffer from depression as well are at nearly three times the risk.
Panic disorder is a syndrome characterized by repeated episodes of intense fear. These episodes are accompanied by physical symptoms, which can include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and abdominal distress. Roughly 2.4 million Americans experience panic attacks each year.
The way in which coronary heart disease is triggered by panic attacks is unknown. However, some stress responses to depression already have been shown to increase the risk of coronary heart disease.
Science Blog September 22, 2005
~~~~~
Dr. Mercola's Comment:
This should comes as nosurprise considering what a major role negative emotions play in your body's healing process. The connection betweenyour mind and yourbody is strong and well-documented by a literalmountain of scientific research; healing your mind is a crucial step in keeping your body healthy.
Unfortunately, most doctors, when faced with a patient who suffers from panic disorder or depression, will reflexively resort to prescribing potentially toxic medications as a form of treatment, even though they don't provide any meaningful benefit. This is laregely related to the incredibly effective "brain washing" influence that the drug companies have over their educational intervention.
How can Imake such a bold statement?
Easy, I was one of the brain washed doctors. I went into medical school fully believing in the power of your body to heal naturally and I came out a drug prescribing doctor. I think I must have but several thousand patients on antidepressants in the first few years of my practice alone. Seemed like every other patient was walking out the door with a script for Prozac or Wellbutrin.
But fortunately I finally woke up one day and began to understand that there were far more effective options that actually addressed the underlying cause of the disease.
One of my absolute favoritestreatments that can make all the difference to your health and help you deal with panic attacks or depression is the Emotional Freedom Technique, the energy psychology tool I use daily in my practice. It is particularly effective for panic attacks.
Another wonderful tool you can use is meditation. Some people use it to promote spiritual growth or find inner peace, while others use it as a relaxation and stress-reduction tool.
Panic and anxiety disorders can be debilitating and severely affect your ability to perform everyday tasks. They can also, in addition,put you at risk for a variety of physical health problems. Resolve your emotional stresses, and both your mind and your body will experience the benefits.
Another excellent meditation tool is the Insight CD, which Inow recommend to allto many of my patients. The Insight CD is a complete tool dedicated to helping you reduce stress, explore expanded states of consciousness, and achieve deeper levels of self-awareness.
About the Author: This article is reprinted from Mercola.com, the world's #1 most visited and trusted natural/alternative health website. For a limited time only, you can take the FREE "Metabolic Type Test" to help you learn the right foods for your particular body type so you can achieve optimal fitness & health. Just go to http://www.mercola.com/forms/mt_test.htm right now to take this quick test!
Source: www.isnare.com
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Depression Natural Remedy - Has been discovered!! by MARK HASTINGS
A depression natural remedy has been on the minds of millions of people for decades.
Not just from scientists and natural physicians around the world. But from people who are desperate to find a natural remedy for depression that really works so they can get on with their life and grow to become who they really want to be! There is now more hope today than ever before! A depression natural remedy has been discovered!!
Over the last 20 years people from all walks of life have been searching for a depression natural remedy with very little success. We have all been conditioned that anti-depressants will solve these un-wanted feelings of hopelessness, sadness, despair.... the anxiety and stress that comes with this terrible illness. Deep down we all know there must be a depression natural remedy out there that can help us and maybe cure these terrible feelings that can suddenly fall upon us with out any reason.
We are now seeing a huge shift in the way people are wanting to help themselves and find a natural cure for depression rather than relying on medications and some very unpleasant side effects!! Anti-depressants can work for people but for most people they don't, especially if it's a serious problem! Most individuals would rather take a depression natural remedy that works rather than struggle with the unpleasant side effects that comes with all anti-depressants!!
In the last 20 years we have seen some amazing breakthroughs in many industries. None more so than the most important - Our Health! More importantly our mental health!! A natural cure for depression has been discovered! Thousands of people around the world now have more hope and fell they can take on life with this amazing new breakthrough in depression natural remedy!!
Now we have much more hope and choice than what we did 20-30 years ago. Times have changed, scientists, doctors over the last 15 years have been searching for a combination of natural ingredients to help and prevent this debilitating illness that so many people in the world suffer from. A depression natural remedy has been discovered by a group of dedicated scientists and doctors who believe there needs to be a huge shift in the way most people see and believe this illness should be treated!
Did you know that depression effects 1 in 4 people at a serious level. A depression natural remedy was always going to be discovered, but the question was when!! Now we have a serious breakthrough in this field that the drug companys don't want people to find out about as they will lose billions of dollars!! A research company has been searching over the last 6 years and discovered 7 natural ingredience that complement each other when mixed in the perfect ratio, like know other natural product that has been used for such a serious illness.
You owe it to yourself to find out more about this amazing breakthrough in natural science!! A depression natural remedy like never seen before!
http://www.depression-natural-remedy.com
Article Source. www.amazines.com
Monday, September 25, 2006
Overcome Divorce Depression- Avoid Downward Thinking - Chris Annable
Today, while driving to work, I listened to a radio discussion. I didn't
hear the start and don't know exactly what the subject was about. It seemed
to be centered around how top stars and sportsmen and sportswomen focussed
upon just before making a public performance. What took my interest was
the description of how each star felt incredibly nervous just before going
on stage.
Apparently, it was stated, Carly Simon used to get to feel so sick that
she couldn't go on stage. Whereas, I believe it was Bruce Springstein who
stated that unless he felt incredibly sick and nervous he knew that he
couldn't go on stage and perform at his best.
Next, a sports coach and psychologist described a condition he called
"downward thinking".
"What the heck does he mean?" I thought. Fortunately he described exactly
what he meant by the term by referring to an example of his favorite sport,
Golf. Here, he said, if a top golfer doesn't sink the ball at an easy put
it could completely wreck the most successful player's tournament.
I guess it's a little like boiling an egg for breakfast. You perhaps
prefer the yoke of your egg runny and the white firm. You like the contrast
in texture and a soft yoke will allow you dip thin slices of buttered bread
(called bread soldiers) into it. You know that it should be boiled for
4 minutes to get perfection. But, today your egg has a hard yoke and you
don't like them like that... it's a bad start to the day. And it was just
like it the day before, and the day before that. Instead of accepting that
you could boil your egg for a slightly shorter time or you could find another
strategy that helps you get it just right... you decide that you can't
boil an egg at all. In fact, you accept from that small event that you
can't cook... you are a complete and utter failure and a waste of time
in the kitchen.
Just one bad thought after a minor failure or loss of luck resulted
in a sequence of negative thoughts. If you couldn't quickly write off that
small piece of bad luck your whole day is wrecked... you are useless.
And the golfer? Beginning with the single slight failure of a little
white ball falling into a hole dug into the ground at a point on a grassy
golf course that is conveniently marked by a flag pole... it doesn't sound
life threatening when you think about it, does it? But, from this minor
failure event, the thoughts of failure can rapidly increase. And, instead
of expecting that the ball will be easily putted at the next hole, doubt
and tension builds to the point that all chances of success vanish. Very
quickly a top class player feels useless.
Every member of the discussion group agreed that they too recognized
occasions when they had been affected by similar doubts that sometimes
scared them and made them question their fitness to live.
I realized that everyone does this many times a day, normally without
recognizing it or letting the "downward thoughts" get in the way of having
a successful day.
It resembled an instant form of depression, where one bad thought leads
to another and rapidly moves on downwards to a point where you feel you
just can't go on.
No doubt you've seen it where your favorite football player, basketball
wizard, record breaking swimmer or athlete has a really bad day. How can
it be? They are brilliant... they are incredible! And yet they still have
the most awful games. You probably recall stars of the past that
suddenly disappeared from the scene... with a total loss of confidence.
There are huge numbers of ex-stars and sports personalities whose careers
have ended in utter failure, never to recover their former glory.
Of course, there are those who recover and make a magnificent comeback
after a break from the pressure to accomplish even greater levels of success.
Deep inside they know that that hard work and practice has provided all
the physical skills they need to take advantage of their talent. And, in
their minds they cope by recognizing a small failure is nothing more than
that... just a slight mishap... a minor human error.
A flash of inspired brilliance often wins the game but rarely does a
single mistake lose the fight.
So what if the last shot was a bad shot... it was nothing more than
that. The next shot will be a winner.
Somehow, after divorce you have to find inner resources that recognize
and defend against the consequences of all the bad thoughts that go through
your head... there are so many bad thoughts. It isn't easy when your ex-partner
seems to emphasize your failings. So, try to remember that the bad thoughts
rumbling around in your mind are still nothing more than "downward thoughts"
and that they can have no real consequence to your life.
You are every bit as valuable as you have ever been... and that your
family and friends still value you and want you. You haven't changed and
still have every talent that you have ever had... and you know that there
are hidden skills that you haven't realized yet.
Remember that you are you... You are quality... You wouldn't let one
bad thought, statement or action ruin the rest of your life, would you?
Why wreck your life?
Chris Annable is the author of a new book titled: Doc Ingman's
"Divorce And Separation Survival For Men", which tells of one man's remarkable
story of how he took control of his life and helped his son survive the
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Sunday, September 24, 2006
Aging, Depression, Suicide And EQ - By Susan Dunn
There are so many myths about aging. For instance, do you think, as many do, that “all old people are alike,” and that nobody changes after about the age of 50?
Nothing could be farther from the truth. Freud’s famous statement that people couldn’t change after the age of 50 simply isn’t true. At the time he formed his theories, most people didn’t live past 50, and that of course shaped his views. He may not have seen a lot of people over 50.
In fact this limited exposure to people in older age groups continues to confound our understanding. A lot of the psychological assessments available weren’t normed on enough people over the age of 60 to make them reliable for individuals in that age group. It’s all about developmental stages and you wouldn’t expect “normal” to mean the same thing for a 75 year old as a 42 year old and more than for a 6 year old and a 12 year old.
Seniors are not alike as individuals or as a group. Surveys show that the most “contented” people are people aged 60-69, but at the same time, the highest suicide rates of any age group occur among individuals 65 and older. 81% of senior suicides are male and Anglo males are particularly vulnerable. White males over 65 have the highest suicide rate, second only to white adolescent males. Suicide rates are higher for those who are divorced or widowed, and cause is attributed first to physical ailments, and then to depression.
The percentage of seniors in the population has risen steadily from 3% in 1900, to about 12% now. It’s projected to increase to 21% in the next 30 years. Since most emotional problems are often presented first to a primary care physician, as physical problems (headache, backache), medical schools are hastening to add exposure to geriatric medicine and psychology in the training of doctors. Psychology licensing boards are also beginning to require it.
It’s important to understand that depression manifests itself in different ways. We usually think of the “lethargic” depressed person, the one who moves and thinks slowly, can’t sustain eye contact, talks negatively, is disinterested or unable to enjoy their usual pleasures, and wants to sleep all the time. But depressed people can also be agitated, angry, restless, irritable, eyes darting around, frantically trying to enjoy things (but not able to), and not able to sleep much.
In either case, women may talk about the feelings, but men tend to complain about physical ailments when they see a doctor.
It’s important to understand that depression isn’t a “normal” part of aging, and that its treatable. If you think you’re depressed, or that your loved one is, it’s good to start with a physical checkup. You should be make a list of all medications being taken, and also consider the normal routine. Many seniors, especially those who live alone, neglect nutrition and exercise.
As I say in my ebook, “EQ and Depression,” you aren’t supposed to be depressed as you age. You’re supposed to feel good. Many seniors have a high EQ, are resilient, and are experienced copers. EQ intends to increase with age, but not if you don’t work on it. Skills such as flexiblity, creativity and resilience can be learned, and it pays to start developing them in early adulthood, as they take time to learn. Barring physical problems, you can learn to manage your emotions and the thoughts that accompany, and cause, them.
We know that isolation is worse on our health than high blood pressure and obesity combined, and it not being isolated depends upon your interpersonal skills – your ability to make new friends and keep the old ones. Creativity is needed to learn to work around things that change. It tends to take longer, for instance, to learn new things as we age, but many seniors are adept at “many ways to skin a cat.” Likewise there are ways to make the short-term memory loss less bothersome. Short-term memory loss is one of the things that does come with aging, but the extensive hard-core experience of the average senior in coping with adversity gives them a vast store of tricks to pull out of the bag to help them remember.
As one of my senior coaching clients tells me, “My short-term memory’s off about 10%, but since it used to be far above-average, I’m doing fine. Now I just write things down, like I’ve seen others do for years.”
The ability to creatively meet challenges depends upon having an optimistic attitude, which also can be learned. I coach people in learned optimism and emotional intelligence competencies all the time! If you want to, and are willing to, you can learn to change self-limiting beliefs, once you realize they aren’t working for you. It depends upon correct information (like it’s not “normal” to be depressed at any age, including old age) and then becoming aware of your emotions and self-talk, and changing them.
Depression usually responds best to a regime of exercise, good nutrition including neutraceuticals, medication, and cognitive work. Coaching can help you move forward, make goals and stay accountable to them.
We also know that resilient seniors are lifelong learners. While we don’t make any more brain cells as adults, we can continue to form new connections throughout the lifespan IF we learn new things; the more radical the better. This means if you’re an engineer, take a literature course. If you’re a Spanish teacher, study some physics. If you’re a left-brained mathematician, take an EQ course and develop the other side of your brain. As someone said, “fall in love with learning and you’ll never end up with a broken heart”.
Intentionality is a high-order emotional intelligence competency. Why not intend to be one of those seniors who’s resilient and contented, who ages gracefully? Look to your wellness now, whatever age you are, and don’t leave out the EQ skills. The time to be developing them is now.
Our emotions directly effect our immune sytem, which is our health. They also effect our ability to get along with, and enjoy, others and ourselves. Men may particularly want to address the EQ issue. I know from the statistics, and from my coaching practice, that a man living alone at the age of 60 or beyond is in a vulnerable position, and while there are more men at that age than women, the smart women will be holding out for the healthy, EQ-smart men to bless with the health-promoting marital state.
Get started now. It’s never too late to learn!
About the Author: ©Susan Dunn, MA, The EQ Coach, http://www.susandun.cc . Providing coaching, Internet courses and ebooks around emotional intelligence for your personal and professional success. I train and certify EQ coaches internationally. Email for info on this fast, affordable, comprehensive, no-residency program. Mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc for fr* EQ ezine
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