What To Do If A Loved One Seems Depressed - By Arthur Buchanan

Depression can take on many faces depending upon the person, their age, and their gender. Overall, the best thing to be aware of is a significant change in activity or behavior.

Depression In Teens

Depression in teenagers can be difficult to identify, as their mood cycles are traditionally erratic. In general, females tend to suffer from depression more than males, but don’t overlook a young male whose behavior has changed. Again, the things to look out for are marked changes in behavior. If the teen tends to be social and there’s been a significant reduction in their social activities, than that might be an indication that he or she is depressed.

Is the phone ringing a lot less? Have they become more withdrawn from the family? Are they sleeping excessively but still seeming to be tired a lot? It’s also not unusual for them to be especially irritable and cranky. Tearfulness is yet another sign. Grades in school often decline as the teen becomes more distracted and less attentive.

Drug use is also a concern for teens that are depressed—as it is for anyone suffering from this problem—because people often medicate their depression with alcohol and /or drugs to try to feel better.

Depression in Adults

Adults tend to hide their depression a little better than kids. They’ve learned how to put a mask on and act as if everything is fine, even when it is not. Appetite is often a strong indicator. The loss of appetite is most common, however there are those who sooth themselves with food so, in that case, you would expect to see a weight gain. Sexual appetite is another variable that is often identified. Depression puts a damper on sexual desire. Essentially when a person stops doing those activities that they used to enjoy, there’s a good chance that depression can be a factor.

Depression In The Elderly

The elderly suffer from depression a lot more than is reported. The older generation still feels a lot of shame and embarrassment about mental illnesses. The harsh reality of the elderly is that their friends are dying on a regular basis. These losses bring up many different feelings, ranging from loneliness and loss to the realization that their time is also limited. Withdrawal is a common sign, as well as weight loss, fatigue and irritability. It is critical to have the elderly evaluated by a competent gerontologist (a doctor who specializes in the older population) to rule out worrisome medical concerns.

Discussing Suicide

When a family member is discovered to be depressed, there is often a reluctance to be direct and straight forward with them. Often people think what if I ask the person if they feel like they want to end their life, and I’ve gotten them thinking about suicide when they hadn’t previously considered it?

That will never happen. If a person is severely depressed, they will most likely have given some thought to ending their life. Vague, passing thoughts about suicide are normal for everyone at one time or another. What you need to be worried about is if a person has actually constructed a plan to end their life. Another phenomenon to watch out for is if someone who had been previously very depressed suddenly seems to be fine—happy even—and starts giving their possessions away. Do not be fooled into thinking that this person has made a spontaneous recovery.

So, if someone takes a sudden turn for the better and starts giving things away, or if someone talks to you about having a specific plan to end their life, you MUST take action. These are definitely cases of it being better to err on the side of caution. Let the person know that you are concerned about them, and ask that they speak with a mental health professional. You might offer to get an appointment for them and then take them to the appointment. If they refuse treatment, it is essential that you contact a mental health professional and seek their advice.

You can search the internet, the phone book, or call information to get the number for your community mental health center. Most community mental health centers have an emergency clinician on call 24 hours a day to assist in such an emergency. Do not leave the person alone until they’ve been evaluated and it has been determined that they’re able to be left without supervision. People often feel concerned about upsetting the person by pushing for evaluation or treatment. The most important thing here is to prevent a suicide.

Even if the person is initially angry, once their depression lifts they will be forever grateful that you intervened on their behalf. Depression is a life threatening illness. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Imagine this….a person feels so miserable that they decide they can’t take feeling this badly for another minute. But the good news is that the vast majority of people suffering from depression will recover and continue to have normal lives.

Don’t be afraid to talk about depression. Don’t be afraid of tears. There is help available for everyone. Most community mental health centers receive state and federal funds so they have the opportunity to provide treatment and no or low cost. Everyone today can find some kind of treatment if they need it.

Please know that you can share this article with friends, family, associates and anyone you think that it may help, when in doubt, I say pass it along, our goal at Out of Darkness, is to reach the hurting and lost souls and those that feel like there is no help.

They are calling Arthur Buchanan's methods of recovering from mental illness REVOLUTIONARY! (MEDICAL COLLEGE OF MICHIGAN) 'Arthur Buchanan has given us a revolutionary blue print for recovery in these uncertain times, when Mental Illness at a all time high in the United States of America, yet if you follow this young mans methods, we assure you of positive results and I QUOTE 'If these methods are followed precisely, their is no way you can't see positive results with whatever illness you have' Dr. Herbert Palos Detroit, Michigan'

With Much Love,
Arthur Buchanan
President/CEO
Out of Darkness & Into the Light
43 Oakwood Ave. Suite 1012
Huron Ohio, 44839
http://www.out-of-darkness.com
567-219-0994 (cell)

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Dealing with depression - By Linda Williams

It is estimated that of the 32 million people age 65 and older, 5 million suffer from depression. In fact, the rate of depression among nursing facility residents can run as high as 50%, according to some studies, with about 10 to 15% of residents suffering major depression and 25 to 35% suffering milder forms. Because societal attitudes consider it normal in the elderly, depression often goes untreated. Treatment also can be hindered because signs of depression in the elderly are often masked by other factors, such as physical infirmity, chronic pain, or dementia.

The need for caregivers to effectively communicate with their residents is most important when evidence suggests that residents feel imprisoned by the anguish of depression and can't find relief. Please take the time to review the circumstances surrounding the following situation and make changes as appropriate at your facility.

The Situation

A 76-year-old woman with a long history of major depressive disorder was admitted to the assisted living facility (ALF) of a CCRC. The woman was able to function independently and primarily needed assistance with her medications. Her history included four suicide attempts and several psychiatric hospitalizations, as well as a history of insomnia and prescription drug abuse. She was scheduled to receive psychiatric services on a routine basis while at the ALF.

The woman seemed to adapt well to her new environment and often socialized with her neighbors. Her daughter lived nearby and visited her every day, often taking her for walks on the campus or on overnight weekend trips to her home. The CCRC had a large campus that included walkways and a nearby fenced riverfront recreational area. The fence was kept unlocked so the independent and ALF residents could access and enjoy a riverfront area whenever they desired.

Facility policy required guests to sign residents in and out when leaving the facility, but the policy often wasn't enforced. As a result, the daughter seldom signed her mother out, but she always asked the staff for her mother's medications if she planned an overnight trip.

A month after her admission to the ALF, the woman began abruptly to make statements about killing herself. She was taken to a hospital and released a short time later. Her physician felt that her depression was related to her insomnia, and so adjustments were made to her medications.

After the hospitalization, the woman seemed to be adjusting well, so staff members were not alarmed when she stopped seeing her psychologist just four months later. For the next several weeks, the woman's daily activities seemed routine, until one Saturday evening when the staff noticed that she did not show up for supper. The staff paged her and checked her room but did not find her. Two days earlier, the woman's family had taken her shopping for new shoes and to the beauty parlor to get her hair styled. The staff concluded that the woman must be with her daughter on another weekend trip. A staff member left her medications in her room and attempted to call her daughter several times throughout the weekend but was not able to reach her.

The following Monday morning, the daughter called the facility explaining that she had just returned from an out-of-town trip and was unable to contact her mother at the ALF. The authorities were summoned and a missing person investigation was immediately started. The woman's lifeless body was soon discovered in the river with her new shoes neatly placed on the dock. A note was found in her room with something written on it about the river. The woman did not know how to swim, and her death was ruled a suicide.

Both the staff and the woman's family were devastated by this tragic event. The administrative personnel at the ALF immediately chained and locked the gate, in-serviced staff on missing person procedures, and began to strictly enforce the sign-in and -out policy. Meanwhile, the family sought legal counsel and filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the facility for waiting two days before launching a search for their mother. Their demand to settle the case was $750,000.

The defense hired a medical doctor who was a well-respected expert in geriatric suicides to review the case. The doctor felt that the woman's care was appropriate and stated that choosing between life and death is deliberate and can be impulsive. A person with suicidal tendencies will often use whatever is available to carry out the act. In this case, the river was available. The doctor did express concerns with the psychiatric care that the woman received; however, that was not the responsibility of the facility. The case was later mediated and settled for a fraction of the demand amount.

How to Protect Your Residents and Facility

As this case demonstrates, caregivers need to be alert to the possible threat of suicide among elderly residents with chronic illnesses, particularly those with symptoms of depression or other risk factors that can lead to suicide. Seniors make up approximately 13% of the population, but account for almost 20% of all suicides. In the general population, only one in 20 suicide attempts is successful, but among seniors, one in four attempts succeed. Warning signs of a resident's suicidal thinking may include the following:

* any mention of dying, disappearing, jumping, or other type of self-harm

* a recent loss, such as death of a loved one; decrease in health; separation; or a broken relationship

* a change in sleep patterns or eating habits

* low self-esteem

* expressions of hopelessness about the future

Caregivers need to be alert to statements indicating hopelessness, such as, "Life is no longer worth living," or, "I wish my life could end tomorrow." Indirect communication can be manifested in self-destructive behaviors, such as refusing food, fluids, or lifesaving medications. Other worrisome behaviors include writing good-bye letters, giving away valued possessions, not attending activities or engaging in therapeutic programs, collecting sharp objects, or hoarding medications. A sudden change from a demeanor of suffering to one of contentment also can indicate a decision to end one's life.

Caregivers have an obligation to intervene and attempt to seek treatment for residents whose words or actions indicate depressive hopelessness. The following are some steps that caregivers can take:

* Listen to the resident in a compassionate and nonjudgmental way to try to understand his or her predicament and how he or she can be helped.

* Encourage communication by asking open-ended questions that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no answer.

* Inquire about any suicidal thoughts or plans as the resident opens up, if it is appropriate to do so.

* Assess the seriousness of the resident's responses. If suicidal tendencies are apparent, ask the resident, "What can be done or changed to help you from acting on these thoughts?"

* Protect the resident by safeguarding his or her room or environment against injurious objects or accessibility to medications. If symptoms are sufficiently pronounced, it may be necessary to keep the resident under one-on-one surveillance until outside help arrives.

* Contact the resident's physician and report your concerns. In some cases, it may be necessary to arrange for an immediate transfer to an acute psychiatric facility.

* Consult with social services or chaplain services that are available within the facility.

* Maintain a heightened vigilance as to the resident's whereabouts and confirm supervised outings.

With appropriate intervention by caregivers, residents may be able to find the treatment needed to ease their depression or manage their chronic pain or illnesses to a greater comfort level.

If a resident chooses to end his or her life despite your best interventions, remember the loved ones that he or she left behind. Surviving the suicide of a friend or family member can often lead to feelings of guilt or blame for their loved one's death. Thoughts such as, "If only I had the foresight to see what was happening, I could have intervened in time" can be overwhelming. Many survivors find it easier to tolerate their own failings or to redirect the blame toward others rather than to accept that someone they loved has died by his or her own will. You can help survivors with your attitude (empathy, kindness, active listening), your professional responses about losing someone to suicide, and suggestions of community resources.

By taking these necessary precautions, you can protect your residents and facility, now and into the future.


Nursing Homes, August, 2005 by Linda Williams

When Your Child Dies - By: Rose DesRochers

Children are the most special part of life. Losing a child is something that few really understand. Even a brief life offers so much that is special. My Daughter Katie Lindsey Rose, died July 1992. She was just five weeks old. I held Katie after she died and can never, would never, forget Katie as a person or my daughter. I also found out how hard it is for so many to talk about the death of their child.

Many people find it easier to talk about the death of your mom, dad or your wife or husband than their child. But, this is often a time that you do want to talk or share feelings. You often get from people she doesn't want to talk about it. But it helps to talk. After your child dies you have feelings of disbelief, denial, anger, depression, hopelessness, guilt. Loss of appetite, sleep patterns change, we cannot get through the mourning alone. It is important to talk about the death, what you’re feeling and it’s ok to cry.

The doctor came into the room. The operation was over. He sat down and started to tell my husband and I about the surgery. The surgery was over but during the surgery there was a blood clot that burst and Katie died instantly. How could I go home without my baby? Shock was not the word for what I felt. Katie's been gone 11 years now. I remember just after she died everyone was right there offering to help me. (Now I'd be lucky if they remember). Then the people stopped coming, calling, I would see people in the grocery store, and they would look at me, turn their head, and walk off, as if I had something contagious that they could catch.

I remember a mother had her baby the same time as Katie. She said to me," I'm so glad it was not my daughter". My oldest daughter is growing up and it's starting to get scary cause I know Ill never see Katie get married or have children. I feel Angry, like I have been let down by Katie. Its normal to feel let down by the person who died or when you are looking for someone to blame for his or her death.I blamed God for the longest time and I blamed myself.

Anger is very common following the death of a child. In fact following any death you may find yourself angry, angry at the world. You will often find that you take out this anger on those closest around you. You find yourself saying my child should not of died.

How do you imagine life without your child? "They were too young", "They were too good", "They were too healthy, "They never sin" "Why God Why?”, "I can't survive without him or her". All of these are common feelings. Your fear is, you are afraid it will happen again, that you will loose another child or someone close to you. You begin to be a little over-protective of your other children.Please know that you are never alone, It's ok to say I hurt, to say I'm scared, to say I need a friend. No matter how old your child is when they die, the pain of loosing your child is still the same. Its very difficult for most to find the words of comfort to say to you, but there are places you can turn, people you can talk to when you feel your loosing it. You can't do this on your own.

Katie had suffered from congenital heart disease, Congenital means inborn or existing at birth. Among the terms you may hear are congenital heart defect, congenital heart disease and congenital cardiovascular disease. The word "defect" is more accurate than "disease." A congenital cardiovascular defect occurs when the heart or blood vessels near the heart don't develop normally before birth. Katies' story is just one of a million parents' stories out there. As I surf the net I found so many, but there is help.

About the Author: Rose DesRochers admin@todays-woman.net http://www.todays-woman.net Rose is a published author and web columnist from Canada Ontario and she is also the founder of Today's Woman a community for men and women over 18, where writers/poets/columnists meet and exchange ideas, contest, rate and review and help each other succeed in the writing industry.

Source: www.isnare.com

Effective Ways To Deal With Sadness - By: Mary Maddux

No one ever has a problem dealing with happiness or feeling good. When joy comes into our life we experience it freely, but when sadness or grief is present, we often struggle with them. This is especially true during the holidays when we are expected to be cheerful and have fun. We live in a culture that tells us to "put on a happy face" and this can make it very difficult to be comfortable with sadness. Yet sadness and grief are a normal part of everyone’s life. Whether they are caused by a major loss such as the death of a loved one, or smaller everyday setbacks, we can learn to live with them with greater ease.

Not only can we become more at ease with these feelings, it is vital to our health and well-being that we handle them in a healthy way. The risks of not dealing effectively with emotions became evident when a neighbor of ours lost his wife to illness several years ago. When I offered my sympathy, he quickly denied that he had any feelings about it. Within a week he had disposed of all of her belongings and basically stated that everything to do with her illness and death were over and done. Not surprisingly, his health has declined steadily since then. He has told me of one complaint after another. At first no cause was found for his symptoms, but as time went on, real physical problems have developed (all of which are known to be stress-related).

Of course, this is an extreme example, but it illustrates the importance of how we deal with our emotions. It's well worth the effort to explore how you handle these feelings, and learn new skills. This article focuses on how to deal with the emotion of sadness. Part 2 will explore grief, which involves a whole array of emotions and experiences that are caused by a major loss, such as the death of a loved one.

Holistic approaches to health have long realized the role that our emotions play in our health, and modern medicine is now taking this more and more into account. For a healthy emotional life, we need to honor all of our emotions and allow them room for expression. When sadness comes, we need to allow ourselves to feel it fully. It helps to understand that it is a normal, natural reaction to loss, and not an indication that there is something wrong with us.

Any loss can trigger sadness -- it might even accompany a beautiful sunset that signals the end of the day. We might not always know what makes us feel sad -- it could even be a shift in our body chemistry with its changing hormones, blood sugar levels, etc. It helps to let go of the need to understand all of our emotional reactions or to feel that we have to be able to justify them. What is important is that we not resist or suppress our emotions. Allowed to be present, the emotion will simply "pass through".

In addition to accepting our sadness as a normal part of life, and allowing it to be present, there are some other ways we can help ourselves through sad times:

1. Share what we are feeling with a trusted friend or family member, in particular someone who can listen without judging us or trying to change us. The simple experience of being "accompanied" with our feelings can be comforting.

2. Take time to do something that is nourishing and soothing to you. Take a leisurely walk, get a massage, curl up with a good book, do gardening or other favorite hobby.

3. Find a way to slow down and relax. This will allow the feelings to be released. Meditate, listen to some relaxing music, do some simple stretches.

4. Write in a journal or diary. When we do this, it feels as if we have an ideal listener with whom we can confide. Expressing and exploring your feelings in this way can bring perspective and comfort.

5. Learn to be your own best friend. Step back and view yourself with compassion and love. Notice if you are judging yourself harshly ("you should be over this by now"), and find sympathy for yourself instead.

When to Get Professional Help

Sadness which is intense and long-lasting may be depression. Depressed individuals tend to feel helpless and hopeless and to blame themselves for having these feelings. If feelings of extreme sadness or despair last for at least two weeks or longer and interfere with activities of daily living -- such as working, or even eating and sleeping -- it is advisable to seek professional help. If accompanied by thoughts of death or suicide, seek help immediately.

About the Author:

Mary Maddux is a practitioner, teacher and writer in the fields of healing and self-development. She has an MS in clinical social work, has been trained as a Healing Touch Practitioner and has many years of experience in the practice and teaching of meditation. Drawing on her extensive work background in both conventional and alternative settings, she has created a unique series of CDs for relaxation, meditation and healing. Visit her website, http://www.heartofhealing.net for in-depth discussions and practical information on topics related to healing.

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Antidepressants: Know Your Side Effects - By Gabe Mirkin, M.D.

Drugs to raise brain levels of serotonin are far more effective in treating depression than just psychotherapy and talking, because depression is associated with low brain levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin.
Depression is a condition lasting at least two weeks in which sadness prevents people from functioning up to their capacity. They lose enjoyment and interest in usual activities, are sad and cannot express warm emotions towards other people, sleep all the time or barely at all, are exhausted, lose their ability to concentrate or think clearly, have feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt, feel that life is hopeless, and they eat less or more than usual. Insomnia in young men is associated with a marked increased risk for depression that persists for at least 30 years afterwards.
Doctors treat depression with antidepressants, and the most used and effective antidepressants are Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft. They raise brain levels of a specific chemical called serotonin that helps to make people feel good. A once a week dose of Prozac can often control depression, but high brain levels of serotonin often reduce sexual desire.
On the other hand, Wellbrutin does not raise brain levels of serotonin significantly, does not reduce sexual desire and may even increase desire. Patients who need to stay on the serotonin-uptake-inhibitor antidepressants, but want to maintain interest in making love can take the shorter-acting Paxil or Zoloft safely four days a week from Monday to Thursday and not take them from Friday to Sunday. Taking Prozac intermittently does not prevent loss of libido because it is a long-acting antidepressant.
When a single drug fails to alleviate depression, two or more drugs taken together are far more effective than larger doses of a single drug. Buproprion (brand name Wellbruton) combined with Prozac, Paxil or Zoloft, appears to relieve depression more effectively than the single drugs. However, patients on the combination regimen still have a high incidence of decreased sexual desire, insomnia, tiredness and tremor.
Antidepressants that raise brain serotonin levels are used for other effects. Sibutramine is used to suppress hunger and treat overweight. They may be the drugs of choice to treat premenstrual syndrome or attention deficit disorder. They can be given safely to people with heart disease. Check with your doctor.
Dr. Gabe Mirkin has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing physician for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four specialties, including sports medicine. Read or listen to hundreds of his fitness and health reports at http://www.DrMirkin.com
Free weekly newsletter on fitness, health, and nutrition.
Journal references on antidepressants.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gabe_Mirkin,_M.D.

Understand the Different Types of Depression - By Justin Meyer

Depression is not a straight-forward thing. There are different kinds with different causes. If you suspect that you are depressed, the first thing to do is examine the cause. That cause will help you to determine what kind of depression you suffer from.

There are different types of depression. The two main classifications are clinical and situational. These are not mutually exclusive – you can suffer from both, but to know which is the primary cause is important.

Situational depression is just how it sounds, depression based on what is going on in your life. Have you just lost your job? Did your girlfriend just break up with you? It's common to be depressed after these events. While therapy would be beneficial here, medication most likely would not.

Are you depressed for no reason? If you have trouble getting out of bed on a daily basis, or you feel down and don't enjoy things that you used to with more frequency, then you might suffer from clinical depression. Clinical depression is caused by changes in brain chemistry and can be treated with medication.

While situational depression is more common, people who suffer from one can frequently suffer from both. What is important is to find the cause and get treated for all parts. Situational depression can frequently exacerbate clinical symptoms.

You can read more about depression at http://www.curemydepression.com

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

A Powerful Method For Healing Depression - By: Margaret Paul, Ph.D.

Kendra had been depressed on and off for the last three years before consulting with me. “I’ve tried various medications and they help somewhat, but I still feel depressed. I’ve tried psychotherapy and it also helps a little but not enough for me to feel happiness or peace inside. I hate feeling this way and I just don’t know what to do.”

The first thing that I did with Kendra was to help her create a personal source of spiritual guidance. I asked her to make up a being who was very loving, wise and powerful - a man, woman or animal to whom she could turn to, in her imagination, for help and guidance. Kendra made up an older Indian medicine woman whom she called Elder One.

Next I asked Kendra where in her body she felt the feeling of depression. “In my heart and stomach. My heart and stomach often feel so heavy and sad.”

“Kendra, imagine that your feeling self, the part that is presently depressed, is a child within. How old is this child?” She told me she thought the child was around six.

“Now, imagine that you are sitting in a beautiful place in nature with Elder One. Imagine that Elder One is surrounding you with love so that you feel safe. Now imagine that little six-year old depressed Kendra is also with you. Ask her how she feels about you as her inner parent, her inner mom and dad. Ask her how you are treating her that is causing her to feel depressed. Ask her out loud.”

“Okay. Little Kendra, how you you feel about me as a parent? How am I treating you that is causing you to feel so depressed?”

“Now go inside and imagine that you are little Kendra and that you are talking to you as the adult, the inner parent. What do you as little Kendra want to say to adult Kendra? How does adult Kendra treat you? What is adult Kendra doing that causes you to feel so bad?”

Little Kendra: “I barely exist for you. You really don’t care about how I feel. You never stand up for me with other people. You decide on things without ever asking me how I feel about it - like having dinner with Kathy tonight. I don’t want to have dinner with Kathy. All she does is talk about herself and I just end up feeling drained. But you don’t care about how I feel. You don’t want to say no or tell Kathy the truth because she might feel hurt or angry, but what about me? You never speak up for me with Harold (her husband) either. I just feel like I don’t exist in this marriage, just like with Mom. You treat me just like Mom treated me - like what I want and feel doesn’t matter. Other people are always more important than me. Of course I’m depressed! How else would you expect me to feel?”

Kendra started to cry at this point, and little Kendra continued. “I’m so mad at you! When are you going to care about me!”

“So,” I said, “You are a caretaker with your husband and friends. You take care of them but neglect yourself. You allow them to control you without standing up for yourself. Can you see how this would lead to depression?”

Kendra was quite stunned by this information. She had believed that her depression was caused by outside events rather than by how she was treating herself. She thought it was due to a chemical imbalance and to her husband’s controlling behavior. She may have indeed had a chemical imbalance that resulted from the stress of not taking care of herself, but the imbalance was likely the result rather than the cause of her stress and resulting depression. Her husband was indeed controlling but it was her response to him and others that was the cause of her depression, rather than her husband’s or friends’ behavior.

Kendra began to see that until she had the courage to take loving care of herself, she would continue to be depressed. Through practice, she learned to open to Elder One for guidance about loving behavior toward herself. As she began to take loving action for herself - for her Inner Child - her depression gradually diminished until she was able to get off the medication. Now, when she feels the depression coming up, she knows that there is some way she is not taking care of herself. She speaks with little Kendra to find out what it is and with Elder One to discover the loving action. When she has the courage to take the loving action, her depression goes away. Kendra has learned a powerful, spiritually-based method for healing her depression.

About the Author: Margaret Paul, Ph.D., best-selling author of eight books, including "Do I Have To Give Up Me To Be Loved By You” and co-creator of the powerful Inner Bonding healing process. Learn Inner Bonding now! Visit her web site for a FREE Inner Bonding course: http://www.innerbonding.com or email her at mailto:margaret@innerbonding.com. Phone Sessions.

Source: www.isnare.com

5 Reasons To Not Let Depression Control You Anymore! -By: Adrian Calvin

Family – It can be very vexing to loved one’s when you are depressed. On one hand they want nothing but the best for you, but on the other they sometimes get frustrated and wonder why you can’t simply snap out of it. It can be particularly hard on children of someone with depression as it may affect their outlook on life for many years to come. Having experienced this myself, I can say definitely this is the number one reason to fight your depression.

Work - Work life generally suffers when in the throws of depression. It is more difficult to concentrate and not as easy to create and maintain good professional working relationships and partnerships. Furthermore, it makes being a “Self-starter” more unlikely. Rather than moving forward, maintaining the status-quo becomes more acceptable, even if only unconsciously.

Love – The love life of a person with depression can suffer tremendously. Regardless of How much someone may profess their dedication to another person, if the other person can never see the bright side, it can wear on them. Life is short, right? Love conquers A WHOLE LOT, but it doesn’t conquer everything. Sometimes we must add internal fortitude to love to truly be invincible. Besides isn’t it better to fight, not just for you, but for this person that you love as well?

Health – University studies have proven that people who are depressed are more likely to get sick, and more likely to die of an illness than those who are content. It is in your benefit, health wise, to fight your depression as well. A recent New York Times article, citing a University study, indicated that persons who have been diagnosed as depressed have more hospital visits, and a shorter lifespan.

Prosperity – The depressed person sometimes lacks clarity of thought, and may miss golden opportunities to improve their lives if only they had been paying attention. This may be, perhaps, the most important point, since many people believe they would be happier if only this part of their life, or that part of their life, etc was different. Allowing good things to happen in your life might just give you the jump start needed to end the cycle of depression and self imposed-isolation( even if only figuratively ).

Fighting depression can help your life in many ways. In some ways, the fight in itself is also a reward. You become stronger, do better at work, have better relationships, and can focus on what is really important in life so that you can improve it, for yourself, your family, friends, and loved ones.

About the Author: Adrian Calvin is co-founder of kertera.com. A mental health forum for people to discuss depression, stress, anxiety and more. If you would like to visit, then type http://www.kertera.com in your web browser.

Source: www.isnare.com

Sorry Everyone!

Just wanted to apologize for not posting any articles the last couple of days. I've been so sick and trying to move into a new place at the same time. I finally got my computer hooked up and ready to go. So, now I should be back on target posting articles that hopefully you all find helpful and informative.

Thanks for being loyal readers,
Anna

Being Alone And Depressed - By Justin Meyer

It can be hard to say goodbye, because you know that you will be going back to being alone. Especially when you are very close to someone, or when you are very lonely. Saying goodbye can be difficult because you are (rightly) not interested in being alone. It can cause a very hard down after a very pleasant and long-lasting high. So how do you say goodbye? How do you part when you know that parting is not “sweet sorrow”, as Shakespeare wrote, but something that will just lead to sorrow. However, staying too long can also lead to problems, if you worry about what people will say about you.

So how do you accept that it is time to part? For some it is an easier process than others. But the acceptance that while this is goodbye it is not so forever is a good first step. The knowledge that while you might be alone now, you won’t last in that state is also important to recognize.

Especially when the person saying goodbye is someone who you spend a lot of time with, you should feel comfortable that they will return and you will see them again.

In the meantime, it is important to not look upon loneliness as a terminal state. Look for ways to occupy yourself. You will know when you are going to be alone, and you can find things to do with that time, so you are not as sad and lonely.

Learn to alleviate your depression at http://www.curemydepression.com

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Surviving Those Holiday Blues - By Garrett Coan

Not everyone shares in the celebration and joy associated with the holidays. Many people feel stressed and unhappy in response to the demands of shopping for gifts, spending large amounts of money, attending parties and family gatherings, and entertaining houseguests. It is not uncommon to react to these stresses with excessive drinking and eating, difficulty sleeping, and physical complaints. The holiday blues are a common result. If you experience reactions like these during the holidays, you are not alone. Let’s take a look at what causes the holiday blues and what you can do about them.

What Causes the Holiday Blues?

Fear of disappointing others. Some people fear disappointing their loved ones during the holidays. Even though they can’t afford to spend a lot of money on gifts, some people feel so obligated to come through with a fancy gift that they spend more than they can afford.

Expecting gifts to improve relationships. Giving someone a nice present won’t necessarily strengthen a friendship or romantic relationship. When your gifts don’t produce the reactions you had hoped for, you may feel let down.

Anniversary reactions. If someone important to you passed away or left you during a past holiday season, you may become depressed as the anniversary approaches.

Bad memories. For some families, the holidays are times of chaos and confusion. This is especially true in families where people have substance abuse problems or dysfunctional ways of relating to each other. If this was true in your family in past years, you may always carry memories of the disappointment and upheaval that came with the holidays. Even though things may be better now, it is difficult to forget the times when your holidays were ruined by substance abuse and family dysfunction.

It could be SAD. People who live in northern states may experience depression during the winter because of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD results from fewer hours of sunlight as the days grow shorter during the winter months.

Strategies for Dealing with the Holiday Blues

While the holiday blues are usually temporary, these ideas can help make this year’s holiday experience more pleasant and less stressful:

Be realistic. Don’t expect the holiday season to solve all past problems. The forced cheerfulness of the holiday season cannot ward off sadness or loneliness.

Drink less alcohol. Even though drinking alcohol gives you a temporary feeling of well-being, it is a depressant and never makes anything better.

Give yourself permission not to feel cheerful. Accept how you are feeling. If you have recently experienced a loss, you can’t expect yourself to put on a happy face. Tell others how you are feeling and what you need.

Have a spending limit and stick to it. Look for holiday activities that are free, such as driving around to look at holiday decorations. Go window-shopping without purchasing anything. Look for ways to show people you care without spending a lot.

Be honest. Express your feelings to those around you in a constructive, honest, and open way. If you need to confront someone with a problem, begin your sentences with “I feel.”

Look for sources of support. Learn about offerings at mental health centers, churches, and synagogues. Many of these have special support groups, workshops, and other activities designed to help people deal with the holiday blues.

Give yourself special care. Schedule times to relax and pamper yourself. Take a warm bath or spend an evening with a good book.

Set limits and priorities. Be realistic about what you will be able to accomplish. Prepare a To-Do list to help you arrange your priorities.

Volunteer your time. If you are troubled because you won’t be seeing your family, volunteer to work at a hospital or food bank. Volunteering can help raise your spirits by turning your focus to people who are less fortunate than you are.

Get some exercise. Exercise has a positive impact on depression because it boosts serotonin levels. Try to get some type of exercise at least twice each week.

After the Holidays

For some people, holiday blues continue into the new year. This is often caused by leftover feelings of disappointment during the holiday season and being physically exhausted. The blues also happen for some people because the start of a new year is a time of reflection, which can produce anxiety.

Is It More than Just the Holiday Blues?

Clinical depression is more than just feeling sad for a few weeks. The symptoms generally include changes in appetite and sleep patterns, having less interest in daily activities, difficulty concentrating, and a general feeling of hopelessness.

Clinical depression requires professional treatment. If you are concerned that a friend or relative may be suffering from more than just holiday blues, you should express your concerns. If the person expresses thoughts of worthlessness or suicide, it is important to seek the help of a qualified mental health professional.

Garrett Coan is a professional therapist,coach and psychotherapist. His two Northern New Jersey office locations are accessible to individuals who reside in Bergen County, Essex County, Passaic County, Rockland County, and Manhattan. Garrett also offers online and telephone coaching and counseling services for those who live at a distance. He can be accessed through http://www.creativecounselors.com or at 201-303-4303.

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Talk to a Significant Other When They Are Depressed - By Justin Meyer

It is a tough feeling, seeming like you can never say the right thing. Especially when your significant other has slipped into a depression. The wrong thing can send them yelling and screaming, and you might not even be sure why. How do you talk to him or her without it being a problem? How do you avoid making things worse, when you just want to be supportive? How do you say things so they are not taken the wrong way?

The worst thing that you can do is say things with the wrong tone. That can be the most important thing to do. If your tone is perceived as being condescending, it may be interpreted as such. Even if you don’t think your tone is wrong, you need to be careful. It is a hard thing to determine, but the best thing to do is stick to a neutral tone of voice.

The second thing to do is not to pry, but let your significant other talk to you about what is wrong. Listen, comment when appropriate, but don’t voice too many opinions. This is a time for them to be upset and they will deal with it as appropriate. Telling them to snap out of it is not the best approach. Let them set the tone for the conversation.

Finally, when they are depressed, be supportive. Now is not the time to say things that are critical. As hard as it might be, now is a time when you need to hold your tongue a little bit.
Learn to alleviate your depression at http://www.curemydepression.com
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Anticipatory Grief and Holidays: 12 Survival Tips - By Harriet Hodgson

Anticipatory grief - a feeling of loss before a death or dreaded event occurs - is a hard journey. Holidays make it even harder. At a time when you're supposed to feel happy and joyful, you feel sad and anxious. You're on pins and needles and wonder what will happen next.

Remember, your grief stems from love, and you may find comfort in that. Holidays don't erase your reasons for feeling sad and lonely, according to the National Mental Health Association, and "there is room for these feelings to be present." So accept your feelings and, if you feel like crying, go ahead and do it.

Crying will help you to feel better. Here are some other ways you can help yourself.

BE REALISTIC.

You don't have to create a "perfect" holiday. Do you really need to knit sweaters for everyone? No. Do you really need to serve a six course meal? No. What you need to do is set realistic goals, get organized, and pace yourself. Rather than focusing on one day, the National Mental Health Association recommends focusing on "a season of holiday sentiment."

ASK FOR HELP.

You don't need to do everything yourself. Family members and friends will be glad to help with planning, decorating, and cooking. One family member could bring a traditional dish, such as pumpkin pie. Another family member could provide linens and launder them afterwards. Your request for help makes others feel needed.

BUDGET.

Finances can cause stress at any time, but they cause lots of stress during the holidays. Set a budget for gifts, decorations, and entertaining. Staying within your budget will make you feel better about the holidays and yourself. Your gifts don't have to be new. Holiays are a perfect time to pass along family possessions - a flower vase, historic photo, or beloved book. Stick a short note about the item in with your gift.

EAT RIGHT.

Because nutrition affects brain chemistry, you need to eat balanced meals during the holidays. Yummy as they look, pass up the candy and cookies that come your way. Choose lots of fruits and veggies from the buffet table and one dessert. Keeping a supply of healthy snacks on hand will also help you to eat right.

DRINK MODERATELY.

Alcohol makes the holiday blues worse, according to the National Mental Health Association. Too much alcohol can cause you to say things you'll regret later. If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation or skip it all together. Drink sparkling cider, non-alcoholic punch, or flavored water instead of alcohol.

GET ENOUGH SLEEP.

You've probably thinking, "Yeah, right." But you need sleep to survive the holidays. Getting enough sleep is hard to do with so many holiday events going on. However, you may be selective about what you attend, leave early, and get a good night's sleep. Balance a late night with a short nap the next day.

LIGHT YOUR WAY.

Vanerbilt University wellness experts say more people get depressed during the holidays than at any other time. Some of these people have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If you live in a cold climate and the days are short you may wish to be evaluated for SAD. Phototherapy (intense lighting) is usualy recommended for those with SAD. Even if you don' have SAD well lit rooms will lift your spirits.

EXERCISE.

Daily physical activity is a proven way to cope with stress. Walk around town or the local mall and look at holiday decorations. Play catch with your kids or grandkids. Bundle up and go cross country skiing. A half hour of physical activity per day helps to chase the blues away.

BE CONCILATORY.

According to www.MayoClinic.com family tensions may flare during the holidays if members are "thrust together for several days." Holidays aren't the time to settle family disputes, they're a time for concilatory and kind behavior. Discuss family grievances at a later date.

HELP OTHERS.

Holidays are associated with families and togetherness according to Jill RachBeisel, MD, Director of Community Psychiatry at the University of Maryland. But, due to the divorce rate and fragmented families, many don't have this kind of holiay experience. Still, you may connect with a substitute family by volunteering a a senior center, reading to shut-ins, or tutoring children.

MAKE NEW MEMORIES.

The memories you make during this holiday season may comfort you in the future. Take digital photos of holiday events and put them on a CD. Send copies of the CD to all family members. Every family has stories to tell and you may create new memories by tape recording some of these stories. You may also videotape holiday events.

SAVOR THE MOMENT.

Though you are sorrowful, you're alive, able to be with those you love and care about. Surround yourself with life: family members, dear friends, colorful flowers, a tail-wagging dog, and hobbies that make you happy. For every moment of life - even the sorrowful ones - is a miracle.

Copyright 2005 by Harriet Hodgson. To learn more about her work go to http://www.harriethodgson.com

Harriet Hodgson has been a nonfiction writer for 27 years and is a member of the Association of Health Care Journalists. Her 24th book, "Smiling Through Your Tears: Anticipating Grief," written with Lois Krahn, MD, is available from http://www.amazon.com The book is packed with Healing Steps - 114 in all - that lead readers to their own healing path.

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Meditation For Depression - By Justin Meyer

How to meditate, it's an unusual topic for this series. However, it is very applicable. As we discuss the problems of losing your temper, a serious problem in depression, it is helpful to know how to meditate, because meditation is a very effective technique for calming yourself.

The first step towards meditation is to turn off the TV, the radio, try to eliminate as much noise as possible. Meditation will encourage you to focus on your own breath, and that is what you want to be listening for. You want to try and avoid any distraction at this point.

Second, close your eyes. You may want to open them to see what is going on, but remember, you are focusing on the internal right now, not the external. It doesn't matter what is going on in the other room. All that matters is what you are doing. Take deep breaths. Get into a rhythm of deep breaths in and out. Try to extend your exhalation so it is longer than your inhalation. Begin counting to ten with the odd numbers on the inhale and the even numbers on the exhale. This will put you in your body's natural rhythm. With your eyes closed, imagine a shade of purple that just gets darker and darker without ever turning to black. This will give you your focal point. The deep purple will soothe you, as will the counting of your breath.

Eventually, you might find that you only need to breathe and be able to go into a meditative state. That is fine. Always remember to count from one to ten in cycles, though because you do want to bring your body to that calming rhythm. The pace of your breathing is what will maintain your calm and without that, you will not be able to move on.

You can read more about depression at http://www.curemydepression.com

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7 Things to Avoid the Holiday Blues - By John Seeley

Seven things to keep you from falling into the Holiday Blues.

Each holiday season there is an expectation from people to reconnect with friends and loved ones. But what if your family is far away, or you don’t have people to reconnect with? Being alone during the holidays is often something that people don’t prepare for and find themselves depressed, and in the extreme, suicidal. It’s important to prepare in advance to keep the blues away. If you know that you’ll be alone, there are things to do to make the holidays merry.

Plan a group activity to invite others to do, so you will have others to share time with during the holidays. Perhaps a support group for others that are alone too!

Volunteer doing something for helping others. There is a lot of need to help less fortunate during the holidays, including delivering food to shut-ins, soup kitchens, helping at hospitals to cheer up patients, etc. Giving is a great way to feel better about yourself, and you meet others who are volunteering, and make new friends who are giving too.

Plan a trip or vacation for the holidays. Group trips doing something that you enjoy, like scuba diving, antiques, cruising, etc., are available through travel agents or on the web.

Get more active in a church or local community. Often holidays are a great time to reconnect to a community. There often are holiday events like plays, singing, charity parties or auctions, etc. sponsored by churches or communities.

See a professional therapist to help you to work through any issues that may be keeping you from experiencing the happiness you desire. Often your feelings that you repress all year come up during times when extra stress come up, often during the holidays. So do yourself a favor, seek some professional help to release the emotional baggage you’ve been carrying. Your whole life will improve.

Talk to people. Talk to your family. Talk to your friends. Do it regularly. Look up old friends. Heal old relationships. It’s good for your heart and soul to do that, anytime, but especially around the holidays. Remember they might need to heal that issue too. You don’t have guarantees that friendships will be rekindled, or relationships healed, but you never know how it might affect your life positively either. Holidays are a time to heal. Take advantage of that.

Remember that regrets are usually from things you didn’t do. Use the holidays to create something different in your life. Einstein said “To continue doing the same thing, expecting different results, is insanity.” If you want different results, do something different. Believe that you can change your life. Believe it can be better. Know miracles happen. If you believe in a higher power, pray for the change you want. Be willing to give up what you have now, and know it will be better. Remember, in order to become a butterfly, you have to give up being a caterpillar.

John Seeley M.A.is a graduate of the University of Santa Monica and holds a Masters in Spiritual Psychology. John has done prison workshops in California. He is a Life Coach, speaker and author of Get Unstuck! The Simple Guide to Restart Your Life. http://www.getunstuck.com Author/ Speaker & Executive / Personal Life Coach John Seeley is President/CEO of Blue Moon Wonders and HeartFire Seminars, which specialize in educational and personal growth workshops and products. John grew up in the Midwest the youngest of five children. He has lived and worked all over the country for Fortune 500 companies. John has been involved in personal growth & coaching since 1990. He works with individuals as well as business executives who have a commitment to making positive changes and awakening a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives and companies. John is a catalyst for change your life and has been in the lives of many people. John’s coaching style and philosophy are simple and down to earth, yet highly effective. "I help people to break freefrom their inner prisons."

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Real Men, Real Depression! (Mental Health Matters) - By Arthur Buchanan

Depression is a serious but treatable medical condition - a brain disease - that can strike anyone, including men. In America alone, over 6 million men have depression each year.

Whether you're a company executive, a construction worker, a writer, a police officer, or a student, whether you are rich or poor, surrounded by loved ones or alone, you are not immune to depression. Some factors, however, such as family history, undue stress, the loss of a loved one or other serious illnesses can make you more vulnerable.

If left untreated, depression can lead to personal, family and financial difficulties, and, in some cases, end in suicide. With appropriate diagnosis and treatment, however, most people recover. The darkness disappears, hope for the future returns, energy and desire come back, and interest in life becomes stronger than ever.

Depression can strike anyone regardless of age, ethnic background, socioeconomic status, or gender; however, large scale research studies have found that depression is about twice as common in women as in men. In the United States, researchers estimate that in any given one year period, depressive illnesses affect 12 percent of women (more than 12 million women) and nearly 7 percent of men (more than six million men).3 But important questions remain to be answered about the causes underlying this gender difference. We still do not know if depression is truly less common among men, or if men are just less likely than women to recognize, acknowledge, and seek help for depression.

Types of Depression

Just like other illnesses, such as heart disease, depression comes in different forms. This booklet briefly describes three of the most common types of depressive disorders. However, within these types, there are variations in the number of symptoms, their severity, and persistence.

Major depression (or major depressive disorder) is manifested by a combination of symptoms (see symptoms list below) that interferes with the ability to work, study, sleep, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities. A major depressive episode may occur only once; but more commonly, several episodes may occur in a lifetime. Chronic major depression may require a person to continue treatment indefinitely.

A less severe type of depression, dysthymia (or dysthymic disorder), involves long lasting, chronic symptoms that do not seriously disable, but keep one from functioning well or feeling good. Many people with dysthymia also experience major depressive episodes at some time in their lives.

Depression

Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood.

Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.

Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyable, including sex.

Decreased energy, fatigue; feeling “slowed down.”

Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.

Trouble sleeping, early morning awakening, or oversleeping.

Changes in appetite and/or weight.

Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts. Restlessness or irritability.

Persistent physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain that do not respond to routine treatment.

Men and Depression

Researchers estimate that at least six million men in the United States suffer from a depressive disorder every year. Research and clinical evidence reveal that while both women and men can develop the standard symptoms of depression, they often experience depression differently and may have different ways of coping with the symptoms. Men may be more willing to acknowledge fatigue, irritability, loss of interest in work or hobbies, and sleep disturbances rather than feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and excessive guilt. Some researchers question whether the standard definition of depression and the diagnostic tests based upon it adequately capture the condition as it occurs in men.

Men are more likely than women to report alcohol and drug abuse or dependence in their lifetime;14 however, there is debate among researchers as to whether substance use is a “symptom” of underlying depression in men or a co occurring condition that more commonly develops in men. Nevertheless, substance use can mask depression, making it harder to recognize depression as a separate illness that needs treatment.

Instead of acknowledging their feelings, asking for help, or seeking appropriate treatment, men may turn to alcohol or drugs when they are depressed, or become frustrated, discouraged, angry, irritable, and, sometimes, violently abusive. Some men deal with depression by throwing themselves compulsively into their work, attempting to hide their depression from themselves, family, and friends. Other men may respond to depression by engaging in reckless behavior, taking risks, and putting themselves in harm’s way.

More than four times as many men as women die by suicide in the United States, even though women make more suicide attempts during their lives. In addition to the fact that men attempt suicide using methods that are generally more lethal than those used by women, there may be other factors that protect women against suicide death. In light of research indicating that suicide is often associated with depression, the alarming suicide rate among men may reflect the fact that men are less likely to seek treatment for depression. Many men with depression do not obtain adequate diagnosis and treatment that may be life saving.

Depression in Older Men

Men must cope with several kinds of stress as they age. If they have been the primary wage earners for their families and have identified heavily with their jobs, they may feel stress upon retirement­loss of an important role, loss of self esteem­that can lead to depression. Similarly, the loss of friends and family and the onset of other health problems can trigger depression.

Depression is not a normal part of aging. Depression is an illness that can be effectively treated, thereby decreasing unnecessary suffering, improving the chances for recovery from other illnesses, and prolonging productive life. However, health care professionals may miss depressive symptoms in older patients. Older adults may be reluctant to discuss feelings of sadness or grief, or loss of interest in pleasurable activities.

They may complain primarily of physical symptoms. It may be difficult to discern a co occurring depressive disorder in patients who present with other illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, or cancer, which may cause depressive symptoms or may be treated with medications that have side effects that cause depression. If a depressive illness is diagnosed, treatment with appropriate medication and/or brief psychotherapy can help older adults manage both diseases, thus enhancing survival and quality of life.

Identifying and treating depression in older adults is critical. There is a common misperception that suicide rates are highest among the young, but it is older white males who suffer the highest rate. Over 70 percent of older suicide victims visit their primary care physician within the month of their death; many have a depressive illness that goes undetected during these visits. This fact has led to research efforts to determine how to best improve physicians’ abilities to detect and treat depression in older adults.

Approximately 80 percent of older adults with depression improve when they receive treatment with antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. In addition, research has shown that a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medication is highly effective for reducing recurrences of depression among older adults. Psychotherapy alone has been shown to prolong periods of good health free from depression, and is particularly useful for older patients who cannot or will not take medication.18 Improved recognition and treatment of depression in later life will make those years more enjoyable and fulfilling for the depressed elderly person, and his family and caregivers.

A depressive disorder is not the same as a passing blue mood.

Depression can strike anyone regardless of age, ethnic background, socioeconomic status, or gender; however, large scale research studies have found that depression is about twice as common in women as in men.In the United States, researchers estimate that in any given one year period, depressive illnesses affect 12 percent of women (more than 12 million women) and nearly 7 percent of men (more than six million men) But important questions remain to be answered about the causes underlying this gender difference. We still do not know if depression is truly less common among men, or if men are just less likely than women to recognize, acknowledge, and seek help for depression.

Symptoms of Depression

Not everyone who is depressed or manic experiences every symptom. Some people experience only a few; some people suffer many. The severity of symptoms varies among individuals and also over time.

Depression

Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood.

Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.

Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyable, including sex.

Decreased energy, fatigue; feeling “slowed down.”

Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.

Trouble sleeping, early morning awakening, or oversleeping.

Changes in appetite and/or weight.

Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts.

Restlessness or irritability.

Persistent physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain that do not respond to routine treatment.

Depression can coexist with other illnesses. In such cases, it is important that the depression and each co occurring illness be appropriately diagnosed and treated.

Research has shown that anxiety disorders­which include post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, and generalized anxiety disorder­commonly accompany depression. Depression is especially prevalent among people with PTSD, a debilitating condition that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened.

Traumatic events that can trigger PTSD include violent personal assaults such as rape or mugging, natural disasters, accidents, terrorism, and military combat. PTSD symptoms include: re experiencing the traumatic event in the form of flashback episodes, memories, or nightmares; emotional numbness; sleep disturbances; irritability; outbursts of anger; intense guilt; and avoidance of any reminders or thoughts of the ordeal. In one NIMH supported study, more than 40 percent of people with PTSD also had depression when evaluated at one month and four months following the traumatic event.

Substance use disorders (abuse or dependence) also frequently co occur with depressive disorders. Research has revealed that people with alcoholism are almost twice as likely as those without alcoholism to also suffer from major depression. In addition, more than half of people with bipolar disorder type I (with severe mania) have a co occurring substance use disorder.

Men and Depression

Researchers estimate that at least six million men in the United States suffer from a depressive disorder every year. Research and clinical evidence reveal that while both women and men can develop the standard symptoms of depression, they often experience depression differently and may have different ways of coping with the symptoms. Men may be more willing to acknowledge fatigue, irritability, loss of interest in work or hobbies, and sleep disturbances rather than feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and excessive guilt. Some researchers question whether the standard definition of depression and the diagnostic tests based upon it adequately capture the condition as it occurs in men.

Men are more likely than women to report alcohol and drug abuse or dependence in their lifetime; however, there is debate among researchers as to whether substance use is a “symptom” of underlying depression in men or a co occurring condition that more commonly develops in men. Nevertheless, substance use can mask depression, making it harder to recognize depression as a separate illness that needs treatment.

Instead of acknowledging their feelings, asking for help, or seeking appropriate treatment, men may turn to alcohol or drugs when they are depressed, or become frustrated, discouraged, angry, irritable, and, sometimes, violently abusive. Some men deal with depression by throwing themselves compulsively into their work, attempting to hide their depression from themselves, family, and friends. Other men may respond to depression by engaging in reckless behavior, taking risks, and putting themselves in harm’s way.

More than four times as many men as women die by suicide in the United States, even though women make more suicide attempts during their lives. In addition to the fact that men attempt suicide using methods that are generally more lethal than those used by women, there may be other factors that protect women against suicide death. In light of research indicating that suicide is often associated with depression,17 the alarming suicide rate among men may reflect the fact that men are less likely to seek treatment for depression. Many men with depression do not obtain adequate diagnosis and treatment that may be life saving.

More research is needed to understand all aspects of depression in men, including how men respond to stress and feelings associated with depression, how to make men more comfortable acknowledging these feelings and getting the help they need, and how to train physicians to better recognize and treat depression in men. Family members, friends, and employee assistance professionals in the workplace also can play important roles in recognizing depressive symptoms in men and helping them get treatment.

The first step to getting appropriate treatment for depression is a physical examination by a physician. Certain medications as well as some medical conditions such as a viral infection, thyroid disorder, or low testosterone level can cause the same symptoms as depression, and the physician should rule out these possibilities through examination, interview, and lab tests. If no such cause of the depressive symptoms is found, the physician should do a psychological evaluation or refer the patient to a mental health professional.

A good diagnostic evaluation will include a complete history of symptoms: i.e., when they started, how long they have lasted, their severity, and whether the patient had them before and, if so, if the symptoms were treated and what treatment was given. The doctor should ask about alcohol and drug use, and if the patient has thoughts about death or suicide. Further, a history should include questions about whether other family members have had a depressive illness and, if treated, what treatments they may have received and if they were effective. Last, a diagnostic evaluation should include a mental status examination to determine if speech, thought patterns, or memory has been affected, as sometimes happens with depressive disorders.

Treatment choice will depend on the patient’s diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and preference. There are a variety of treatments, including medications and short term psychotherapies (i.e., “talk” therapies), that have proven effective for depressive disorders. In general, severe depressive illnesses, particularly those that are recurrent, will require a combination of treatments for the best outcome.

Alcohol­ including wine, beer, and hard liquor­or street drugs may reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants and should be avoided. However, doctors may permit people who have not had a problem with alcohol abuse or dependence to use a modest amount of alcohol while taking one of the newer antidepressants.

Questions about any medication prescribed, or problems that may be related to it, should be discussed with your doctor.

How to Help Yourself if You Are Depressed

Depressive disorders can make one feel exhausted, worthless, helpless, and hopeless. It is important to realize that these negative views are part of the depression and do not accurately reflect the actual circumstances. Negative thinking fades as treatment begins to take effect. In the meantime: Engage in mild exercise. Go to a movie, a ballgame, or participate in religious, social, or other activities. Set realistic goals and assume a reasonable amount of responsibility.

Break large tasks into small ones, set some priorities, and do what you can as you can.

Try to be with other people and to confide in someone; it is usually better than being alone and secretive. Participate in activities that may make you feel better. Expect your mood to improve gradually, not immediately. Feeling better takes time. Often during treatment of depression, sleep and appetite will begin to improve before depressed mood lifts.

Postpone important decisions. Before deciding to make a significant transition–change jobs, get married or divorced–discuss it with others who know you well and have a more objective view of your situation.

Do not expect to ‘snap out of’ a depression. But do expect to feel a little better day by day.
Remember, positive thinking will replace the negative thinking as your depression responds to treatment. Let your family and friends help you.

How Family and Friends Can Help

The most important thing anyone can do for a man who may have depression is to help him get to a doctor for a diagnostic evaluation and treatment. First, try to talk to him about depression­help him understand that depression is a common illness among men and is nothing to be ashamed about. Perhaps share this booklet with him. Then encourage him to see a doctor to determine the cause of his symptoms and obtain appropriate treatment.

Occasionally, you may need to make an appointment for the depressed person and accompany him to the doctor. Once he is in treatment, you may continue to help by encouraging him to stay with treatment until symptoms begin to lift (several weeks) or to seek different treatment if no improvement occurs. This may also mean monitoring whether he is taking prescribed medication and/or attending therapy sessions. Encourage him to be honest with the doctor about his use of alcohol and prescription or recreational drugs, and to follow the doctor’s orders about the use of these substances while on antidepressant medication.

The second most important thing is to offer emotional support to the depressed person. This involves understanding, patience, affection, and encouragement. Engage him in conversation and listen carefully. Do not disparage the feelings he may express, but point out realities and offer hope. Do not ignore remarks about suicide. Report them to the depressed person’s doctor. In an emergency, call 911. Invite him for walks, outings, to the movies, and other activities. Be gently insistent if your invitation is refused. Encourage participation in some activities that once gave pleasure, such as hobbies, sports, religious or cultural activities, but do not push him to undertake too much too soon. The depressed person needs diversion and company, but too many demands can increase feelings of failure.

Listed below are the types of people and places that will make a referral to, or provide, diagnostic and treatment services.

Family doctors

Mental health specialists, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, or mental health counselors Religious leaders/counselors

Health maintenance organizations

Community mental health centers

Hospital psychiatry departments and outpatient clinics

University or medical school affiliated programs

State hospital outpatient clinics

Social service agencies

Private clinics and facilities

Employee assistance programs

Local medical and/or psychiatric societies

Conclusion

A man can experience depression in many different ways. He may be grumpy or irritable, or have lost his sense of humor. He might drink too much or abuse drugs. It may be that he physically or verbally abuses his wife and his kids. He might work all the time, or compulsively seek thrills in high risk behavior. Or, he may seem isolated, withdrawn, and no longer interested in the people or activities he used to enjoy.

Perhaps this man sounds like you. If so, it is important to understand that there is a brain disorder called depression that may be underlying these feelings and behaviors. It’s real: scientists have developed sensitive imaging devices that enable us to see depression in the brain. And it’s treatable: more than 80 percent of those suffering from depression respond to existing treatments, and new ones are continually becoming available and helping more people. Talk to a healthcare provider about how you are feeling, and ask for help.

Or perhaps this man sound like someone you care about. Try to talk to him, or to someone who has a chance of getting through to him. Help him to understand that depression is a common illness among men and is nothing to be ashamed about. Encourage him to see a doctor and get an evaluation for depression.

For most men with depression, life doesn’t have to be so dark and hopeless. Life is hard enough as it is; and treating depression can free up vital resources to cope with life’s challenges effectively. When a man is depressed, he’s not the only one who suffers. His depression also darkens the lives of his family, his friends, virtually everyone close to him. Getting him into treatment can send ripples of healing and hope into all of those lives.

Depression is a real illness; it is treatable; and men can have it. It takes courage to ask for help, but help can make all the difference.

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Leading Psychiatrists are calling Arthur a 'walking miracle'-After 15 years in mental institutions, absorbing inhumane shock treatments, abusing alcohol, he's now being called worldwide’ The Zig Ziglar of Mental Illness 'Read about his amazing comeback and what #1 best-selling author Mike Litman has called The Most Inspirational Book of 2002' Out of Darkness - One Man's Journey From The Depths Of Mental Illness to Pure Joy

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With Much Love,
Arthur Buchanan
President/CEO
Out of Darkness & Into the Light
43 Oakwood Ave. Suite 1012
Huron Ohio, 44839
http://www.out-of-darkness.com
567-219-0994 (cell)

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Does Your Childhood Hold You Back? - By: Jo Ball

Have you come to a point in your life and got stuck and unable to move on?

I’ve been shocked recently to discover how many women and men have suffered one trauma or another during childhood, in particular the amount that have been through abuse.

The experience of abuse, at an age when it would be impossible to know how to handle it, is horrific, be it beatings, humiliation or sexual abuse. These experiences stay with many children, through their teens right into adulthood, bringing up insecurity, anxiety jealousy and even threatening or violent behaviour patterns throughout life.

And maybe it’s here that your life gets stuck. In day-to-day situations where you feel insecure, anxious, jealous or violent you’ll probably revert to a behaviour pattern that you learned in your childhood. When you use that to deal with a current issue this is what you do…

You react – withdrawing or lashing out – even though you know the current situation has nothing to do with what is happening now, and before you know it you have lost an opportunity.

In the aftermath regret and depression set in. You might ask why this happens to you and why life is such a mess and why, every time things seem to get better something comes along and stops you from progressing. Within it all you might even be searching for the meaning and point of life.

If you search for the meaning and point to life and are stopped just knowing and believing the three points below is a very good foundation for your future.

1. I want to tell you that whatever life has dealt you up to this point, that your future can be brighter.

2. I want to tell you that you do possess a unique gift. I also want to tell you that you have a distinctive way of expressing that gift.

3. What might well have happened is that that gift has been buried underneath all the other confusion and chaos.

The last few years of my life have been dedicated to helping people from all walks of life, with all kinds of childhood and adult issues. The moments when they overcome what previously stopped them is very powerful. Their stories are amazing.

Whatever it is that stops you in life right now I hope this article has helped.

Love & best Wishes,

Jo Ball (LCA, Dip)

Coach & Founder, Unstoppable Life

About the Author: I want to help you move on and become unstoppable. At Unstoppable Life, I am developing the next generation of people overcoming block in life and becoming more powerful than ever before. These people are discovering and defining their life purpose. Join my Fr>ee newsletter now at Unstoppable Life and explore my site and discover a mass of informat

Source: www.isnare.com

Depression Sufferers Cannot Help Themselves - By Donny Lowy

What would the reaction of the media be if it came out that there was a disease that affected millions of people, for which they could not find help?

You would be right in saying that the reaction would be both swift and explosive.

There is a disease which affects millions, and maybe even hundred of millions of people, for which there is no help.

Actually there is help, but the problem is that the sufferers don’t know that they are infected.
This disease is actually depression.

While the medical field has produced many therapies and medications to help those suffering from depression, this help is not reaching many of those who are affected.

The reason this calamity is taking place, is because many people walk through life without realizing that they are clinically depressed.

For this reason, Donny Lowy, has launched www.curemydepression.com.

Many people who are debilitated by depression could be effectively helped, if they only knew that they were clinically depressed.

www.Curemydepression.com offers detailed steps, strategies, and tips, to help provide guidance for those suffering from depression.

Even more importantly, it has articles that explain what the tell tale signs of depression are.

While the site does not give medical advice, it does provide explanations of what depression is, and what can be done to help someone who is depressed.

www.Curemydepression.com also offers guidance for those who might have a friend or loved one who is experiencing depression.

If you believe that the earlier a disease is spotted, the higher the chance of curing it is, then you know that time is of the essence when it comes to helping yourself, or someone you know, who is depressed.

Donny Lowy, who is the CEO of http://www.closeoutexplosion.com, and http://www.wholesalecloseoutforum.com, launched http://www.curemydepression.com to provide educational guidance on the subject of depression.

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Depression Help & Support Groups - By S. A. Baker

For those who face depression, every day of their lives may seem like a struggle. A struggle to get up, a struggle to face the day and the people involved and it can be a struggle to make the most of the day. It just seems simpler to crawl back into bed and forget about it all. But, the world needs us, we need the world too. So, we get up and deal with the depression. But, there may be a way or a place in which the depression you feel is similar to the depression that others feel and are dealing with as well.

A depression support group can be a great way to see that your situation is not the only one out there. By talking with others who are dealing with depression, you will be able to understand yourself a little better. Maybe they can offer advice on making the day easier or happier. Maybe they can offer an understanding that comes with friendship. By meeting with others in a group setting, you may be able to see a light at the end of the tunnel.

While it may never cure your depression, simply adding the time to your day to talk about depression with people who understand can be a cure for your aching heart. If you would like more information on finding these support groups or dealing with depression in general, you can find them throughout the internet.

One good site to visit is www.avoiddepression.com. It is not a medical website, but more of a portal to understanding what is going on and how to help yourself with your depression.

S A Baker recommends visiting Depression Help to learn more about depression

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Supplementary Help for Depression - By Stewart Hare

Typical symptoms of depression are feeling sad, depressed mood, crying, insomnia or excessive sleeping, loss of energy, feeling tired, exhaustion, anxiety, weight loss or gain, agitation, nervousness, low sex drive, feeling worthless, excessive guilt, headaches, low concentration, lack of confidence and loss of interest in everyday activities.

Depression can occur due to hormonal imbalances, stress and imbalances in biochemicals within the brain. Depression is more common in women due to hormonal changes that happen in association with childbirth, menstruation and the menopause.

Poor nutrition has been linked with depression; other factors are food allergies, stress, blood sugar levels and excessive amounts of histamine production by the body. It is best to avoid or cut out refined foods, foods high in sugar, coffee, tea, cola drinks, chocolate, alcohol and cigarettes. Milk products and wheat are common foods that cause an allergic reaction so it may be wise to experiment with cutting these foods out of the diet for two week periods.

Increasing exercise will help with depression and it is also wise to consult your doctor who will advise you whether psychiatric therapy or antidepressant drugs are needed. Also, studies have shown that some people who suffer from depression have found that acupuncture can be beneficial.

The following supplements may help if you are suffering from Depression.

Calcium
Fish Oil
Folic Acid
Iron
Multivitamins and multiminerals
St John’s Wort
Vitamin B complex
Vitamin C
Vitamin D

Stewart Hare C.H.Ed Dip NutTh

Advice for a healthier natural life
website: http://www.newbeingnutrition.com

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