Depression And You

Anxiety and Depression - Why Depression Drugs May Not Be Necessary - Fight Depression Naturally

2006-02-10T10:52:00.000-08:00

When you're learning about something new, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of relevant information available. This informative article should help you focus on the central points.

Millions of people, especially in the United States, are currently suffering the symptoms of depression, and have even gone as far as taking prescription antidepressants that may have harmful side effects and dampen the quality of their life in other ways in the hopes it will just go away.

The fact is, many prescription antidepressant drugs do have undesirable side effects that really can affect other areas of your life, but they are looked at by many as "the lesser of two evils". It's better to not be depressed and anxious, even if you do suffer side effects such as headache, nausea, and decreased sexual function, right?

Wrong! There is a better way to manage stress, anxiety and depression - naturally and without man-made drugs or narcotics. This natural antidepressant remedy actually contains several pure botanicals, natural compounds and herbs that work in unison to balance mood, elevate our natural "antidepressant" chemicals in the brain, maintain even blood sugar levels (which believe it or not, has actually produced weight loss and belly fat loss in many who have taken it), and promote an overall sense of well being and peace.

This product is an excellent remedy for calming anxiety and depression. There are also lifestyle tips that will help you fight depression, anxiety and stress. Number one on that list is - you guessed it - moderate exercise. Now I don't mean you have to do aerobics until you drop, but a nice, steady flow of cardiovascular exercise like walking, jogging, biking, or another form of low impact exercise is an excellent way to manage these symptoms, while also promoting a healthy blood pressure level, a healthy heart, and bodily strength and endurance.

It's really a good idea to probe a little deeper into the subject of Depression . What you learn may give you the confidence you need to venture into new areas.

Yoga, forms of slow dance, tai chi, and other meditation-type exercise is also an excellent way to manage stress, anxiety and depression. These types of meditative exercises promote healthy bodily functions, a healthy state of mind, and mental focus, which are key factors in supporting a healthy sense of well being and peace.

If you have a desk job, make it a point to get up and walk around once every hour. Inactivity is one of the biggest perpetuators of depression and anxiety. The human body was designed to be in frequent motion, not to sit all day. So go, get a drink of water, walk some stairs, or take a little walk outside whenever you get the opportunity. You'll be amazed by what physical activity will do for your mental state.

Lastly, take some time for yourself. Every night, take a little time out of your schedule for yourself. Whether it is reading a book, writing in a diary or journal, taking a walk outside, or doing anything else you enjoy, just do it. Getting a little dose of genuine joy or peace in your day is key to being a happy and well-balanced person.

With these few lifestyle guidelines in mind, don't let depression and anxiety destroy your quality of life. Everyone deserves to live a happy, fulfilled life without the need for prescription anti-anxiety and antidepressant drugs. If you need help, but do not want the common side effects of depression medication, I highly encourage you to take a look at this effective new product.

There's a lot to understand about Depression . We were able to provide you with some of the facts above, but there is still plenty more to write about in subsequent articles.

Depression - False Indentity

2006-01-30T12:11:00.000-08:00

Who is more prone to become affected by or suffer from psychological problems? the answer nearly everyone. Depression in the United States alone has left its mark on at least 17 million adults who have experienced a bout of clinical depression at some stage. Suffering from this disorder can interrupt any plans a person may have on leading a normal life. (Depending how serious the symptoms for each patient) depression affects us all in different ways some cases more severe than others.

Serious depression needs nurturing and this can be done with medical help What to expect if depression takes hold, well it can cause unbearable pain emotionally also expect your life to turn upside down if the depression escalates out of control. You are not on your own if you have been diagnosed with depression people around you feel your pain also therefore affected too.

Similar is bipolar disorder which is another form of depression. Bipolar was once named manic-depressive disorder, mood swings that came with bipolar differed in many ways, one being is the manic highs which were noted as a high risk factor for self inflicted harm to the patient.

Without doubt a patients thoughts and feelings change dramatically if in possession of this psychological condition. Depression has often been mistaken with the feeling of sadness or lethargic bouts; these common symptoms do not necessarily mean this is depression they relate more to every day stress.

Stress normally withers away after a few days but if you find you are still saddened and the fatigue factor still strong and there is no sign of these symptoms easing up then seek medical help as it could be the start of depression Unfortunately in some cases depression goes unnoticed and because of this approx two thirds of depressed patients are not receiving the right medication or treatment. Sadly this is an unfortunate predicament because with the right medical treatment approx 80% of depression sufferers will have found light at the end of the tunnel.

Depression has been known to take lives; patients struggle to adjust to their new found way of life living with a burden that some believe are with them till eternity, a similar feeling to having a Siamese twin attached till death do us part. Well now we have modern medicines in a modern world that can help you in your separation from depression which has driven you to take on a false identity where the laughing on the outside is overpowered by all the crying within.

Just like the Siamese twins medics have now proven that with the right medical treatment they can UN-attach the attached.

Talk to someone if you have reason for concern on your health or that of someone close and let those with the knowledge on depression help you in your quest to lead a normal life once again.

by Kacy Carr
About the Author

For help with anxiety or stress go to my health page to find help with your problems. http://www.benidormbeaches.com

Feeling Family Pressure at Holiday Time

2005-12-27T11:23:00.001-08:00

By Lisa Angelettie M.S.W.
BellaOnline's Depression Editor

There are people right now this very minute feeling a swell of anxiety growing inside their bodies. Its holiday time. And while there are many of us worried about shopping lists, or dealing with crowds, or perhaps just being motivated enough to get into the spirit for our kids etc. - there are others who are worried about having to deal with old family squabbles, new family members, or the always faithful-- family obligations.

So are you feeling pressure during this holiday season? Does this sound like you? And do you let the stress over having to deal with your dysfunctional family ruin your holidays? Are you anxious or depressed or worse yet - both?

Listen up folks - I have yet to meet one person who doesn't have a crazy aunt or uncle, or an overbearing parent, or a judgmental grandparent in their family. The issue seems to be not really the lunacy that they present - but what we are willing to accept, tolerate, or take on from them.

The key is not to avoid them every year, or to challenge them every year, or to even hope that they "finally change" this year. The key is to change the way you react to them.

1. Debaters. If there is a constant debater in your family and it drives you crazy - don't get involved in the discussion that he or she is starting. Walk away and find something else to do or someone else to talk to. If you are stuck at the table or in the conversation - then agree with everything. That will drive him/her crazy, because they only want you to agree after they have debated their point. Not before.

2. Critics. Critical family members especially look forward to the holidays to pick on the weak! Your first defense against any enemy is yourself. And that is what a person who is trying to tear down your character, your choices, or your life is - an enemy. Defend yourself. Firmly let that family member know that you are not the person to mess with this season. If you don't like confrontation - pull the person to the side. But you have to stand up for yourself - or they will use you for target practice every holiday.

3. Martyrs. This is all about the guilt that you yourself feel in regards to this person. If you allow a martyr to guilt you into doing things that you have no interest in doing, you are punishing yourself. Forgive yourself and move on. Let someone else in the family take Aunt Mary all the way home after dinner for once.

4. Toxic. There are some family members who are just all around miserable people. No one in the family really likes them but they are allowed to come around because simply they are part of the family. These type of people should be avoided during the holidays. You cannot "fix them" in one night or even in a couple of weeks. These people have complex multi-layered problems that they either inadvertently or purposefully take out on everyone around them - especially people that they love. Just like all those desserts at dinner - walk away!

5. Addicts. Doesn't every family have a gambler, alcoholic, drug addict, or sex addict? At least one - right? Addicts are either very comical during holidays or really painful to deal with and to watch. Try not to take on the burden of the addict. Addicts do need a support system, but only after they have made a decision to change. Its not your fault nor your shame to bear. If your addict is in really serious trouble it may be in the family's best interest to consider an intervention instead of an invitation to your holiday dinner.

If your family is made up of a high percentage of all these family types and there is no sane person to run to during holiday celebrations...then you may want to consider taking a break from them this year and sharing the holiday with your spouse's family or a friend's family. That will give you some time to get yourself mentally prepared for next years family follies!

Can A Pet Help You Defeat Depression?

2005-12-27T11:23:00.000-08:00

Kicking depression can be a life-long battle for many sufferers, and people are always looking for additional techniques and options to help defeat it. Well, surprisingly enough owning a pet - especially a dog or cat can help you defeat your depression once and for all.

There have been several academic studies that support the physical and mental health benefits of owning a pet. Owners moods have improved based on several factors.

Exercise

1. Ask any mental health professional, and they will tell you the benefits of an exercise regime for relieving depressive symptoms. When you own a pet like a dog, you have to walk the dog, bathe and brush the dog, go to the store for the dog's food and other care items. It gets you up and moving. Something that many depressed people do not do.

Affection

2. Giving your dog or cat affection such as stroking, hugging, brushing, rubbing etc. has been proven to help decrease stress in humans, therefore lowering blood pressure, and improving quality of life.

Unconditional Love

3. A pet offers its owner unconditional love and affection. Pets simply want to be want to be loved and cared for and desperately want your companionship. This type of love without strings is very calming, relaxing, and pleasurable for most people - especially people who are depressed.

Loneliness

4. The presence of a pet helps depressed people who are suffering from loneliness, whether they are actually physically alone in the world or whether they have created a self-imposed lonely world for themselves. A pet is there giving love, sitting by your side, and creating a presence in your home.

Routine

5. The routine of caring for a dog, walking a dog, buying food, etc. is something that helps people with depression. Many depressed people no longer have a positive routine - but are "stuck" in their lives with mundane tasks, work, or perhaps do nothing at all. Being a responsible pet owner creates routine -- enabling someone who is depressed to get out into life.

So now that you have been convinced-- what now?

Well, it doesn't really make sense to buy pure breeds for hundreds of dollars unless you are planning to breed them - the perfect companion dogs and cats are ones up for adoption that are hungry for homes.

Try going to the The North Shore Animal League of America for information on how to adopt the right pet for you in your area.

Recommended resources:

The Complete Idiot's Guide To Choosing A Pet

Lisa Angelettie is an author, counselor, & coach on mental health, relationship, and other life issues for women. You can also visit her at www.GirlShrink.com for some Free Advice. Please visit us for more discussion on this topic in the depression forum to talk about it further. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for topics in the news, new articles, website & book reviews, and other useful mental health resources. Subscribe below.

Reclaiming Your Life From Anxiety Symptoms

2005-11-16T10:48:00.000-08:00

somebody who has lived with anxiety – as either a sufferer or a carer – knows how devastating it can be. The affect can be seen and felt across every aspect of your life for years and years.

So how does anxiety make you withdraw from life?

Basically, people with anxiety live their lives defensively, at a level where they are merely ‘coping’ instead of ‘embracing’. They are life’s ‘passengers’, passive in their emotional and physical relationship with the world around them - rather than ‘activists’ who engage with their surroundings and interact with people.

Now I want to share something with you that will probably – hopefully! – shock you.

Have you ever sat down with pen and paper and worked out how much time you spend feeling anxious every day of your life? An hour? Two? Four? Ten?!

If you spend even a single hour a day in anxious mode, that equates to 30 hours a month – that’s two ‘waking’ days every month where you could be playing with the kids, training for a marathon run, taking up a hobby, visiting old friends… LIVING your life. Instead, you’re wasting that valuable time on your anxiety.

At it’s worst, I know my anxiety had reached the point where it took over 90% of my waking thoughts. It left me totally exhausted.

Looking back, I now know that by allowing this anxiety to have such a huge stake in my life took real commitment on my behalf!

So, I took control and by doing so, I was rewarded with all this extra time… and all this additional energy with which to fill the hours in a positive way! What a bonus!

I cannot tell you the sense of relief and liberation this sparked in me. And the most wonderful thing is, just as anxiety is a downward spiral that sees you withdraw from life, so this liberation is an uplifting cycle which grows and grows. Once you begin, you can’t contain it!

I know that if I hadn't taken control and eliminated my anxiety for good, I’d still be on that downward spiral… getting ever more sucked into the anxiety abyss where your every waking moment is dominated by fear.

So, don’t be afraid of the fear, the unknown. Instead, look forward to all the wonderful possibilities that YOUR life has yet to put your way!

Looking at my family, I’m so glad I faced up to my own fear. The answer is never in retreating from life… it’s everything to do with defeating anxiety.

Charles Linden specialises in the treatment of anxiety symptoms. Learn how to cure yourself of Anxiety quickly, permanently and get Free access to a valuable interview done with Charles by the BBC visit: http://beatanxiety.amazon-4u.com

Turn Depression Into Joy

2005-11-10T10:48:00.000-08:00

Depression is the most prevalent disease of our time. Under the guise of informing the public, both the medical profession and the media are constantly "warning" us of the dangers and probabilities of the disease most likely to terminate us. News about a lack of sufficient influenza vaccine is enough to get our collective blood pressure soaring.

Bad news is chronic and it affects us all. Do I have a magic pill that will make all the bad go away? No. But, there are ways to help us stay out of depression.

Live One Day At a Time

The Bible admonishes us to live each day to the fullest as there's enough evil in one day to handle! Don't look back on past hurts, nor fret about tomorrow. Live today as if it is the only day you have. Make each day so full of the present that yesterday and its problems are completely shut out and tomorrow is unattainable! Choose to focus all your thoughts and energy on what is at hand, and do everything to the best of your ability.

Watch Your Tongue!

The power of life and death are in the tongue. Words can both bless and curse. Negative words can evoke great fear and anxiety. The mind paints a picture of every word we hear or see. Although words are not tangible, they have the power to bring about physical matter! The earth was created by the Word of God's Power! Negative words always produce negative impulses, whether minute or major. Conversely, positive words make you feel good. A mere smile and a happy: "Have a great day!" instantly exude warmth. So, be careful of what you allow to sink deeply into your subconscious.

Happiness Is a Choice

We can choose to dwell on bad news and perpetuate it by speaking about it, or to swiftly replace our thoughts and words with constructive ones. Whenever we hear good music, our feet start tapping, we’re humming the melody, and pretty soon we're happy. Our thoughts respond to what we feed the mind through our senses. Therefore, we CAN choose to be happy! Start practicing to switch off the minuses in your life and concentrate on the pluses.

Gratitude; the Antidote

Thankfulness is one of the greatest virtues. If you divided a page in two and wrote all your setbacks on one side and all the blessings on the other, you would find that your blessings far outnumber the negatives. The Bible says to give thanks with a grateful heart for all things.

God Is In Control!

Start each day by thanking God, your creator and loving father. He knew you before you were born and knows your end. Spend time in the Word, especially the Psalms. You will receive a new refreshing, empowerment and warmth.

Some Practical Recommendations

1) Get lots of sunshine. Melatonin, a hormone produced only in the dark, lowers the body temperature and makes you feel sluggish.

2) Keep busy. Taking frequent strolls, playing sports, or volunteering help chase the blues away.

3) Pamper yourself every now and then. Choose a day to just have fun, doing what you like most.

4) Eat nutritiously. Sugar, caffeine, and alcohol will eventually cause anxiety, tension, and internal problems.

5) Socialize. Hang out with people who are up-beat and give moral support.

Life is great. Let's choose to be happy!

Ann Stewart is an author. With Wings As Eagles was birthed to help motivate and inspire those who are facing tough decisions and trials in their lives. This autobiography shares how she learned to be an overcomer and how you can, as well. http://www.as-the-eagle.com

When Someone You Know Has To Deal With Depression, Anxiety And Fear

2005-11-09T10:49:00.000-08:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Stan Popovich

Depression Can Break Your Heart

2005-10-30T11:13:00.000-08:00

Research over the past two decades has shown that
depression and heart disease are common companions and
what is worse, each can lead to the other. It appears now that
depression is an important risk factor for heart disease along
with high blood cholesterol and high blood pressure. In a
study conducted in Baltimore, it was found that of 1,551
people who were free of heart disease those who were
depressed were four times more likely to have a heart attack
in the next 14 years than those who were not. Researchers in
Montreal found that heart patients who were depressed were
four times as likely to die in the next six months as those
who were not depressed.

Depression may make it harder to take the
medications needed and to carry out the treatment for heart
disease. Depression may also result in chronically elevated
levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline,
and the activation of the sympathetic nervous system (part of
the "fight or flight" response) which can have deleterious
effects on the heart.

The first studies of heart disease and depression showed that
people with heart disease were more depressed than healthy
people. While about one in six people have an episode of
major depression, the number goes to one in two for people
with heart disease. Furthermore, other researchers have found
that most heart patients are not treated for depression.
Doctors tend to miss the diagnosis of depression and even
when they treat it they often treat it with sedatives which may
make the depression worse.

The public health impact of depression and heart
disease, both separately and together, is enormous.
Depression is the estimated leading cause of disability
worldwide, and heart disease is by far the leading cause of
death in the United States. Approximately one in three of
Americans will die of some form of heart disease.

Studies indicate that depression can appear after heart
disease and/or heart disease surgery. In one investigation,
nearly half of the patients studied one week after
cardiopulmonary bypass surgery experienced serious cognitive
problems, which may contribute to clinical depression in some
patients.

There are also multiple studies indicating that heart disease
can follow depression. Psychological distress may cause rapid
heartbeat, high blood pressure, and faster blood clotting. It
can also lead to elevated insulin and cholesterol levels. These
risk factors, with obesity, form a constellation of symptoms
and often serve as a predictor of and a response to heart
disease. Depressed individuals may feel slowed down and still
have high levels of stress hormones. This can increase the
work of the heart. When patients are caught in a fight or flight
reaction, the body's metabolism is diverted away from the
type of tissue repair needed in heart disease.

Regardless of cause, the combination of depression and heart
disease is associated with increased sickness and death
making effective treatment of depression imperative.
Pharmacological and cognitive-behavioral therapy treatments
for depression are relatively well developed and play an
important role in reducing the adverse impact of depression.
With the advent of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
to treat depression, more medically ill patients can be treated
without the complicating cardiovascular side effects of the
previous drugs available. Ongoing research is investigating
whether these treatments also reduce the associated risk of a
second heart attack. Furthermore, preventive interventions
based on cognitive-behavior theories of depression also merit
attention as approaches for avoiding adverse outcomes
associated with both disorders. These interventions may help
promote adherence and behavior change that may increase
the impact of available pharmacological and behavioral
approaches to both diseases.

Exercise is another potential pathway to reducing both
depression and heart disease. Exercise is related to fewer
depressive symptoms in observational studies and appears to
be as efficacious as psychotherapy in patients with mild
depression. Exercise, of course, is a major protective factor
against heart disease as well.

The NIMH and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
are invested in uncovering the complicated relationship
between depression and heart disease. They support research
on the basic mechanisms and processes linking co-morbid
mental and medical disorders to identify potent, modifiable
risk factors and protective processes amenable to medical and
behavioral interventions that will reduce the adverse outcomes

Source: National Institute of Mental Health

THE THREE R's: Remembering the Best, Restoring Yourself and Rapture - Part - 1

2005-10-29T11:28:00.000-07:00

THE THREE R's: Remembering the Best, Restoring Yourself and Rapture - Part - 1
In today's world there are so many wonderful and inspirational books. There are books filled with stories of Divine intervention, miracles happening, special positive moments never to be forgotten and incredible coincidences. They help make us feel in harmony with the universe. They help us fall asleep and have pleasant dreams. They often bring tears to our eyes, reinforcing an inner sense of wisdom that all is right with the world even when appearances say that is not so.

But there is one thing often missing from these books. It is the mental and emotional perspiration that we need to go through as we struggle to live a life of meaning and joy. The inspiration is there, but it's the perspiration that most of us need to put into our daily lives to create for ourselves lives of enchantment. Because enchantment for most of us, i.e. living a life of joy, a life that reflects many states of well being and has meaning and purpose, is hard work.

And none of us know that better than our jewels over Fifty! We have been through the mill of life. We know ups and downs, losses and gains, big moments and tedious moments. We have gone through getting to know our bodies and sometimes wishing parts of our bodies worked better or even could last the journey! We have relocated, packed and unpacked, said goodbyes when we didn't want to and hellos that were delicious. We are adventurers and survivors! We are polished and gleam like the most priceless gem and yet we still are forming as we experience the act of living.

Certainly we yearn for moments when the right thing happens at exactly the right time and the world opens up for us, whether it's a lucky break, meeting the right life partner or winning the lottery. And we all need at least some of those moments. But life, in reality, is filled with hundreds and thousands and probably millions of minutes that are repetitive, boring or simply ordinary. They involve getting up, brushing our teeth, driving to work safely, keeping a job, raising children, fighting off a cold, etc. It is all these times and even the easy moments of elation that that THE ENCHANTED SELF gives us tools to better handle.

After all, any moment can be mundane, depressing, dull or captivating, enlivening and filled with joy if we know how to 'adjust' it.

What is the difference? The difference is usually the perspiration. I mean the mental and emotional perspiration that is involved in what I call the three R's of enchantment. Let's look at the first of the three R's.

The first is REMEMBERING THE BEST AND LETTING GO OF THE REST. This is a critical component to general well being and a sense of happiness on a daily basis. Most of us have sustained loss and experienced pain. Yes, we've been hurt. We've been short-changed by opportunities or other people. Sometimes we've been stepped upon, left or forgotten.

If we spend our daily life focusing on these disappointments then we cannot release the positive energies we need to make the most of the present moment and to plan for the future. Grudges, negative thinking, disappointments and not forgiving all get in the way of what can be done with the present. We need our psyche energies to seize opportunities we can take advantage of. This can't happen if our energies are used up ruminating.

Besides, there is beauty in our own story, and most, if not all, disappointments we've experienced have strengthened us. Often, we have even developed talents in coping with hard times that can reemerge in ways to enhance pleasure and/or help us be of service to the world. For example, the child that was neglected or yelled at has an opportunity to be particularly kind to others as he or she gets older, maybe to teach others certain parenting skills having known first hand how it feels on the other side.

I hope you'll take some time this week to think about yourself and what talents or coping skills you may have developed during your life. It may be these very skills that you can use to make your life even more successful and joyful. You may enjoy going back to a particular year or review your life in a more general fashion. You can find these talents and wonderful coping skills in good times and in stressful times. Please choose where you are comfortable in reviewing your history. If you choose a stressful period of your life, give yourself permission to not focus on the feelings that surrounded that time, but just on your accomplishments, successes, strengths, coping skills or even potential within you that existed then, even if you had to suppress it

I would suggest listing your earlier talents and/or coping skills on paper and pondering them. Within them lies precious information that may be valuable as you regenerate yourself again and again.

By Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein

How to Put an End to Depression

2005-10-27T11:02:00.000-07:00

How to Put an End to Depression

Depression can have many, many faces. If you are not aware of your feelings and emotions on a daily basis then it can creep up on you and cause misery in your life when you least expect it.

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 sadness. It could cause life-long consequences that could ruin your self-esteem, your health, and your well-being.

Here are some excellent tips for conquering depression and to help you get the most enjoyment out of your daily activities.

1. Be Certain of Your Future Goals

If you have no goals then the future will seem uncertain. This will create anxiety and just add to the problem. Having goals gives you something to look forward to in life. They drive us on and create a desire for life. Keep your focus on your goals.

2. Keep a Journal.

Every day, write down your deepest feelings. Say what you want to say. Get it out of your head and onto paper. Don't hold back. This is a very therapeutic way to pull yourself back up. Keep writing down whatever comes into your mind and very soon you will feel your mood start to improve. Done properly, this method can create dramatic changes in emotion.

3. 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 go outdoors 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.

4. Keep Busy. Get Inspired About Something.

It's a fact that people are happiest when they are producing something. Do some activity that you have always wanted to do. Live a life full of inspired activities.

What is it that you really love to do? What are you passionate about?. Taking a nice walk in the park, playing sports, reading books, or listening to some soothing music.

5. Make Some Time For Yourself.

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.

6. Eat Healthy and Exercise Regularly.

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 drink alcohol to "forget their problems." It never works. The ONLY way to handle problems is to confront them. Describe your problems in your journal fully. If you really face them the right solution might appear.

Exercising regularly is a vital depression buster.

7. Increase Your Social Life.

Your friends are there to give you moral support. Spending time and engaging in worthwhile activities with your friends could give you a very satisfying feeling. Nothing feels better than having group support.

Get intimate. Establish close ties with your family and friends. The love you get from others is very satisfying. In times of depression having stable influences around you is comforting.

Really take control of your own life. Follow these tips. Come up with your own solutions. You really CAN do it!

Phil de Fontenay has been counselling people in all aspects of life for over 15 years. He has helped many people take back control of their lives. He firmly believes that ANYONE can get better. Find out more about depression at http://www.BuildaBetterYou.com/depression

Natural Cures for Depression

2005-10-26T10:31:00.000-07:00

Most people suffering from bouts of depression, anxiety and general mood disorders that greatly affect their quality of life don't even know that they have non-prescription options to treat their depression effectively.

Instead, most people will either "bite the bullet" through the rough times, or they will seek the advice of a professional such as a phychiatrist or psychologist, and perhaps go through counseling, or be put on a prescription antidepressant such as Zoloft or Prozac. Did you know that antidepressants are currently the third leading classification of prescription drugs by overall revenue and profitability?

This tells us one thing for sure. Depression is very widespread, very common, and perhaps even overprescribed, some critics might say.

The news about some very popular prescribed medicines for clinical depression is alarming, to say the least. Side effects ranging from nervousness to nausea and sexual dysfunction or low libido are just a few.

This fact has lead many people suffering from this sometimes crippling mental health condition to consider alternative cures for depression - they are going natural. This is not to say the natural way to remedy the symptoms of depression is for everyone.

There are a lot of people who can still benefit from prescription meds, and never have any problems. Not only that, many people also benefit from the therapy that goes with the prescription, ie the talking through of their problems, their perception of their mental condition and so on and so forth.

However, there are a great deal out there who also can benefit from treating their depression with a natural cure. People who usually benefit the greatest are not the ones who may normally be diagnosed with having "chronic" clinical depression.

They are the people who have the occasional bout of the blues, and feelings of helplessness coupled with anxiety. If that's you, you would most likely be an excellent candidate for natural depression treatment.

What is Depression? How is it Defined?

Depression is usually defined as a psychiatric disorder characterized by an inability to concentrate, insomnia, loss of appetite, feelings of extreme sadness, guilt, helplessness and hopelessness, and thoughts of death as a final means of peace and tranquility. While most people do suffer occasional down time, some people are more prone to feel this way consistently, and they are the ones who should seek professional help.

For the others, a natural way can be the best choice for the best results in fighting depression and regaining a sense of joy and peace.
EzineArticles Expert Author Danna Schneider

For more information on natural depression remedies you can see Natural Mood Enhancers and Depression Remedies. Danna Schneider is the webmaster of Herbal-Therapeutics.com, focused on finding alternative means to achieving optimum health and solving health problems naturally.

Take Control of Your Depression: Advice for Teens

2005-10-21T13:26:00.000-07:00

Summary:

This article explains depression to teens and what they can do to alleviate the symptoms.

Growing up is emotional, no doubt about it, but sometimes it seems like you have been thrown into a river of troubles and are unable to stay afloat. Either because of something that has happened (family problems, school stress, a breakup), or for seemingly no reason at all, you are irritable, feel exhausted or can't sleep, either find yourself unable to stomach food (or, alternatively, to stop shoving it into your mouth), and are prone to tears. At really low points, you feel like life is empty, that you have little value as a human being. Many people associate these symptoms with growing up and argue that many teens go through such a "phase." But this may not be a phase, and, at any rate, should not be ignored. If you are experiencing these symptoms, some or all, it may be that you have depression.

Psychologyinfo.com states that 4 out of 100 teenagers suffer from depression every year. The causes of depression are jointly caused by psychological factors and chemical imbalances in the brain. Some forms of depression are hereditary, meaning that if your parents (or grandparents, aunts, or uncles) have ever exhibited symptoms of depression, it might mean that you are also prone to the disease. Even if you have no history of depression in your family, traumatic events like the death of a loved one can often make a person depressed. If you feel you may be suffering from depression, there are courses of action you can take to alleviate the symptoms and to find a road to recovery.

Psychological treatment, or psychotherapy, helps in some cases. By talking to someone about your problems, you can begin to change your outlook--negative feelings can be turned into positive ones. It can also help you cope with your problems and decide which problems are the big ones, and which ones aren't problems at all.

The big trend today is to supply medications for everyone who has even slight symptoms of depression. This is, of course, something that only you can decide is right for you. Medications affect people in different ways, and in some cases may make the situation worse. If you feel uneasy about taking a medication, or if you are taking one and it doesn't make you feel "right," then talk to your doctor about alternative methods of fighting the symptoms.

Some people like to try a more natural treatment for depression--one that is cheaper than psychotherapy and doesn't have any of the possible side-affects of a drug. This third course of action requires diligence on the part of the depressed person--something that is often difficult because lack of motivation is also part of the disease--but which can produce results that make you feel "normal" again.

An exercise regime is a must. People who work out regularly are less susceptible to feelings of depression. Exercise makes you feel good, on the short term and on the long term, and it will help you to get your eating and sleeping patterns back in order. Eating right is also important--too much sugar and caffeine can affect the way you feel. It's tough to eat right when junk food is so readily accessible, but once you get used to the change you won't even want it.

Written by: Dorothy Edison

Handling Severe Depression

2005-10-20T11:34:00.000-07:00

When you find yourself at the very end of your rope; when depression is eating you alive; that's when it's time to reach for any option available to you.
As long as I live, I'll never forget the feeling of my mouth wrapped around the cold blue steel of the 6 ½ in. barrel of my Ruger Blackhawk .

357 single action revolver.

I was so close to pulling the trigger. And nobody ever knew.

It seemed like I could turn on the 'manic' phase at will - and be as friendly and outgoing and talkative as the situation required. But as soon as I was alone again, I'd start sinking down, down, down.

Those days are long gone - and I doubt they're ever coming back. I've found too many tools I can use to feel better. (Mostly because I learned the value of embracing and releasing my emotions!)But what do you do - when the argument to kill yourself becomes too strong? ...and a little too logical?"Hey - I gave it my best shot. I tried. God knows I tried. But I failed. This pain will never end. C'mon Mark - you know that. Nothing could be worse than these feelings. You know you'll be doing the world a favor. Go ahead. Get it over with. Do it now..."

You hear that stuff in your head and you start believing it.

When you're in that place of total despair - your options become quite limited.

One option involves taking antidepressants. And under those circumstances - who could blame you?In my opinion, this may perhaps be the only real situation where taking a depression medication truly qualifies as an appropriate response. Especially if you can't do the second option.

The second option involves understanding the many different emotional levels, and "working your way up the ladder". Climbing up from where you are now, to a different emotional state that feels better.

All emotions exists on a scale, from the most positively expansive down to the most negatively constrictive.

Most of the time, we feel stuck on whatever level we're at - especially when we're on the lower end of the scale.

True depression - along with the thoughts and feelings it generates - lies at the very bottom of this scale. Nothing is worse than severe depression. It's the lowest level of all possible emotional states.

See, when you're truly crushed by depression - you're not likely to just snap out of it and feel wonderful. At best, you'll usually fake it for a short time by going into manic behavior, and then end up right where you started from.

But if you can correctly identify where you're at right now - emotionally speaking - then you have a starting point with which to work. And once you have a starting point, then you can reach and stretch for the best possible thoughts and feelings available to you.

Loneliness is one step up from the crushing weight of depression. When you've reached the total despair of hopelessness and depression - even feeling painfully lonely is a step in the right direction.

Beyond that lies hate and rage. Being consumed with hate is two steps up from depression. Much better to feel hate than to feel depression.

Am I telling you to feel hate?

Yes, if you're currently lonely or depressed, definitely reach for your hate. Not to stay there, but as one step on the emotional ladder.

There's a lot of passion in hate.

If you're not lonely, depressed, hopeless, empty or hollow - then don't go for hate!The goal is to always reach for a better feeling state.

It starts with knowing where you're at right now. It starts with awareness of what you're thinking and feeling.

If you will take a sheet of paper and write out all your thoughts -and then take another sheet and write down all your feelings -...you will begin to find your hope. And a tiny bit of your power.

"Going through" your emotions strengthens you. And one way to start going through your emotions is to write them down.

Go through your emotions. You could imagine yourself walking through a minefield or a battlefield, if that's what it takes. Embrace your emotions by walking into them. Release your emotions by walking out the other side. That's one way to embrace and release your emotions.

Anytime you embrace and release your thoughts and feelings - you'll find yourself a tiny bit stronger.

If you're depressed - write it out. Then FEEL what you've written. Then you can reach for loneliness.

If you're lonely, do the same with those thoughts and feelings, so you can reach for hate. Not to stay there, but as one step up the ladder.

(See the full list at http://www.emotional-times.com/blog.html)The key is to STOP AVOIDING those horrible feelings. Instead, go into them and out the other side.

That's how you climb the ladder and start feeling better.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mark Ivar Myhre, The Emotional Healing Wizard, offers unique cutting-edge emotional healing tips, techniques and secrets that teach you how to deal with depression, stress, anxiety, and much more.==> http://www.join-the-fun.com

Treating Depression Without Drugs

2005-10-19T11:51:00.000-07:00

Different Kinds Of Depression

I’m often asked if it’s possible to treat depression without having to take medications. The answer is YES….but there are many things to consider. The first is whether or not the depression is reactive or endogenous. Reactive depression happens after an upsetting event: the loss of a loved one, getting fired from a job, a bad breakup, etc. This type of depression is a natural reaction to a sad or traumatic event. It usually clears up after a time (it’s only worrisome if it’s been a long period of time and the depression hasn’t started to improve) and can be greatly helped with non-pharmaceutical treatments like exercise, nutrition, herbs, and therapy. However, in cases of severe loss that go beyond reasonable periods of grieving (if a person has lost someone close to them and a year has passed without any improvement) may benefit from a pharmaceutical intervention for a period of time to help reduce their level of dispair. In many cases of reactive depression, it’s important to remember that it’s normal to struggle emotionally after a major life event, and sometimes it’s best if the person can just allow themselves to feel sad for a little while and to take time to work it out and process what’s going on, instead of trying to cover it up and pretend like everything’s normal.

The second type of depression is called Endogenous depression. It is a depression that comes from within and may be a result of a chemical imbalance. Maybe you know someone whose life looks perfect from the outside yet, no matter what they do, they cannot get out of the dark hole of depression. This type of depression can also be helped with non-pharmaceutical alternatives, but in certain cases where everything has been tried to no effect, drugs may be a last resort.

Exercise

It has been shown that the consistent release of endorphins can have a significant impact on depression. Endorphins are chemicals that get released when one has been running for about 25 minutes, for example, or when we engage in any type of strenuous physical activity. We’ve all heard of the runners “high”. It’s the endorphins doing their thing. These endorphins can work wonders on a depressed person to give them a little chemical taste of well being. In this way, exercise can be extremely beneficial to all people who are depressed, whether they are slightly depressed or severely depressed. The problem—the real catch 22—is that it’s almost impossible to get a depressed person to exercise. Getting out of bed may be a challenge for them. If someone you know is suffering from depression, you could suggest that the two of you go for a walk, a jog, a swim, or a bike ride together. Anything to get the blood pumping will make the person feel better. It almost seems too simple, but in my experience, it is usually the most simple things that are the most effective.

Diet

Diet plays a critical role in ones mental health as well as physical health. It is essential to eat wholesome, natural foods that are organic whenever possible. The American Medical Association (AMA), came out in 2002 and stated that all Americans need to supplement their diet with vitamins and minerals. The soil that we’re growing our food supply on has been depleted of its vitamins and minerals and, as such, the food we eat isn’t providing us with all the nutrition we need for our physical and mental well-being. The only way to ensure that we’re getting adequate nutrition is to consume lots of whole grains and vegetables, and complement them with nutritional supplements. After 25 years of researching supplements, I have found a wonderful, complete nutritional product that is easy to take and extremely easy to digest. It is my opinion that maintaining good nutrition is the single best way to fight depression.

Herbs

Herbs are a good option for people who have mild to moderate depression and decide they’d prefer to avoid pharmaceuticals. St. Johns Wart is a good herb if it’s taken in tincture form. The down side of using herbs is that you must take them 3 times a day, consistently for at least 3-4 months. Always remember that herbs are not regulated by the FDA so the only way to insure that you’re getting the best quality herbs is to purchase quality brands. Don’t shop for discounts when it comes to herbs. For tinctures, I would recommend Herbalist & Alchemist, and Herb Pharm. And the company Traditional Medicinals makes very high quality herbal teas. When it doubt, it is always best to seek the help of a qualified herbalist or Naturopath.

ECT

Many people have questions about electro-convulsive therapy (ECT). It is frightening for most people to imagine, and it is certainly a very extreme measure to take. The truth is that it is not what most people have been lead to believe it is through television and movies. First off, the patient is not conscious while the procedure is being performed and experiences no pain. But it is also necessary to mention that ECT is only appropriate for a very, very small percentage of people who are depressed, and should only be considered after every other alternative (pharmaceuticals included) has been tried without success. For those few people who are candidates, the potential for improvement is considerable, It is essential to find an excellent practitioner, typically a psychiatrist, to perform this procedure.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is the psychological treatment of choice for depression. CBT helps to counteract the negative thought patterns that often accompany depression and replace them with more accurate beliefs. CBT teaches people how to reframe their negative thought patterns while giving them a new skill set for future challenges they might face.

Dr. Michelle Rabin is a clinical psychologist with 25 years experience treating depression.

For more information on depression or for more depression resources, visit http://www.depression-symptoms-treatment.com/tagt/depression-treatment-ax.html

DO YOU LOVE SOMEONE WHO SUFFERS FROM DEPRESSION?

2005-10-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

Relationships in which one individual is depressed are nine times more likely to divorce. Wow, the normal divorce rate is already over 60% nationally! But, it's not always a spouse who is depressed, sometimes it is a child or an extended family member. In this article, however, we'll be focusing on depressed partners. Most people agree that marriage should be 50/50. We all know this is an ideal, and, with the ebb-and-flow of marriage, the percentages slide up and down but should do so in both directions. For instance, one week the wife gives 70% and the husband 30% and another week the husband give 80% and the wife 20%. This is the way "ideal" marriages work. Unfortunately, this is not the case when chronic depression enters the marriage. Let's say that the husband has chronic depression. The wife may pick up many of the tasks that would customarily fall to the husband. Depending on how long this goes on, an avalanche of negative momentum begins. The longer this process goes on, the more the wife begins to feel resentful, hence, there is less compassion for the one struggling with depression. Yet, for the wife, it's like being a single mother while married. I've been told by many spouses that it would be easier to be a single parent than to live with a spouse struggling with depression, because it's like having a special-needs child in addition to all the other responsibilities. I do not make any of these remarks to assign blame or heighten anyones sense of being victimized. It's very important to understand that EVERYONE suffers when depression attacks a loved one. Blame only functions to create animosity and distance between two loved ones. Sometimes the spouse of a depressed partner becomes depressed as a result of living within a "depressed lifestyle" for too long. Depression is said to be contagious and can become a shroud over the spouse or family. It's also vital to consider that depression may not only be genetic, but it can also be taught. You heard me right. For instance, our children's most powerful classroom is the home. Both "Nature and Nurture" contribute to depression. Depression works its way into your moods, attitudes, behaviors, tone of voice, posture, life outlook, personal hygiene, work ethic, spiritual beliefs and so on. If you live in a "depression atmosphere" you are constantly modeling and teaching how to be depressed. I hope this serves as inspiration for change, not shame. Shame only feeds the power of depression. The first step in a plan of action is to know that it is actually depression that you're dealing with. I won't go into those details here. You can find those answers at the website listed in my biography below. Naming and accepting the problem is half the battle, for BOTH spouses. Why? Well, when folks are depressed, there is no obvious scientific evidence to prove it. And yet people have an instinctive need to what is causing such pain. The depressed person may project their negative feelings onto those closest to them, i.e. a spouse, a boss, the children, the neighbors etc. If you're married to a depressed person, at times you may question your own sanity. You might blame external sources for your spouse's suffering. Without understanding, you might attack your spouse, assuming they do not care or are lazy. What appears to be marital problems, may, in fact, be depression. But certainly marital problems can develop over time when depression goes untreated. Another important fact to point out is that men and women experience depression differently and each will respond differently when their spouse is depressed. This requires two separate articles just to begin to respectively cover gender issues involved in depression. Here's what to do. First and foremost, realize that depression is the foe, not your spouse. Developing a "we" instead of an "I" approach to depression treatment is vital. A good recovery motto might be best summed up from the cartoon, Bob the Builder: "Can WE do it? Yes WE can!" Do everything you can to learn about depression. Seek professional advice. If depression has been present for a long time, both the relationship and the depression will require attention. Have individual and marital recovery plans. It's the surest way to give depression the one-two punch that can knock it out of your lives. Write your recovery plans down and spend time reviewing, modifying and noting progress made. Once depression is stabilized, create a list of "red flag" symptoms. This serves as your safety net. If these symptoms recur it would indicate that prompt attention is required. Then list solutions you each are willing to act on if you notice symptoms reappearing. Commit to this in writing and each of you sign it. Create external support systems. Note that I did not say external griping sessions. There's a major difference between griping and purging. The former only feeds righteous resentment, and deepens the depression problem overall, and the latter helps clean you out. Support pillars can be comprised of friends, colleagues, churches, support groups and any place you decide is safe to disclose to. Do not hide your dirty laundry in the closet, so-to-speak. Depression loves to isolate individuals, marriages and entire families. It's one of the primary ways it grows strong. Do recovery activities together. Attend therapy or psychiatry sessions together. Participate in online counseling together. Read a depression recovery book together. Exercise together, pray together or keep a mood log together. If your children are at the appropriate age, educate them about chronic depression. There are good childrens books on chronic parent illness. Most importantly, develop the "WE!" It's you and your spouse against this powerful depression foe. Together you can do this! Best recovery wishes and always let me know if I can be of any help. Dave Turo-Shields, ACSW, LCSW is an author, university faculty member, success coach and veteran psychotherapist whose passion is guiding others to their own success in life. For weekly doses of the webs HOTTEST success tips, sign up for Dave's powerful "Feeling Great!" ezine at http://www.Overcoming-Depression.com

Do You Get Depressed?

2005-10-18T11:53:00.000-07:00

Do you get depressed easily?

If you do, why don’t you ask yourself, not *why* are you depressed, but *how* are you depressed.

Now, don’t look at me like I’m crazy. I just happen to think it’s interesting to know *how* a person gets depressed.

I would just like to know, if I were in your body, *how* would I get depressed.

What would I be seeing in my mind? Everything going wrong, no doubt?

What would I be saying to myself? That everything IS going wrong?

Would my shoulders be slumped, and would I speak in a low and dejected tone of voice?

Now, pretend you can see me. I’m seeing everything in my mind that’s going wrong in my life right now. I’m backing that up by what I’m saying to myself. Yep, everything IS wrong. I look very depressed, my posture is slumped, my eyes are down, my expression is terrible.

Yep. That’s depressing all right.

Then, I realize I am *very* depressed! What the heck am I doing? Watch as I stand up and shake it off. I put one foot a little ahead of the other, stand on the balls of my feet and bounce, I shake my arms and body to get rid of the depressing situation I had found myself in, I clench my fist and feel the power. Yes!!!

Hey, what happened here? Am I depressed? Not anymore. I am solution oriented!

Now, it’s time for you to do that, too. Realize what you are doing to yourself by sitting that way and thinking those thoughts. It’s time for you to make an intelligent decision. Time for you to do something - anything that isn’t sitting in that same posture and thinking those thoughts. Try the power stance mentioned above.

Depression is caused by many things, but you *enable* that depression by staying in a depressed posture, by seeing depressing things in your mind, and by saying depressing things to yourself in a way that KEEPS you depressed. Once you know that, you can change.

Once you change one thing, the rest tends to change too. Just for the heck of it, start by speeding up your tone of voice and raising the pitch. Already you’re not as *depressed* as you were, are you? Straighten up your posture, raise your head and look around, and put a smile on your face. Feel the difference? It may not change the situation, but it sure as heck changes your outlook. Sometimes, that’s all you need. Remember this and use it.

~~~~~~~~~

Save this article and show it to your friends. Be a friend, tell them to call you whenever they feel depressed and that the very act of calling will change their physiology - body language, which starts off other changes. Set some rules if you must. Tell them to just call up and say "Hi!" And to only tell you something good that has happened to them in the last week. This will get them to focus on good things.

This isn’t meant to be a cure all for depression that runs deep. That type of depression would probably need one on one professional help. But for most people, this is all they need. A friend and a direction to go. Continue to direct them to the good, and soon they’ll be able to find their own way.

Thank you for reading.

By Jan Tincher

Copyright © Jan Tincher - All Rights reserved http://www.tameyourbrain.com

Turn Depression into Joy

2005-09-21T09:57:00.000-07:00

Depression-My Story

2005-08-31T11:08:00.000-07:00

What is depression?

Depression is a serious medical illness; it’s not something that you have made up in your head. It’s more than just feeling "down in the dumps" or "blue" for a few days. It’s feeling "down" and "low" and "hopeless" for weeks at a time.

It is not something you can just pull yourself out of! It is not something that you can just shake off. To read more about the signs and symptoms of depression go to this link: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/depression.cfm#ptdep3

For many people one tiny thing can set off a huge depression attack. I have suffered from depression now for 8 years, I guess to be truthful I have dealt with depression my whole life but just didn’t realize it till the incident I am about to relate to you.

8 years ago my husband Brent was in the military, he had been having problems with his health for a little over a year and the doctors all said it was in his head and that they could find nothing wrong with him. Our oldest sons were only 1 ½ and 3 ½ at the time and we lived in Olympia Washington. I kept telling him to get a second opinion but being we had military insurance and at that time it wasn’t as flexible as it is now, he didn’t want to go get a second opinion. We lived in a nice apartment and I love our life, although I was homesick a lot of times it was the life we chose and so I was happy till the incident I will tell you about.

I woke up one morning your typical morning, get up to pack Brent’s lunch and wake him up for PT (physical training) it was 5:30 in the morning. He wasn’t in bed which for him was very unusual but I thought he may have just needed to use the bathroom and I missed him getting out of bed. I walked into the kitchen to start making our morning coffee, and realized that the TV was still on which it shouldn’t have been. I then started looking for Brent I went into the bathroom and found him in a coma on our bathroom floor.

I couldn’t get a response from him and I panicked. I got the boys up threw them in the car and then dragged my husband from our bathroom to our van to get him to the hospital as fast as I could. Now why didn’t I just call the ambulance? To be honest I didn’t think about that all I wanted to do was get him some help.

When we got to the hospital he was still in a coma, the doctors couldn’t figure out why he was non responsive. They pulled me and my sons out of the room he was in and told me to find someone to watch the boys and get back to the hospital as fast as I could and to call his family as they didn’t think he was going to make it.

I was thrown our perfect life, our safe life was in just a few short hours going to change. I can deal with some stress but the thought of losing my best friend was more than I could bare.

We didn’t have a cell phone at that time so I ran with the kids in both my arms to the payphone to call the only friend I had at that time to tell her what was going on, she was getting ready to move in 2 days but she told me to bring my kids to her house and she would watch them.

I then drove the 20 minutes back to our house dropped the kids off at her house ran home and called his parents. During that time I got a phone call from his captain that the doctor had called him to tell him to track me down as my husband was dying and they didn’t think he was going to pull through. I screamed I cried I just didn’t believe this was happening to us!

I got back in the car and smoked cigarettes to try to calm down, we had quit smoking a month before this, my friend had given me her cigarettes while I was at her house. I rushed into the emergency room and the doctor met me out in the hall way and was asking me all sorts of questions of course I didn’t want to take the time to answer I wanted to get back to my hubby, my world, my best friend. The Doctor told me that his sugar levels were 950 and that he really should have died sometime during the night but he was a fighter.

Finally he let me go into the room where Brent was and I leaned over him pleading with him to not leave me, pleading with him not to leave his sons. He opened his eyes and the only thing he said was “I am mad at you, you were smoking” then he went back into his coma. Of course the doctors then pushed me out of the way and started trying to get him to respond to them, they then told me they were taking him to ICU to work on him and get him on a heart catheter.

48 hours later he was awake and was responding to treatment, they had found out that he was a type 1 diabetic although they still don’t understand how he got it since no one in his family has diabetes and and Type 1 is not the kind you get because of your health or your weight you are usually born with it and diagnosed with it while you are still a kid.

After he was released from the hospital after a 7 day stay I lived in constant worry. I could not focus on anything except making sure he was ok, did he eat, did he take his medications. For weeks I could not sleep at night for fear he would have another attack, I still have times where I go through that now.

In an effort to try to calm my fears I started focusing on things in my life that I could control: my weight, the dirty carpets ( we rented so the carpets were very old and had always looked dirty but I was able to live with that till this happened.

I wouldn’t do the dishes, my poor kids were always dirty, the house was a total mess. I mean have you seen those houses that are on tv that Oprah has shown well at one point my house looked like that. I only focused on scrubbing the carpet. I would get up in the morning look at the kitchen try to clean it up and just couldn’t my attention would be drawn to the dirt spot in the carpet by the kitchen entrance. So I would go out to my cleaning closet get out my bucket and scrub brush and start scrubbing that spot. I would still be there scrubbing hours later when Brent came home for lunch.

My poor sons, I love my sons with all my heart but I will admit for the first month Brent was home from the hospital if it hadn’t been for my mom and my MIL they wouldn’t have been clean or fed. I looked at them and didn’t want to deal. When I was scrubbing the carpets I was zoned out to everything! I didn’t think, I didn’t care. This was so not like me!

Finally Brent knew that something was very wrong with me so he made an appointment for me to see a doctor and I was diagnosed with manic depression and OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder). They didn’t want to put me on medication right away they want to try to teach me other ways to focus my fears and obsession with out having to resort to medications. But after a month they realized I needed medicine to help me get through this time of my life.

I hate medicine, I don’t like taking it, I have a hard time remembering to finish the whole dosage. So for me it was a struggle in the beginning to just take the medication. After a few months the medicine helped me get my life back to where I was able to handle it again.

Why do I tell you all this, not sure really. I just know that for me it turned my life upside down over the past 8 years we have several times that I have had to call the EMS to save him, our world has changed. I live in the fear that we will have to go through this again.

When he has episodes I go into a state of worry, depression. I pray that our lives will get back to like they were 12 years ago. No worries living in our own little world where nothing hurts us.

I still go into states of depression but now I know the signs I know when I need to call my doctor and I also know now that for me I cannot pull myself out of it! I now can share with my friends when I am down and have made up a support line of other moms who know me and know that I suffer from depression, who I can call or email when I need that emotional support that sometimes a family member cannot give.

I started Support for Moms in an effort to help other moms who suffer from depression or need a place to go to voice their feelings.

I went through another major depression this past spring and when I reached out for help from an online board that I was at I got booted as a moderator after 3 years of being a moderator on the boards and helping other moms who dealt with depression. They told me it was not because I was depressed but since the day before I had just posted that I needed help, I needed to talk and I posted my soul something I rarely do online or for that matter in person to anyone who is not family. I had a hard time believing it was for any other reason. This made me start searching for a place to post to find someone else who I could talk to who was dealing with what I was dealing with.

So Support for Moms was born!

It is my wish that the site and the boards offer comfort, support for all moms from all walks of life dealing with situations that they have no control over.

So if you are in need of comfort, support or just want to vent and get life’s stresses off your chest please stop by our boards.

Thank you for reading my story and I hope this may help just one person.

Rebecca White http://www.supportformoms.com We proudly encourage interaction in our forums to meet other mothers with similar situations and to make life lasting bonds of genuine friendship. The forum is a comfortable, healing place where you can relate. Tips abound for saving time and money with coupons, rebates, organization and thirty minute dinner ideas. We freely give imaginative ideas guaranteed to keep your children occupied. Our goal is to continually provide the means mothers greatly need to restore their broken wings to make them stronger so they can carry their dreams to their full potential and we will watch them soar.

Great Resource For Coping With Anxiety

2005-08-25T12:43:00.000-07:00

I have decided to give a very short post today. I stumble on this site recently-http://www.healingwell.com/anxiety/. It contains resources on anxiety as a subject. Explore it...

5 Super Effective Tips To Kill Depression

2005-08-24T14:33:00.000-07:00

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.

Want more help with Depression? Read This Online Self Help EBook: "How to Manage and Conquer Depression"

By Kathy Burns-Millyard

When Your Mind Develops A Mind Of Its Own

2005-08-24T13:35:00.000-07:00

We've all been there… One minute your listening intently as your mother in law tells you for the tenth time about the people she met on her recent holiday… or to the boss as he delivers a presentation on improving productivity levels (yawn!)

One minute you're listening… the next you're planning the colour scheme of the new kitchen or what you're going to be eating for dinner tonight! Basically, your mind has wandered!

It's called 'stream of consciousness' and it happens to us all!

Our minds are designed to work like that, flowing from one thought to the next. It's the basis of intelligent human thought… of creativity… even of survival. Our brains have to react quickly to changing stimuli and they have to be thinking on many different levels at once.

Of course that doesn't mean we shouldn't try to pay attention and stick to the subject at hand! We should control our thought patterns sufficiently so we can learn, so we can live. We should be able to apply this control, this discipline, over our wandering minds.

But what about people who experience the kind of disturbing thought patterns where they see themselves hurting themselves? Or harming loved ones? Or acting totally out of character, for instance in a sexual way? Or behaving in an inappropriately violent or aggressive manner?

These people have NO CONTROL over their thoughts. They cannot help what they picture in their minds.

Sound familiar at all?

These people suffer from ANXIETY. They may not know it, but anxiety is the CAUSE of these disturbing thoughts. These clients invariably think they've become anxious as a result of having disturbing thoughts. That's NEVER the case.

Anxiety causes them. An anxious mind is constantly considering 'what if' scenarios and, together with a vivid imagination, this is what fuels these disturbing thoughts.

I've spoken with many people who have these thoughts. I myself experienced them during my anxiety so I know what I'm talking about!

People who experience disturbing thoughts become confused, scared and isolated. They worry that they'll act on these thoughts. So by limiting their experience of life, they believe they'll somehow control these thoughts and stop them in their tracks.

No. That's not going to happen.

The ONLY way to stop these thoughts is to stop the CAUSE of them – ANXIETY.

So many people experience disturbing thoughts. They think of jumping from high places… harming their loved ones… hurting themselves. They're controlled by fear because the thoughts can be so intense.

Others experience less distressing thoughts. They may find their minds obsessing over music. They may repeat words over and over… or count… or display irrational behavioural patterns. They lack control over their minds.

But however it manifests itself, these thoughts are simply another symptom of anxiety.

If you are experiencing the kind of thoughts which leave you distressed, the most important thing to remember is that you are not going to act on them! You are not a bad person! They have no control over you! Once you remove the cause of them - the anxiety - they'll just go away. It really is that simple!

I only wish it was as simple to keep my mind from wandering when I'm listening to my mother-in-law!

Charles Linden specialises in the treatment of anxiety symptoms. Learn how to cure yourself of Anxiety quickly, permanently and get Free access to a valuable interview done with Charles by the BBC visit: http://beatanxiety.amazon-4u.com

How to Uncover the Reason You Can't Sleep Tonight

2005-08-23T14:23:00.000-07:00

If you are like me ...you love your sleep!

Sleep deprivation has numerous positive but also negative effects. It may break our sleep neurons due to long times of sleeplessness causing malfunction. This will result in bad conduct or bad interaction or bad speech towards others.

Studies also illustrate that people deprived of sleep experience difficulties in thinking imaginative thoughts or terms. Also they suffer difficulties in delivering their declarations well. Without sleep, our brains grow weaker, and our actions and deeds will be affected.

Good sleep promotes regeneration of our system and maintains our good health and immune system function.

Physical and Other Dangers

Lack of sleep also poses dangers to ones body. As we have learned earlier, lack of sleep damages the brain and causes behavioral damages and because our brain controls the other functions in our body, sleep deprivation may also damage them.

It seems that people who lack sleep get sick more often. Also, sleep deprived persons are prone to accidents (particularly car accidents). I have found out in the internet that around 200,000 accidents are caused by sleeping drivers on their sleeping wheels.

The person who experiences sleep deprivation may also suffer financially. Because the brain (again) is affected, the person produces low-quality work. This may cause him to be kicked out of office or fired by his boss.

Sleep deprivation may also affect the person mentally. Studies shows that people who don’t get enough sleep experience difficulties in remembering things and expressing their thoughts creatively.

Researches also suggest that people who lack sleep seem to age quicker than those who get enough sleep.It seems lack of sleep affects you in many ways and you need to take action where you can rather than accept it just happens to everyone.

You could be suffering from depression or anxiety problem of some kind.

Think about events and stresses you have at present from young children crying to horrible work environments. Something is causing this and its not always one factor but can be many.

A proper bedtime routine

Every time before you go to sleep, you listen to your favorite classical tune. Then the day came when you have to go on a business trip and you forgot to bring the classical tape with you. Night comes and you simply could not get yourself to sleep without listening to that music first. That classical melody is the anchor. It signals your brain to prepare for dreamland.

Anchors could be a very powerful instrument to put you to sleep. Some people could not get to sleep without having a midnight snack. Having a light snack may have a sedative effect and is not bad at all. But eating too much before going to slumber may affect the quality of your sleep.

There are certain anchors that you do not want to be associated with sleep. Avoid watching TV in bed, because it can stimulate your senses. Do not make your bedroom an office, because you might associate your work with sleeping time. As a general rule, your bedroom is designed only for sleep.

Researchers prove that using an alarm clock to wake you up is not good. They say that alarm clocks used to wake people disrupt the sleep cycle and keeps the sleeper from having a complete, natural, and high quality sleep.The use of alarm clock also promotes sleep problems for the following days.

Don't take naps if you have sleep problems.Just go to bed when you feel tired.A nice warm shower can relieve stress and relax your system.

Couple that with low light and some soothing music, and you’ll feel much better when you go to sleep. You may even add some herbs like lavender, chamomile, or passion flower for a more pleasant experience.

Finally, just try and stand back and look at your present life circumstances and ask yourself are you content or feel stressed. Stress is bad for your body long term and you may have symptoms of depressive illness.

For more related information visit: http://www.DepressionSymptomsTreatment.com - a site that offers advice for avoiding, coping with depression. Get professional knowledge on dealing with symptoms, drug side effects and improving your life!

Anxiety and Depression - Why Depression Drugs May Not Be Necessary - Fight Depression Naturally

2005-08-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

Millions of people, especially in the United States, are currently suffering the symptoms of depression, and have even gone as far as taking prescription antidepressants that may have harmful side effects and dampen the quality of their life in other ways in the hopes it will just go away.

The fact is, many prescription antidepressant drugs do have undesirable side effects that really can affect other areas of your life, but they are looked at by many as "the lesser of two evils". It's better to not be depressed and anxious, even if you do suffer side effects such as headache, nausea, and decreased sexual function, right?

Wrong! There is a better way to manage stress, anxiety and depression - naturally and without man-made drugs or narcotics. This natural antidepressant remedy actually contains several pure botanicals, natural compounds and herbs that work in unison to balance mood, elevate our natural "antidepressant" chemicals in the brain, maintain even blood sugar levels (which believe it or not, has actually produced weight loss and belly fat loss in many who have taken it), and promote an overall sense of well being and peace.

This product is an excellent remedy for calming anxiety and depression. There are also lifestyle tips that will help you fight depression, anxiety and stress. Number one on that list is - you guessed it - moderate exercise. Now I don't mean you have to do aerobics until you drop, but a nice, steady flow of cardiovascular exercise like walking, jogging, biking, or another form of low impact exercise is an excellent way to manage these symptoms, while also promoting a healthy blood pressure level, a healthy heart, and bodily strength and endurance.

Yoga, forms of slow dance, tai chi, and other meditation-type exercise is also an excellent way to manage stress, anxiety and depression. These types of meditative exercises promote healthy bodily functions, a healthy state of mind, and mental focus, which are key factors in supporting a healthy sense of well being and peace.

If you have a desk job, make it a point to get up and walk around once every hour. Inactivity is one of the biggest perpetuators of depression and anxiety. The human body was designed to be in frequent motion, not to sit all day. So go, get a drink of water, walk some stairs, or take a little walk outside whenever you get the opportunity. You'll be amazed by what physical activity will do for your mental state.

Lastly, take some time for yourself. Every night, take a little time out of your schedule for yourself. Whether it is reading a book, writing in a diary or journal, taking a walk outside, or doing anything else you enjoy, just do it. Getting a little dose of genuine joy or peace in your day is key to being a happy and well-balanced person.

With these few lifestyle guidelines in mind, don't let depression and anxiety destroy your quality of life. Everyone deserves to live a happy, fulfilled life without the need for prescription anti-anxiety and antidepressant drugs. If you need help, but do not want the common side effects of depression medication, I highly encourage you to take a look at this effective new product.

Danna Schneider is the webmaster and founder of Herbal-Therapeutics.com, a nutraceutical information site focusing on the latest and most effective in natural life improvement and enhancement products. Visit her site at http://www.herbal-therapeutics.com/mood-enhancers.html

A Look at the Different Depression and Anxiety Medications

2005-08-13T12:41:00.000-07:00

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

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

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

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

SSRIs Brand name (chemical name)

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

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MOAIs)

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

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

MAOIs Brand name (chemical name)

Nardil (phenelzine), Parnate (tranylcypromine)

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

Tricyclics have been available longer than any other depression and anxiety medications. In 1958, the first tricyclic, imipramine (Tofranil), was released to help combat major depression, and physicians saw a 70% positive response within their patients. Previously the only treatments for severely depressed patients were amphetamines and electroshock therapy. TCAs increase the brain's supply of serotonin and norepinephrine, two of the brain's three neurotransmitters, but it also affects some of the brain's other nerve impulses as well, and this allows for more side effects.

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

TCAs Brand name (chemical name)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charles E. Donovan

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

Avoiding Depression

2005-08-12T11:54:00.000-07:00

Can you really avoid depression? Is there a way that you can get rid of this awful disease that seems to be taking over your life? For many, the only way to rid their bodies of depression is by taking medications and getting therapy. Both of these things are great ways to work through your depression, but is there a way in which you can avoid it altogether?

Depression is a mind disease. It is usually caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Sometimes, we refer to ourselves as being depressed when things go wrong. This is not the clinical form of depression, but both of these conditions can feel like the end of the world. The only way to avoid depression or really low times is to simply fight against it by surrounding yourself with good thoughts, experiences and people. Will it cure you of your depression? No, not technically. But, by surrounding yourself with a positive environment filled with positive energy, you may find that the effects that depression has on you is lessened.

Only your doctor can help you overcome depression. But, by placing positiveness within your life, you may be able to lessen the effects depression has. This is never a reason not to see your doctor though. If you would like more information regarding avoiding depression you can seek out the knowledge that is available throughout the internet.

Websites like www.avoiddepression.com can provide you with good ideas, inspirations, and ways to avoid depression. Although it is not a medical website, it is still a good source for more ideas.

By S. A. Baker

Ten Tips For Beating Depression

2005-08-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

I heard about a woman who was suffering from depression, so her concerned husband took her to a psychiatrist. The doctor listened to the couple talk about their relationship, and then he said, "The treatment I prescribe is really quite simple." With that, he went over to the man's wife, gathered her up in his arms, and gave her a big kiss. He then stepped back and looked at the woman's glowing face and broad smile. Turning to the woman's husband, he said, "See! That's all she needs to put new life back into her." Expressionless, the husband said, "If you say so, Doc, I can bring her in on Tuesdays and Thursdays."

Okay, that's not how to treat depression, but I have a few other suggestions that make more sense. As a result of trial and error, over the course of thirty years, I've found ten blues battling strategies that often help me. These are not quick fixes, and this list is not exhaustive. It is also not a "must do" list.

When you're depressed, the last thing you need is a list of expectations to live up to. Don't stress about forcing yourself to accomplish all these things. They're not items to be checked off a list each day. The only one that is crucial is number one. After that, you can experiment with the others as you feel able to.

1) Get the Facts and Get Help.

Web sites and books on depression abound. Find them and do some research. You need to know what you're dealing with. Learn all you can about depression, so you can make educated decisions about your own health, learn how others cope, and find what medical treatment is available. Many books have self tests to help you determine whether you are experiencing clinical depression or temporary sadness in reaction to an event. In addition to reading everything you can get your hands on, one of the most important things you can do for yourself is seek medical help right away. Depression is much too complicated for you to solve on your own. Clinical depression is a serious medical condition that is very complicated to treat. Often it is a physical problem that requires long term medication. In my own experience, it's taken years of medication, counseling, and practicing various self help methods to slowly emerge from it, and it's still a daily battle.

Many people suffer needlessly from depression because they won't consult a doctor. If you're waiting for God to heal you, consider this: God gives scientists intelligence, which they often use to create helpful medicines; and He gives doctors wisdom to treat illnesses. Wise doctors and modern medicines are gifts from God and vehicles through which He often heals. Doctors can help you determine whether what you feel is truly depression, or if you are just reacting normally to a sad life situation.

If you've experienced depression, you already know it is not an illness you can "snap out of," no matter what others may tell you. It's not something to be ashamed of either. Depression can be a serious physical illness caused by an imbalance of brain chemicals or other factors. Like any serious medical condition, depression needs to be treated. Without the proper treatment, none of my suggested coping strategies will do any good.

2) Get Focused.

Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness pervade the life of a depressed person. The opposite of depression is a hopeful attitude. Focusing on hope and developing a hopeful heart is a must. It can be accomplished in a couple ways. One way is to search the Bible for the numerous Scriptures that tell how God has helped those who felt hopeless. It's helpful to memorize verses like these: Hebrews 4:15 (For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin.); 2 Corinthians 4:8 & 9 (All-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.); Matthew 6:34 (Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.); Isaiah 41:10 (Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.); and John 14:27 (Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.).

The story of Job and the book of Psalms are the most worn pages in my Bible. While at my lowest, I've read and re-read them more times than I can count. My fridge and the mirrors in my house are covered with sticky notes reminding me of how God intervenes in the lives of His people.

Another way to focus on hope is by practicing positive self talk. This simply means telling yourself good things. I made a list for myself of positive affirmations like "God cares and understands my pain. God values me. God is giving me strength. I am made in God's image. I can choose my attitude. I choose not to put myself down. I'm a worthwhile person. I have a purpose. I enjoy life. I choose to be happy and I am competent." If you struggle with depression, I think you'll find it helpful to write down as many of these affirmations as you can think of and read them every day. Even if they're not currently true or you don't really believe them, it's okay. Say them to yourself anyway. Your mind will come to believe what you tell it, so tell it you are already the type of person you want to become. Be sure to remind yourself often that God is with you and He is pouring his strength on you. "Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance. ...For You are the God of my strength..." (Psalm 42:5 and 43:2 NKJV)

2 Corinthians 4:18 says we need to "fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." Focusing on positive, heavenly things rather than earthly things will keep the feelings of hopelessness at bay.

3) Get Friendly.

Fellowship with other people is a mood lifter. Being alone is the worst thing you can do when you're depressed. Unfortunately, it's usually the very thing I want most. Depression grows best in isolation. I find it very difficult to get out and socialize when I'm depressed, but if I push myself to do it, I'm almost always glad later. Some ideas for socializing include joining a club, taking a class, inviting someone to meet you for lunch, or visiting a nursing home to chat with the residents there. It especially helps me to be with friends who enjoy the same hobbies I do. Shopping, watching movies, and rubber stamping are some of the things I enjoy doing alone, but they're twice as much fun when I do them with friends.

4) Get Giggling.

I collect cartoons and funny newspaper columns. I visit humor web sites online, watch funny movies, and read funny books. Best of all is laughing with friends. One of the reasons I enjoy my grandson so much is because he makes me laugh. I can act goofy with him and let go of my inhibitions. We dance and sing and make up silly rhymes. I have photographs of us wearing funny glasses with big black mustaches. I laugh every time I look at those. Laughing affects brain chemicals. It releases endorphins, which make you feel good. Chocolate does the same thing, but a good laugh is less fattening.

A friend of mine, who had a very frustrating job, told me that one day she was inspired by someone who had a huge, bright smile. She decided to emulate that woman and smile at everyone she encountered. Right away, she realized that smiling was addictive. It seemed to make the time pass more quickly and she found herself less frustrated and more at peace. She told me, "It sounds corny, but it really works!"

Paul wrote, "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4 NKJV) I've heard that a person can act her way into feeling better. Act happy, act glad, and it helps you to feel happy and glad. Paul exhibited this truth in his own life. Acts 16 tells how Paul and Silas were attacked, beaten, locked in stocks, and thrown into solitary confinement. Yet, at midnight, what were they doing? Feeling sorry for themselves? Asking God, "Why?" Moaning and complaining like I do? No, they were singing! Sure they were suffering, but they knew they were children of God. Paul may have even been remembering his personal encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. (Acts 22:10) They were praising God because they had been rescued from their sins, filled by the Holy Spirit, and added to God's family. No jailer could take that away. That was worth being grateful for, no matter what else happened to them. Even if they were to be killed, it would only send them to heaven. So why should they fear? That's some awesome faith, isn't it?

5) Get Rhythm.

When I feel a case of the gloomies descending, that is not the time to play melancholy music. Positive upbeat tunes are in order -- the sort of music you might hear at a parade or a circus. Music gets your toes tapping and your blood flowing. It makes you want to sing. Singing and dancing sends a message to your brain that you're happy. Your brain is an actualizer. Whatever it "thinks" is true, it works to bring about. This is why positive thinking works. You tell yourself, "I'm happy" often enough and your brain accepts it as fact. It actualizes that truth, making it happen. I've found that when depression takes hold of me, I tend to ruminate on negative thoughts. Listening to good, Christian music with positive lyrics helps to pour good things into my brain and crowd those negative things out. There's a list of good things to ponder in the fourth chapter of Paul's letter to the Philippian church. It says to think about whatever is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, noble, right, or admirable. Philippians 4:8 says, "If anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things." Christian music helps me accomplish this.

6) Get Busy

We all need to feel like we're involved in something significant. We need to participate in something outside ourselves. You might consider volunteering at a local women's shelter or food pantry. I've enjoyed both and discovered that when I stay busy helping others and concentrating on their problems, I get a break from focusing on my own troubles. This is how HUGS and HOPE began. It started with a small effort to make a difference for one family and it grew. I've learned that joy boomerangs. When you give it away, it comes back to you. Helping others gives you the heart-warming satisfaction of knowing you are making a difference in the world. That will elevate your mood as well as your self esteem.

7) Get Physical

This is two-fold. Physical exercise is good for us, but physical contact is equally important. Our bodies need to move to be healthy, and going for a walk is the easiest exercise for me to do when I'm depressed. It doesn't require as much energy and motivation as other activities. Breathing the fresh air and looking at the beauty of nature can be helpful, and taking my dog along is even better. Just watching his ears flop as he bounces down the road in front of me often brings a smile to my face.

Exercise affects brain chemicals, and the healing touch of physical closeness does too. If you're depressed, hug somebody - anybody, everybody! A hug is good medicine. It reduces stress and tension and it boosts your immunity to illness. Hugs raise self esteem and lower blood pressure. They feel good and make people happy. And they're free! Hugs are the universal language that communicates love and acceptance. They're healthy for the "hugger" as well as the "hugee."

8) Get Quiet

I need to lean heavily on God's word and spend time with Him. When I pray, I talk things over with God. When I read the Bible and meditate on it, I hear Him speak to me and I contemplate what He says. I've found this to be one of the best anti-depressants there is. However, I need to add a word of caution here. Too much solitude can worsen depression. Isolating yourself and avoiding people can make depression grow. Don't use meditation time as an excuse to avoid human contact. Time with God is of the utmost importance, but balance between quiet time alone and time spent with others is essential.

9) Get Forgiveness – And Give it Too!

I've read that many psychiatrists agree that depression is guilt or anger turned inward. David is an example of someone whose guilt led to depression. After committing adultery, he wrote, "When I kept silent, my bones grew old through my groaning all the day long. For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; My vitality was turned into the drought of summer." (Psalm 32:3-4)

Sin makes you feel bad, but when you receive God's forgiveness, your guilt is removed; and often depression is removed too.

Depression can sometimes be caused from the need to forgive someone else or yourself (whomever is making you angry). Grudges cause feelings of frustration, which aggravate the hopeless feelings of depression. When we forgive, we let go of past hurts and give up bitterness. Then depression has no negativity on which to feed. If you free yourself from feelings of hate and open yourself up to feelings of love, you may feel as if the depression is physically lifting off your shoulders.

My friend Nance went through a difficult divorce, which left her bitter about the past, anxious about the future, and miserable in general. She harbored a lot of grudges and guilt, and she worried constantly. She felt the need to control everything in her life, yet she knew she couldn't. After attending a women's retreat, Nance realized what her negativity was doing to her.She released her worries, fears, anger, and resentments at the foot of the cross. Then she felt a renewal in her heart. She was happy and at peace.

When she was dying, Nance told me that the most difficult thing she'd ever had to do was forgive – both her ex-husband and herself -- for past mistakes. She said forgiving was even harder than dying!

Forgiveness isn't a simple one time event. It's a process that often takes time (sometimes years), but it's an important step to healing.

Jesus taught forgiveness when he said we'd be forgiven in the same way we forgive others, and when he told Peter we should forgive, not seven times, but seventy times seven. Of course, Jesus also lived forgiveness. While hanging on the cross, he looked at his torturers and said, "Father forgive them for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)

10) Get Thankful.
When I'm depressed, I need to make a conscious effort to count my blessings. An attitude of hopelessness and discontent has a hard time competing with an attitude of gratitude. 1 Thessalonians 5:28 says, "In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." It's important to remember that depression is not fatal and it doesn't last forever. You WILL survive! Remind yourself that this cloud of despair will pass eventually. It may seem like there's no light at the end of the tunnel, but trust that there is; and be thankful for that, as you wait for the light to appear.

So, while kisses from your husband (or a psychiatrist) may be great, they can't cure depression. But along with medication and the proper treatment, now you have some practical steps you can take for your own well being. There are times when one of these strategies may be more helpful than the rest. Other times, it may seem that none of them makes a huge difference. But I keep practicing all of them anyway, because I know they are steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Following them on a regular basis may not eliminate depression forever, but they help me to minimize their severity.

These tips can be helpful for people who are not depressed too. They can be useful for anyone who is a little discouraged, a little blue, or needs to refocus on more positive things in life.

I hope that by trying these ideas you may find yourself on the way to experiencing more joy.

******************

Author Marsha Jordan is founder of a nonprofit charity called Hugs and Hope for Sick Children (http://www.hugsandhope.org). More of her articles on depression are in her book, Hugs, Hope, and Peanut Butter, a compilation of essays illustrated with drawings by critically ill children. A wonderful mix of the serious and the zany, this book warms the heart and lifts the spirit. PROCEEDS BENEFIT SICK KIDS! This book was written to encourage anyone who faces disappointment -- which is EVERYone! Some essays in the book include "What Did I Do To Deserve This?" "What Was God Thinking?" and "More Than I Can Handle." Order the book or learn more at http://www.hugsandhope.org/book.htm

How To Help A Stressed Or Depressed Loved One

2005-08-09T11:48:00.000-07:00

Having lived with a depressed partner for 3 years and suffered anxiety and depression for 5 years, I've experienced both sides. In this article, I'll show you exactly what you can do - and, what you shouldn't do - to help your loved one.

1. Please, however frustrated you feel, please never say to a depressed or stressed person: "Come on, snap out of it. What have you got to be worried or sad about anyway. People have it much worse than you." Please understand that these illnesses cannot be "snapped out of." You wouldn't say this to someone with high blood pressure or pneumonia because you know it isn't that simple. Stress, depression and anxiety are real illnesses that have specific causes. Asking someone to snap out of it makes that person feel inadequate or that they're doing something wrong. Absolutely not so. Comparing their circumstances to people who are suffering greater hardship is no use either. I couldn't have given two hoots about other people when I was ill because their circumstances meant nothing to me. I was struggling to solve my own problems and couldn't see anything else. Knowing that others are starving, are terminally ill, or suffer in squalor didn't matter a jot because they didn't make my problems go away. One more thing about such statements: they confront the sufferer with their illness and they put pressure on them. This will cause sufferers to retreat further and further into their own world. Better is to offer love and support: "I'm always here if you need me or want to talk." And 3 little words can mean so much: "I love you." I didn't hear them for 3 years and believe me, I missed them so very much.

2. As a loved one, it is totally natural to want to understand what is happening. Many loved ones conduct research into these illnesses to develop understanding. Nothing wrong with that whatsoever. However, a problem can arise if you start to impose your knowledge on the sufferer. This happens when you observe certain behaviors and habits performed by sufferers and comment on why they are behaving in such a way. For example, you hear a sufferer put themselves down, so you say "That's a part of your illness. I've been reading about it and self-deprecation is one of the reasons why people become depressed. You need to stop putting yourself down." Again, this is confrontational and puts the sufferer under pressure. All they'll do is dismiss your comments and clam up whenever you're around as they'll feel they're being scrutinised. A better way is to challenge them very gently by reminding them of a time when they did something good. For example, you hear a sufferer say: "I'm useless, I never get anything right." You can say "Sure you do, hey, remember the time when you...". Do you see the difference in approach? The first is more like a doctor assessing a patient, the second is just a normal, natural conversation and doesn't mention stress, depression or anxiety. This is very, very helpful as it shifts focus from a bad event: "I'm useless..." to a good one: "remember when.." without exerting pressure.

3. Finally, you may find a resource - a book, a video, a supplement etc. - that you think will help someone to beat their illness. Perfectly natural. But there's a problem. It confronts the sufferer with their illness and puts them under pressure to do something about it. The result of this will be resentment followed by retreat into their own world. Isolation is a part of these illnesses. Sometimes, you just can't bear to be around people. My ex-partner used to sleep in a dark room for an entire weekend because she just couldn't handle anyone being around her. "I bore people, I've nothing to say of interest and I don't want anyone asking me how I'm feeling. I just want to be on my own." I know, it cuts you to ribbons when you hear such words from someone you care deeply about. But please, you must resist the urge to DIRECTLY give them a resource you think will help them. For someone to emerge from these illnesses, they have to make the decision themselves. A direct offer will more often than not be refused. So, if you find something you think will help, leave it lying around somewhere your loved one will find it. The idea here is for them to CHOOSE by themselves to investigate further. Such an INDIRECT approach is more effective because once again, there is no pressure, no reminder, no confrontation. It is the sufferer who takes a willing first step towards recovery.

It is so hard to understand and reach loved ones when they're caught up in these illnesses but please believe me, these ideas are very effective and they will help.

See you next time.

Looking to beat stress, anxiety or depression QUICKLY? "Conquering Stress" reveals the powerful, effective secrets so you can beat these illnesses once and for all DRUG FREE! Click Here==>http://www.conqueringstress.com

By Chris Green

Fighting Depression by Restoring Your Routines

2005-08-07T10:26:00.000-07:00

When we have depression, one of the things we drop from our lives is a routine. Most humans need routine as it adds structure to our lives. During bouts of depression we find it hard to go about our daily lives with a sense of purpose and direction. Restoring your routines will help to counteract this problem.

Even the simplest things can appear to be beyond us and therefore get put aside. When this happens, we are in fact, only moving further away from a "normal" life.

To reclaim a normal life, return to doing normal things.

A major effect of depression is a feeling of losing control over ones life. We start to feel that everything is happening "to us" rather than through the choices we are able to make. By reinstating your routines you can begin to regain more control.

Start by writing a list of the day-to-day activities that you may no longer participate in.

I include a few simple suggestions below and possible remedial action you might take for each.

1) Brushing your teeth. Clean your teeth twice a day and use a mouthwash. There ARE going to be times when you smile, so make sure you are prepared! Even if the smile is accidental, there is no point in having a piece of lettuce between your teeth.

2) Remain well groomed. For men this would include having a shave every day, for women, putting on make-up (I know of some men and women who need both!). Trim your fingernails.

3) Personal cleanliness. Have a shower every day and use a deodorant, after-shave, cologne or perfume.

4) Clean clothes. Put on fresh clothes every day. Make sure your clothes are ironed; even if someone else usually irons on your behalf, taking charge of your own ironing will help in your recovery.

5) Eat sensibly. A loss of ones appetite, especially for sensible foods, is very common. Make the effort to eat as much fresh fruit, vegetables, fibre and nutrients as possible. If you find that your stomach is in a knot and the thought of eating fills you with dread, try taking these things in the form of a drink. Use a food blender, juice extractor or similar. There is a wide variety of these machines on the market. Adding an appropriate multi-vitamin supplement to your daily diet can also help. Don't be afraid to allow yourself a food treat now and again, just be careful not to overdo it. "A little of what you fancy does you good", with the emphasis on "little".

6) Get out as often as you can. Even if, at times, all you think you can manage is going out into the garden, then you are, at least, getting some fresh air and a bit of sun on your face. Exercise is a great way to lift your spirits, so even going out to post a letter will help.

7) Keep in touch with family and friends. Losing touch with our loved ones leaves us feeling more isolated so make the effort to meet up with those people you care about and who care about you. Even if you feel that you can't manage to see anyone face-to-face, phone them, write a letter or use email. If you don't want discuss your life with people you know, you could consider the likes of internet forums as an outlet for expression. Talking to strangers is often easier.

8) Look after your personal environment. Housework not only improves the look of your surroundings but also provides good, low level exercise.

9) Don't get bored. Do ANYTHING to fill in that gap. Do a crossword, read a book or magazine that you find interesting, polish the silver, polish your shoes, shave the cat. Just do SOMETHING. Make it an activity you have to concentrate on so that your thoughts are, at least temporarily, distracted from the depression. Even 5 minutes of concentrating on another subject is a welcome "holiday".

Now turn your list into an action plan. Take the points you have noted down and make a chart with all the various activities you have listed. Each day, tick off each step as you go. Not only will taking positive action improve the way you feel, but by showing to yourself that you ARE taking action to defeat the depression, you will give yourself a well deserved feeling of achievement.

Allan Cowley is a Life Coach working on a one-to-one basis with clients throughout the world. He provides personalised online life coaching via his website. You can contact him through his website at: http://www.uk-success-coach.com/

Natural Remedies For Depression

2005-08-05T11:12:00.000-07:00

It is true that forms of depression cannot be avoided, although, it has also been proved that a healthy life style can play a major role in alleviating depression or even preventing some forms from even occurring. Mild types of depression can develop from poor diet and nutrition. Lack of exercises, stress, poor, little, or no sleep, traveling, lack of necessities, withdrawl from an addiction, and lack of sunlight have also been linked to some cases of depression.

There are many natural ways of relieving depression, but like i said, it can be prevented by a proper life style and diet. Here are 2 all natural and healthy methods in preventing depression and alleviating it.

Herbal remedies for depression:

-2 Parts St-John's-Wart (Hypericum Perforatum)

-1 Part Oat (Avena Sativa)

-1 Part Lavender (Lavandula Officinalis)

-1 Part Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris)

Take this mixture in 5mL servings three times a day.

Depressive symptoms are exacerbated by nutrition deficiencies, there for a well-balanced diet is important to insure the proper daily intake of vitamins and minerals.

Supplement Remedies for depression:

-Vitamin B Complex - 400 mcg/day

-Folic Acid - 400 mcg/day

-S-Adenosylmethionine - 800mg/2x day

-Selenium - 100 mcg/day

Recommended daily dose of the amino acid supplement L-tryptaphon. This amino acid is known to increase the synthesis of serotonin and in turn relieve depression. L-tryptaphon is found in foods such as turkey, chicken, fish, soybeans, cooked dried beans, peas, yeast, and peanut butter. The proper intake of carbs should also be taken to help the brains uptake of L-tryptaphon.

Got a question? Try the Forums

Tyler D Falls - Info researcher

By Tyler D Falls

Depression: One Woman's Story

2005-08-05T10:38:00.000-07:00

Sharon was talking to a friend on the phone one night. When her friend asked, "How are you?" Sharon suddenly exploded with emotion. Without warning, she began sobbing and literally collapsed in a heap on the floor. Her friend came over and took Sharon's kids for the night. Sharon cried for hours till she fell asleep. It was only the first of many sleepless nights.

She cried every day for months, never knowing when she might break down. She didn't need a reason. While driving to work in the morning, she would burst into tears. She worried about embarrassing herself, so she stayed home more and avoided people as much as she could.

Isolating herself made her feelings of loneliness worse. "Nobody understands what I'm going through," she told herself. She felt that her life was worthless because she could no longer function. She couldn't sleep, eat, or focus on anything. She was irritable and couldn't seem to get along with anyone anymore. She was disappointed and ashamed that she had let herself sink so low. She tried her best to pull herself out of this "funk." But she felt stuck. She felt guilty because her family deserved better treatment than she was able to give them. She concluded that they would be better off without her.

One day, while having an annual medical exam, Sharon's doctor asked how things were at home. Sharon began crying uncontrollably. When her doctor suggested that she was suffering from clinical depression, Sharon was surprised. She should have known, but she didn't.

The doctor prescribed anti-depressants and made an appointment for Sharon to talk with a therapist. Sharon didn't notice any improvement for a couple of weeks. It started slowly, but she gradually began to feel more peaceful and content. At this point, she was able to think more clearly and tackle small steps, one at a time, to work toward taking charge of her mental health. As Sharon took better care of herself, she grew stronger, which helped her to continue on the path to wellness.

When she met with her doctor for a six week follow up, she told him, "I just wish I had sought help earlier. I could have avoided so much pain."

Author Marsha Jordan is founder of a nonprofit charity called Hugs and Hope for Sick Children (http://www.hugsandhope.org). More of her articles on depression are in her book, Hugs, Hope, and Peanut Butter, a compilation ofthought-provoking essays illustrated with drawings by critically ill children. Proceeds from book sales will benefit kids battling cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. In this book, the author combines hope with humor, drawing upon her own experience of living with chronic pain and depression for thirty years. She opens her life and her heart to share everyday experiences and the lessons God has taught her from them. Other essays in the book include, "Ten Tips For Beating Depression," and "Why Doesn't God Answer My Prayer?" Order the book or learn more at http://www.hugsandhope.org/book.htm

By Marsha Jordan

Kids in Crisis

2005-08-04T12:54:00.000-07:00

"The average waiting time for an appointment is three to four months."

"The nation is facing a public crisis in mental health for infants, children and adolescents. Many children have mental health problems that interfere with normal development and functioning. In the United States, one in ten children and adolescents suffer from mental illness severe enough to cause some level of impairment. Yet, in any given year, it is estimated that about one in five children receive mental health services."

The above is from a recently-released report by the US Surgeon General, entitled: Report of the Surgeon General's Conference on Children's Mental Health, the completion of an unprecedented mental health trilogy that began in July 1999 with his Call to Action to Prevent Suicide and was followed up later that same year with his landmark Report on Mental Health.

"Too often," according to the Report, "children who are not identified as having mental health problems and who do not receive services end up in jail. Children and families are suffering because of missed opportunities for prevention and early identification, fragmented treatment services, and low priorities for resources."

The consequences can be enormous: "Approximately 50 percent of students labeled [with emotional or behavioral disorders] drop out of school; only 42 percent of those who remain graduate with a diploma. Post secondary outcomes are also poor, including multiple jobs, criminal behavior, and unemployment."

The Report draws on the testimony of 300 presenters and participants who gathered in Washington DC under the Surgeon General's auspices in Sept 2000.

According to David Offord MD of McMaster University, cited in the Report, emotional and behavioral problems are the leading cause for lowering the quality of life in children: "No other set of conditions is close in the magnitude of its deleterious effects on children and youth ... "

Further, child mental disorders persist into adulthood. Seventy-four percent of 21-year-olds with mental disorders had prior problems.

But parents are faced with a plethora of rigid, conflicting, and arbitrary programs and laws that often leave their children out in the cold. According to the Report: "Very often the most in need do not get the services. Real parental involvement, and attention to family satisfaction, family practice and quality of life is often left to chance."

Most referrals from primary care physicians are for child psychologists, but average waiting time for an appointment is three to four months.

Meanwhile, in the schools, Steve Forness, Ed D of UCLA pointed out that children with mental health needs are usually identified only after their problems cannot be managed by their regular classroom teacher. According to one study of a group of 13-year-olds (one-third who were depressed), 6.5 years after their parents spotted a problem, the kids finally got the right services at age 10.

Neal Halfon MD, MPH, of UCLA, argued we are spending too little too late. According to the Report: "From a limited number of studies, mental health disorders in young children show similar prevalence rates to those found in older children. The catch is that you have to look more carefully to find them."

One obvious place to look is among the 22 percent of children age five and below who live in poverty, which in itself is a major risk factor for mental illness. Children in foster care use mental health services up to 15 percent more than other children in the Medicaid system.

Meanwhile, in the juvenile justice system, where many children with mental health problems end up, among a sample of 1,829 children, two-thirds tested positive for drugs. Nearly 20 percent of the sample had an affective disorder, and more than two-thirds of those with an affective disorder also had substance abuse or dependence. Nearly two percent of the sample have died, all violently.

"Early brain research," the Report warns, "tells us that the roots of emotional regulation and development, so crucial for life and school success, lie in the earliest relationships. Experience and some research tell us that too many young children are headed for trouble ... Absent systematic efforts to promote prevention, early intervention and relationship-based treatment for this age group we will simply create the ... juvenile justice and special education population of the future."

The Report has no shortage of recommendations, most which boil down to being less stupid in how we administer services, but its real value lies the fact that it has the Surgeon General's name on it, who is to health and mental health what the Chairman of the Fed is to the US economy. Even if nothing gets done in the short term, we have him to thank for sounding the alarm and legitimizing what many of us have been saying for years.

For three free issues of my depression and bipolar newsletter, mailto:jmcmanamy@snet.net and put "Newsletter" in the subject line and your email in the body.

By John McManamy

Reflections on Mental Illness

2005-08-04T12:14:00.000-07:00

I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would be a writer much less a writer who writes about mental illness. Heck, I never thought I would have a mental illness. It doesn’t bother me anymore when I refer to myself as having a mental illness. Mental illness does not make you a bad person as I once believed. It doesn’t mean that you are crazy and that you belong on the funny farm. It simply means that you have an illness that must be treated by a professional. Everyone likes to compare mental illness to diseases such as heart disease or diabetes. They would be correct in doing so. Each of these illnesses requires medical care. This is usually on an on-going basis. Each illness is not something that you need to be ashamed of. Would you be ashamed in having heart disease? No, you wouldn’t. Neither should you be ashamed in having a mental illness. Your brain is just like any other part of your body. From time to time it gets ill and it simply needs some form of treatment.

You would think that in these days and times that the stigma attached to having a mental illness would not be there. Despite the fact that the field of psychology has developed over the years, the stigma is still attached to mental illnesses. It seems that it is not as strong. As we hear more and more people, especially celebrities come out and disclose their mental illnesses, the more accepting society becomes. We are still a long way off from where we should be. People still need to be educated on mental illness. Hopefully with more and more people coming forth and telling their story, then this stigma will slowly disappear.

There are many forms of mental illness. Here is a partial listing of them:

* Schizophrenia
* Major Depressive Disorder
* Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
* Panic Disorders
* Anxiety Disorders
* Autism
* Borderline Personality Disorder

With each of these illnesses there is a degree of severity that comes with the illness. In other words, you and a friend may both may have a depressive disorder but each of you may have a different level of severity. As I continue to write these articles I will discuss the many forms of depression.

Mental illnesses affect a person’s thinking, feelings, moods and their ability to cope with the demands of life. A lot of times people say to those with a mental illness that things will get better or you are just having a bad day. Mental illnesses go beyond “having a bad day”. It goes beyond what you are capable to do. That is why it requires professional help.

Mental illnesses are treated with both medication and therapy. Sometimes you can treat the illness with just one of the two but it is usually best to treat it with both. When the illness gets very severe doctors may resort to using electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Mental illness can affect anyone. It doesn’t matter what race, age, religion or income you are in. My doctor always tells me that it isn’t a sign of a personal weakness. It simply is a illness like any other.

Here are a few facts about mental illness:

* Mental illnesses are biologically based brain disorders. They cannot be overcome through will power.
* Again, mental illnesses fall along a line of severity.
* Mental disorders are the leading cause of disability.
* Mental illnesses strike people in the prime of their life, usually during their young adult years.
* Treatments for mental illness are highly effective, with 70-90% of people having a significant reduction in symptoms.
* Early detection is vital.

Some people go for years untreated with a mental illness. Once they finally receive help, there is so much relief on their part. They usually feel a weight has been lifted off of them. They also may feel like they have been living under a dark cloud all of their lives.

I remember earlier in my life, when I was just a pre-teen, a friend of my mom’s told her that God was going to do great things in my life. I have thought about what she said my entire life, always wondering what I would do. In recent years when I was finally diagnosed with major depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder, I came to realize that this was how God was going to use me. I never thought that my experiences with mental illness would lead me into writing and sharing about it with the entire world. I guess I have always hoped that I would but never dreamed it was possible.

Today, for the first time in my life I feel free. I have accepted the fact that I will live with mental illness for the rest of my life. I also realize that it is not my fault. I hope this article will be the beginning of many articles to come on mental illnesses. Please tune in for more.

By Kathy Brewis

Depression Explained.

2005-08-03T12:15:00.000-07:00

Depression is a mental state marked by melancholy, pessimism or dejection.
Depression can also be defined as a psychotic condition characterized by stuporous withdrawal from reality and intense guilt feelings.
Depression is characterized by the following:
Loss of confidence in oneself
Undue pessimism
A feeling of constant helplessness
Uncalled for or unexplainable mood changes-i.e an abrupt switch from happiness when nothing has happened to warrant it.
Rudeness or aggression that is without apparent cause or which is occasioned by some trivial incident.
An unreasonable demand for perfectionism, not only in oneself but also in one’s loved ones, friends, business associates and even from things or situation.
Habitual underachievement especially if one is adequately equipped to do the work one is called upon to perform.
The inability to accept responsibility, often manifested by a recurrent loss of employment or unemployment.
Phobias
Unreasonable feelings of persecution
Self destructive acts
Sexual deviation
Sudden and dramatic change in sleeping habits
Physical ailments and complaints for which there are no organic causes.

Most people have blue moods from time to time in their lives. Indeed, when faced with a personal tragedy like the death of a loved one, a normal healthy individual may well undergo a period of depression. A person suffering from the depressive reaction, however has persistent feelings of worthlessness and pessimism unrelated to events that might depress a normal person. An inability to cope with problem situation is gradually magnified into an inability to cope with anything at all. Attempts to mask the crisis by putting on a front-feigning cheerfulness and optimism-give way to episodes of total hopelessness. Suicide is often considered and sometimes attempted. Threat of suicide from a depressed person should always be regarded seriously.

Common physical symptoms accompanying depression are fatigue, loss of appetite and insomania.

By Rapheal Adewale

A Picture of Depression Before the Diagnosis

2005-08-03T11:05:00.000-07:00

Life before being diagnosed with a mental illness such as depression can be a very confusing time for both you and for your family and friends. In all likelihood there will be signs that there is a problem but if you are like most people, you won’t be able to understand exactly what the problem is. Your thoughts and emotions are running rampant. Most of the time you feel out of control and you would be right in thinking that. Overall it is a time of misery for you and for the family and friends. Friends and family will feel helpless because they don’t know how to help you.

For the person who is suffering from the illness, it is hard for them to understand that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. Sometimes they just brush it aside as having a “bad day”. And women tend to blame their mood on their menstrual cycle. And while that may be true, there are other issues that could be causing the mood swings and other behavioral issues. Sometimes it can be hard to distinguish between what a person may call a bad day and depression. The difference between just having a bad day and having depression is how long you have had your symptoms. You must have at least five of the listed symptoms for two weeks for a diagnosis of depression can be made. There are many signs and symptoms of depression. As I mentioned before, these signs and symptoms can be attributed to other causes such as having a stressful time in your life or an actual physical illness. It is important that you let your doctor check you out to make sure it is not a physical illness. The changes to their personality and behavior are often very subtle so it is very hard for the actual person experiencing depression to recognize that there is something wrong. Often it is the family and friends are the first to notice that something is amiss.

Often the person who is experiencing depression will experience physical symptoms before behavioral changes. From experience I know that this is very true. Around two or three years ago when my second episode of depression had bedidn’t didn’t know that it had begun. I was having physical symptoms that didn’t respond to treatment. Later on, after further research on depression, I realized that I had been in the early stages of depression. Listed below are some of the physical signs of depression:

* Tiredness, lack of energy
* Headaches or any other head pain
* Dizziness or faintness
* Feeling of weakness in parts of the body
* Muscle pains and aches
* Stomach pains
* Chest pains
* Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
* Difficulty or slowness in movement
* Loss of sleep

Take in mind, though, that the symptoms can vary between children, adolescents and adults. The symptoms listed above are common symptoms experienced by adults.

There are also behavioral changes that over time can be noticeable by the friends and family of the depressed person. Listed below are some of the behavioral changes.

* Persistent sad or irritable mood
* Tearful
* Diminished interest or pleasure in all, or almost all, activities
* Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt
* Diminished ability to think or concentrate
* Recurrent thoughts of death

Again these symptoms can vary from every age group but two of the most common symptoms present in all age groups are:

* Persistent sad or irritable mood
* Diminished interest or pleasure in all, or almost all, activities

Remember that at least five of these symptoms must be present for at least two weeks before a diagnosis of depression can be made.

The symptoms of depression can and will interfere with your daily activities. If you have experienced at least five of these symptoms for two weeks, then you need to make an appointment to see your doctor. If your depression is severe enough your doctor may want to refer you to a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is a medical doctDon’to specializes in mental health.

Don’t be afraid to see a psychiatrist. I know I was when I was first told that I needed to see one. There is still a stigma about having a mental illness so you may be in denial for awhile and probably won’t seek treatment because you may be afraid of what others may think. You do not need to be ashamed of having depression. Depression is more common than what you think. Approximately 9.9 million American adults or 5% of the adult population has experienced depression. You have to remember that it is an illness just like heart disease and diabetes.

There are tons of resources on the Internet that I have found to be useful when researching depression. Please take a look at the “Best of Web” to locate these Internet sites.

http://suite101.sitedynamo.com/Enterfrom...

By Kathy Brewis

Anxiety & Panic - Two Steps to Take Before the Healing Process Begins

2005-08-01T12:36:00.000-07:00

Anxiety sufferers are usually at a loose end after trying methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, Hypnosis, Sessions with psychologists, Meditation, Herbal Alternatives and probably the most popular of them all is Medications such as anti-depressants and Benzodiazepine's.

Now I was no different to any other sufferer, I was pulling my hair out in the hopes of one of these alternatives would kick in and free me of this dreadful nightmare that I lived, day in and day out for years. Unable to leave my house in fear something dreadful was going to happen to me.

But after plenty of research I did eventually eliminate my anxiety and panic disorder. And it certainly wasn’t from taking medications, or hypnosis or CBT or any of the worlds most practiced techniques (which have always given a rather poor response in curing anxiety and panic attacks).

Two Steps to Begin the Healing Process

Step One...

Acceptance

Accepting that what you have is Anxiety and Panic Disorder. And yes, I know this can be an extremely hard thing to accept. You’re sure that it always must be something else, your heart is racing (you think that you must be having a heart attack). You’re finding it difficult to swallow (so now your thoughts sway to you must have throat cancer). You find it difficult to breathe (and in that moment you’re sure your going to pass out or die, or maybe you think you have lung cancer or emphysema). Yes, I know how these thoughts can take control of your mind.

But in order to become well again, you must accept all these feelings are, are anxiety and panic attacks.

Step Two…

Trust

I struggled with this issue a lot. And I certainly understand when you have lost all faith. After all, you’ve tried all these other techniques with little to no success. So you begin to wonder why “this time” would be any different to all the other methods you have tried to your wits end.

But the moment you give up all hope and lose trust in any other possible natural method, than this will be when you prevent you’re healing and eliminating of Anxiety & Panic Disorder.

Anxiety and Panic Attacks can be eliminated naturally and for good! I’m living proof of that.

© Joanne King
http://www.anxiety-panic-free.com

About The Author

Joanne King is a former sufferer of Anxiety & Panic Attacks. She is the author of two books "How to Overcome Anxiety & Panic Attacks" & "How to Overcome Anxiety When Approaching Women". She has helped other sufferers WorldWide to eliminate their Anxiety & Panic.

Copyright © Joanne King All Rights Resevered

http://www.anxiety-panic-free.com

help@anxiety-panic-free.com

Prevention of Depression : Stop Your Depression Before It Starts

2005-08-01T12:25:00.000-07:00

Until we can find out for certain what chemical changes occur when someone becomes depressed, and find out what triggers them, we will not even begin to be able to discover whether one can prevent depression. As with a tendency towards anxiety, it does appear that some people are more inclined to become depressed than others. We cannot say, however, that anyone has actually prevent depression until we are able to expose people to its causes and observe their minds and bodies resisting it as a result of some kind of preventive action. Nevertheless, if we consider what depressed people regard as the causes of their illness, it may offer some guidance as to possible preventative measures.

What are the ways for the Prevention of Depression?

Prevention of Depression -through the way we think:

We already know that two people can experience identical events and yet one may become depressed as a result whereas the other does not. The only difference between them is the way in which they think about what has happened and how it affects them. The way we think affects the way our body behaves and this inturn influences the way we feel.

Depression Prevention - through the balance theory:

Whether it is treated or not, depression seems to disappear quite suddenly. It may take weeks or over a year, but it happens. It may come back if the conditions which caused it are repeated, but it seems that the body adjusts itself to the imbalance in the system and rights itself - untill the next time.

Prevention of Depression -through the state-dependent theory:

It has been found that we remember incidents according to the way we felt at the time. This is called state dependent memory, and it means we do not remember the past in neutral terms, seeing both sides of any situation. The rule is therefore to try and allow yourself to see something positive in everything. If you find something positive in even the worst that befalls you, then you have cracked it!

Depression Prevention -through the acceptance theory:

We only have the power to control our own thoughts and actions. No matter how much we try and control others, we cannot. We must accept other people just as they are; it is upto them to change themselves if they want to. Nobody has the right to control another. The only possible exception to this is a parent's right to hold control of a child in trust untill that child is able to take over. What we have to learn is acceptance.

About The Author

Teena Jain, content author and editor http://www.depression-guide.com/.

She has been constantly doing quantitative and qualitative research on depression and related mental disorders.

5 Super Effective Tips To Kill Depression

2005-07-31T13:58:00.000-07:00

by Kathy Burns-Millyard

Want more help with Depression? Read This Online Self Help EBook: "How to Manage and Conquer Depression"

What are the causes of depression?

2005-07-31T12:28:00.000-07:00

Some types of depression run in families, indicating that a biological vulnerability to depression can be inherited. This seems to be the case especially with bipolar disorder. Studies have been done of families in which members of each generation develop bipolar disorder. The investigators found that those with the illness have a somewhat different genetic makeup than those who do not become ill. However, the reverse is not true. That is, not everybody with the genetic makeup that causes vulnerability to bipolar disorder has the illness. Apparently, additional factors, possibly a stressful environment, are involved in its onset.

Major depression also seems to occur in generation after generation in some families, although not as strongly as in Bipolar I or II. Indeed, major depression can also occur in people who have no family history of depression.

An external event often seems to initiate an episode of depression. Thus, a serious loss, chronic illness, difficult relationship, financial problem, or any unwelcome change in life patterns can trigger a depressive episode. Very often, a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors is involved in the onset of a depressive disorder.

Nothing in the universe is as complex and fascinating as the human brain. The over 100 chemicals that circulate in the brain are known as neurochemicals or neurotransmitters. Much of our research and knowledge, however, has focused on four of these neurochemical systems: norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, and acetycholine. In the new millennium, after new discoveries are made, it is possible that these four neurochemicals will be viewed as the "black bile, yellow bile, phlegm, and blood" of the twentieth century.

Different neuropsychiatric illnesses seem to be associated with an over-abundance or a lack of some of these neurochemicals in certain parts of the brain. For example, a lack of dopamine at the base of the brain causes Parkinson disease. Alzheimer dementia seems to be related to lower acetylcholine levels in the brain. The addictive disorders are under the influence of the neurochemical dopamine. That is to say, drugs and alcohol work by releasing dopamine in the brain. The dopamine causes euphoria, which is a pleasant sensation. Repeated use of drugs or alcohol, however, desensitizes the dopamine system, which means that the system gets used to the drugs and alcohol. Therefore, a person needs more drugs or alcohol to achieve the same high feeling. Thus, the addicted person takes more and more to feel less and less high.

The different types of schizophrenia are associated with an imbalance of dopamine (too much) and serotonin (poorly regulated) in certain areas of the brain. Finally, the depressive disorders appear to be associated with altered brain serotonin and norepinephrine systems. Both of these neurochemicals are lower in depressed people. Please note that I specified, "associated with" instead of, "caused by." I made this distinction because we really don't know whether low levels of neurochemicals in the brain cause depression or whether depression causes low levels of neurochemicals in the brain.

What we do know is certain medications that alter the levels of norepinephrine or serotonin can alleviate the symptoms of depression. Some medicines that affect both of these neurochemical systems appear to perform even better or faster. Other medications that treat depression primarily affect the other neurochemical systems. The most powerful treatment for depression, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), is certainly not specific to any particular neurotransmitter system. Rather, ECT, by causing a seizure, produces a generalized brain activity that probably releases massive amounts of all of the neurochemicals.

Women are twice as likely to become depressed as men. However, scientists do not know the reason for this difference. Psychological factors also contribute to a person's vulnerability to depression. Thus, persistent deprivation in infancy, physical or sexual abuse, clusters of certain personality traits, and inadequate ways of coping (maladaptive coping mechanisms) all can increase the frequency and severity of depressive disorders, with or without inherited vulnerability.

The effect of maternal-fetal stress on depression is currently an exciting area of research. It seems that maternal stress during pregnancy can increase the chance that the child will be prone to depression as an adult, particularly if there is a genetic vulnerability. It is thought that the mother's circulating stress hormones can influence the development of the fetus's brain during pregnancy. This altered fetal brain development occurs in ways that predispose the child to the risk of depression as an adult. Further research is still necessary to clarify how this happens. Again, this situation shows the complex interaction between genetic vulnerability and environmental stress, in this case, the stress of the mother on the fetus.

Culled from: http://www.medicinenet.com