Depression Treatment Tip and Advice: July 2006

Monday, July 31, 2006

What's Causing My Depression and Fatigue?

What's Causing My Depression and Fatigue? this article was written by Karen Liberman and she writes "Chronic Fatigue and Chronic Depression are absolutely systemic in our society today. Recent studies done by the AMA and CMA purport one in four people in North America are suffering from some form of chronic fatigue or depression and it's expected eight out of ten of us will experience similar afflictions in our lifetime. But numbers like these don't speak to the cause and only tell half the story.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camp #2: Mood Disorders

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

Camp #3: Substance Abuse

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Bottom Line:

What's causing Your Depression and Fatigue could be many things. You need to align yourself with the right specialist, the right medication and the right treatment As Soon As Possible!

The good news? You can recover from it and you can triumph over it! I am living proof.

About The Author

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

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

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

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

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

Karen Liberman
Executive Director
Mood Disorders Association of Ontario
paul@paulshearstone.ca

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Aromatherapy and Depression

When artiste Leslie Cheung committed suicide, he left behind a trail of speculations amidst sighs of regret. News of his "depression" arose. The realisation that even a superstar could be plagued by such problems abruptly heightened the "suffering index" of ordinary folks. Incessant natural disasters, bleak economic outlook, fear of unemployment, adolescent worries about schoolwork?these pressures from life make "depression" one of the most serious civilised diseases of this century.

"Insomnia" is also a common problem faced by people living in modern society. According to a survey conducted by the American National Sleep Foundation, three in every four women aged between 30 to 60 years are suffering from "insomnia". "Insomnia" has already become an epidemic disease for females. The Shanghai Chinese Medical Hospital has been conducting surveys on epidemic diseases since 1996 and results indicate that 15% of Shanghai residents have serious insomnia symptoms..

These figures are concrete proof that there is a huge market demand for products that relieve stress and insomnia. The beneficial effects of aromatherapy in soothing emotions and enhancing sleep quality have long been deep-rooted in the minds of ordinary folks and have been proven in numerous clinical literatures. These constitute an important reason for the active development of "psycho aromatherapy" products, as undertaken by Yangsen Biotechnology Institute in close collaboration with Bel'Air.

Depression: Disease of the Century, Alongside Cancer and Aids Unless patients commit suicide, depression is usually not life threatening. However, one's quality of life will suffer a drastic decline and loved ones will also be deeply affected. According to a survey report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), 3% of the world population are suffering from depression at present. The report also predicted that Depression, Aids and Cancer will become the three main diseases of the 21st century. By 2020, depression will only be secondary to cancer in causing the inability to function normally and even death.

To most people, perhaps the degree of nervousness and anxiety has not reached the stage where they must receive medical treatment and advice. However, it is an undeniable fact that long-term nervousness and anxiety will affect the balance between one's body and mind. Taipei Lian-An Clinic conducted a survey of 1164 white-collar workers who went there for health examinations. Results showed that two thirds of the patients felt worn out by life and close to 40% of the patients needed to receive professional psychiatric treatments due to depression and anxiety. Symptoms of nervousness and anxiety derived from work-related stress have reached the scale of an epidemic in America. 43% of adults feel threatened by it. Absenteeism, falling productivity and increase of medical bills, which can come about as a result of occupational nervousness, are predicted to cost the American economy several hundred billion US dollars.

Understanding the Importance of Sleep

"When I am sleeping, my mind is resting!" Many people have this misconception. However, the likely truth is that when you sleeping, only the rest of your body is resting. Your brain continues to be active as it labours on making preparations for the next day. Sleep is as essential to a healthy body and mind as food. If you have insufficient hours of sleep or lack quality sleep, your body will continuously accumulate "sleep debts" and you will have to pay for it one day. Do also note that rest is not a substitute for sleep!

Another misconception is that most sleep disorders can heal without medication. Many people who are plagued by sleep disorders do not realise that this is actually a disease, much less understand that it can be healed. Methods of healing include medication, operation, psychiatric treatment and combined therapy. Sleep disorders will not disappear naturally. If allowed to develop at its own pace, it would only worsen one's quality of life, damage interpersonal relationships, affect one's conduct and result in huge negative impacts, to the extent of causing accidents or deaths.

Psycho Aromatherapy

To examine the mental effects of "aromatic essential oils", results can be basically categorised into the psychological effects deriving from aromatic scents and the physiological effects deriving from the impact of essential oil molecules on the central nervous system. Both psychological and physiological effects can cause changes in the central nervous system, internal secretion system and immunity system, hence giving rise to complex biological consequences.

Modern "psycho aromatherapy" utilises analytical tools like Micro Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Electroencephalogram (EEG), Magnetoencephalography (MEG) and Cerebral Blood Flow (CBF) to research on the direct impact of aroma on the central nervous system. It can be used to examine the effects of aromatherapy on health problems such as insomnia, depression, nervousness, mental fragility, headaches, fatigue, dizziness and memory deterioration.

According to popular understanding, aromatherapy can indeed achieve the effect of soothing emotions. People's interest in aromatherapy is aroused when certain essential oils can genuinely alleviate the conditions of some illnesses which are hard to cure even in hospitals, such as mental fragility, depression and insomnia. According to clinical studies, besides using medication and supportive psychiatric therapy to cure depression, many doctors also encourage patients to adopt the method of aromatherapy. Both consumers and professional medical practitioners recognise the positive effects of essential oils for stress relief.

Research and Development of Nepenthe Bio-tech Pure Essential Oil It was 5pm in the afternoon. In a resting house in Taipei suburb, about 40 old folks were leisurely enjoying the uplifting scents of Bel'Air's Nepenthe essential oil. They seemed at ease with themselves, immersed in a state of peace and tranquility away from the hassles of the world. This is the result of a test on Nepenthe essential oil, conducted over a week by a research team from Yangsen Biotechnology Institute to examine the therapeutic effects of aromatherapy in soothing the depressive emotions of old folks.

The research team members applied a depression scale to evaluate the subject's level of depression. During the research process, the subject inhaled the aroma for 4 hours daily. Seven days later, the depression scale was again used to evaluate the subject's level of depression. At the same time, the heart rate variability (HRV) was also measured to evaluate the subject's sympathetic nerve activity and parasympathetic nerve activity. Earlier research has already shown that the higher the marks on the depression scale, the higher the level of sympathetic activity and the lower the level of parasympathetic activity. From the table below, we can see that after seven days of aromatherapy with "Nepenthe Bio-tech Pure Essential Oil", the depression score has evidently decreased and sympathetic activity, which stands for anxiety, has declined dramatically. On the other hand, parasympathetic activity, which stands for calmness, has increased greatly.

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Depression in Teenagers: Now What Can We Do?

Depression in Teenagers: Now What Can We Do? this article was written by Douglas Cowan and he writes "No doubt you have seen the recent news headlines about a federal panel that recommended to the FDA that anti-depressant medications carry the strongest possible warning label for use in children and teenagers. This recommendation to the FDA shook the medical community, especially those who work with depressed young people. The biggest problem from the treatment community's point of view was not the recommendation for the warning label, but the way that the media protrayed the panel's recommendation.

The panel reported that 2% to 4% of children and teens who were given anti-depressants for the treatment of depression became suicidal, that is they had suicidal thoughts, or made suicidal attempts of one kind or another. None of the 4,000 children and teens studied committed suicide.

What the media did not report well is the fact that 15% of children and teens with depression who receive no treatment will commit suicide. These 15% will not just think about it, but will actually kill themselves..

So what are we to do? If the media had their way it seems that no teens with depression would receive anti-depressants. As a result the suicide rate for those who could be using the medication would rise from nearly zero percent to about fifteen percent. But at least we wouldn't have to be concerned about evil medications.

Look, I understand that there actually are young people, even adults, who have become suicidal only after beginning treatment with an anti-depressant. Some have in fact gone on to take their own lives. This is absolutely tragic. But so is the fact that untreated depression is potentially a fatal disease. Fifteen out of one hundred young people with depression take their own lives. They should be allowed to receive a treatment that will lower the suicide rate dramatically, and without any stigma attached to it by the media.

Recently we had a patient brought to our counseling center named John (not his real name). John was rebellious, angry, withdrawn, and in trouble often, and yet he was diagnosed and treated for depression.

When we think of someone who is depressed, we usually picture a sad, tearful, lonesome person. But teenagers with depression don't look like adults with depression. Current studies show that there are about as many teenagers who are depressed as there are adults that are depressed. However, depression is exhibited far differently by teenagers than by adults. Teenagers do not commonly display gloom, self-depreciation, or talk about feeling hopeless like adults do.

Teenagers with Major Depression are described in diagnostic manuals as often becoming negative and antisocial. Feelings of wanting to leave home, or of not being understoodand approved of increase. The teen often changes, and becomes more restless, grouchy, or aggressive. A reluctance to cooperate in family ventures, and withdrawal from social activities, with retreat to one's room are frequent. School difficulties are likely as concentration is affected. Sometimes there is inattention to personal appearance and increased emotionality. Often there is an increased sensitivity to rejection in love relationships as well.

Teenage boys will often become aggressive, agitated, and get into trouble at home, at school, or with the law. Teenage girls will sometimes become preoccupied with themes of death or dying, and become decreasing concerned about how they look. Suicidal thoughts are common. Some studies suggest that 500,000 teens attempt suicide each year, and 5000 are successful. Increased use of alcohol or other drugs is common, along with other forms of "self-destructive behaviors." Poor self-esteem is common with teenagers, but especially with those who are depressed.

Parents are often confused and frustrated when their teens begin to act like this. Sometimes parents become stern disciplinarians, or even put the teen down, which only serves to increase feelings of guilt and depression. Other times, parents feel helpless, and stand by waiting for adulthood to arrive. Of course neither course is the right one to take. If you know of a teen whose behaviors have changed to look like what has been described above, let the parents know that there is help available, and encourage the family to seek help from a professional. With proper diagnosis and treatment a depressed teen, or adult, can be greatly helped.

If someone close to you is suffering from depression, first please understand that depression is a very emotionally painful condition. For some people with depression it turns into a "terminal illness" due to suicide. Please take the situation seriously.

1) Get a medical evaluation. Symptoms of depression can be the result of a wide assortment of illnesses, including thyroid problems, viral infections, and other factors.

2) Deprex is an amino acid and homeopathic medicine for the treatment of depression that we have seen work well with our patients. It may be worth trying as long as the situation is "stable" and there is no suicidal thinking on the part of the depressed person.

3) Medications such as Prozac can be very helpful for more difficult cases. Consult your doctor. These medications are often prescribed by Family Practice Doctors, but in most cases ought to be monitored by Psychiatrists.

4) Increase intake of Protein somewhat. Use a protein powder supplement, just like a weight lifter.

5) Exercise daily. Just get out and walk for about 15 minutes.

6) Seek out counseling from someone who is good at treating depression. This can do a world of good for you. However, always use great wisdom and common sense when choosing a therapist. Some are good, and some are not, so choose wisely.

Douglas Cowan, Psy.D., is a family therapist who has been working with ADHD children and their families since 1986. He is the clinical director of the ADHD Information Library's family of seven web sites, including http://www.newideas.net, helping over 350,000 parents and teachers learn more about ADHD each year. Dr. Cowan also serves on the Medical Advisory Board of VAXA International of Tampa, FL., is President of the Board of Directors for KAXL 88.3 FM in central California, and is President of NewIdeas.net Incorporated.

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Antidepressants: Control or Cure?

Antidepressants: Control or Cure? this article was written by Chris Green and he writes "What's curious is that most of them will be on these drugs for life. Equally curious is that over seventy percent of people who stop taking them, for any length of time, will relapse into another painful episode of their illness.

Something's rotten in Denmark. Because if these drugs are as effective as their manufacturers claim, then sufferers should be cured of their illness. Clearly, this isn't happening.

Why? I mean, if these drugs are so good, why don't they cure stress, anxiety and depressive illness?

The commonly held belief, both by the medical profession and people who suffer from illnesses such as stress, anxiety and depression, is that anti-depressant drugs are the most effective treatment..

This is in fact, not quite true.

Antidepressant drugs DO help a sufferer. But they can only help them TEMPORARILY. They cannot offer a permanent cure for these illnesses. This is because anti-depressants treat ONE of the SYMPTOMS of stressful illnesses - reduced levels of "happy chemicals" called neurotransmitters.

Neurotransmitters are the chemicals inside our brains that help to regulate our moods. So all anti-depressants do is to give the sufferer a "boost" by raising levels of neurotransmitters. The real issue here is that once the sufferer ceases the medication, there is a seventy percent chance of relapse.

The reason for relapse is because these drugs simply haven't addressed the root cause of these illnesses. By boosting levels of our "happy chemicals" all the drugs are doing is masking the problem. Now, in the short term, giving our mental well-being a boost by increasing the levels of "happy chemicals" is very helpful in helping us START the process of recovery.

The last sentence is very important. It explains how these drugs should be used. Because when we feel stressed out, burned out, terrified of the future or that life has no point (all common feelings associated with stressful and depressive illnesses), we find it almost impossible to function. Finding our own way "out of the tunnel" is mission impossible.

And that's where antidepressants can help. In giving us a boost, we can feel more able to cope. We can START to take the first steps towards ending our suffering.

But they will not provide a permanent cure. They only way to cure these painful illnesses is to address the root cause as to why these illnesses arise. The root cause is down to harmful mental habits and processes we have learned and put to use for most of our lives - since childhood in the majority of instances.

And there lies the crucial difference. Antidepressants can help us in the short-term by CONTROLLING the illness. Learning the mental habits and processes that crush these illnesses so they cannot even begin to arise help us in the long-term by CURING these illnesses.

Something else I think you'll find illuminating about these drugs:

No single drug has proven to be more effective than any other and the latest research conducted at Yale university in the United States has revealed that drugs are ineffective for seventy percent of sufferers. This is because chemical imbalances in the brain are a symptom and not a cause.

You now know why this is so.

What's also interesting to note is that sales of these drugs in the US alone are worth $12 BILLION annually. Pretty good for something that cannot provide a cure don't you think? Of course, one of the issues here is having a sufferer paying thousands of hard-earned dollars for a drug which cannot cure them month in, month out, year in, year out.

I don't think that's right. Because I firmly believe that people who are suffering from stress, anxiety, panic, depression and similar illnesses, want to get rid of it from their lives forever. Cure means cured, permanently.

I overcame a terrible 5 year period of anxiety-induced depression without taking any antidepressants. By learning to address the harmful mental habits and processes which took me to the lowest point anyone can go, I turned my life around and found happiness again.

What worked for me will work for you and it will provide the one thing you deserve and what antidepressant drugs can never provide: A permanent cure to your suffering.

IMPORTANT: PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL BEFORE YOU STOP TAKING ANY ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATION.

Chris Green is the author of the new book "Conquering Stress", a special program which will show you how to conquer stressful illnesses such as depression, anxiety, panic and worry permanently and without taking powerful drugs. You can learn more about this new book and purchase it at http://www.conqueringstress.com

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Sunday, July 30, 2006

Use Alternative Medicine to Ease Depression

Beverly Marshal has written Use Alternative Medicine to Ease Depression and writes "Depression is a problem that faces many of us, young or old; baby boomers or generation X. We have a fast lifestyle, we're working between sixty and eighty hours a week and we have long commutes into the office keeping us away from our families. Pressures, stress and anxiety can gang up on us to cause an uncontrolled depression. Depression can be a symptom of this stress, or it can have a physiological cause as well. If you have cancer, heart disease or chronic pain, you might know all about depression and how debilitating it can be in your life. If you are one of the millions of people suffering from depression, what can you do about it? Are you ready to jump into the world of antidepressants that your doctor so quickly prescribes? We all want the magic bullet, the answer to just make the pain go away.

If you really want answers, sometimes it isn't that easy. If you want to make the symptoms of depression go away; you have to first find the cause. Modalities through alternative medicine, can assist you with finding exactly why you have depression and give you ideas on how to ease the pain..

If you are someone that believes in mind-body experiences, you know that taking a placebo can have an effect on your body and what you are experiencing physically. The experts can't agree if an antidepressant works because of the medicine, or because of the placebo effect. There are so many complementary therapies out there for you to try and experiment with. They may not all be for you, but if you are honest with yourself and are patient; you may find something that works for you without taking pharmaceutical drugs. Some of the options available to you include:

? Bibliotherapy - reading self help books gives you a wealth of information to help you understand what may be happening to you and why. Knowledge is power.

? Ayurveda is the practice of knowing yourself and the 3 doshas of your body. If your body is out of balance, you may become depressed. You may not have a deep understanding of self. Medication and prayer are other ways to become tuned to the Universe giving you answers within. Spirituality and becoming closer to a higher power may be enough to have you feel connected and not so alone.

? Herbal treatments such as St. John's wort, Siberian ginseng, licorice, basil, clove, ginger, thyme increase serotonin in the brain and may help you with depression.

? Essential oils used in aromatherapy can scientifically help you to feel relaxed if you have anxiety or stimulate you if you feel lethargic. Sometimes when we smell a scent that we love, we just feel better too.

? Acupuncture or acupressure can touch the power points of the body and release blocked energy you are experiencing.

? Yoga, Pilates, or just moving to a type of exercise you enjoy can immediately make you feel better; lifting a depression. These are only a few of the options available to you.

Diet is a huge issue when it comes to depression. Do you drink too much caffeine, or consume too much sugar? Are you drinking too much alcohol? Do you have enough vitamins and minerals in your daily diet? You might have food allergies or are you lactose intolerant causing you to feel sluggish and depressed. A thorough examination by a doctor can tell you if you have a deficiency of some kind and what you can do about it. Imbalances of any kind can cause disease physically and emotionally. I have heard it said that if you put junk into your mouth you are digging your grave with your teeth. So what can you do to stop the progression of making poor choices when it comes to eating? Fresh fruits and vegetables or cereals and beans are a good place to start. Avoid the processed stuff because most of the nutrients have been removed. If you consume complex carbohydrates, such as pasta, pancakes, potatoes and oatmeal; you can increase the levels of serotonin in the brain as well. We often forget about vitamins and having the right balance in the body. Make sure you have enough thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, biotin, pantothenic acid, folic acid, vitamin B12 and C. Without the right amounts on a daily basis; you could experience irritability, depression, anxiety, restlessness, fatigue, forgetfulness, memory loss, confusion and more. Combine minerals such as calcium, magnesium, chromium, selenium, iron and zinc with your other vitamins in a daily regimen and you will feel better too.

The body and mind are very complex; and by giving yourself the right combinations of treatments, diet, information and medical attention, you will have a better chance of staying healthy and strong. Combine the modalities of alternative medicine with the care of your physician and you are well on your way to feeling better mentally, emotionally and physically.

Beverly Marshall is a successful freelance writer, certified Aromatherapist and Feng Shui consultant. Her many articles offer guidance, suggestions and common sense ideas to change your life. If you are interested in products and information regarding alternative medicine, vitamins, osteoporosis, menopause, essential oils, insomnia, anti aging, dry skin and more; her many articles can be found at http://www.alternative-medicine-4u.com

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Vagus Nerve Stimulation: What are the Benefits

Charles Donovan has written Vagus Nerve Stimulation: What are the Benefits and How Does It Relieve Depression? and writes "Vagus nerve stimulation is more effective than antidepressants and is not related to brain surgery or shock treatments. It is a 60-90 minute out-patient procedure, with robust antidepressant affects on the brain.

The implant procedure is performed by a surgeon. A pacemaker-like device is implanted in your upper left chest. One lead wire is tunneled underneath your skin and coiled around the left vagus nerve in your neck.

The vagus nerve has a direct pathway to hypothalmus and hippocampus in the brain. The implanted generator is programmed to send impulses to the vagus nerve. Stimulating the vagus nerve has been proven to favorably modulate those areas of the brain responsible for mood and depression. There are no pain fibers in the vagus nerve. The patient in the first few weeks after implant, slight voice alteration when the generator sends impulses to the nerve. The nerve gets used to the stimulation and the side effects, if any, disipate over time.

This is a therapy for for patients who suffer from chronic or treatment-resistant depression, for which antidepressants drugs have not adequately relieved their depression.

The FDA's Medical Devices Panel approved vagus nerve stimulation therapy. Final approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expected by the end of June.

You can learn more at http://www.VagusNerveStimulator.com. There is a free newsletter to keep you up-to-date on the latest developments.

Charles Donovan was a study study subject in the FDA investigational trial of vagus nerve stimulation and chronic depression. He is the author of Out of the Black Hole: The Patient's Guide to Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Depression and founder of the VagusNerveStimulator.com Web site.

Out of the Black Hole: The Patient's Guide to Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Depression is available on Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com and at http://www.vagusnervestimulator.com/book/

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10 Simple Coping Strategies When a Family Member Has Clinical Depression

Elizabeth Tull has written 10 Simple Coping Strategies When a Family Member Has Clinical Depression and writes "1.Remember that it is an illness:

Clinical depression often requires medical supervision as well as professional treatment. Clinical depression is treatable and requires commitment, understanding and patience from all those involved.

2.It is not your fault:

Clinical depression is usually a combination of chemical imbalance and learned behaviors. There may be times when the depressed individual is extremely sensitive, argumentative and/or blaming towards you, the children, the in-laws, the boss and even the world. All the above mentioned are not the cause. What you are responsible for is how you choose to take on the outward symptoms and how they affect you, your home and your relationships..

3.Be well informed:

Educate yourself on what type of depression is present and if there is a dual diagnosis IE: chemical dependency and depression or personality disorders and depression. Know what the symptoms, treatments and follow-ups are. There are suggested guidelines for communication and setting boundaries. Though the illness is not your fault; it benefits you and your family to remain open minded and willing to learn new ways of doing things.

4.Make sure to have a support network:

Depression and dual diagnosis affects the whole family. There are many ranges of emotions from anger and fear to hopefulness and hopelessness. Having others that have experienced it before can help eliminate unhealthy coping mechanisms such as isolation, shame, control and low self-esteem. There are many national and local support groups available on line. For more information check with your favorite search engines or call a local and/or national mental health hotline.

5.Make time for yourself and your children:

Don't fall into the trap of not taking care of yourselves. Misery and fear love company. Living with and loving someone who is clinically depressed can be incredibly draining. Do not become a hostage or enabler. Remember your flight instructions: "For those traveling with small children; place the oxygen mask on yourself first and then assist the children."

6.Be a victor not a victim:

Pain is inevitable; suffering is optional: We are all going to feel pain in life never mind a home with mental illness. Surround yourselves with knowledge, self-care, experienced support and nurturing. There are no such things as victims only volunteers.

7.Recognize that clinical depression is episodic Clinical depression comes in waves. People with clinical depression do get better!

8.Understand that medication takes time to work:

In most cases, improvement takes as long as 6-8 weeks. Even early responders require about 3-4 weeks before they notice mood improvement. Even after a person with clinical depression feels better, she or he needs to stay on medication at least six months. People should never stop taking medication on their own; medical supervision is a must. There can be serious physical and emotional complications from sudden withdrawal such as increased depression and suicidal tendencies.

9.Medication alone is fairly ineffective:

Research shows that medication in combination with cognitive behavioral therapy is more effective than medication alone. Combined with therapy, the person who is clinically depressed may need to make lifestyle changes, including dietary and exercise changes. The family needs to find ways to reduce stressors by simplifying their lives.

10.Get a written relapse prevention plan:

Make a list of early symptoms such as sleep, appetite and mood changes. Early intervention is the key to stopping a downward spiral. Determine what worked in the past to get the person with clinical depression back on track and do the things that worked before.

Elizabeth Tull is a Professional Excellence coach who partners with people in crafting and designing Legacies of Excellence. Her focus is on bridging the recovery community to professional coaching as well as support for families dealing with clinical depression in the home. Visit her on the web http://www.agapelegacycoach.com

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5 Ways to Transform Your Struggles Into Victories

Destin Lucas has written 5 Ways to Transform Your Struggles Into Victories and he writes "Have you read the famous quote, "Every struggle is a victory"? It was stated by an extraordinary person who overcome great challneges and achieved greatness - her name was Helen Keller.

In this brief article we will explore 5 key aspects for turning your Struggles into Victories. These pointer's have been scientifically validated by Dr Paul G Stoltz in his book: "Adversity Quotient".

1. Manage your Emotions
The first step to dealing with a challenge is to manage your emotions. In challenging times we often feel a sense of overwhelm, helplessness or a wide range of other emotions. We need to manage these emotions, in order for us to be able to think clearly about the situation..

You can manage your emotions in a few ways. You could distract yourself until you regain your composure, you could change your environment, do some exercise, listen to soothing music, eat hot foods, take a nice relaxing bath or help someone else.

2. Get the Facts
What happened? What caused this situation? Which part was caused by me, and which part was caused by others? What options exist? How have other people in similar situations, solved similar problems? What could I do to improve things, even if it only makes a small difference? Information is key to making right choices.

3. Do something to Gain at least a little Control
Do something, however small to gain at least some control over the situation. You can ask yourself: What could I do to gain even a little control over this situation? What little thing could I do to influence this situation? Then do it!

4. Do something to Limit the Reach
No matter how bad a situation may appear, there is almost always a way to limit its impact. Napolean Hill said, "In every adversity lies the seed of equal, or even greater benefit." Even the worst situations, can be turned to good, all you need to do is wonder about, how can this situation be used to my advantage? How can I limit the reach of this situation? How can I limit how long this situation needs to endure?

When you have these answers take decisive action. Taking action fills you with hope and a sense that you can do something about the situation.

5. Take it One Step at a Time
The final principle of dealing with challenges is to take it one step at a time. Helen Keller who lost both her sight and her hearing while still a very young child, used this principle to great affect. She completed a university degree, learnt several languages including classical Greek, became a world famous author and was called, "The Greatest Woman of our Age", by Winston Churchill. Whilst completing her university degree and facing almost unbelievable obstacles, she would simply continue.

She would fight one battle at a time, and slowly but surely get through the challenge. Her life attests to the power of this approach. In a similar way take it one day at a time, strive to do at least one thing every day, no matter how small and you will notice your situation change.

Conclusion

Dr Paul G Scholtz said, "Adversity fuels greatness." As you think about this article, you may begin to wonder how you can apply these principles to your own life. You may wonder how you can turn your own obstacles into victories. You may wonder what one little thing you can do to gain some control over your situation, and grow and develop, and do something great, something really important, because deep down inside every single one of us knows, that we are meant to fulfil a unique and wonderful destiny.

Destin Lucas is an internationally-recognized writer, speaker and co-founder of Dawning Truth - a breakthrough success modeling program for dramatically accelerating your personal development. If you want to achieve greatness visit http://www.greatnesscircle.com

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How to Get Rid of Your Worries: 5 Golden Rules

Kannan Balakrishnan has written How to Get Rid of Your Worries: 5 Golden Rules and a Warning writes "Suresh was a worried person when he came to me . "Sir what if I don't get placement ? I feel that I will fail in the coming exam. I don't know how my family will face this!" It seemed to me he was imagining all problems and getting very much worried!! This is the case of many of us; we keep worrying about events that have only remote possibility to happen. Once a friend of mine put on footwear and later knew that a dog may have bitten it the day before. The moment he knew it he began to worry; what if my leg had an unseen wound and the dog was a mad dog? Added to this was the doubt what will happen if he takes a vaccination and there is a reaction to it? Finally he had to consult many doctors to convince that he was worrying for nothing!! In this short article I try to give five methods to avoid unnecessary worries.

1. Be in the present:
When a thought train begins or when you find that a thought train carries you away, intentionally come back to the present and look at a tree or beautiful or interesting scene in the present and think about it..

2.Analyze:
Get the facts and analyze them to see whether your worry is well founded. In many cases you will find that you are worrying for nothing. Also if it is problem with an emotional factor you will benefit very much from looking it from an outsiders perspective, or even in the perspective of some other person. Another way is to look at the problem from a future point of time. You will find changed dimensions of the problem by this.

3.Think positively:
Positive ideas and constructive thought have great power, while negative ideas and destructive thinking poison your mind. Whenever you find that you are slipping into negative thoughts, make a conscious effort to replace them with positive thoughts and positive feelings.

4 Become Engaged. It is often told that an Idle mind is devils workshop. An Idle mind is just like a monkey, moving to unnecessary places. But if you engage yourselves in activities, your worries are forgotten and you are better off. Find a hobby or creative activity which will detract you from your worries.

5. don't get isolated. Talk to other people, not about your worries but about them, their plans and their views. Also assume the role of a patient hearer. When you find that you are sharing their problems and trying to solve them, your view will be changing from a worried man to a problem solver. Also you may find that your worries are petite compared to their real problems!!

Warning : Never use intoxication as a solution of your worries. It will increase the depression and also cause more damage.

Kannan Balakrishnan is a faculy in computer applications from an indian university. He can be contacted at kannanb@post.com

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Saturday, July 29, 2006

7 Things You Can Do Immediately To Ease Depression

Sharon Schurman has written 7 Things You Can Do Immediately To Ease Depression and writes "1. Get out now and walk fifteen minutes. It will get your feet moving and help you feel you are at least able to do something.

2. Go immediately and be with someone who loves you. It will give you the feeling that you are wanted.

3. Religious? Say a prayer. Ask God to help you get through this.

4. Think of a situation, a place where you were very happy. Visualize yourself in that situation once more.

5. Power of suggestion can do wonders. Say to yourself, "I think I can get better. I have to take it step by step. I will work my way out of this."

6. Go out and buy a plant, or some flowers. Having something living in your house makes you feel more alive.

7. If possible, get outside in the sunshine. If it's not possible, turn on some bright lights. Sunshine and bright light are known to make people happier.

Copyright 2004 Sharon Schurman http://www.depression-help-guide.com
Sharon Schurman, http://www.depression-help-guide.com is a retired licensed clinical counselor. She has a Master's Degree in Clinical Counseling, and worked for a psychiatrist for many years. She is the author of "Personality Pitfalls of Depression" and "37 Phrases That Make People Like You."

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How to Overcome Anxiety and Take Repossession of Your Life!

Charles Linden has written How to Overcome Anxiety and Take Repossession of Your Life! and writes "Katie came as close as is possible to having it all. Great job, loving family, boyfriend, social life? That was until she developed anxiety?

"There were rumours of redundancy in our department. Just rumours. But that was enough to start me off. I became very anxious. Every Monday, I'd head for work, convinced I was about to be told to go. I started worrying about what I'd do if I was made redundant - and despite years of experience in my field, I convinced myself that I was unemployable, that no other company would consider me. I felt useless"

Katie now recognises that the irrational thoughts were all part of the anxiety.

"Gradually, it was robbing me of all my confidence, first in my professional self, then in me as a person. It's bizarre but had I been made redundant, I'd have just gotten on with it and I'd have probably been OK. But the stress of my job and the worry over IF my name was on the list, that was enough to trigger the anxiety."

As her anxiety grew, so her relationships became affected. "I felt nobody understood what I was going through. Not even my boyfriend. He tried to be supportive but neither he nor my family could really understand. That's why it's so important to people with anxiety to talk to somebody who KNOWS what it's like. It's only people who've lived through it who actually know how awful it is that can help you overcome anxiety!"

Katie's anxiety led her to start missing work.

"It's ironic really? but I was never made redundant! Far from it, the company I work for were actually really supportive and agreed to let me have time off. I had days and days of growing increasingly obsessed about my anxiety? and spent hours trawling the internet for a miracle cure."

Katie found The Linden Method? and although initially skeptical about some of the claims, decided to give it a try.

"When I read the website, at first I couldn't believe the claims. I mean, I KNEW how bad I felt, knew how awful it was. And here was this man telling me I could be BETTER in a matter of days."

"However, the Method just makes common sense. I realised that I wasn't ill. I hadn't developed a mental condition. And I wasn't going mad! My anxiety stemmed from a bad behavioural habit that had gone out of control - in my case, it was a constant need to prove myself - both to myself and everybody around me.

Katie has now returned to work full time and is planning on starting a family in the next year or so.

"I went from being this go-getter to hiding away behind my bedroom door! I'd been used to living at a certain level, being this dynamic career girl. I would be responsible for making really vital decisions for the company? but when I became anxious, I couldn't even decide what to wear! I'd still be hiding now, if it wasn't for the Linden Method.

Charles Linden, BA (Hons.), runs a private practice specialising in the treatment of anxiety disorders. He teaches his method on a one to one basis through the Linden Centres and presents anxiety management seminars and corporate stress management training sessions. Internationally Charles treats his clients through the 'Linden Method Pack' which is available on-line visit: http://beatanxiety.amazon-4u.com

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Depressed? Wise Woman Ways Offer a Helping Hand

Susun Weed has written Depressed? Wise Woman Ways Offer a Helping Hand and writes "Winter time is depression time for many women. Perhaps it is harder to look at the bright side when days are short, perhaps the holidays and family demands take their toll on us. Of course, depression can also be triggered by lack of thyroid hormone and by use of steroids, high blood pressure drugs, and ERT/HRT.

But most often the cause of depression is the belief (valid or not) that nothing you do makes any difference. Victimization and poverty lock women into depression. More than one-third of all American women have been victims of sexual or physical abuse; and women make up more than two-thirds of all Americans who live below poverty level. Yet our culture frowns on women who express their anger. No wonder depression is a woman's issue.

"Look here," Grandmother Growth motions to you as she spreads her story blanket at your feet. "See how depression is deeply woven with anger and grief. When our need for reliable, joyous intimacy is frustrated, and expression of our frustration would endanger us, depression comes and protects us. When there is no way to deal effectively with situations that enrage us, depression comes and helps us quiet our violent impulses..

"Depression is not an easy companion on your journey, but she knows much about life. In her bundle, she carries the anger you have carefully frozen with frigid blasts of fear and kept nourished with your pain. She carries your wholeness. She carries your ability to go beyond the pain, your ability to allow your rage to move you into health. She carries your wholeness. Will you let her teach you?"

Wise Woman remedies don't seek to eliminate our feelings, or turn "negative" ones into "positive" ones, but to help us incorporate all of our feelings into our wholeness/health/holiness.

Welcome the dark. Cherish the deepness. Give yourself over to a day or two of doing nothing. Then, get up, no matter how bad you feel. Set a goal for the day and meet it. Smile - it releases brain chemicals that make you feel good. Smile no matter what. Do it as an exercise. Hate it while you do it. But SMILE!

Homeopathic remedies include Arum metallicum, for women with frequent thoughts of suicide who feel cut off from love and joy; and Sepia, for women who are disinterested in everything, angry at family and friends, and just want to be left alone.

It's more than idle chatter that depression comes with gray skies and happiness with sunny ones. For emotional health (and strong bones) get 15 minutes of sunlight on your uncovered eyelids (outside, no glasses, no contacts) daily. If you can't get out (or if the sun doesn't cooperate), wake up 1-2 hours earlier than usual. (You can stay in bed, but keep those eyes open.)

Sing the blues; dance 'em too. Women have depended on songs and dances to carry them out of depression for centuries. Dance therapy is more effective than talk therapy for reaching and healing traumatic experiences. Even a single session may have a dramatic effect.

Find your rage and write it down. Get a massage and let the anger move out of the muscles. Volunteer to help change something you are upset about, even a small thing.

St. Joan's/John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) lives in very sunny locations and blooms at summer solstice. I call it bottled sunshine. A dropperful of the bright red tincture taken 1-3 times daily has helped many women relieve SAD (seasonal affective disorder), move through grief, ease the physical pain of depression, and walk on the sunny side! CAUTION: Hypericum in capsules is not as effective and can cause unwanted side effects.

Oatstraw infusion (not tea, tincture, or capsules) has been an ally for depressed women since earliest times. Gentle Avena nourishes the nerves and helps you remember why life is worth living. To make an infusion: Brew one ounce by weight of dried herb (that's a cup by volume) in a quart jar filled to the top with boiling water. Steep for at least four hours, then strain and refrigerate your infusion. Drink as many cups a day as you wish. Or make an oatstraw bath by adding two quarts of infusion to your bath water.

Garden sage (Salvia) is an ancient ally for emotionally-distressed women. In some societies, only crones were allowed to drink the brew made from the nubbly leaves (at least partly because it delays menses and dries up breast milk). Make an infusion (see oatstraw); drink by mixing a few spoonfuls of the dense brew into hot water or warm milk; add honey to taste. The undiluted infusion keeps for weeks refrigerated.

Behavioral and interpersonal therapies are as effective as drugs in relieving depression. Not only that, two-thirds of those who simply read about therapy improve significantly.

Thirty minutes of aerobic exercise, especially soon after awakening, has been shown to help women whose depression is resistant to all treatments, including drugs.

Sleep less. If you are a woman who overproduces a normal depression-causing substance which accompanies sleep you will feel depressed and often find it difficult to wake up. Sleeping more will only compound the problem. Instead, stay up all night once a week. If you can't cope with no sleep, even mild sleep deprivation (such as sleeping five hours or less for two nights in a row) dramatically decreases depressive symptoms in some people.

Low levels of calcium, zinc, and B vitamins are associated with depression. Get more by eating more cheese and yogurt, more garlic and mushrooms, more whole grains and beans.

Lack of vitamin B12 doubles the risk of severe depression for older women. This critical nutrient, found only in animal products, is destroyed by tofu and soy beverage. Drink real milk, eat real cheese, eat meat at least occasionally and watch your mood improve :)

1600 mg of SAM-e (A-adenosylmethionine) relieved the symptoms of moderate depression as well as imipramine, but no better than Hypericum (St. J's wort). CAUTION: Of the brands tested by Consumer Reports, only Natrol, Nature Made, TwinLab, and GNC passed all tests.

Avoid hormone replacement - ERT/HRT - if you're depressed; it's strongly associated with an increase in suicide attempts.

Women who used to take lithium say they have gradually switched over to skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora). A dose of infusion is one cup/250 ml or more per day; of fresh plant tincture is 5-8 drops twice a day; of the dried plant tincture is a dropperful/1 ml several times a day. CAUTION: Skullcap can make you sleepy.

For women whose depression resists all other therapies, electro-convulsive treatments (ECT), previously known as shock treatments, have been updated with special care taken to minimize harm. The women I spoke with who were using ECT told me it was incredibly effective, and the side-effects, including severe memory loss, acceptable to them.

From doing nothing, to ECT, the range of remedies available to depressed women is enormous. To help you choose wisely, these effective, simple Wise Woman remedies are in order of safety: the safest remedies first, and the most dangerous ones last.

Legal Disclaimer: This content is not intended to replace conventional medical treatment. Any suggestions made and all herbs listed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, condition or symptom. Personal directions and use should be provided by a clinical herbalist or other qualified healthcare practitioner with a specific formula for you. All material contained herein is provided for general information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Contact a reputable healthcare practitioner if you are in need of medical care. Exercise self-empowerment by seeking a second opinion.

Susun Weed
PO Box 64
Woodstock, NY 12498
Fax: 1-845-246-8081

Vibrant, passionate, and involved, Susun Weed has garnered an international reputation for her groundbreaking lectures, teachings, and writings on health and nutrition. She challenges conventional medical approaches with humor, insight, and her vast encyclopedic knowledge of herbal medicine. Unabashedly pro-woman, her animated and enthusiastic lectures are engaging and often profoundly provocative.

Susun is one of America's best-known authorities on herbal medicine and natural approaches to women's health. Her four best-selling books are recommended by expert herbalists and well-known physicians and are used and cherished by millions of women around the world. Learn more at http://www.susunweed.com

Labels: depression treatment, natural depression treatment

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Seven Ways To Deal With Your Depression

Rick has written Seven Ways To Deal With Your Depression and writes "It has just been announced, after a study by a team from King's College Hospital, that depression is now the biggest reason for people claiming long-term sickness benefit in the UK, having taken over from musculoskeletal problems such as back problems. The research shows that 176 million working days were lost because of depression in 2003. Depression now affects 1 in 5 of the population, with most people using various types of medication. Most people would like other types of treatments, such as 'talking cures', but there is a huge shortage of such therapies or therapists in the NHS system.

The aim of this article is to highlight 7 things that anyone with depression can do to help themselves. This is not meant to be instead of any treatment you may be having, rather, these are things you can do in addition that will help you to regain control of your life as quickly as possible.

1. Change Your language
2. Focus on a better future
3. Stop blaming yourself
4. Stop telling yourself you are a failure
5. Have a safe moment every day
6. Have a fun moment every day
7. Get reading

These may seem simple, and to some of you may seem difficult, but the more you practice these 7 things, the more you will help yourself to get over your depression. I want to say a little bit about each of these things, so you know exactly what I mean.

1. Change Your Language

The language we use expresses how we understand ourselves and our world. Too much language around depression is the language of the victim or is the language of a war. Indeed, put them both together and you can be a depression war victim. Stop saying things like, 'I suffer from depression'?', or 'I am going to beat this damn illness.' Change you language to one of experience, if you have to use language at all. If you stop telling yourself you are a suffering victim in a battle, you will stop being one.

2. Focus On A Better Future

This can be a tough one, for depression is so often about the inability to see a great future. But, too much depression is actually about a morbid focus on the past and what went wrong, and this will only make you feel more depressed. Start to daydream what you would like your great future to look like, or build up a scrapbook of lots of photos and ideas about what it will look like. Think about or write down how you would like to feel in this glorious future.

3. Stop Blaming Yourself

Most people with depression go through the blame thing. You will start to blame yourself for being weak, not being able to cope, letting friends and family down and that sort of thing. Apart from the fact that it is wrong, blaming yourself for your depression is about as useful as blaming yourself for the weather - and I'm sure the really depressed among you might have even done that! But seriously, there is nothing to blame yourself for; your only job is to deal with your depression and get your life back on track.

4. Stop Telling Yourself You Are A Failure

When depression strikes, apart from blaming ourselves, we often combine this with the belief that we are failures. I have failed at my job, my life, my relationships and so forth. Many of you might see depression itself as some sort of failure to cope. Again, this is not true, and neither is it helpful. You have not failed just because you've got depression, and the more you tell yourself that you are not a failure the more you will begin to believe it.

5. Have A Safe Moment Every Day

Depression makes us feel unsafe. Feeling safe is essential to good health and well- being, so it is important to practice feeling safe again. You need to find something that you can do, that you know that you can do without thinking - something you feel safe just doing. It could be cooking, reading, making something, writing or whatever. Once you have found something that you feel safe doing (or several things) you then need to make sure you do this for at least 30 minutes a day. At first it may seem pointless or difficult, but very soon you will start to feel much safer again, and therefore much better.

6. Have A Fun Moment Every Day

One of the most damaging things about depression is that it takes the fun out of life. This may seem trivial until you have had the fun removed, then you know what a serious business it is to have fun. Life feeling safe, it is important to establish a fun moment every day in order to practice having fun again. So, as with the feeling safe, you need to think of some things that are (or were) fun for you, and start to do them for 30 minutes a day. It does not matter how silly your fun thing is, and it doesn't matter if it doesn't feel like fun at first. Give it a chance, and those feelings of fun will begin to return.

7. Get Reading

There is an old saying that knowledge is power, and in terms of depression this is absolutely true. It is important to understand what depression is, and what it is not, so start to read some good books about it so you know what you are dealing with. But, even more importantly, there are millions of people that have had depression, got over it and built wonderful new lives, and many of them write about it in magazines and books. Start to read inspirational stories about how other people have dealt with their own depression and see what you can learn from them. Reading can also mean listening or watching as you will also find great stuff on the radio, television and in some films.

These 7 things are not a miracle cure, but I do know from my own experience that they will help you to transform your depression. The problem with depression is that it is like a prison and it is very easy, and sometimes actually easier, to just stay put in this bleak and depressing place. These few things will help you to unlock the door of that prison, walk out and throw away the key.

Remember that depression is now a very common complaint, so you are not alone. The more you practice these 7 things, and embed them into your life, the more you will start to regain control of your life. Depression is a temporary phase, and you have the tools to create a new and wonderful life. Good luck.

Rick is a licensed master Practitioner of NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), and the developer of the unique, From Mess to Success coaching programme. He runs workshops and works with people on a one-to-one basis, helping them to heal and transform their lives. He suffered from manic depression and agoraphobia for 7 years. He has been totally cured for over 10 years.

Rick's unique combination of skills and experience, both professional and personal, combined with his work as a highly successful guide and coach make him supremely qualified and experienced to help you create the life you want and deserve.

Further details can be found on his website at: http://www.inspiredways.com

Labels: depression treatment

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Thursday, July 27, 2006

5 Surefire Tips to Beat Depression Now

Craig Mansfield has written 5 Surefire Tips to Beat Depression Now and writes "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 and sadness, 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 overall 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 and 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 Relaxing Break
I mean it... Listen to soothing music, soak in a nice warm bath, or 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 Exercise
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... Recent studies have shown that caffeine is linked to numerous other health problems.

If you didn't already know, alcohol is a depressant... Many people would drink alcohol to 'forget their problems', but really 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 Yourself 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.

5 Surefire Tips to Beat Depression Now, by Craig Mansfield
My Depression Cures - http://www.MyDepressionCures.com
Complete guide to understanding, and conquering depression,
once and for all... It has already helped thousands of depressed
sufferers, and I bet it can also help you take back your life today!

For other 'no BS' Health and Fitness related information check
out my main website - http://www.CraigsHealthFitness.com

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How Do You Know if You Have Manic-Depression

Michael G. Rayel has written How Do You Know if You Have Manic-Depression and writes "Nancy was doing very well until about two years ago when Phil, her boyfriend of 9 years, broke-up with her. It was a difficult moment for her especially after she learned that Phil eventually married her cousin. Since then, Nancy had deteriorated. One evening, she was involved in a motor vehicular accident because she was driving fast and recklessly in a quiet suburban neighborhood.

During interrogation, the cops noted that Nancy was talking rapidly and nobody could interrupt her. Also, she was making jokes and laughing so loud. She further indicated to them that she was on her way to meet the President and his top officials about her invention that could cure the oil crunch. She eventually ended up in the emergency room where she was diagnosed and treated for bipolar disorder after intensive evaluation.

Bipolar disorder or manic-depression is manifested by highs and lows. When a patient like Nancy is on the manic side, there is a persistent feeling of euphoria or irritability associated with lack of need for sleep, excessive energy, agitation, fast and loud speech, increase in goal-directed activities such as spending sprees and establishing businesses with no appropriate plan, and hypersexuality..

Patients with this disorder develop poor judgment and impulsivity. They become irritable and can lash out easily even if not provoked. Some patients have delusions of grandeur. When this happens, patients think that they have special powers, talents, and influence.

When not manic, patients either feel normal or depressed. Depression in bipolar disorder has the same manifestation as major depression that consists of feelings of sadness associated with neurovegetative signs and symptoms such as inability to sleep, eat, and concentrate. Energy level is also impaired. In addition, patients experience a feeling of hopelessness, worthlessness, and helplessness. Suicidal ideation may ensue.

For individuals who develop mania, does it always mean that they suffer from bipolar disorder?

Not necessarily. Mania can be caused by various medical and neurologic conditions. For instance, multiple sclerosis and stroke can present with manic symptoms. Moreover, medications and street drugs may precipitate mania. Steroids, cocaine, and amphetamine are some examples. Even some antidepressants can induce mania.

So when a person shows mania, the physician usually does intensive evaluation to rule out medical, neurologic, and medication-induced conditions before diagnosing bipolar disorder. This process is important because the treatment varies depending upon the cause. Once other conditions are ruled out, then bipolar disorder can be safely diagnosed and treated.

Copyright © 2004. Dr. Michael G. Rayel - author (First Aid to Mental Illness-Finalist, Reader's Preference Choice Award 2002) psychiatrist, and inventor of Oikos Game: An EQ Game. For info, visit http://www.oikosgame.com and http://www.soardime.com

Labels: depression treatment

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5 Way Tips To Manage Depression

Jasmine has written 5 Way Tips To Manage Depression and writes "Being lonely is a normal share of our everyday lives. We get sad when we fail in our exams, when we are rejected by the individual we love, or even when someone extremely close to us passes away. Depression, however, might be even more calamitous than just plain loneliness. It may render life-long effects that may ruin your self-esteem, health, and well-being.

Just here are a select few superb tips to conquer the melancholy mood and get the virtually all bliss out of your daily activities.

1.) Get Busy. Get Inspired.
You'll be even more likely to overcome any feeling of depression if you were 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 may engage in basic stuffs like taking a leisurely hike in the park, playing sports, reading books, or even 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 hard or even discouraging life can be, remain firm and have an unshakable belief that you are capable of doing anything you want. With this kind of positive attitude, you will attain a cheerful disposition to beat the blues.

2.) Get Enough Light and Sunshine.
Lack of exposure to sunlight is responsible for the secretion of the hormone melatonin, which may 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 higher for your room (with the curtains closed), it would be hard to restrain yourself from staying in bed.

This is the reason why many people are suffering from depression much even more typically in winter than in the more seasons. It's because the nights are lengthier.

If you cannot afford to get a few sunshine, you are able to always lighten higher your room with brighter lights. Have lunch outside the office. So take frequent walks instead of driving your car above short distances.

3.) Take a Break.
I personally mean it.

Listen to soothing music. Soak in a nice caring bath. Ask 1 of your close friends to massage you. So take a break from your stressful workload and spend the day just goofing around. In more words, have fun.

4) Eat Right and Stay Healthy.
Avoid foods with lots of sugar, caffeine, or even alcohol. Sugar and caffeine could give you a brief moment of energy; however they would later provide about anxiety , tension, and internal problems. Alcohol is a depressant. Many people would drink alcohol to "forget their problems." They are just aggravating their conditions in the process.

Exercising regularly is a vital depression buster because it allows your body to create even more endorphins than most common. Endorphins are periodically called "the happy chemicals" because of their stress-reducing and happiness-inducing properties.

5) Get a Social Life.
No human is an island. Your circle of friends are there to give you moral support. Spending time and engaging in worthwhile activities with them may give you a incredibly satisfying feeling. Nothing feels better than having group support.

Never underestimate the power of touch. Does not it feel so great when someone pats you on the back and gives you words of encouragement when you took your virtually all challenging times? Hug or even embrace someone today. You'll never know when you have saved an additional life.

Get intimate. Establish close ties with your family and friends. The love and care expressed by others may tremendously boost your resistant system and fend off symptoms. Best of all, you'll live a even more secured and happy life.
Self Improvement - Manage Depression
Jasmine Ebook Publisher
Copyright © 2005 Self-Improvement-Ebook.com

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Posted by Tk Rujak at 6:24 PM | Permalink | Comments

A Look at the Different Depression

Charles E. Donovan has written A Look at the Different Depression and Anxiety Medications and writes "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

Author
Charles E. Donovan

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Posted by Tk Rujak at 6:07 PM | Permalink | Comments

Tips to Beat Depression

Mark McCoid has written Tips to Beat Depression and writes "We all have days when we are down, worn out and just not feeling all that happy.

That's okay. You need to have days like this, otherwise how would you know when you are happy? You appreciate your good days even more when you have the occasional bad day for contrast. What is black without white?

Even though sadness is a part of life, let's try to make it a small part of life.

With that said, here are a few tips to help you feel better when you are feeling down in the dumps. They are easy to practice every day, and they work!

Stand up straight and sit up straight. When your body is in alignment your energy can flow and when your energy is flowing freely, you can flow.

Smile! Yes, just smile. Easy to do and effective. This technique can also change the way others react to you, which can further elevate your mood..

Repeat positive affirmations. Things like "I feel good", "Positive energy flows through my body", "I see the good in all". Always phrase your affirmations is a positive way. For example, "I hate smoking" becomes "I love taking deep breaths of fresh air". One more very important thing about affirmations, you must infuse your affirmations with emotion. This is the key to making affirmations work.

Listen to some music that you like. It doesn't have to be anything specific, just something you enjoy. Certain types of music work better than others, so experiment and see what works for you. Studies have shown that classical music and new age music work best.

Take some "me" time. Indulge yourself in something you enjoy, such as:
Relax and read a book.
Take up a hobby
Slip into a bubble bath
Watch a sunrise or sunset

Meditate.
Meditation is an excellent habit to develop. It will serve you well in all that you do. If you have a hard time sitting still, then try some special meditation CDs that coax your brain into the meditative state. Just search for "meditation music" on Google or Yahoo and explore.

Exercise.
This doesn't have to mean pumping iron! Even something as simple as taking a walk will get your blood flowing. Believe me, you will feel better. Our outside world is simply a reflection of our inside world. Remember there is no reality just your perception of it. Use this truth to your advantage. Whenever you are sad, realize that you have the power to change your perception.

These tips will lift you up when you are down, but don't just use them when you are sad. Try and practice them every day, make them a habit. You will be surprised at how these simple exercises will keep the blues away.

On a final note, if you are in a deep depression that you can't seem to shake, please go see a doctor. This is your life, don't take any chances.

Mark McCoid owns HealingProducts.com, your Meditation and Healing Resource.

Make sure to sign up for our free newsletter "Your True Potential" and get our free report on the Secrets of Brainwaves.

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Posted by Tk Rujak at 6:06 PM | Permalink | Comments

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

How to Put an End to Depression

Phil de Fontenay has written How to Put an End to Depression and writes "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

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Posted by Tk Rujak at 7:00 PM | Permalink | Comments

How to Uncover the Reason You Cant Sleep Tonight

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!

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Posted by Tk Rujak at 6:26 PM | Permalink | Comments

Ten Tips For Beating Depression

Marsha Jordan has written Ten Tips For Beating Depression and writes "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

Labels: depression treatment

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Depression Treatment Tip and Advice

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Antidepressants: Control or Cure?

Sunday, July 30, 2006

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Saturday, July 29, 2006

7 Things You Can Do Immediately To Ease Depression

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Thursday, July 27, 2006

5 Surefire Tips to Beat Depression Now

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5 Way Tips To Manage Depression

A Look at the Different Depression

Tips to Beat Depression

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

How to Put an End to Depression

How to Uncover the Reason You Cant Sleep Tonight

Ten Tips For Beating Depression

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