Fighting Depression

Depression is a state of unhappiness with feelings of hopelessness. It is considered major depression when a person has five or more of the following symptoms for at least two weeks: agitation, restlessness and irritability; extreme difficulty concentrating; feelings of hopelessness and helplessness; inactivity and/or withdrawal from usual activities; trouble sleeping or excessive sleeping; thoughts of death or suicide; feelings of worthlessness, self hate and inappropriate guilt; fatigue and lack of energy; dramatic change in appetite, often with a noticeable weight loss or gain. Depression can present as discouragement or even anger. With very severe cases it is not uncommon to see hallucinations and delusions focused on themes of guilt, inadequacy or disease.

Depression does not go away on its own. If you suffer from depression you need to get help from a doctor or therapist. After you have done that, there are other things you can do to make yourself feel better. Exercise is at the top of the list, especially if it is done outdoors. A 15 to 30 minute walk or bike ride every day will start to make a difference in your mood. There are some yoga poses that help relieve feelings of depression. Check yoga websites for the ‘downward facing dog’ or ‘legs up the wall’ poses. Deep breathing exercises and meditation can also help you feel better.

Good nutrition is a must since it provides energy and influences mood. Depression can affect the appetite, sometimes causing overeating or skipping meals. Keep a journal of any problems that you can identify that may have contributed to your depression, but don’t dwell on them. This is good especially if you don’t want to share your feelings with another person, for whatever reason. Writing problems down is a way to release the feelings that you have pent up inside.

Try something creative like painting, drawing, sewing, dancing, or even just doodling. This exercises your imagination and allows positive emotions to move in. Find something to laugh about, whether it’s a movie, a book or a trip to see a friend. Depressed individuals usually notice only the negative. Make a sincere effort to look on the positive side, it will grow on you. If you or someone you know or love has an addiction, please know that help is as close as your phone. Call A Better Tomorrow for the help you need today.

If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/

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