Beat Depression And Enjoy Life With This Advice

If you suffer from depression it can feel like your whole world is closing in on you. Taking drugs or seeing a therapist may not be how you expected to conduct your life.

Try to get some sunlight in your day, each and every day. There have been studies done that have shown that if an individual does not spend enough time in the sunlight, their depression will actually get worse.

Battle your depression head on. When you have a negative thought about yourself, think about whether or not you would apply that statement to another. If you answer no to this, you may be being hard on yourself. How can you fix the problem?

Antidepressant medication can restore the natural balance of neurochemicals that are in your brain. That is one part of the complete therapy plan because it also requires meeting with a therapist, a physical fitness plan, and attention to nutrition by you to be as healthy as possible.

Definitely exercise daily. People have a better improvement in depression symptoms when the exercise at least 30 minutes daily. It can often work as well as prescription drugs. Try taking the stairs and/or parking a bit further than normal since it can benefit you physically and mentally.

Be supportive of friends and family members suffering from depression. They need to know that you still care about them, even if you can not fix the depression for them. Learn all you can about the condition so you can offer them assistance.

These medications can help restore your brain's neurochemical balance. However, they will work much better if you combine them with regular exercise, therapy and good effort and work on your part.

When you are fighting against depression, try to reduce your stress level as much as possible. Stress can make your depressed condition more severe. You should take a good look at your life to determine what is causing your stress. Once you have have identified your stress triggers, you can create a plan for avoiding them.

Try to have a sizable circle of supportive friends. Depression can exhaust even the most dedicated friends, so you need to make sure you have lots of folks who are ready to lend an ear.

Develop a fun hobby. Many people get depressed since they do not have anything they like doing. Hobbies and other interests will give your mind something else to focus on. Pursuing activities you enjoy can bring about satisfaction so that you keep your mind focused on positive thoughts.

Create a happy decor for your home. Happy and bright surroundings have an effect on human emotions.

Always start by taking small steps. If you take on too much too soon, you could actually wind up becoming more depressed than you are now. If you take things slow, however, you are able to hash out your feelings in a way that is most appropriate for you.

With depression there are many causes. Try to find the root cause of your depression. With the help of a doctor or therapist, you can begin to understand these feelings, and find treatment to help you cope with them.

Consider going green to treat your depression. Most of the food we eat is treated with a variety of chemicals. They can have impacts on your brain's processes. Organic foods are the best things that you can consume. Most communities have fresh organic produce available.

If you are depressed, you should keep a personal journal or diary. A journal is a safe place to be able to get out your feelings that you may not be comfortable sharing with others. In addition, if you record your feelings and thoughts whenever your symptoms are particularly intense, you may be able to identify the specific factors that are causing you to feel that way.

Figure out what specific things tend to trigger depressive episodes in your life. You have to find out so you can put them out of your life. When you spot a trigger, do what you can to get rid of it or change it.

Having some fresh cut flowers displayed in your home will help you cheer up a little. Flowers and their smell tend to evoke happier thoughts and lift moods. Remember this, and attempt to set out or view fresh flowers every day.

You should always be eating at least three meals each day, especially if you're depressed. Many depression sufferers also suffer from loss of appetite, but a failure to eat can sap your energy and end up making you feel a lot worse. Without a sufficient amount of calories the body is unable to function properly and feels run down. If you eat regularly, your body gets the energy it requires to help you feel good physically and mentally.

Clinical Depression

Eat a healthy diet. Eating a poor diet of foods can really make you feel extremely unhealthy. Organic, healthy foods will keep your body in tiptop shape. They will not only make you feel feel better, but they will also help you look better.

Know how depressed you are. There are different levels of depression, from mild all the way to the most severe cases of clinical depression. The mild forms of depression affect millions who are not even aware they're depressed. Mild is often just feeling sad, while moderate is life-altering. Clinical depression is a severe illness where you lose outside interests and your behavior changes. Share your feelings with your therapist or doctor.

If you are affected by depression, do everything you can to avoid foods containing Phenylalanine, an amino acid. Phenylalanine contains phenol, and that is a serious allergenic. People suffering from depression often have different allergies, and this phenol ingredient increases your negative reaction. Avoid this in your diet at all costs.

If you find yourself suffering from intense depression, you should refrain from drinking caffeinated beverages. Research shows that caffeine worsens depression. If you enjoy having a nice cup of coffee or a can of soda during the day, it might be best to switch to decaf.

If you are sad and depressed, then get up and start dancing. Turn on some catchy music that makes you want to move. While dancing, do you really believe many people remain sad when grooving to their favorite tunes? Not that many! Select music that you like, that will change your mood to a better one.

However, depression can be overcome and by using the advice contained in this article, it can be left behind. Your happiness is waiting, now go and find it.

Always make sure you get enough shuteye each night. To maintain both physical and mental health, you need to get the required rest. Sleep deprivation can aggravate and increase anxiety and worsen the symptoms of depression. If you have insomnia, try meditating prior to going to bed, or speak with your physician with regard to medications that may help.

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Tips To Help You Through Your Depression

If you're thinking negative thoughts and don't feel like doing much or getting out and about, it's possible you are depressed. Depression is a very real illness that can cause major problems in a person's life, yet it is often not taken seriously. Continue to the following article and learn how depression can be treated.

Think about getting a prescription for an antidepressant to help cope with depression. These drugs make a big impact for many. While there are many types of medications for depression on the market, you may have to endure a trial and error process to find the best one for you.

Go outside and enjoy the sun for a little bit every day. There is scientific data that suggests that insufficient sunlight can significantly worsen depression.

Exercise is a great way to cope with depression. Depression treatments are more effective when you get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. Exercise can actually be more effective than prescription meds. Using the stair and walking to the store can be great ways to increase your activity and appreciation of the world around you.

Never underestimate the role of diet, exercise, and good sleep in staving off depression. When you feel depressed, it may help to go for a walk, run, swim or bike ride. Some people find that their depression is helped by regular exposure to sunlight and exercise.

Therapy is vital whether you have mild or severe depression. Speaking with a therapist who understands what you are going through is much better than you dealing with it on your own. Remember friends can help, but you need a trained professional.

The role of the antidepressant is to help balance the neurochemicals of the brain. However, they will work much better if you combine them with regular exercise, therapy and good effort and work on your part.

If you suffer from depression, it would be helpful to buy a journal you can write in. You may feel better when you express how you feel in a journal. Write down how you feel and what triggered these feelings: you might be able to find a pattern.

If you are battling the blues, try dressing up in your favorite, snappiest outfit. Get dressed up and hit the town. Not just to go to a formal event, but to feel good about yourself and to get away from your home. Making the effort to look better and more attractive will boost your confidence, ease your mind, and help fight depression.

You should take your anti-depression medications at a set time each day. It's best to take them in the morning, if possible. A regular routine makes it easier to remember to take your medicine each day. If you take it in the morning, it will help you function better throughout the rest of the day.

Even when regularly taking medicine, you should regularly go to therapy. Talking to a professional will let you understand your emotions better. A counselor will help much more than your friends can.

Think about where you fit on the scale of depression. There are many levels, including mild and severe depression. Many people are affected with depression and do not realize it when it is only mild to moderate. "The blues" are a classic form of mild depression, whereas heavier depression can begin to control your life. Severe clinical depression causes a loss of interest in formerly enjoyed activities. It can cause dramatic changes in behavior. Make certain that you do not keep your emotions bottled up inside.

If some circumstances in your life are starting to cause you to become a little down, that does not mean that you have depression. Be sure to talk to a professional to understand exactly what you have.

If you are suffering from depression, it is vital that you realize that you are not the only one suffering from this debilitating metal illness. Remembering this is important, because if you feel alone, it can make matters worse. Somebody is always out there suffering with the same problems or willing to lend a helping hand with them.

If you're depressed, stay away from drugs and alcohol. Though many addicts believe these chemical substances will help, they will actually only worsen the situation. This can become addiction.

Take the time to really understand what a diagnosis of depression means. Depression has psychological and physical components. If you have been carrying stress for a long time, it may cause your brain to reduce its level of serotonin production. This can increase feelings of depression. Anti-depressants are usually prescribed in this situation to stimulate the brain to release more serotonin. You can naturally increase seratonin levels rather than depending on anti-depressant drugs to restore them to the levels you need. As recommended for multiple maladies, go easy on the alcohol, nicotine and caffeine, while increasing your rest, fitness and healthy lifestyle.

Talk to your doctor about your depression, and listen to what they have to say about prescription treatments. The importance of this is because sometimes therapy is not the only way to handle the issue. Certain medications can offer a restoration of the chemicals that result in a depressive state and assist in many ways that therapy alone cannot do.

When you are depressed, you should take extra care to nourish yourself. Many people avoid eating when they are depressed. However, if you don't eat, your body doesn't get essential vitamins and nutrients, and this can make you feel even more depressed. You don't have to eat large meals if you don't feel hungry, but make sure you're eating at regular intervals.

Don't starve yourself if your depression is getting worse. Feelings of sadness often cause those with depression to refrain from eating. You may not feel hungry, but you still need to eat so that your body will have the fuel it needs to keep you healthy.

No matter what happens, remember to stay positive when battling against depression. When maintaining a positive outlook, you will be more likely to recognize and utilize alternatives if the need arises.

Depression can be a seriously disabling condition that many doctors dismiss by prescribing the latest pill. If you suffer with depression, you will also agree that it is quite real. Use the above tips to feel better soon.

Begin gradually, and your depression will start to fade. Trying to take too big of steps during your recovery can actually cause the depression to worsen. If you do things slowly, however, you'll be able to deal with things as they come.

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Fight Back And Win: How To Beat Your Depression

Depression can affect everyone that's in your life. Your family, friends and co-workers are all affected. If you have depression or it someone you know has it, this article will be helpful. Continue reading to find great ways to get your mind on the right track.

Challenge the negative thoughts that cause you to be depressed. When you have a negative thought about yourself, think about whether or not you would apply that statement to another. If no is your answer, you are probably being too hard on yourself. Do your best to reframe thoughts such as these by coming up with ideas on how to address the problem.

These medications can help restore your brain's neurochemical balance. However, these medicines can only work to help you return to normality if you combine them with consistent exercise, therapy and effort.

Always keep in mind that you are in complete control of your thoughts if you feel down. Avoid buying into the negative connotations attached to the word depression. This piece of vocabulary is actually depressing just to say, and simply hearing or saying it lowers moods and opens the door to sinking thoughts. Try using a phrase, such as "low mood," for describing those feelings for a better outlook.

Realize that you alone can determine how you deal with depression in your life. Stop saying the word depressed. This piece of vocabulary is actually depressing just to say, and simply hearing or saying it lowers moods and opens the door to sinking thoughts. You can instead refer to your feelings as a 'low mood' or anything that sounds more positive.

A fun way to alleviate your depression and make yourself feel good is to put on some clothes you really love. Throw on some nice clothing, and make it a night on the town. You may not be attending a wedding or anything formal, but just dressing up to feel good. Making yourself look good will work wonders on helping you feel good, and perhaps even reduce your depression somewhat.

Understand that you aren't crazy. Just like any other illness, depression should not be a stigma. Your body knows something is wrong, and depression can be a chemical imbalance or unresolved emotions. Depression is when your body tells you that it's overwhelmed.

Having some fresh cut flowers displayed in your home will help you cheer up a little. Flowers, by their very nature, have evolved to be pleasing to many species, including humans. Use this to your advantage, and always keep some fresh flowers around.

A good way to feel good about yourself and not feel depressed is to dress up. Put on your favorite outfit and go do something fun. You don't need to go anywhere special, just get out for fun. If you do something to make yourself feel attractive, it will really help to lessen your depression.

If you're depressed, stay away from drugs and alcohol. Many people turn to alcohol and drugs when they are depressed, but this can make things worse. Most times, this desire to drown feelings with drugs or drink will lead to dependency.

Music should play a big role in getting rid of depression. In fact, any form of artistic expression can be a method to fight off a bad mood.

Take any prescriptions exactly as you were instructed by your doctor. Also, don't stop taking your medicine without your doctor's approval. Usually, anti-depressants need to be weaned off, as just stopping them can cause major problems.

It is essential to support those you know who are dealing with depression. Someone who is depressed needs to be comforted and know that there are people who care about them. There are a lot of places where you can turn like books or the online world that can assist you in caring for a person you love.

If you are on some form of medication, try to remain on a constant schedule for each dosage. If you develop a routine and stick with it, you are more likely to remember to take your medicine. If you take your medicine in the AM, you will be better able to work throughout your day.

Depression can impact our lives in countless ways. It is not something that a depressed person deals with by them self. Put the above tips to use to battle depression or help someone who has it.

Depression may make you feel isolated and alone, but the fact is there are many who are suffering as well. This is important because the feeling of being alone can only make matters worse. Even though you may not realize it, there are many others that are dealing with the same demons and plenty of people that are eager to help.

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Successfully Overcome Depression With These Helpful Tips

Depression can drain the energy and happiness right out of you, and pose great difficulty with daily functioning. Even though it's not easy to get over depression, it is definitely possible. This article will give you many tips on depression. Coping with depression will take some effort, but it is possible to conquer this disease.

Seek out your friends and the social activities that you usually enjoy. Depression may keep you from wanting to do your normal activities. Try to attend them anyway, though. Keep up with the things that you would normally do. Avoiding them will likely only serve to make your feel more depressed.

Even though sadness and clinical depression are quite different, frequently you can succeed with some similar techniques. It is very important to your well-being that you avoid putting yourself in a situation that might trigger your depression. If you know what triggers your depression, do your best to avoid it.

If you suffer from depression, it is important that you talk to someone about how you feel. From a professional to a loved one, if you let them know what's going on, you can also find help.

If you know what triggers your depression, it is important that you immediately deal with the situation. When negative thoughts bring you down, start doing something physical. Go to the gym and begin working to improve your fitness level.

Meditation can be used to cope with the symptoms that accompany depression. Studies have shown that meditation is beneficial because it makes your mood more positive and makes blood pressure lower.

Have many positive friends rather than just one. This can be extremely draining to one individual, so it's important that you have a circle of friends to talk with.

Antidepressant medication can help restore your brain's neurochemicals to their proper balance. However, if you want normalcy restored in your life, you must also exercise and take part in therapy.

Try not to label yourself using the words "depression" or "depressed". While depression is a tangible problem, the terminology that comes along with it can leave people feeling stigmatized and overwhelmed. The next time you feel down, think of your condition as "the blues" or "a low mood." If you consider it "elevating your mood" rather than "battling depression", it will be easier to accomplish.

Beat your depression by realizing you are in control. Banish the word depression and its counterparts from your vocabulary. The word itself can bring on less than positive thoughts! Instead, use "low mood" or a similar phrase that doesn't hold so much negative power, and this will help your outlook become more positive.

Fresh Flowers

If you are wondering whether you have depression, speak to a professional. Depression is a diagnosis that can only be made by a professional. Try to discuss your condition with a professional to understand what you have.

Even something as simple and fresh flowers can brighten your home and mood. The smells and colors are pleasant to species like humans. Try keeping fresh flowers around to see if it improves your mood.

While hearing music can help you if you suffer with depression, making it can really do a world of good! Other enjoyable activities can also help.

Be supportive of friends and family members suffering from depression. You need to offer them comfort and positive reinforcement. A number of resources are available, such as books and online sources, that can provide you with the guidance you need to help your loved one.

If a friend or relative suffers from depression, it is critical that you remain supportive. Comfort and reassure them as they work through this difficult experience. You can find many resources that can guide you to being supportive for the ones you love.

If you are prone to depression, consider keeping a journal. You can see how you feel and if there are any triggers causing your issues. Additionally, journaling can help you spot patterns that exacerbate your depression.

Find a healthy hobby. Starting a new hobby can help to keep your mind busy and give you a reason to feel good about yourself. Building birdhouses, refinishing old furniture and journal writing are all hobbies that can help you to feel motivated again.

You can make a huge dent in lifting your depression by following the advice given in this article. Make sure if you make changes in your life you do so slowly so that you can see what is really helping you and what really didn't make much of a difference.

When you a depressed, it is a good thing to remember that you are never alone when things are going badly. This is important because the feeling of being alone can only make matters worse. There are many people with the same problems as you and many more who would just enjoy talking to you about your concerns.

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What You Can Do If You Think Your Aging Parent Is Depressed

Many that have dealt with depression think there's no escaping it, but that's only true if they don't get help. You can overcome depression, but understanding what works for someone else might not work for you. This article has advice to help you overcome depression.

Finding ways to interact and do positive, uplifting activities, such as volunteering, can help you get out of your depression rut. Lack of enough activities and interests can be a common reason or factor leading to depression. You can begin a new hobby, such as pottery or painting, or a dance class could be fun. One of the ways you can get over being depressed is by getting new hobbies or interests.

One way to beat the blues is to lay off foods and beverages that are loaded with sugar. This even includes fruit juices, honey and molasses. Sugar rushes into the bloodstream quickly - especially when compared with the complex carbohydrates found in whole grains and other unprocessed choices. This gives you a burst energy from the rapid intake of carbohydrates, but unfortunately, you end up tired and then depressed shortly thereafter.

Enjoy some sunlight and fresh air to ease your depression. Studies show that depressed people who get limited amounts of sunshine tend to feel worse.

One way to combat depression is to stay socially active. If you feel depressed and down, you might not want to do your usual activities. Continuing them is important to your mental health. Keep doing the typical activities you do. Dropping these means giving in to depression and only making it worse.

Dealing directly with personal issues in your life can help you manage depression better. Seek out necessary steps and keep it simple so you're not overwhelmed. You can work on what is causing your depression by making smaller goals.

Don't get caught up in a never-ending cycle of the symptoms of your depression. Dwelling on all the negativity that envelops you will just aggravate your depression further. Keep everyone you know focused on positivity, and you'll stay positive as well.

Don't think that you shouldn't work on having good sleep, a good diet, and be exercising to get depression to go away. Swim a few laps when you feel down to release endorphins. Cutting down on your junk food and sleeping eight hours should help.

If you are able to work through the personal issues you have to deal with, it can aid you in battling depression. You can avoid getting overwhelmed if you do this in baby steps. It is much easier to tackle a problem if you break it down into smaller parts and the same is true of depression.

There are depression support groups available in cities all over the country and in online forums. It's particularly helpful to seek out others who've had success in handling their encounters with depression. These people will be really good sources for support, wisdom and advice as you deal with your own depression issues.

As was discussed in the beginning of this article, most people will experience some form of depression in their lives. Realize the signs fast so that you can tackle the issue early. Apply the advice from this article and soon, you'll be well on your way to feeling better.

Depression can be caused by poor diet. Eating unhealthy foods can affect how clearly you think. Negative and cloudy thinking can lead to depression. Steer clear of fat-laden food and always work to eat a balanced diet.

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Common Myths Surrounding Clinical Depression Symptoms And Treatments

When you are suffering from depression, your world can feel like it's crashing down around you. Seeing a shrink or taking medication may not be the way you thought you would manage your life.

Being sad and being depressed are different, of course, but the same techniques often help both. One thing you need to keep in mind is to stay away from what triggers your depression. If you can avoid a person or activity that repeatedly leads to depression, you should.

Do not let yourself get lost in a cloud of depression symptoms. Constantly rehashing your negative feelings can have the same effect. Try to remain upbeat. and divert the attention of those around you to a more positive outlook as well.

Look for a support network wherever you are able. It is particularly beneficial to find someone who has overcome depression so that you can learn from their struggles. They can provide valuable insight on coping strategies they used to successfully beat depression.

Take a long bath if your depression symptoms are nagging you. Adding in some calming music or a good book can help you relax while you soak. Drawing the bath as hot as you can stand is also a good idea, as the heat will help your muscles relax.

Know that you are not crazy. Depression is an actual mental illness that should receive similar respect to other diseases. Your body is letting you know that there is a problem, whether it is due to emotional issues or a chemical imbalance. When your body and mind are in need of support and help, you may become depressed.

If you hope to take charge of your depression, you should start by remembering that you're in control of the way that your mind thinks. Take "depression" out of your vocabulary. This word is so negative that it can lead you to have even more negative and depressing thoughts! Think about depression as a "temporary mood swing" and you will put yourself in the mindset that it is something that will pass with time.

Try not to label yourself using the words "depression" or "depressed". These words are very real, but they have many negative connotations attached and can worsen any feelings of hopelessness. When you are struggling with a spell, consider it a period of low mood instead. When you think about fighting off depression, it may seem impossible. Instead, think about elevating your mood.

You need to make sure not to mention words like "depression" and "depressed". Though they may be accurate descriptions of your mental state, they carry with them the power of suggestion, and may cause your feelings to sink even lower. The next time you begin to feel blue, look at it like a temporary mood instead. It is much easier to think about raising your mood level than it is to think of it as battling "depression", even though it is exactly what you are doing.

Dwelling on the past is a dangerous ingredient for anyone who is struggling with depression; moving forward is the antidote. Hope fosters life, and those who look to their futures often find hope.

By using the tips in this article, you will be able to get rid of depression and live a happier life. So strive for the happiness you deserve.

Even if you have been prescribed an antidepressant, you should also have therapy regularly. Speaking with a professional will help you comprehend your though process. Friends simply can't take the place of a good counselor.

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Start Getting Rid Of Depression Today

Having depression can make one's life unhealthy. A few changes can go a long way. Use the advice found here to help you make positive life changes. You;ll be happy that you followed them.

If you are depressed, tell someone your feelings. It doesn't matter who you talk to, you will feel better about it.

Don't be afraid to seek help from every avenue that might offer it. Finding others who understand what you are going through can really help, just through general conversation or sharing solutions to the problems posed by depression.

Exercise on a daily basis. People who exercise are more likely to respond to depression treatment. If fact, exercise is sometimes just as powerful as many pharmaceutical anti-depressants. Simply taking the stairs or parking your car a little further from the store can benefit your physical and mental health.

Try your hardest to maintain a healthy circle of friends and not just one best friend who you tell everything to. When you are depressed, you can drain the mood and emotions of even the closest friend. By sharing with more friends, you can spread this out.

Music can be very therapeutic, but concentrate on music that makes you happy or soothes you and not songs remind you of sad things. Keep away from any type of music that makes you sad or pensive. This kind of music not only fails to get rid of sad feelings, but reinforces them.

Music in and of itself is helpful for those suffering from depression, but be cautious about the kids of music you choose to listen to. Avoid getting lost in music that is too negative or screams about the same things that are causing you to be depressed over and over. This type of music will not expunge the feelings, but cause you to dwell on them.

Be aware of how bad your depression is. There are many stages of depression that can vary from a mild case to much more severe. Millions of people are mildly or moderately depressed, many of whom are not aware of their depression. You may call it "feeling down" or "a little blue", but in any case it can have surprising effects on your life. If your depression changes your behavior so much that you have completely lost interest in everything that used to matter to you, you are probably severely clinically depressed and need professional attention right away. You have to be sure you let a physician or therapist know what you're feeling.

Writing in a journal can be very helpful if you are suffering from depression. By letting your feelings out you may feel better. In addition, if you record your feelings and thoughts whenever your symptoms are particularly intense, you may be able to identify the specific factors that are causing you to feel that way.

Depression can make you want to avoid people but that is the worst thing that you can do. By surrounding yourself with people that love and care about you will help you to feel less depressed, even if it's just for the time that you are around them. Putting social activities on your calendar will make you less susceptible to depression.

Sprucing up your environment can definitely help you feel better. Something as simple as some freshly cut flowers can put you in a much better mood. The smells and colors of flowers are very pleasant. Remember this, and attempt to set out or view fresh flowers every day.

When dealing with depression, you should consider joining groups online that offer help. You may find it more safe to discuss personal matters in an anonymous forum. There are a lot of groups that offer services just like this.

A hobby can help you deal with depression more effectively. New interests can take your mind in a new direction and provide you with fun and entertainment. Scrapbooking, painting and photography can give you an escape for your feelings and highlight your creativity.

Choosing a positive attitude can be a powerful way to approach every situation when you are dealing with your own depression. If you keep a positive attitude toward your situation, you will be able to work actively and find solutions.

It is important to identify the level and type of depression you are experiencing. You may have mild or severe clinical depression that requires treatment. The mild forms of depression affect millions who are not even aware they're depressed. Mild depression is feeling somewhat down, moderate depression actually alters your life. If your depression changes your behavior so much that you have completely lost interest in everything that used to matter to you, you are probably severely clinically depressed and need professional attention right away. You need to let your therapist or doctor know how you have been feeling.

Make sure you try and focus on staying positive. Anyone who has depression also has a negative way of thinking. Someone who is depressed often minimizes any good present in their life, while a happy person maintains their positive attitude by knowing that sadness is normal and focuses on what they can fix. Positivity will also draw others to you who can support you, ending loneliness.

Even while depressed, you can control how active you are and how you live your life. When putting this advice into practice, you're going to feel much better. Many simple steps that you can accomplish on a daily basis can send you down the path to recovery over depression so that depression does not overtake your health.

Surround yourself with happy people. If you are around positive people, it will be hard to stay depressed. Positive people can even trigger positive thinking patterns in you.

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The Depression Insights You Have Needed All Along

Depression is much more than a "mood" issue. It also can affect how your life goes and how you're able to function. It can also put a strain on the relationship you have with people in your life. By continuing to educate yourself on depression through the information given here, you will begin to experience the quality of life you deserve and desire.

If you are feeling down, stay away from sugar. This even includes things like honey and fruit juice. All of these types of sugar get into your bloodstream faster than the complex carbohydrates of whole grains. This will result in an initial energy burst followed by a crash of fatigue and depression.

Stop and ask yourself if you have entered into a repeated cycle, becoming more depressed because you gave in to depression before. Continually replaying negative thoughts in your head can make depression even worse. It's more productive to get out of the house and focus on the positive things in your life.

A good piece of advice is to not ignore the possibility of taking antidepressant drugs. You will probably feel happier if you take an antidepressant. Discuss the various types of antidepressants with your doctor to determine which is right for you.

When you feel yourself getting depressed, try taking a hot bath. Take a good book with you or listen to your favorite music while taking a bath for a completely relaxing experience. As well, try to make your water warm; warmth can help you relax your muscles.

Make sure you exercise enough each day. Studies show that those people that exercise for at least 30 minutes each day better respond to depression treatment. Exercise can even replace antidepressants. Walking more and taking stairs when possible are just two things you can do.

If you know what the cause of your depression is, you should try to make some changes. If your physique and lack of energy are stirring up your depression, try to do something about it. Get out and get some exercise.

Avoid negative self-talk, such as calling yourself crazy. Depression is an actual condition that ought to be looked at as other conditions are. Your body is telling you something is wrong. It may be an unresolved emotional issue or your brain is suffering from a chemical imbalance. When your body and mind are in need of support and help, you may become depressed.

If some circumstances in your life are starting to cause you to become a little down, that does not mean that you have depression. Seek the advice of a counselor or other professional to get a proper diagnosis.

Catch up with some friends and family and just hang out and relax, or watch a movie with a bucket of popcorn. Getting out and enjoying a relaxing social event may improve your mood.

Music can be great therapy because it lifts your spirits and makes you want to sing and dance. Additionally, there are many things that art related that can be a good remedy to your depression, and despite your skill level, it can really make you feel a lot better.

Decorating your own place in a happy and upbeat way is a good way to battle depression. This can lift your spirits in little ways every time you get out of bed or come home from work or shopping.

Writing in a journal can be very helpful if you are suffering from depression. It can really help you out when you write down how you feel in a journal. Reflecting back on your journal can help you find what is triggering your depression most often.

Depression has a wide range of causes, so it is important for you to try to determine the source of your own depression. If you have an idea of what is causing the problem, you can either go about eliminating the cause or deal with them in a different way.

Dealing with depression can be very hard, and it becomes worse when the people around you don't understand what you are going through. Using these tips can help you take your life back and get control over your depression, even without a solid support network. When you have determination and make an effort, you'll have better days in the future.

If you are battling the blues, try dressing up in your favorite, snappiest outfit. Wear an attractive outfit and go out. You don't need to go anywhere special, just get out for fun. When you do something to improve how you look and to make yourself feel more attractive, it will have amazing effects on your feelings, and help overcome your depression.

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Find Out How A Healthy Lifestyle Can Help Your Depression

It is very important to treat depression. You have to research your options and make many inquiries from professionals. You have to know you are never alone in the fight against this illness. The following advice will give you a good starting point to learning more about your depression and what you can do about it.

Diet, exercise, and adequate sleep all play a part in whether you are depressed or not. If you feel a little depressed, you can feel better by going for a walk, run, bike ride or swimming for some exercise. Living a balanced and healthy lifestyle can help you to feel better in all aspects of your life.

If you're depressed, try changing your thinking patterns. If you're thinking about yourself in some negative way, consider whether you would feel differently if the thoughts were about a different person instead. If no is your answer, you are probably being too hard on yourself. Reframe your negative thoughts into something more positive, like a solution for your issue.

Antidepressants are a help in re-balancing the chemicals in your brain. However, if you want normalcy restored in your life, you must also exercise and take part in therapy.

If you work on the personal problems that you are up against, this will help with your depression. Rather than trying to handle everything at once, deal with one or two issues at a time. That way you will not feel overwhelmed. You can get a handle on your depression and lessen its effects by taking this one step at a time approach.

Improper eating can contribute to depression. If you eat the wrong food, you can have a big effect on the way you are thinking, you will then go into depression! Stay away from foods too rich in sugar and fat and find out more about nutrition to adopt a better diet.

A proper diet and exercise regimen as well as adequate sleep is also key to battling depression. If you feel a little depressed, you can feel better by going for a walk, run, bike ride or swimming for some exercise. Cutting down on your junk food and sleeping eight hours should help.

When it comes to depression, keep in mind that you control your thoughts. Take the word "depressed" and remove it from your vocabulary! The word does nothing except cause you to refocus on negative thoughts and circumstances. When ever possible, substitute other phrases, such as low mood, blue, etc.

These medications can, in many cases, balance out the neurological and hormonal chemicals in your brain. You will also need to exercise, go to therapy, and do everything you can to adopt a positive attitude toward your condition.

If you know the root of your depression, try to make the necessary changes. If you feel badly about your weight, start an exercise and diet routine. Come up with an exercise plan and get started.

If you know why you are depressed, you should do whatever is possible to make that. You need to combat negative thoughts with positive ones. Start a walking program or start lifting weights.

Avoid negative self-talk, such as calling yourself crazy. Just like any other illness, depression should not be a stigma. It is your body telling you that something is wrong, whether it is a chemical imbalance in the brain or unresolved emotions. Your body feels overwhelmed, and it is saying that it needs to get some help.

You are not nuts. Depression is an actual condition that ought to be looked at as other conditions are. When you are depressed, it is a sign of problems such as unresolved emotions or an actual, physical chemical imbalance. Depression just means that your body has more emotions than it can handle.

Do not use the words "depression" or "depressed" in your vocabulary. Though they may be accurate descriptions of your mental state, they carry with them the power of suggestion, and may cause your feelings to sink even lower. When you are struggling with a spell, consider it a period of low mood instead. You will find that focusing on improving your mood is easier than approaching the issue as a battle.

You can become a new person when you treat your depression, but it can take much work. However, if you are familiar with your treatment options and are willing to work towards your goal, you can overcome depression. Do some research, ask for help and apply the advice that you have read today to fight your depression.

There are many causes for depression, so it is best to find what the source is of your depression so you can deal with it effectively. Once you know things about how your depression is manifesting itself, you should be more at ease when handling hard times.

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Tips For Understanding The Ins And Outs Of Depression

Depression can be quite debilitating. A successful diagnosis is only the beginning, since you also know what steps need to be taken. Keep reading for some great advice on beating depression.

When dealing with depression, you need to speak freely with trusted individuals. No matter who your confidants are, you are sure to find great benefit in sharing your thoughts with others.

It's important to exercise enough daily. It will improve your mood and the effectiveness of your other treatment methods. Exercise can even replace antidepressants. Remember to always make the active choice, such as parking far from your destination to grab a little walk or choosing the stairs over the elevator.

You must pose a mental challenge to any depressive thoughts you have. When you think about yourself, reframe it as about someone else. If you wouldn't, you are likely being too hard on yourself. Work on reframing such concerns in a positive manner focused on problem-solving.

Run yourself a soothing bath if you feel depression taking hold. Light a candle, put on some soft music, and grab a good book; the bath will make you feel great in no time. Also use warm water, as hot as you can stand, to allow your muscles to relax.

Be sure that you expose yourself to just enough sunlight each day. Research has proved that depression is worse when there is lack of exposure to sunlight.

You need to combine therapy with medication to treat your depression. Speaking with a professional will allow you to better understand what is going on. Friends can't replace good counselors despite how well meaning they are.

Remember the importance of your diet, exercise and adequate sleep in preventing depression. When you feel depressed, it may help to go for a walk, run, swim or bike ride. Staying away from processed foods, sleeping properly and exercising can all help with depression.

Refrain from drugs and alcohol during the day. When people experience depression they often turn to drugs and alcohol to make the problems go away, but in reality it really just makes things a lot worse. In a lot of cases, the drive to drink or get high can result in dependency or addiction.

If you know what triggers your depression, it is important that you immediately deal with the situation. When negative thoughts bring you down, start doing something physical. You can get a gym membership and begin exercising on a regular basis.

You need to be supportive of anyone battling depression within your family or social circle. Comfort and reassure them as they work through this difficult experience. There are many resources to turn to, such as the Internet and books, that can help guide you to be there for your loved one.

When you suffer from depression, try not to live in the past. The best thing you can do for yourself is to look to the future. You should always remember that even if things haven't been or aren't going well right now, you always have the hope of what the future will bring.

You may want to discuss pharmaceuticals with your physician. When it comes to treating depression, a combination of medication and therapy tends to work best. Depression is caused by a chemical imbalance in your brain and medication can help these chemicals balance out.

Depression can come from a variety of places, and you need to figure out what's causing your depression. Once you know things about how your depression is manifesting itself, you should be more at ease when handling hard times.

Discovering new interests can help take your mind off of your troubles and make you feel better about yourself. Some people get depressed because they do not have a hobby or interest that they enjoy. A social life will surround you with people too. These activities will help satisfy you and keep negatives out of your life.

A medical professional should be involved in helping you overcome depression, whether the condition is clinical or not. A professional can give you an accurate diagnosis, and inform you of any treatment options that are available. They can also tell you exactly what form of depression you have, which can make finding effective treatment options a lot easier.

You need to stay away from substances with caffeine when your symptoms of depression worsen. Studies show too much caffeine makes depression symptoms worse. If you like to indulge in espressos and cola, you should think about consuming decaffeinated coffee and caffeine-free soda instead.

Do you suffer from clinical depression? If so, don't think you will feel better tomorrow. This battle is not going to be quick, nor will it be easy. You should work on getting prepared now so you can handle it when it occurs.

You now have some helpful information. Begin implementing these great ideas today. Print off this article so you can reference it whenever necessary.

Be supportive of friends and family members suffering from depression. A person who is depressed will benefit from comfort and reassurance. Learn all you can about the condition so you can offer them assistance.

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Important Things You Need To Know About Depression

A lot of varying individuals are all afflicted with depression. This advice can help you to overcome your depression and limit its effect on your everyday life.

Speaking with someone about your feelings is crucial if you suffer from depression. No matter who your confidants are, you are sure to find great benefit in sharing your thoughts with others.

Think about getting a prescription for an antidepressant to help cope with depression. Proper medication can adjust your chemical levels and lift your spirits. There are many to try, so it might take some trial and error to see which one works best for you.

Get some sun every singe day. There is scientific data that suggests that insufficient sunlight can significantly worsen depression.

Don't allow yourself to fall into a bad depression loop. Continually replaying negative thoughts in your head can make depression even worse. Keep your chin high, and encourage those closest to you to do the same.

To ease some of your depression symptoms, you may want to try meditation. You can lower blood pressure and actually lift your mood through meditations and studies have proven this.

Let someone know how you are feeling! Talking to people about how you feel, whether you speak to a friend, relative or medical professional, can be helpful.

Try not to speak of your self as depressed or experiencing depression. These words are very real, but they have many negative connotations attached and can worsen any feelings of hopelessness. When you are upset, say "feeling down" instead. It is much easier to think about raising your mood level than it is to think of it as battling "depression", even though it is exactly what you are doing.

Your first step to fighting depression should be to stop speaking the word "depression" altogether. These words are very real, but they have many negative connotations attached and can worsen any feelings of hopelessness. Forget depression; call it a bad mood instead and reclaim the authority that's rightfully yours in the first place. It is much easier to think about raising your mood level than it is to think of it as battling "depression", even though it is exactly what you are doing.

If you dress to impress it can combat depression. Wear some clothes that you like and get out of the house. It doesn't need to be a special occasion, just going out will make you feel better. Taking care of yourself and looking attractive will boost your self esteem, and push your depression aside.

Anyone can be of help, whether this person is a friend, family member or coworker. Just getting in touch with people that love you can help.

Even when regularly taking medicine, you should regularly go to therapy. Talking to a therapist will help you change your thought patterns and how to spot triggers that causes depression. A counselor will help much more than your friends can.

Don't rely on medication alone. Counseling is also necessary. Talking to a professional will let you understand your emotions better. Even if you have good friends, they cannot take the place of a counselor.

Don't drink alcohol or use any drugs when you are feeling depressed. When people are dealing with depression, they may think that alcohol or drugs can help with it, but in the end it causes a lot of harm. Prolonged dependence on chemicals can lead to a host of other problems.

Using music to raise your moods and thwart the advance of depression can prove to be effective, but choose the style and genre carefully. Keep away from any type of music that makes you sad or pensive. That music will only make you dwell on your sad feelings and could exaggerate them.

Never forget that there is hope. Depression can feel overwhelming, but taking that first step towards treatment can help immensely. You need to remain patient and stay positive.

A lot of people suffer from depression. The tips discussed above can help you cope with your depression in a healthy manner.

Spend a little bit of time trying to understand and analyze your depression. Depression is not only mental, but it is physical too. When you have experienced anxiety and stress for an extended time, your brain's serotonin levels can be depleted. This can actually make you feel more depressed. Anti-depressants are usually prescribed in this situation to stimulate the brain to release more serotonin. There are a lot of ways to get a higher seratonin level. Simple things like getting enough sleep, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, eating healthy and exercising all contribute to serotonin production.

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Tips For Managing And Treating Your Depression

Unfortunately, so many people are embarrassed or ashamed of depression, and do not really understand it. Most people feel guilty, blame themselves, and do not try to make changes. Help is available if you struggle with depression. Read this article for tips on what you can do daily to eliminate the depression which you or someone you love might be going through.

Avoiding all sugar types can actually help lessen your depression. Compared with complex carbohydrates, these simple sugars are absorbed more quickly into the bloodstream. This gives you a burst energy from the rapid intake of carbohydrates, but unfortunately, you end up tired and then depressed shortly thereafter.

Change your negative patterns of thinking and focus on positive thinking. If you are thinking something about yourself, consider if you'd ever make that statement about another person. If you wouldn't, you are likely being too hard on yourself. Try to manage your thoughts and make them more constructive. For example, attempt to find some solutions to the problem.

While there is a big difference between sadness and depression, some of the techniques used to treat these issues are similar. It is very important to your well-being that you avoid putting yourself in a situation that might trigger your depression. If you know of some action, person or situation that creates depression for your, avoid it if at all possible.

Go outside for a little while every day to bask in the sun. Avoiding sunlight could increase the symptoms of depression.

If you're depressed, dwelling on the past will only make you feel worse. Instead, try looking to the future. As the saying goes, with hope comes life; a bright future can provide hope for anyone with depression.

If your depression isn't bad, try something OTC. For instance, grape juice as well as St. St. John's wart has been shown to positively affect the mental state of users. It can be cheaper than prescriptions, too.

If you get prescribed an antidepressant medication to treat depression, make sure you follow the directions on the prescription. Don't think that you should control how much or how little you take, or when to stop. More often than not, it is important that anyone taking anti-depressants have to be slowly weaned off of them, otherwise it can have disastrous consequences.

Facing personal problems and finding resolutions can help you move past depression. Avoid getting overwhelmed by doing small things. Breaking them into smaller goals will help combat depression and will probably fix many of the problems that are at the root cause of the depression.

Learn about your depression. Some people are only mildly depressed, others have a much more serious case. Many people are affected with depression and do not realize it when it is only mild to moderate. Mild depression is usually called "the blues," while moderate depression has an affect on daily life. Clinical depression is when you shut down to the world totally. Letting your doctor or therapist know how you feel is critical.

One thing to remember when coping with depression is that you are in charge, even though you may not always feel that way. Depressed should not be a part of your vocabulary It is a very negative word to explain what you are feeling, and can lead you to have more negative thoughts. There are many other ways you can describe how you are feeling such as "not great." Use these phrases instead, and you will find yourself becoming more optimistic.

When you are feeling depressed, you may find yourself avoiding social activities. This sort of avoidance can make you feel a whole lot worse. By surrounding yourself with people that love and care about you will help you to feel less depressed, even if it's just for the time that you are around them. You won't be as depressed if you're going out more.

Depression isn't a condition that should be taken lightly. There are ways to cope with it. You may be helped by information. Use the tips from this article to help you make changes in your daily life that can alleviated your symptoms of depression.

Talk to your doctor to see if medication may be the right choice for you. When it comes to treating depression, a combination of medication and therapy tends to work best. Medication can fix chemical imbalances in the brain that other methods can't help.

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Be Open And Honest About Your Depression

If you find it difficult to get yourself out of bed each day and you just feel awful, depression may be the culprit. Though some may dismiss the significance of depression, it really can be devastating to sufferers. Keep reading to learn how to deal with depression

Do not alter your general social routines. If you feel depressed and down, you might not want to do your usual activities. However, it is vitally important for your mental and emotional health that you do so. Live life normally and do as you normally would. Shying away from your regular activities will only exacerbate your depression.

Sadness and clinical depression are different, but quite the same. Avoid triggers. If there is something or someone that makes you depressed, do all you can to stay away from it.

Exercising each day is important. It is has been proven that those who workout each day feel better. Exercise is so powerful that it can be similar to an anti-depressant drug. Remember to always make the active choice, such as parking far from your destination to grab a little walk or choosing the stairs over the elevator.

Dwelling on the past is a dangerous ingredient for anyone who is struggling with depression; moving forward is the antidote. Actively engaging in the future tends to foster hope and generate positive feelings.

If you work on the personal problems that you are up against, this will help with your depression. Conquer one at a time and don't let them overwhelm you. Creating smaller tasks and more concrete goals can make it much easier to address problems. Little by little, the issues evaporate and are no longer such a concern.

Decorate your home in a bright way. This is a more up-lifting environment and you will feel more positive about yourself.

When you feel your depression symptoms acting up, take a long bath. Sitting in the bathtub with your favorite book or listening to soft, soothing music can help to make you feel better. As well, try to make your water warm; warmth can help you relax your muscles.

If you dress to impress it can combat depression. Dress in one of your most attractive outfits and go out for the evening. Not because there's a special event to go to, but just because you feel great! Dressing up and making yourself look attractive goes a long way in helping you feel great and eliminate depression.

Clinical depression is very different from feeling sad, but some techniques can be helpful for both. It's important to identify and avoid recognized depression triggers. If there are certain people or things that cause distress, you should try to avoid them.

Understand your level of depression. There are many stages of depression that can vary from a mild case to much more severe. Many people are affected with depression and do not realize it when it is only mild to moderate. Feeling down in the dumps or "blue" is a mild form of depression, but moderate depression has an effect on your day-to-day activities. Clinical depression can be so severe that it causes a person to lose interest in everything and experience behavioral changes. You need to let your therapist or doctor know how you have been feeling.

Grow your circle of friends so that you're not continually pushing all your feelings on just your best friend. Even your most loyal friends are bound to feel drained by your depression, so it is critical that you have several people with whom you can share your thoughts.

Depression is a disorder that afflicts your mood. Because of this, some don't believe it's a disorder at all. However, you're very aware of the reality of your depression. Using these tips will help you end that suffering.

Avoid the use of the words "depressed" and "depression". While they are medically accurate terms, describing yourself in that way may actually worsen your feelings of hopelessness or despair. When you are struggling with a spell, consider it a period of low mood instead. It is much easier to think about raising your mood level than it is to think of it as battling "depression", even though it is exactly what you are doing.

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How To Make Depression A Thing Of The Past

Having to cope with depression can literally feel like the end of the world. Professional counseling or endless prescriptions may not appeal to you.

Avoid sugars whenever you are feeling depressed. All of these types of sugar get into your bloodstream faster than the complex carbohydrates of whole grains. This then causes a burst of energy, but then you have a "sugar crash" not too long after and a feeling of depression.

Do not allow depression to keep you from your normal work and social activities. Whenever you feel depressed, you may not want to do things that you normally enjoy. Despite this, staying social is crucial to beating depression. Go on doing what you normally do. When you neglect what you should normally be doing, you can sometimes get discouraged and more depressed.

When dealing with depression, you need to speak freely with trusted individuals. Speaking to someone whether it be a family member, therapist, psychiatrist or just a good friend, these people can help you work through your problems just by talking them out.

An antidepressant can help curtail your mood swings. Proper medication can adjust your chemical levels and lift your spirits. There are different types of antidepressants, so experiment to find out which one will work best for you.

When you feel the telltale signs that your depression may be acting up, try taking a long bath. Relax in the warm water with an uplifting read or enjoyable music to help soothe your spirit. The warmer the water, the more relaxed your muscles will feel, so run the bath as hot as you can safely tolerate.

One of the best tips to handle depression is by getting a new hobby. Lacking hobbies and passions can lead to a boring, underwhelming life, which can contribute to feelings of depression. Try to start up a new hobby, like dancing, playing the drums, or reading. Whatever pursuit you choose to follow, it will be a good road to outgrow your depression.

Don't dismiss the importance of getting proper sleep, exercise and eating a healthy diet. If you feel a little depressed, you can feel better by going for a walk, run, bike ride or swimming for some exercise. In the long term, avoiding processed foods, getting light exercise daily, and being certain to get 8 hours of good sleep every night may permanently chase away your blues.

Make sure you exercise enough each day. People have a better improvement in depression symptoms when the exercise at least 30 minutes daily. Exercise is so powerful that it can be similar to an anti-depressant drug. Park your car far away from the store, take the stairs instead of an elevator, are some things you can do each day to get a bit of exercise.

Antidepressants are a help in re-balancing the chemicals in your brain. However, this is not a cure-all approach. To be most effective, medication often needs to be combined with therapy and/or other treatments.

If you have depression at a sub clinical level, an over the counter solution just might do the trick. For example, grape juice and St. These items have shown to offer relief from anyone dealing with the effects of depression. It can be less expensive and addictive than traditional pharmaceuticals.

A good thing to remember if you suffer from depression is that only you can control your thoughts and emotions. Take "depression" out of your vocabulary. It is not a positive way to look at your feelings, and it can cause negative thinking. Replace it with phrases like "low mood" and "not feeling well" to express those feelings, and a more positive worldview is imminent.

By using this article, you will be able to get over depression by working hard to leave it in the past. You can be happy, find a way to do it and go for it.

Avoid negative self-talk, such as calling yourself crazy. There are real physical reasons behind depression. Your body knows something is wrong, and this is a side effect. When you are depressed, your body will let you know it needs help.

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How to Brighten Your Mood

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that occurs most frequently during the winter months. It is estimated that as many as 10 million Americans suffer from various levels of SAD. There are a variety of things you can do to lessen the severity or prevent the occurrence of SAD.

Make Changes in Your Daily Routine

Some experts suggest that you adopt a diet that reduces the amount of sugar and carbohydrates in your diet. A low fat diet with an adequate amount of protein is often recommended as a good diet plan for those likely to suffer SAD.

Exercise is highly recommended as a way to reduce or prevent SAD. Getting outdoors for a daily walk or to engage in some type of physical activity is strongly encouraged.

Lighten up your home

Take advantage of all of the natural light that flows into your home by choosing minimalistic window treatments. Light therapy is also an ideal way to combat SAD. If you are not familiar with the benefit a SAD light has for those who feel depressed during the gray days of winter, you can click here to check it out.

Many times, taking simple steps to address a situation will bring about positive results. Although there are instances where the severity of SAD requires professional treatment, many people respond in a positive way to lifestyle alterations and an increase in their exposure to light through the use of a light therapy box.

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Contents under pressure

For the last week and a half I have felt like I am under a ton of pressure. Not like stress or work related but emotional pressure. I have just had a ton of things land on me and cause me grief. I have fought with my family, gone to dark places in my mental health and so much more. Being bipolar and suffering from massive manic depression it can be a rollercoaster to say the least.
There are members of my family who don’t understand the mental anguish that they cause and if they do then they just don’t care which I think might even be worse.
But when I say that I am in a dark place it means that thoughts of hurting myself or suicide have come to mind. Thinking that ‘maybe if I just hurt myself, maybe then they’ll notice’ but that is really not good thinking and looking at that statement now that im not manic at the moment, I realize that its like drinking poison and hoping the other person dies. Its just not good for me to be that upset. I know I have blogged about being depressed and stuff like that at times, but its just something that I deal with daily. Yes I do take medication for it, but sometimes the meds lose out to the biologically illogical.

My one wish would be to make everyone understand how bad it can/does get, and that many times im not being a jerk its just that im having emotional overload and cant function correctly. I don’t know how else to put it. But really outside of being depressions bitch, I have been otherwise pretty well. No major health problems, which is always a good thing. I did a more kinda ‘in-depth’ video on YouTube about it. So if you want to see it head over to the channel. Anyways hope all is well with the rest of you :)

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The Appeal of Her–a movie review

I just got done watching the movie Her with Joaquin Phoenix. I must say that this movie hit a little to close to home for me. The movie revolves around a heart broken man who is in the midst of divorce and isnt sure how to move on with his life. Then he learns of a new Artificial Intelligent Operating System (AI OS) that is being marketed as the very first personal computer operating system.

After installing the software to his computer, he and the OS begin conversing, asking simple ‘get to know you’ questions. He at one point asks if she has a name of which she chooses Samantha. As the movie progresses Joaquin and Samantha begin growing closer and form a relationship. As an AI, she is able to expand and learn past her programming. So they begin “dating” and he shows her new experiences, and he falls in love with her because she understands him and is able to fill that void in his life.

Well I began thinking about it, and I could see myself in Joaquin Phoenix’s shoes if that were me and an AI OS. Here you have ‘someone’ who is with you at any given moment, who has the ability to ‘feel’ and to ‘enjoy’ your company and time you two spend together. I could see myself becoming wrapped up in something like that, because of the emotional connection vs the physical. If you think about it, we pretty much already have those types or relationships.
With things like Facebook and Twitter and Social Networking Sites, we develop virtual relationships with people that many times we don’t ever know in real life. Yet we come to depend on our daily interactions with them. We love seeing their photos, their status updates, the funny random things that they post on their profiles, but whats to say that they are actually ‘real’? We take for granted that they are real but what if it was just a computer program and Photoshop that makes up that person that we have come to know and love on some level?

I could see depressed and lonely people latching on to their computer systems and falling madly in love with the digital persona. I for one know that I would/could. But with the development of such a system, I fear for the human race, as we would become so self absorbed in our digital romances and lives that all physical interaction would cease to exist, except for maybe persons who could not afford computers and the OS, or those people who are anti-technology.

But all in all it was an amazing movie that had complex emotions and feeling, and personal undertones of how people who suffer from depression and loneliness seek out comforts and build bonds with things that are sometimes either inanimate or that feel real.

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What side are your lines?

Mine will be on my left. I will also have some on the right. Those lines will be hearts and stars, signifying that the hopes and dreams of those suffering will one day come true.

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Holidays

So with the holidays coming up there are a lot of stresses that are compiled and added to my already seemingly endless stress and depression. Being on a very tight almost nonexistent budget I feel the stress of the holidays more than anyone.

You see, growing up for me the holidays were always so amazing. Up till a few few years ago I would sit and gaze at the Christmas tree with wide eyed wonder, thinking about all the great things there would be under there and how magical it was. Even now that I am older (and depression allowing) I still do. But the holidays are losing their magic for me. I am not a very materialistic person, but there are things that I like and want, but many times there isnt even a little something under the tree for me anymore.
I always try to make something or get a little something for the people in my life, as a way of saying ‘hey I love you and was thinking about you…’

So when it comes to having money or being able to do for others it is something that I take really seriously. I know maybe it might be a little selfish of me or even wrong of me to expect something, but well damn it, I do. The last few holidays I have put on a brave face and not shown it, but it has hurt me.
Even so, every year I dread putting up holiday decorations, or doing anything really, especially now that I live alone. I don’t see the point of putting up a tree, or lights because well it’s only me, and I have no one to share it with. So holidays are tough on me. This year is going to be really hard on me, as it’s the first year without my dad.
I wanted to get out to see him last year but didn’t have the ability to do so. But that’s life, here today, gone tomorrow.

So as the holidays are drawing closer and closer, I am finding it harder and harder to get up out of bed, and put on a cheerful smile and pretend that I am happy. Pretend that I am interested. Maybe things would be different if the situation was different. Who knows.

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As Thanksgiving nears

Been doing some thinking over the last week or so. It feels like 2013 is going by so quickly, or at the very least that parts of it has. I look back over the last year and think of the great times that I had, and the horrible tragedies that have happened.

I lost my aunt, my dad, and my grandfather, but rekindled my relationship with my estranged brother.
I have been out of state twice, once for fun and once for a funeral. I have met some new people, and even had the possibility of having a relationship. I feel as if I have grown, yet staid the same. I feel so very old, but knowing that I am so very young. I find myself constantly looking to the past for comfort and to see where it is that I have been. Because of my constant depression and bipolarism I can not gage where I am going. But I have placed some hopeful goals in the foreseeable future. I am hoping that 2014 is much much better. There are a few things that I want to get out of 2014 that I know I wont accomplish in 2013 with they days ticking away.
I’m going to make a vow and try to uphold it for myself. I am going to make a series of jars, filled with wishes and undertakings that I want to do in 3, 6, and 12 week times. Im going to make a depression jar and feel it with what has bothered me for the year, and im going to make a jar for what has made me happy for the year. It is my hope and intent that at the end of the year the 3, 6, 12 jar is empty, that my depression jar is only a quart full, and that my happy jar is over flowing.

I have been looking at the positives of my life lately and trying to see the good, but it seems like all I want to do is withdraw from the world with those few select people and call it good. But I cant. I know I can not just shut the door and keep the whole lf the world away from me. I must resolve to make change as I can, and not get my hopes up to high, but high enough to possibly see the horizon. So this Thanksgiving, as you sit with your loved ones, really take stock of your life, your friends, and your dreams, accomplishments, and pitfalls. See where you can change and correct, and where you can grow and enjoy more.

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