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Herbal Remedies for Depression - Yes , There Are Alternatives to Prescriptions

Herbal remedies for depression have been used for a very long time. They have also been proven to be very effective too. Most of the focus is on St. John’s Wort which has proven to be just as effective as prescription antidepressants without the side effects. However, St. John’s Wort should not be taken with any other antidepressants or indinivir (a protease inhibitor used for HIV), oral contraceptives, theophylline, warfarin, digoxin, reserpine, cyclosporine, and loperamide.

Other people use different herbs for depression and depression related symptoms. Valerian root has been shown to alleviate the insomnia that is commonly associated with depression. Prescription antidepressants can cause sexual dysfunctions so many then turn to Damiana which will reduce these side effects. Ginseng helps the body to fight off stress which is very helpful when a person suffers from depression.

When people have a low dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids their brains do not function at 100%. Our bodies can’t make omega-3s on their own, so we must obtain them through our diet. Studies have shown that in countries that eat more fish they have a much lower depression rate than that of North America. Cold water fish such as salmon, sardines, and anchovies are the richest food source of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil capsules are considered the cleanest source of omega-3 fatty acids.

It has been found that depressed people usually lack vitamin B which is also called Folic acid. Folate is found in green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, fruit, beans, and fortified grains. There are many factors that can lead to a vitamin B deficiency such as a poor diet, certain conditions, and some medications. Besides food, folic acid is also available as a supplement or as part of a B-complex vitamin. People who have a low folate level will likely have a difficult time having a positive response to antidepressants.

Diet plays a big role in depression too and many people don’t realize that. Such things as a lot of sweets will cause your blood sugar levels to soar but make for a very bad mood in a while. Caffeine and alcohol both dampen mood. Alcohol temporarily relaxes us and caffeine boosts energy, but the effects of both are short-lived. Both can worsen mood swings, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

Most people do not get enough magnesium in their diets. Good sources of magnesium are legumes, nuts, whole grains and green vegetables. Like vitamin B6, magnesium is needed for serotonin production. Stress depletes magnesium; therefore you need to replace that magnesium from another source.

There are obviously lots of herbs available that can help to deal with depression. With some research or help from someone who understands herbs, you can learn to control your depression using herbal remedies.

Shannon Pollock has been teaching people about natural health remedies for many years. She is a specialist with experience in natural remedies for both people and animals.

For more information on the benefits of herbal remedies, as well as other natural health related topics, visit Shannon’s website called Natural Health Remedies and More

Depression and Experts

This article is about depression from an unusual perspective. It is about the powerlessness and hopelessness of modern psychological science and research. The importance of an holistic approach to mental and physical health will be explained.

Do you know, what really startled me since I was a child?

It is actually very simple but profound at the same time. I could see that there were problems in the adults’ lifes. That was one thing. The other was that they never seemed to really get beyond them. My first assumption about grown ups was that they are really smart people. I mean, they were grown up and I was a kid. You admire them. Anytime they want they can turn on the TV or take the car for a ride, just for fun. They can go to sleep whenever they want or they can stay awake till the morning dawn. They are gods…

My father used to comment on the radio news. From what I could hear I realized that adult people are not what they seem to be. They lacked knowledge, although they heavily pretended to have some. Adults build huge hospitals, but the number of diseased people is increasing. They do a lot of research, but things get worse. They are holding big conferences, but there is no solution to poverty, hunger and pollution. The destruction of the planet continues, unhampered. They scientifically study the human mind for years, but still they are fighting over minor issues and killing each other. Depression is rampant.

The experts are wearing white coats of authority and they look really impressive. But the picture is deceiving. They are as helpless as the rest. They have been told that depression is caused by some material disfunction in the body. They wouldn’t admit it, but this theory is the cause of their own latent or acute depression.

There is one important saying: “Doctor, heal thyself”. So, obviously, an expert treating depression in a person should be free of that mental condition himself. But is this really the case? Are our experts examples in their own lives? Have they achieved the peace of mind and the happiness that we are looking for?

To be quite frank: Our mental health experts are haunted by depression themselves.

Of course, their job is demanding and it is hard to stay untouched from all these unfortunate human destinies. But that is no excuse. For a health practitioner it is of prime necessity to become a strong, positive and loving personality. It is not enough to just “know” one’s field of “expertise”. Life operates on rules that cannot be managed properly just by some theoretical knowledge. A doctor abusing nicotine and alcohol is as unbelievable as a psychologist suffering from a minority complex, being arrogant and insensitive.

People tell me about their experience with mental and physical health practitioners. They feel ignored, misunderstood and treated like an innate object. That’s how modern science looks at it’s objects: things, which have to be manipulated into proper function.

People feel that the experts lack self esteem and hide behind academic degrees and honors. They rightly perceive all this as symptoms of personal weakness. How to develop real trust in such a person?

The formal training in any given area was much less in former times. But that does not mean that we have become advanced. Modern education has created highly trained specialists in their respective fields, but being too much focused on a tiny segment of reality they seem to have lost the whole big picture. At the same time they have lost themselves.

A person is not just ears or heart or mind. A person is an individual being. And what does that mean? A person cannot be divided. A person is one. Treating a depressed person without this consideration will only lead to frustration and more depression.

Depression spreads like wildfire. People seem to get lost in the rat race and the competition. Survival of the fittest. They drown in the struggle for existence. The one and only thing a depressed person needs is unalloyed love and compassion. No one will learn this at university. The students will learn about material processes in the body, in the brain. But they will learn little or nothing about the person possessing the body or brain. In this way they will not learn anything about themselves, too. They will look at depression with the arrogance and helplessness of a lost soul. How should they be able to help?

A psychologist, a coach, a trainer, a priest, a doctor: they all have to understand what life really is. They have to thoroughly understand themselves first. They have to get rid of their own depression and hopelessness deeply buried in themselves. They actually have to become free and independent loving persons. That is the real challenge: How to transform oneself into a great personality. Theoretical knowledge alone is useless.

Friedrich Asen has over 20 years of experience as a personal development expert. For more information on depression treatment, including natural remedies and powerful alternative healing methods, read his article The Real Nature of Depression and it’s Spiritual Cause

Depression and the Sensitive at Heart

There are beautiful people out there, sensitive and tender at heart. One thing they often have in common: they suffer from low self esteem, depression and the like. Many times they work in the social field, but they may come from any occupation. Often they feel not to fit into society at all. Whatever they try, they cannot find a suiting place.

On the other hand, there are the powerful manipulators out there, often unscrupulous and insensitive. Exploiting mother earth and their fellow men, they blossom. They have found a way to fight depression. They act, control, manipulate and accumulate power. I am sure they are depressed too, but they have found a way to suppress it. A life of manipulation, based on power and might, lacks one of the most important ingredients of life, wich is love. Where love is lacking, there is senselessness. And where there is senselessness, there is depression.

There are people pointing out how wrong the Bible is today, because it proclaims ‘the meek shall inherit the world’. “Can you think of a dumber line?”, they ask. The only people inheriting the world are the super rich and the ones with big armies and nukes. Nothing meek about that. They say that it has always been the men with the iron fist who lead. From the beginning of time till the end. If your meek, you’ll merely end up being the man behind the man.

I don’t agree with this statement at all. It is based on a total misunderstanding of the word meek, as it was used by Jesus and so many other powerful personalities. It confuses meek with weak. That’s a major blunder. This is not only the fallacy of the powerful (and the ones controlled by them), but of the sensitive and tender hearted as well, who desire a different world of love and respect. They feel threatened by the manipuators and exploiters. They fall into depression and anxiety. They often fall into the trap of becoming passive victims. “The world could be so beautiful”, they sigh, “if there weren’t this greedy bad people, who seem to never get enough.”

I shall proclaim a different concept here: Meekness is absolute power. It is much more powerful than anything else.

Let’s first deal with the wrong concept of meekness to weed it out. To be meek in the wrong sense will certainly lead to depression and frustration. It is accompanied by an overwhelming feeling of impotence and powerlessness. Meek persons of this kind always feel dependent on the whim and arbitrariness of the persons in charge.

The most sensitive and intelligent people fall into this trap. They feel that they could never become as cruel, unscrupulous and stone hearted as the oviously successful people. The Darwinian theory of evolution brainwashes you: “If you want to survive, you have to be the fittest. The rest is doomed to drown. Fittest means to be hard, harsh, cruel, calculating and strong.”

I have been taught like this in my childhood. My conclusion was that I will probably never become powerful, as I could not even stand an ant to be killed. There is no fitter person, not only to survive, but to live, than the meek one. Indeed the meek shall inherit the world, but this sort of meekness is totally different. It will rid you of depression. It will provide a new outlook to your life. It will give you a sense of power and control. It will guarantee you total independence.

Actually misunderstood meekness and the display of superior manipulative power are of the same kind. They look different from the surface only. Both are a guaranteed source of depression and frustration. Both are based on a lack of internal independence and strength. While the strong guy is actively fighting for recognition and acceptance, mainly from himself, the week ones have abandoned their claim for respect.

But, their weekness is often much closer to real power than the external display of control of the seemingly powerful. The later are often totally weak inside, driven only by their greed for recognition, for which they are eager to transgress all laws of life. The soft and tender person naturally has a lot of respect for these unbreakable laws. When they are carefully guided to discover their inner invulnerability, they will immediately start to blossom. When they are taught to completely step out of the stupid game of artificial competition by accepting the real identity of eternal bliss and knowledge, they will in any way be superior to even the most powerful manipulators. Life itself will be at their disposal, offering them any kind of opulence, strength and independence. External strenght will be reduced to a mere shadow of the power of pure conscious essence.

Those powerful persons, whose power is built upon arrogance and manipulation, will find it almost impossible to abandon their pathological addiction to material superiority.

Therefore rejoice, you, who are sensitive and tender at heart. Come out from depression and anxiety. Reclaim your heritage of power. The only reason, why a false display of artificial power can keep the whole world mesmerized is that more kind and sensitive persons will have to come forward to display the irresistible power of love, kindness and concern for the needs of others. The famous British mathematician, philosopher and author Bertrand Russell (1872-1970) has said the following: “The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are always so certain of themselves, but wiser people so full of doubts.” These doubts can be overcome with the right guidance and education. Reality never supports power based on arrogance, cynicism and and unscrupulousness. It may be tolerated for some time, but very soon it is the cause of it’s own destruction.

On the other hand reality always supports love, freedom, sensivity, compassion, meekness and respect. These qualities are the characteristics of original life. If you cooperate with lifes inherent nature, who will blossom forever. Get out of the habit of complaining, wailing and accusing. Get out of frustration and anxiety. You may be much closer to your power than you think.

Friedrich Asen has over 20 years of experience as a personal development expert. For more information on depression treatment, including natural remedies and powerful alternative healing methods, read his article The Real Nature of Depression and it’s Spiritual Cause

How to Live With a Depressed Loved One

What do I know about living with a depressed loved one?…in a word…plenty!

For over six years my life was ruled by my wife’s severe and debilitating depression, as was her life. If you live with someone who suffers from depression or anxiety, I don’t have to explain to you what life can be like!

Sharon’s depression cost us everything, including our home, our savings, our investments and my own health. We tried for years to find something that would help her because traditional medical intervention had very limited benefit for her, and non-traditional approaches drained us of our financial well being.

We tried just about every single avenue that we could think of with almost no results…but then, with the help of a few key people who came into our lives, we were finally able to sift through all the information we had gathered and find some answers.

We consulted countless “experts”, each with their own field of specialization. Although not one of them was really able to offer much in the way or results, we did find that each avenue we explored did hold a small piece of the puzzle. So, we sifted through the information that we gathered over years of research and we found what we consider to be the truth.

It was like sifting through thousands of jigsaw puzzle pieces, all from different puzzles, and trying to find the pieces that fit together to complete the proper picture…and we did it!

As we implemented what we learned for Sharon’s healing, I found that by implementing the same information for my own bennifit had a tremendous impact on my ability to live with Sharon’s depression, which put me in a better position to help her heal.

What we discovered through this mountain of research is that there are what we call, “The Four Dimensions of Healing”. Understanding these four dimensions as they apply to someone who is struggling with depression in the family, I believe, is critically important in helping you make it through the really tough times with your loved one’s depression.

Clearly, in the space available in this article I can not go into enough detail to solve your family depression issues, but I can point you into the right direction so that you know what you need to do next in order to start making real changes in your life.

The for dimensions of healing are:

1. The Physical Dimension: When living with a depressed love one it is important to understand what depression really is on a physical level. Study what areas of the brain cause depression, study what neuro-transmitters are, what anti-depressants do and how they work. In addition, it is important to understand what is happening to your own physiology when you are dealing with the severe stress that depression causes in the family. Learn what stress is, what chemicals in your body cause stress and what affect those chemicals have on other systems in your body.

Once you have a better understanding of the physical dimension, you will be in a much better position to make decisions in terms of medications, diet and exercise. You will better understand why one thing works for you while another does not. Until you understand the physical dimension, you are shooting in the dark and at the mercy of your doctor’s text books…and they are not always right!

2. The Spiritual Dimension: Understanding the difference between spirituality and religion is important. This helps you identify and clarify your own spiritual position and health. It is even more important to understand the role of spirituality in the healing process. Without this understanding, you are missing a huge step in the healing process and you are making it so much harder on yourself than it really has to be to cope with the stress.

Do some research on the importance and the role of spirituality in healing. Even if you are not religious, an understanding of the spiritual dimension of healing will play a pivotal role in living with a depressed loved one.

3. The Dimension of the Mind: When dealing with depression or anxiety, or with any other illness for that matter, understanding the role and the power of the subconscious mind is absolutely key in making changes in your life. The subconscious mind controls 99 percent of your life without you even knowing about it. Understanding its power and its functions give you the power to change unconscious beliefs which ultimately change your behavior, the way you respond to life’s challenges, and the way you feel.

Don’t ignore this most powerful dimension, it allows you to change your life at will!

4. The Dimension of Natural Law: probably the most overlooked area of healing is the dimension of natural law. Understanding how the universe around you works and what your role is in it can give you more power over illness and stress than most people could ever imagine. Study the universal laws such as the law of vibration and attraction, the law of perpetual transmutation of energy, the law of polarity and others.

You don’t have to be a quantum physicist to understand the basics and to be able to apply those principles to make changes in your life. Learn the basics of quantum theory and open your mind to it’s possibilities.

Once we had a more clear understanding of these four dimensions of healing, both Sharon and I were able to make the right decisions for ourselves regarding her illnesses. Sharon was able to make the right decisions to help her make some real progress in her healing and I was able to make the right decisions to help me survive the devastating affects depression on the family.

Everything you need to understand the four dimensions of healing is available to you on line. Take the time to learn about them and you will change your live…we certainly did!

Steve Lowell is the author of the audio program “Victory for the Silent Victim: A Survival Guide for those Whose Loved One Suffers from Depression or Anxiety” at http://www.VictoryForTheSilentVictim.com

How to Survive Depression in the Family

We lost everything!

We lost our home, our investments, our live savings, our friends, our relationships with our family members including our kids and our enjoyment of life. We almost lost our marriage and my wife almost lost her life all to her depression!

This article was written out of empathy for those who live with someone who suffers with depression or anxiety disorder; for those to whom I refer as “The Silent Victims”

For 6 years I was a silent victim and my life was completely unlivable as my wife, Sharon, suffered with extreme debilitating depression, anxiety disorder, a severe sleep disorder, destructive obsessive compulsive behaviors, rage and several other behavioral disorders.

I didn’t know about any of her conditions until the day after we were married, then it was all to obvious that something was desperately wrong!

I could go on for hundreds of pages about what happened next, but the purpose of this article is to share with you just a couple of the lessons I learned through my 6 years of learning to live with sever depression and other mental and emotional illnesses in the family.

I should also mention that Sharon and I are still together and doing just great! In fact, our purpose now is to help others who suffer as we have.

It took me six years of learning lesson every minute of every day to make it through life with Sharon’s depression. Through that time, I documented what I was going through.

While going through the daily stresses of Sharon’s depression-driven behaviors, and in speaking with so many poeple who have also gone through it all, I have identified 4 unconscious stages of coping with a loved one’s depression.

1. Denial: In this stage, I was either not willing or not able to accept that fact that my wife was mentally ill. My denial made life very difficult for both Sharon and I because I was not in a position to help her by continually pressuring her to “snap out of it”!

In order for us to move forward, it was critical that I accepted the reality that Sharon was ill…that took me to the next unconscious coping mechanism…

2. Secrecy: Once I accepted internally that Sharon was ill, I felt ashamed and uncomfortable with it. Again, this did not help either of us. I made sure that our private affairs were kept as private as I could and I was not able to willing to speak with anyone about it.

Holding all of this inside was like a poison to me and it soon began to affect my own health and my own emotional well being. At this point, Sharon’s depression and related illnesses were starting to cost us dearly. Some of her behaviors involved compulsive spending which financially crippled us. This, along with other behaviors, pushed me into the next unconscious stage of coping…

3. Anger and Resentment: At this stage, I made my plight very public…and I began to consult my lawyer about a divorce. This was the most dangerous stage for us because this is the stage at which I was closets to leaving the marriage. It was also the stage which was hardest on Sharon, because she could clearly see my misery which drove her to blame herself and become suicidal on more than a few occasions.

If you think you are at this point in your own relationship with someone who suffers from depression, you truly do need to do whatever it takes to get to the next stage. The next stage is the one where you can finally start healing and moving forward in a positive direction…

4. Understanding and Forgiveness: This was the point where Sharon and I began to work together to find solutions. At this unconscious stage, I began to become more empathetic to Sharon’s situation and she and I began down our path to healing together.

This is, in my judgment, where things can start to turn around. Until you reach this stage, I am convinced that there is no chance for the family to survive.

To survive depression in the family, I recommend that you start by identifying which stage you are currently at and do whatever you need to do to get to stage 4; Understanding and Forgiveness.

It may take some time; it took me several very unhappy years of living minute by minute to reach stage 4. Once there, you can then start taking the steps towards healing for both you and your depressed loved one.

Depression destroys lives…but it doesn’t have to destroy yours!

Steve Lowell is the author of the audio program “Victory for the Silent Victim: A Survival Guide for those Whose Loved One Suffers from Depression or Anxiety” at www.VictoryForTheSilentVictim.com

He and his wife, Sharon are committed to helping families who struggle with depression and anxiety.

Depression Symptoms Should be Taken Seriously

People go through life everyday, doing routine activities like cleaning the house, cooking, doing the laundry and a lot more. But there are times when problems are encountered unexpectedly, and certain drastic events that occur pose a danger to our emotional stability.

The danger of getting depression is possible, especially those who have recently experienced unexpected events or turns in their life.

Dealing with a disorder like depression is needed because it can create significant impacts in your life. What then is depression? Depression is a mood disorder which causes you to feel hopeless or sad over an extended period of time. Your life, work, health, and the people around you are affected by this mood disorder.

People are affected differently by depression. Others find it easy to deal with depression but there are also those that feel down for an indefinite period. Your daily activities will not be affected if you are only suffering from mild depression but you should also get some sort of treatment to prevent it from getting worse.

Medical attention is needed by those persons suffering severe depression because they can become incapable of communicating or doing daily activities, and the worst case scenario is suicide.

A great number of people suffering from depression are hesitant to seek medical help for they think it is a sign of character flaw or weakness, and some think they can resolve it on their own. But they are wrong; by confining it, the depression will only get worse. Facing the problem is the most effective way to address the problem with depression. And seeking medical help is not bad; it is even an advantage on your part.

Depression is triggered by stressful events, certain drugs, other illnesses, inherited traits, or medications. It is linked to having an imbalanced brain chemistry.

Depression has two significant symptoms: hopelessness or sadness and loss of interest/pleasure from daily activities. Other symptoms of depression include:

1 due to change in appetite, the depressed person losses or gains weight
2 sleeps too much or hardly sleeps
3 cannot sit still or exhibits a feeling of restlessness
4 feels tired most of the time
5 guilty feeling or feeling unworthy
6 problems with concentration, remembering, and making decisions
7 thinks about death or suicide

You have a major depression if you are experiencing at least five of the symptoms mentioned including loss of interest o sadness for 2 or more weeks. However, having only a few of the symptoms does not mean that you shouldn’t get assistance.

Aside from the symptoms previously mentioned, some people also experience the following:

1 - having headaches, body aches, pains
2 - digestive problems
3 - loses interest in sex
4 - feels worried or anxious without reason
5 - blaming self or others for the depression
6 - not talking or moving for several hours
7 - increased anger, tearfulness, tension, anxiety
8 - arms and legs suddenly feels heavy
9 - very sensitive to rejection

Indeed depression is a serious problem that should not be taken for granted regardless of age or gender. You must therefore be aware of the early warning signs of depression in order to seek assistance immediately.

At first, the symptoms of depression are subtle and hardly recognizable. Children and teens have different symptoms of depression and are quite difficult to diagnose compared to adults. So if you have children, you should pay more attention to them and watch for possible signs of depression.

Depression should not be taken likely. If you or any friend/family members have the symptoms, seek medical help as soon as possible.

Article written by Hector Milla, editor of http://www.mydepressionsymptoms.com/, a website about Symptoms of Severe Depression, thanks for publish this article in your website or ezine keeping a live link.

Depression; Treatments for Severe Depression

Depression affects the person physically, mentally and emotionally. Though there are many causes, it is only through proper treatment and with the help of a specialist that this can go away.

Here is a list of treatments that can be used to counter depression.

1. People who are suffering from mild depression are given anti-depressant medications. Some of these include seretonin reuptake inhibitors better known as SSRI’s, tricyclics and the monoamine oxidase inhibitors or MAOI’s.

Doctors who are prescribed these drugs should inform the patient about the side effects that can be experienced. The dosage may have to be increased or decreased depending on the person’s reaction to the medication.

2. Over the past few years, scientists have been researching on new ways to treat depression. One that is gaining popularity is herbal therapy.

Initially used in Europe, doctors in the United States have started clinical trials using natural supplements such as those found in biloba, echinacea, ephedra, ginseng and hypericum. People who use these herbs have shown significant improvements without any side effects commonly experienced when taking medication.

3. Psychotherapy is another common way used to treat depression. The patient will talk to the doctor regularly so that both can find out what is wrong mentally. Some homework is sometimes given to the individual so that this can be discussed during the next session.

4. Next is called electro convulsive therapy otherwise known as ECT. This is only used in patients who are suicidal and when anti-depressant medications are not working.

The doctor will first give a muscle relaxant. When the person feels calm, electrodes are placed in precise locations in the head that will deliver electrical impulses. For this to be effective, the patient will have to come in the clinic at least 3 times a week.

5. Depressions makes on feel tired, helpless and hopeless. Since many consider this to be ‘all in the head’ some doctors have suggested the use of self-help is another way to treat those who are feeling depressed.

1- The person can start by focusing on small goals that doesn’t take a lot of time and energy. Once this is achieved, bigger ones can be planned. If the task given is too difficult to do, its advisable to break it down into smaller ones so this can be better accomplished.

2- It is hard to bottle up the feeling of sadness inside. Since people need some time to let off some steam to feel better, it is suggested to talk to a friend about this.

3- Exercise is another form of treatment for depression. This is because engaging in some activity may release endorphins in the body making one feel happy.

4- No man is an island. This means family and friends who are aware of what the person is experiencing can help out by just being there and listening. Advice should only be given when it is asked for and criticism should be avoided since this may make the problem even worse.

Treating depression takes weeks and sometimes months. This really depends on the attitude of the person, the doctor and those around who are willing to help.

The patient must remember that not to expect things to change after just one session. This will happen gradually and this will reveal itself all in good time.

Article written by Hector Milla, editor of http://www.depressionstreatments.com/ , a website about :: Natural Depression Treatments :: , thanks for publish this article in your website or ezine keeping a live link.

Fight up Depression with the Best Treatment

Prolonged sadness or popularly known as depression is factually quite rampant in a number of countries, especially in the United States, nearly 9.5% of the total population of the US have this problem. Nonetheless, only few of them may be treated and so depression along with its ill effects is continually bothering some people.

Depression is apparently a simple illness to cure but truly, it takes much more than laughter medicine to really treat this illness. Continuing visits to a psychologist or a behavior therapist must be done, also at the same time taking medicines prescribed by the doctor. These drugs however are considerably not cheap. The quantity of suffering that the individual experiences as caused by depression is already an adequate reason for some to begin noticing the illness throughout the different treatments that are currently available.

Depression usually may easily take a person’s ability to function normally on their everyday activities and one’s normal actions, an individual’s zest for living can easily and quickly dissipate as a result of the illness. And in the position of a person’s cheery disposition is precisely an individual who hates his own self, a being with no self-confidence at all, isolating himself from anyone and really doesn’t care about life anymore.

In addition, an individual going through depression will eventually be not the only one who will suffer from such serious illness, people around him will surely follow suit as well. As they see the person walk growingly along the rocky road without bothering anyone or anything anymore, it is most likely that depression will not just ruin one’s own relationships but the afflicted person’s loved ones as well.

However, this should not be taken as a problem because people who are depressed are in fact lucky enough because there are numerous depression treatments which can be taken to help a person go along the course of suffering a destructive mental condition.

Basically, depression treatment begins with the patient’s acknowledgement of his illness. It will be much easier not just for the doctor to treat depression and search for an appropriate treatment if the patient could just be honest with himself.

Like anti-depressant drugs, various depression medications for all psychotherapy sorts could be promising enough to be a great depression treatment. Surely, the patient together with his family will get the best result taking such depression treatments.

A popular kind of depression treatment known as psychotherapy comprise a short-term program of therapy sessions, normally ranges from 10 to 20 weeks, effective enough to really be able to attain considerable results for the patient. This kind of depression treatment helps the patient by slowly making the individual open up and talk more about his feelings, the cause of his problems, and the cause of his illness. Healthy communication between the patient and the cognitive therapist is the best depression treatment that will help the patient by gradually making him talk and discuss the things he had been keeping inside all along.

A lot of medications available for depression are indeed great for treating the patient to control his mood swings, to help the patient sleep better, and more so, be much pleasant to the people surrounding him.

The necessary action to take on depression is to visit a behavioral therapist as soon as possible before the condition worsens. The visits and check ups needed must be regular since depression requires to be addressed in its early stage. Care and attention from professionals, relations, family, and friends are essential and will surely go a long way for a successful depression treatment and such contributions from these people must not be treated a little less.

Article written by Hector Milla, editor of http://www.depressionstreatments.com/ , a website about :: Natural Depression Treatments :: , thanks for publish this article in your website or ezine keeping a live link.

Beating Depression. The Power of Pets

To be physically, mentally and emotionally healthy, we all need contact with living things. Research into the bond between humans and animals reveals that something as simple as having a cat or dog as a pet, can protect us from numerous health problems including heart disease, cancer and depression.

Dr Edward T. Creagan, a cancer specialist at the Mayo Clinic deals on a daily basis with patients suffering from cancer induced stress and depression. He wrote in “Bottom Line Personal” July 2004:

“Social Connectedness, including the unconditional love of a pet, can protect against cancer. I often write a “pet prescription” for my patients. My three legged Golden Retriever gives us the best medicine of all.”

Before I retired, I suffered from job related stress. When I returned home after a stressful day, my Cocker Spaniel “Chloe” was waiting for me at the door, tail wagging and ready for a play and a walk. Not only was the mutual affection and exercise good for both of us, it also released “feel good” hormones or endorphins that calm the body and help release tension. Simply stroking a cat or dog, or just being with them, can reduce and undo the stress generated by a busy day.

My situation was of course not unique, as all pet owners will testify. Dr Bernie Siegel, founder of “Exceptional Cancer Patients” recently discussed the effects of pets on heart attack victims in Australia. His research revealed that after one year, 6% of patients who owned a dog had died, compared with a 25% mortality rate in those who did not own a dog.

Dr Siegel has seen firsthand the extraordinary effects pets can have on our health and wellbeing. He has noted a positive change in body chemistry when pets are around. Levels of the stress hormone cortisol go down, immune function improves and serotonin levels increase. These are the same hormones that are elevated in a woman after giving birth, promoting bonding with her new baby.

But what causes these chemical changes?

Dr Siegel believes it is the unconditional acceptance and connection that animals consistently provide. They can also be incredibly intuitive. Often if a person is sick in bed, a dog will come and sit beside him/her. If that person was just taking a nap, the dog may not show the same level of concern.
“Animals respond to feelings, to what is really going on with their owners.”

Dr Karen Allen is a research scientist at the School of Public Health, University of New York, Buffalo. Her work focuses on the therapeutic effects of pets in healing, depression and stress reduction. Her studies included the effects of having your best friend, spouse or pet present in stressful situations.

In one study, Dr Allen looked at women performing mental arithmetic problems alone, then with their best female friends present and finally, with their dogs present. With the friends present, the subjects experienced large increases in blood pressure {compared to when they worked alone}.However, when the dogs were present, insignificant increases, or none at all, occurred in blood pressure.

Her studies revealed, in both active and passive coping trials, participants experienced dramatic stress responses in the presence of another person, versus only slight increases in blood pressure in the presence of a pet. The consistent results led Dr Allen to conclude that pets clearly are a preferred source of social support. They are non judgmental, we don’t have to impress them and they accept us for what we are.

Dr Siegel sums up the importance of pets in our lives. “Animals have an incredible ability to be completely there and completely devoted. How many of us can say that we are totally devoted to someone else’s wellbeing? Animals are, and we respond positively to that.”

Graeme Lanham is a freelance writer and health/fitness researcher. His new book “Your Life Fitness” includes current research studies on fitness and anti-aging. Discover more about the secrets to heart health and avoiding cancer and receive a FREE subscription to his regular subscribers only newsletter at:
http://www.yourlifefitness.com

Beat Depression with These Good Mood Foods

From time to time, we all suffer from stress and anxiety, even depression. It may be work related, family problems or financial concerns. The stress caused by these worries can lead to health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, stroke and even obesity. Then we start to stress over our health problems. It’s a vicious circle.

IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS, BE CAREFUL.
All antidepressants work by manipulating the brain’s use of serotonin, the chemical largely responsible for your mood. A study published in the British Medical Journal shows that the use of antidepressants can increase the risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding for people over 65. And the newer types of antidepressants, called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors {SSRIs} are the worst offenders. These drugs can also cause nausea, headache, dry mouth, insomnia, sexual dysfunction and tremors.

YOUR OPTIONS.

These prescription drugs are NOT the only option for dealing with stress and depression. Studies have found that people respond just as well to natural therapies without the toxic side effects. According to Dr Michael Rosenbaum, author of “Energy For Life”, a B complex supplement, along with vitamin C can make a big difference. He also recommends St John’s Wort. Beware however of drug interactions with this herb. It can be effective for mild depression, but should NEVER be taken if you are on warfarin therapy or taking SSRIs. As with all changes in diet, you should FIRST discuss it with your family doctor.

HERE ARE SOME OTHER SUGGESTIONS.

OMEGA 3 FATTY ACIDS.

For a long time we’ve known that fish is healthy for you, but American nutritionist Joseph Hibbeln, claims that a fish diet can dramatically improve your state of mind, even cure depression. Mr Hibbeln, from the US National Institutes of Health, says the Omega 3 fats in fish influence our state of mind by altering one of our brain’s key chemical messengers, serotonin. Lack of it is thought to be the cause of depression. His studies are confirmed by research at Harvard Medical School. Deep sea fish such as tuna, swordfish and salmon are 3
sources of Omega 3 fatty acids.

SEROTONIN RICH FOODS AND SUPPLEMENTS.

Other sources of serotonin, the neurotransmitter that helps to improve our sense of wellbeing, include: vitamin D { cod liver oil and sunshine}, sunflower seeds, bananas, turkey, avocados, mangoes, broccoli, almonds, vitamin B6 and the mineral magnesium. Camomile is a herb rich in magnesium and chamomile tea can be effective as a bedtime “relaxant”. These “mood foods” are required to convert the amino acid tryptophan to serotonin.

KOREAN {PANAX} GINSENG.

Ginseng is a tonic herb renowned for its benefit in helping the body “adapt” to stress. As a balancer of body energies, it helps to relax and relieve stress as well as promote stamina.

VITAMIN B9 {FOLATE OR FOLIC ACID}

Studies with those suffering mild and major depression have shown low blood concentrations of the B vitamin nutrient folate. Sources of folate include: liver, asparagus, lentils, chick peas, beans, spinach and other leafy green vegetables.

SAMe

One of the most exciting breakthroughs in natural approaches to treating depression is SAMe. Naturally produced in the human body, it has largest concentrations in the liver, followed by the adrenal glands, heart, kidneys, lungs and brain. Healthy people naturally produce sufficient SAMe, but a deficiency in the blood can result in depression.

SAMe helps increase the blood levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, encouraging the brain cells to be more responsive to these “feel good” chemicals. This helps promote focus, concentration, calmness and mood elevation. It is also a liver tonic and may assist with arthritis pain. When taken as a supplement, make sure it includes the key nutrients vitamin B12 and folic acid to optimize natural SAMe production.

Never start a new treatment before consulting your doctor, especially if you are currently taking medication. The information published in this article is not intended as a substitute for personal medical advice from your physician or other qualified health-care practitioner. It is for information purposes only.

Graeme Lanham is a freelance writer and health/fitness researcher. His new book “Your Life Fitness” includes current research studies on fitness and anti-aging. Discover more about the secrets to beating depression and receive a FREE subscription to his regular subscribers only newsletter at:
http://www.yourlifefitness.com

Overcome Depression Naturally

Depression can have a number of triggers, including a reaction to a stressful time in a person’s life, medical conditions or even hereditary illness. Because there are many different types of depression that can be experienced by sufferers, there are also many different drugs that can be taken to suppress the depression.

Drugs, however, are not the only method for coping with depression. It has been noted that patients who use alternative therapies are more likely to be able to cope long-term with their illness, rather than using medication that will suppress the feelings for short periods of time instead of helping to resolve them.

Natural therapies are ideal for mild to moderate depression. Before beginning to incorporate a natural alternative or stop taking anti-depression medications prescribed to you, it is recommended that you speak with your doctor. It is also important to tell your doctor about any natural medications that you plan to take.

What You Can Do
Regular exercise is one of the best remedies for depression. It doesn’t cost anything and can be done around any schedule. By exercising, you are releasing endorphins into your body that will help reduce stress and give you a sense of well being.

Meditation or relaxation exercises are another feel-good remedy that will help you to reduce your stress and give you a feeling of calm and balance. Relaxation techniques will also help reduce the tension found in your muscles, making your body feel relaxed, as well as your mind.

Psychotherapy is another non-medication treatment that will help you understand and cope with your underlying issues causing depressive reactions and take steps to resolve them completely.

Lifestyle Habits
Altering dietary habits can also assist in naturally reducing stress. Foods that contain omega 3 and amino acids, such as SAMe, help to promote a feeling of well-being in the body. A range of healthy fresh fruits and vegetables will also help you to feel better.

Natural Herbal Medications
Natural herbal preparations can also be beneficial, taken in conjunction with a well balanced diet and exercise regimen to enhance the feeling of wellness and give your body the needed nutrients that may be triggering your feelings of depression.

Some of the best types of herbal preparations for relieving depression are St Johns Wort, Vitamin B with folic acid, Bergamot and flax seed oil.

What To Avoid
While some foods are beneficial to our health and aid in keeping depression at bay naturally. There are some foods and beverages that are known to trigger or make the effects of depression worse, so these foods and beverages need to be avoided.

Medications such as sedatives and antihistamines are mood altering. They should be avoided at all times while suffering from depression. Other things to watch out for are alcohol, caffeine and nicotine, which are also mood-altering substances.

If you are serious about taking a natural approach for your depression, make sure that you are well informed and seek the very best advice available to help you to get back on track.

Shari Ode is a web designer and marketer with a keen interest in Natural Health and ongoing research into ways you can manage depression. Find out how you can make life changes now that will benefit you long term at http://www.depression.interestinginfoonline.com/

Beating Depression. Is Work Stress Getting You Down?

John was a hard working and caring teacher. He loved his job, despite increased workload pressures and the demands of extra curriculum activities. He regularly took work home and his wife often complained that he was “married to his job”.
Of concern to her was his occasional bouts of work related stress and depression.

Just over 12 months ago, he arrived at work early to prepare for a pre school interview with “a particularly difficult parent.” At morning tea he suddenly lost consciousness and slumped forward over the staffroom table. Frantic attempts to resuscitate him failed. His heart attack at the age of 53 came without warning. He was in generally good health. According to colleagues he took his job seriously and seemed depressed and anxious in the weeks prior to his death.

Teachers, nurses, doctors and police are in particularly stressful occupations. They are constantly dealing with members of the public and research studies show that members of these professions have high rates of stress, depression and anxiety. Doctors also have high rates of suicide.

Yet all occupations these days can be stressful. Increased work pressures due to staff reductions and “downsizing” as well as tough deadlines to be met and demanding sales quotas, can lead to health problems including heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure and cancer. The current escalation of fuel prices has placed particular stress on those involved in the transport industry.

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO TO REDUCE YOUR WORK STRESS?

HERE ARE SOME SUGGESTIONS:

SEEK COUNSELLING.

Almost all businesses have professional counseling services to help employees who may be experiencing health problems due to stress and depression. In most cases the service is free. Don’t feel as if you are being weak. Your future health is at stake here. Use it.

TAKE LEAVE.

You are entitled to this as part of your sick leave. Remember you are not indispensable. Your job will survive without you! You will be amazed at how much better you will feel when you take a break. Your body will thank you and so will your family. They could have you for a lot longer! Your counselor may recommend a period of stress leave and a doctor’s certificate may be necessary.

TAKE YOUR HOLIDAYS.

According to Professor Ron Penny, medical director of Good Health Solutions, “Studies have proven people are much better emotionally and physically after taking a holiday. For starters, the heart attack risk drops in males when they take annual leave at regular intervals”.

Importantly for employers, healthy well rested people are more productive, they take fewer sick days and the strange phenomenon of “presenteeism” { in which an employee stays too long} or classic Mondayitis, becomes less prevalent.

TAKE TIME OUT.

At lunchtime, leave your work premises and go for a walk on your own, preferably in a park or even along the beach. The fresh air and solitude will do wonders for your spirits, giving you time to reflect and rejuvenate. Similarly on the way home from work, stop of at a park and either go for a walk or just sit in your car listening to relaxing music.

EXERCISE.

Of all the stress reduction activities, this is possibly the most important. Research studies indicate that exercise is one of the best for your health. Brisk walking and tennis are two of my favourites. Gardening, taking your dog for a walk or simply throwing a Frisbee are great stress reduction activities. Simply being out in the fresh air is an added bonus.

NURTURE A PET.

Did you know that your dog can be a great stress reducer? The simple act of stroking or playing with your pet releases “feel good” hormones, including serotonin, that are beneficial for your health.

Never start a new treatment before consulting your doctor, especially if you are currently taking medication. The information published in this article is not intended as a substitute for personal medical advice from your physician or other qualified health-care practitioner. It is for information purposes only.

Is freedom from stress and depression important to you? In his groundbreaking new book “Your Life Fitness,” retired school principal,author and fitness/health researcher Graeme Lanham, outlines in easy to read style all you need to know about the latest advances in health, fitness and antiageing.
Visit http://www.yourlifefitness.com and receive 2 special FREE bonuses.

Do You Think You Are Prey To Depression? Take A Self Depression Test And Find Out

We all have our blues and we all know that when we go down, we will also bounce back sooner or later. The normal blues are sometimes triggered by something that someone said, or something that you thought, or something that you feared - and sometimes the blues come really out of the blue, without any explanation, without any warning, rhyme or reason. At these times, the best you can do is hang on in there and wait for the blizzard to wear off.

How Do You Know You Are Suffering From Depression Or Not?

Sometimes you are unable to climb out from the pits for a long time; sometimes you climb a little only to slip further back and sometimes you find yourself more in than out. When and how will you know whether you are suffering from depression or not? There are some simple self depression tests that will tell you clearly whether what you are suffering from is depression or just plain blues. This is what you have to look for:

1. Are you feeling totally withdrawn from the regular pleasures of life? This is a very accurate self depression test - try out something that you know is supposed to give extremely pleasure (such as your favorite hobby, your favorite movie, shopping, etc) and if you find that it leaves you unmoved, then this is a sign that this is depression.

2. Are you forgetting an awful lot of things with no recollection at all even afterwards? Depression causes hiccups in your memory and you will find that certain things are totally wiped out from your memory, leaving you totally baffled. This is another point from the self depression test which gives a very accurate indication.

3. Do you find that you cannot sleep at all or very little during the night? Check out carefully about why you are not able to sleep at night. Is it because you are drinking coffee or some similar stimulants or do you not really have any logical reasons for it? In case you do not have an answer for it, then the self depression test will give you another clue about your state.

4. Do you find that you have lost your appetite? Sometimes, not wanting to eat or not feeling like eating is normal. However, if you turn nauseous even when you are served with your favorite dish, then the self depression test is confirming depression.

If you have one or more of these questions answered with ‘yes’ then you are suffering from depression. Get hold of yourself and get professional help!

Eddie Lamb provides an abundance of vital information on a range of health topics. We believe a better understanding of your disorder can help reduce unnecessary anxiety. You’ll find a host of useful articles all about depression listed on our site map page at SelfDepression.com.

Seven Spiritual Exercises to Naturally Overcome Depression

There’s no doubt that if you experience painful levels of anxiety and depression, you will be vibrationally disallowing the very things you want to create. This of course, leads to more reasons to feel depressed.

Your first decision is to decide that what you want is simply Peace of Mind!

There are simple spiritual exercises that you can do to push through the inertia of depression to begin slowly but systematically overcoming your lower level emotions and feelings of negativity, to eventually get to a place of pure, positive vibrations.

Disclaimer: I am not qualified to give advice on how to treat depression and therefore nothing here should be misconstrued as advice or counsel. If you are depressed, please see a qualified physician or therapist. If you have been prescribed medications, do not do anything without consulting your doctor. Any suggestions that this article may propose, are simply suggestions on how one might use the law of attraction as a natural remedy for depression, anxiety or any emotional distress. Should you choose to experiment with your depressed feelings and these spiritual exercises, please consult your physician and accept full responsibility for your choices.

Some basic laws of physics here can be applied. The inertia of your particular depression depends upon the mass of your negative thoughts. If you’ve been having depressed thoughts for years, then you have a mass larger than someone who happens to be in a one-month slump.

When you think of these depressing thoughts as a mass, for example, a toxic onion spoiling your magnetic frequency (the field that surrounds you that is either attracting or repelling what you want,) then you can estimate what kind of force you’re going to have to apply in order to extinguish the toxicity, and eliminate the depression. The greater the mass, the greater the inertia, the greater the friction required to change the direction of the negativity.

Roll a pencil across the table and eventually it will come to a stop. The force that acts upon the pencil to make it stop is called friction. With the law of attraction, you can use the friction of positive intentions to impose an equal and opposite force, causing the depression to stop and the good feeling thoughts to thrive.

To counter the mass of energy surrounding depressed thoughts, you must be willing to apply enough conscious creation thoughts and techniques to cause the ‘depression pencil’ to come to its own stop.

Here are seven simple spiritual exercises to naturally release depression: (Not in order of importance)

1 - Meditate!
Don’t tell yourself that you’ve tried it and it just doesn’t work for you. Meditation is a learned skill that anyone can do, with time, patience and practice; you absolutely can achieve the promise of being closer to God through meditation.

Meditation is a simple act of releasing your thoughts and communing with God. This one act alone can support you in achieving that state of serenity and peaceful acceptance that is crucial to manifesting what you want easily and effortlessly. The resource that I recommend is the HoloSync Program.

2 - Seek out things that feel good!
Anything that you can do to feel better; to get your attention upon what you have to be grateful for, what you have to be joyous about is going to set you on the path of feeling better.

If you feel good when you hold a baby, then volunteer at a woman’s shelter, a child advocates organization, or an orphanage.

If you feel good when you are out in nature, then MAKE time every day to sit under a tree and listen to the birds.

If you feel good when you read a good book, then MAKE time every day to enjoy a chapter.

If you used to love memorizing jokes when you were a kid, go to the library and read joke books.

If you used to love to paint, pick up a “paint-by-the-numbers-kit” and begin painting.

3 - Remember Your Alamo! Keep a Victory log!
You want to remember that every day that you are alive, you do something each day, that someone, somewhere didn’t have the good fortune to do!

Therefore, remember your personal accomplishments and the things you have to be grateful for! Do this by keeping a victory log. Write in your log every day a minimum of 3 accomplishments.

It doesn’t matter how small they are, write them down. They can be past accomplishments or current, but you are not allowed to sleep until you can write down 3 things that you are proud of yourself for, every day!

4 - Use Emotional Freedom Technique to eliminate your fears, doubts, worries, and your shameful, guilty, or apathetic thoughts and emotions.

In just 3 minutes, you can use this simple, tapping with intentions on your body’s meridian points to eliminate your negative thoughts.

If you visit Gary Craig’s site, there are tons of testimonials about individuals healing their short-term and even life long bouts of depression.

Try these Releasing statements:
Even though I feel depressed and don’t know why
Even though I feel worried that my negative thoughts are going to poison my creative abilities
Even though I feel anxious because I know I’m sabotaging my own success
Even though I am sick and tired of being sick and tired

Try these Implanting statements:
I choose to be willing to let these thoughts and feelings go.
I choose to trust in the Divine for complete and total healing, now.
I choose to courageously and boldly do what must be done, now.
I choose to be optimistic.
I choose to make peace with what is.

5 - Use Dr. David Hawkin’s Map of Consciousness
Using his map, you can intentionally walk yourself up the vibrational scale, transcending the lower level, depressed thoughts and emotions and raising your consciousness to a place of peace, joy, love, and tranquility. The more you do this, the easier it becomes, and the faster you’ll get there next time.

6 - Launch a happy Daily Living Vision
Every day, launch a living vision that includes what you want your everyday emotional well-being to look like.

For example:

I am so grateful to experience such joy in my everyday existence. I am free to be me and I feel at peace with what is at all times. Just this morning, as I was sipping my soothing cup of coffee, I was listening to the birds and feeling so happy about simply being alive and well. I don’t know what tomorrow will hold, but I do know that I feel more and more at peace and in joy, every day. I know that I was born to be happy and I claim this as my normal level of existence from this point forward. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be so loving towards others and to be so loved. I am inspired to be at the right place, at the right time to make a difference, to make my life count even in the smallest of ways. I acknowledge my greatness and I give thanks! I claim peace, joy, love, and harmony to be my moment to moment expression!

7 - Pray!
Find time to ask God to support you in your desire for fulfillment, peace, serenity and joy. Your prayers will always be answered when you hand it over. Surrender to what is by accepting all things as perfect and then hand your fears, worries, doubts, and all levels of anxiety over to the omnipotent presence of God.

I know from personal experience, that when we are depressed, it’s hard to make ourselves get out, exercise, eat right etc. However, this is what is required to begin building a mass of positive intentions that is larger than the mass of negative, depressed thoughts.

Your work is to release your limitedness and accept your unlimitedness. Seek the presence of God within through your spiritual pursuits, and any and all depression will be removed. It is impossible to realize your unlimitedness and simultaneously feel depressed - the two cannot co-exist.

Receive Anisa’s FREE Conscious Creation 101: a 5-part e-course on the basics of Manifesting by visiting http://www.creatavision.com/creative-manifesting.htm. Read more about manifesting and conscious creation by visiting http://www.CreataVision.com and http://www.ManifestingProsperity.com.

Beating the Blues. Depression Signs and Solutions

Depression is quickly becoming one of the biggest health problems in the world. According to a study by USA Magazine, 75% of doctor visits in the US are for stress and depression related illnesses. Clinical depression is Australia’s fastest growing illness. How do you know if you are depressed?

The National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing found that one in four women and one in six men suffered from depression. In 20 years, depression will be second only to heart disease as the nation’s biggest health problem. Chances are, you may be suffering from stress and anxiety, even depression. Here are some of the warning signs.

WORK STRESS.

Fear of going to work.
Conflict with co workers.
Errors or loss of concentration.
Absenteeism or being physically there, but doing little work.
Unusual or unacceptable behaviour.
Aggression or hostility.
Accidents or near misses.
Trouble with customers.
Feeling unable to cope with constant work demands.
Working more slowly or making more mistakes.
Poor time management.

GENERAL STRESS.

Disturbed sleep.
Lack of energy or motivation.
Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness.
Physical aches and pains.
Poor concentration, memory or being easily distracted.
Feeling that life is not worth living.
Loss of interest in sex.
Difficulties with home life and routine daily activities.
Feeling easily tired.
Withdrawal from social activities.
Suicidal tendencies.
Sadness, worthlessness.
Frequent moaning, groaning and sighing.

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO?

As Richard Bach in “Illusion”, so eloquently put it: “What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the Master calls a butterfly.”

There is much you can do to reduce you stress levels {regardless of whether external stressors change}. Here are 6 of the best.

EXERCISE.

There is growing evidence that exercise, and in particular strength training, should be provided as a first line therapy for depression, according to exercise therapist Chris Tzar. “In the coming years, medical practitioners may find themselves prescribing exercise and healthy eating habits as frequently as drugs,” he says.

MEDITATION.

Take time out to be quiet and attend to personal needs. Meditation is a way many people do this. It is easily learned and takes care of the need to unwind. After meditating, a few minutes rest should be taken before resuming other activities.

YOGA, PILATES OR TAI CHI.

All 3 activities include movements to reduce your stress levels. They can also benefit your fitness, balance, strength and flexibility. Why not join a class today? Don’t worry, they have beginners’ classes and cater for all age groups.

DIET AND NUTRITION.

Healthy eating is an important factor in beating the blues. Foods containing omega 3 fatty acids, particularly fish oils, can reduce stress. Increased intake of the minerals magnesium, zinc and selenium may help. B group vitamins are very important, particularly if you live or work in a highly stressful situation. An important benefit with these nutrients is that they can increase the level of serotonin [the feel good hormone] in the brain.

QUALITY SLEEP.

High levels of stress can make you restless and lead to disturbed sleep. You need a minimum of 6 hours sleep per night to function effectively. Lavender oil and chamomile tea can be effective sleep inducers.

PETS.

Have you noticed how you feel “at ease” when in the company of your pet? Do you have a warm feeling when you see or stroke a puppy or kitten? Pets can have an extraordinarily positive effect on our feelings and emotions and a growing body of research has indicated their benefits to our health.

Owning a pet has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer as well as a reduction in symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety.

According to cancer specialist Dr Bernie Siegel, our body chemistry changes when we are in the company of pets. “Levels of the stress hormone cortisol go down, immune function improves and perhaps more significantly, serotonin levels increase”. he says.

OTHER STRATEGIES.

Some of the best ways of dealing with stress and depression are often the simplest. Spending time with nature {such as a park or beach},spending time with friends, smiling, being happy, laughing, having fun and looking for the positive aspects of life, are just a few simple examples. Being grateful for just being alive is another. Yesterday, my wife Ros attended the funeral of a close friend who died of cancer. She was 49.

Finally, learning to say no, simplifying your life and reducing your commitments, may be very helpful too. It may be time to nurture “you” rather than always trying to please others.

Hannah Arendt summarized this point of view with: “Dedicate yourself to the good you deserve and desire for yourself. Give yourself peace of mind. You deserve to be happy. You deserve delight.”

Graeme Lanham is the author of a popular new E book, “Your Life Fitness”. It covers all aspects of health and fitness for busy and active people and includes a comprehensive coverage of depression, stress and anxiety. Please visit his web page at:
http://www.yourlifefitness.com and receive 2 special FREE bonuses.

All You Need To Know About Depression Treatment

Depression is a disease, a mental affliction. Getting the right depression treatment at the right time is vitally important. To someone suffering from depression, it is not only extremely stressful for the patient themselves but also people who are concern about them, especially their good friends and relatives.

Some symptoms of depression include mood swings, feelings of hopelessness, insomnia, suicidal thoughts, suicidal attempts, the frustration and helpless of not being able to snap out of it. Some other signs of depression include feeling of worthlessness, incapability to work (threatening to leave), inability to concentrate, inability to remember things, total detachment from favorite things, constant talk about afterlife, death, God, and so on. Basically, the earlier you notice the signs of depression, the easier it is to treat the depression.

Fortunately, doctors nowadays are well trained in depression related issues. They are well trained in giving enough information to the people out there about what is depression, its symptoms, how to avoid it and how it can be treated. In the old days, depression was associated with madness and mental instability. Such misunderstandings are minimized today. Today, people suffering from depression receive a more sympathetic viewpoint from other people and they are treated with dignity and care. You can get the correct depression treatment at any medical facility. The sufferer should only be able to recognize that he/she is not really feeling in control anymore and that aid is needed.

The best depression treatment is to identify the signs of depression as early as possible and find out the core reason that is causing the depression. The longer you wait, the worst the depression would get, and the longer it would take for the depression treatment to recover the condition. At early stage, depression treatment can be very effective. It also has a very fast recovery rate. Therefore, it does not seem smart to suffer and wait to snap out of your blues forever.

There are good amounts of anti-depressants and depression medications which can help ease depressive symptoms. Some drugs are to be taken with water and some are for chewing. Though there are number of anti-depressants and depression medications, the depression treatment will have to be customized as per individual condition. This is not like having fever, or a cold which has standard medicines and care. It takes special care and individual attention to ensure that the depression treatment given to the person actually works. Hence, no two depression cases may be alike, and no two depression treatments would be similar either. Depending on your condition, your doctor will be able to recommend the right medication for your particular type of depression, whether mild or severe.

Since the marketplace is full with anti depression medication, it is vital to note that never take over the counter anti depression pills/ medication. This is very risky and not meant to be experimented with. In case you take the incorrect medicines or in the wrong dosages, there can be enormous disasters. Always medicate yourself only after you consulted a medical doctor. Only the medical doctor will be able to advise you the correct dosage. I have known people who have taken this particular advice as a joke with very terrible consequences. Depression can lead to suicide if not checked in time. Hence, it is extremely imperative that it is rather prevented than cured.

Besides anti-depressants and depression medications, another alternative is to look for the cures which are natural based. This is because, in general, most of the anti depression medications have side effects. These side effects can be terrifying but most side effects will subside after a while. Inform your doctor about your side effects to find out if they are standard and keep a record of how long they last. If they persist for too long, you may have to either change your medication or reduce the dosage. Your doctor will be able to make that decision. Never make it on your own.

Besides taking chemical or natural anti depression medication, you should go for exercise, fresh air, and meditation. It is also true that one should be happy and proud with whatever God sends their way; high expectations are usually a very important trigger for depression.

The good news is that the amateur has understood that depression is a treatable and curable malady, just as the flu, which can and should be treated with the correct medicine and sometimes psychiatric treatment. This does not signify that the person is psychologically unstable or that he/she are on their way to become mad, as the belief was some decades ago.

Depression is treated with sympathy and care. Besides medication, meditation, yoga and positive thinking are other factors that help battle and treat depression time and again. Quality off-time and therapy sessions and anti-depressants also can bring you back from your blues; however, the best way to wrestle depression is regular relaxation of both mind and body.

Cindy Heller is a professional writer. For more information on

severe depression treatment and

depression self test, visit
Anti Depression Self Help.

Depression: A Problem That Affects The Whole Body

While many people do go through times in their lives when they feel disheartened, sad and stressed. Depression is much more than feelings of sadness. If feelings turn into hopelessness, suicidal thoughts or last for more than a few days, you may be suffering from depression. Depression is a problem that affects the body as a whole and can lead to a variety of other problems, as well. There are a variety of medications and therapies that can help people who are dealing with depression, but, sometimes, it is important to identify the cause of the depression first. There are a variety of different causes for depression and different causes will require different treatments.

Genetics
One cause of depression may actually be in your genes. Many studies have shown that depression can be a genetic problem that is inherited. Often, bouts of depression will run in the family and if the genetics are studied, there are slight variations in genetic make-up that seem to correspond with the problems of depression and Bipolar Disorder in particular.

External Problems
Many times, there are external problems that are actually the cause of depression. Many times, depression can start out as grief for a loved one or frustration over a chronic illness. Often, dealing with losing a job or the breakup of a relationship can cause people to go into depression as well. Financial stress is another external problem that can lead to depression. It is important to note that, many times, it is a combination of these external problems with other problems that lead to an episode of depression.

Chemical Imbalances
Another cause of depression can be a chemical imbalance within the body. The chemicals in the brain are very important and having too much or not enough of these chemicals can lead to psychological problems, including depression. Two specific neurotransmitters that seem to be connected with depression are norepinephrine and
serotonin. Cortisol, which is a hormone produced in the body, has also been linked to depression and often, too much cortisol is found in people who are suffering from depression.

Depression is a serious problem and no matter what is causing depression in your life or in the life of someone you love, it is important that you get professional help. There is help available for those who are dealing with depression and often, the type of help will be determined by the cause of depression. It is important to know that you are not alone and that there is assistance for those dealing with this difficult disease.

Opinions in this article are the opinions of the author, Adrian Adams, and do not necessarily reflect the view of Mark D. Houston - Drug and Alcohol Recovery and Drug & Alcohol Rehab Texas which the author would like for you to visit. Sitemap.

Do You Have Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Just like fibromylagia,and ADD (attention deficit disorder), Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a hard to diagnose and easily disregarded or overlooked condition or form of depression. Some people get the winter blues. Some just feel sluggish and have a hard time getting out of bed in the morning. But, for some it is a serious, almost debilitating disorder. For some it can lead to an actual diagnosis for depression.

For some it is just a mild, temporary feeling of helplessness - a very minor form of depression. For others it can be very serious. As evidenced in many studies, 1 out of every 10 people have some manifestation of SAD. And just like with regular depression, there have been cases ending in suicide, progression into different forms of depression and psychosis including manic depression, multiple personality disorder (schizophrenia), etc…

Key indicators that one has SAD are sluggishness, sleeping over 10 hours per day and still feeling tired, general lethargy, migraines that can be quite severe and usually hit their peak with drops in barmometric pressure. Studies have shown that depressed people are more susceptible to temperature extremes which some researches have attributed to evidenced lower sustained levels of electrolytes and essential minerals and salts in the body and brain. One of these is potassium. It has been proven that low levels of potassium can bring on severe migrains. Another is vitamin D and sun exposure - many doctors believe that the seasonal limited sun exposure and lower levels of vitamin D produced at the cellular level in our skin can bring on SAD all by itself.

SAD can begin at any age, but is rarely evidenced in childhood. It occurs mostly women age 35 and above. If one or more symptoms of SAD can be seen it is strongly suggested that one seek appropriate medical care. It could be something as simple as a chemical imbalance that a small change in diet could quickly fix. Sometimes a trip to a spa for a skin treatment or skin peel can be enough to offset the condition. Or it could be more severe. There is no reason to let this condition go and suffer through it. With recent advances in medicine SAD can be treated very effectively and the sufferers quality of life greatly improved.

David Maillie is a chemist with over 12 years experience in biochemical research and clynical analysis. He can be reached at M.D. Wholesale: http://www.bestskinpeel.com and http://www.mdwholesale.com.

What Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Generalized anxiety disorder affects around 3% to 4% of the population. It keeps you in a worried state and makes a persons depressed about life. It does not stop a person from living their lives normally, or is it a panic attack. It affects they way you think. It stops a person from deciding on things and thus making them depressed.

It makes the person believe that they have no interest in life. There are no real triggers for generalized anxiety disorder. Sometimes it can affect a person without them knowing. For example, you are waiting for a loved one and they are late. You start to think about the “what if’ they had an accident, what if something bad has happened to them? The feeling of worry and anxiety will start to creep into their head and the cycle repeats itself in a variety of situation.

Some people will experience this problem in their everyday lives and it could prevent them from relaxing, being calm and enjoy time alone.

Generalized Anxiety disorder (GAD) can take up to 6 months or more of severe anxiety to take affect. People who experience GAD usually expect the worse case scenario. It prevents them from relaxing and can cause insomnia, fatigue, headaches, irritability and trembling.

GAD affects approximately 2.8% of all Americans (4 million people) each year and often hits people in their childhood, adolescence and even in adult hood. It affects women more than men.

GAD is just one of the six different anxiety disorders and can be categorized in the following groups.
1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder
2. Panic Disorder
3. Social Anxiety Disorder
4. Post Traumatic Anxiety Disorder
5. Obsessive Anxiety Disorder
6. Phobia Related Anxiety Disorder

GAD along with the other 5 disorders is treatable and should be looked at by a professional therapist as soon as possible. There are two main types of recommended therapy, cognitive and behavioural therapy. Many patience usually find it easier to copy with disorders when they receive treatment.

Cognitive therapy is focused on changing ones mental state by helping the brain relearn its thinking process. It can help with long term treatment because changing the way a person thinks can affect their out come tremendously for example helping them cope with anxiety and realising that all their problems can be solved.

Behavioural therapy is a more in your face type of treatment. It involves confrontation a persons fears. The purpose to this is to help a person talk about their problems until desensitize from the fear or anxiety by describing in detail how they feel.

Information on Generalized Anxiety Disorder or anxiety treatment
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What Is Depression?

When a person starts to feel depressed, the brain is releasing a mixture of chemicals into the bloodstream and changing the way the brain functions. It is also caused by other external factors, for example a particular situation, what another person had said, and more.

A person can feel slightly depressed or can feel extremely depressed depending how seriously they are affected by depression. The mechanics of how depression works is quite simple. The human brain is made up of billions of never endings called neurons and it carries signals from your brain to your body using a chemical called neurotransmitters.

The chemicals in our brain are also responsible for influencing our emotional state and depression is caused when the neurotransmitters send weak signals causing the body to change its state.

Treating Depression

There are two common treatments for depression, psychotherapy and medication.

Psychotherapy
Otherwise known as “talk therapy,” is said to be the most effective way of treatment. Countless studies have proven that when a person is talking to someone about their condition it can slowly rid depression. However results will take time it’s a rather safe form of treatment and expression how a person feels. You can expect to psychotherapy to go between 10 and 20 weeks.

Different Types of Psychotherapy

How To Diagnose Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety disorder affects more people than you think. Millions of people suffer from anxiety disorders however the majority of them keep in to themselves. That’s why it’s important for more people to learn what it is so they can help their friends and family.
The best thing you can do is find a good experience doctor and therapist.

There is a fine line between anxiety and anxiety disorder. It is safe an often natural to feel anxious during the day for example, you are in a job interview and you’re not sure if you going to get the job, so you try your best, even harder than usual. This type of anxiety keeps you on your toes. However some people with anxiety disorder might react differently in some situations. Anxiety attacks that leave you completely confused, dazed, scared, can often be the symptoms to anxiety disorder. If you know someone or if you feel that you are over reacting and always worried about small things in life you should consult a therapist.

When consulting a therapist or doctor make sure you check to see if they are experienced in treating patients with anxiety disorders because there are often confused with other disorders such as phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, or depression.

How a patient develops anxiety is often unknown however what is known is that everyone starts of the same way. When an individual is born they have an automatic response mechanism that keeps them out of harms way, ie pain or being hurt. For some reason as we grow older our perception and reaction to situation changes and this is how anxiety disorder is formed.

Symptoms of anxiety disorder is often described to increase your heart rate, pressure on the chest, light-headed, shaky, queasiness, urination or bowel disorders. The mental symptoms include:

What is Bipolar Depression?

Around 10% of all Americans suffer from some form of depression during their lives. If you did your research you’d find that almost all developed countries around the world suffer from similar statistics.

Depression in general affects the way we behave from our sleeping patters up to the way we think and live life.

Here are some signs you should look out for:

Tips On Dealing With Severe Anxiety Disorder

Almost everyone experiences some sort of anxiety during their life. Its normal to feel anxious especially over serious matters. However when a person becomes anxious over small things, or non existing factors, it is known as Anxiety Disorder. This is a well known mental disorder / illness. Some doctors may sometimes diagnose anxiety disorder as paranoia or depression and other disorders. This is because the symptoms are all very similar.

Here are some possible anxiety disorder treatments.

Psychological
This for of treatment should always be with a registered psychiatrist. It is best to find a psychiatrist who has other Anxiety Disorder patients. If a person has severe anxiety disorder they might not want to visit a doctor so a psychiatrist is just as effective if not better. The more experience the psychiatrist is the better they will be to help the patient.

Medication
In most cases medication is a trial and error procedure. The most tested medication is called Monotherapy Treatment, the use of only one drug. Combining more than one drug may lead to a better effect. Another form of medication is Antidepressants. However it is still a trial and error procedure because they are various antidepressants and it’s a matter of testing out which ones provide the best results.

Benzodiazepines
Another medication used to help severe Anxiety Disorder suffers.

Polypharmacy
This is a combination of several drugs and is proven to be one of the more successful forms of medication against severe Anxiety Disorder. Antidepressants and Benzodiazepines are combined to make a mild stimulant.

Combining Psychiatric Assistance
Combining psychiatric assistance and prescribed medication is still by far the best solution available. While the medication helps the patient cope with anxiety the psychiatric therapy will help the patient find a solution to their anxiety.

All medication prescribed by a professional doctor will benefit the patient who suffers from anxiety disorder. Countless research has been done on monotherapy treatments and found that combining drugs often helps most patients quick and more longer term.

However treating server anxiety disorder is not as simple. Combining medication along with seeing a psychiatrist can often provide extra benefits. A professional therapists can help change a persons mental thoughts and with the ad of medication it will help suppress the anxiety attacks giving the patient time to change their mental thinking.

The best thing to do is always consult with a professional doctor and psychiatrist before making any major decisions with treatment.

If you are looking for anxiety disorder help or anxiety treatment
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Understanding Depression Symptoms And Solutions

Depression is a very real, very serious condition that can be treated. It’s more than just “feeling blue.” And for those suffering in the midst of its grip, it can feel like a black cloud descended and will never go away. Imagine living life in a “muted” way, where every positive emotion feels diluted. That’s a symptom of depression, along with a number of others.

For those suffering from depression, recognizing the signs are the first step to handling the condition. The second is being willing to seek help. Thanks to years of ill-informed people attaching a stigma to the condition, many who suffer are afraid to come forward and ask for help. It’s viewed as a sign of weakness, a sign of instability. Unfortunately, due to this misconception many choose to suffer alone with a condition that may or may not go away on its own.

In reality, depression is a real illness that’s characterized by an imbalance of brain chemicals. It is a condition that does not signal a sign of weakness, nor is it something a person can just brush away. It can be hereditary, but that’s not always the case. What actually causes depression isn’t known, but it can be triggered by such things as hormonal changes, a traumatic event, every-day life, heredity, and such things as substance abuse or other serious illness.

The basic symptoms of depression can be troublesome in and of themselves. They include such things as:

* An extended period of sadness that may or may not include crying.

* Major alterations in sleep and eating patterns. Weight loss or gain may go along with it.

* A feeling of indifference or extreme negativity, like things will never get better.

* Fatigue, lethargy.

* A sense of guilt or worthlessness.

* A loss of ability to concentrate or make decisions.

* Diminished feelings of pleasure in taking part in activities that once drew a person’s attention.

* Thoughts of death or suicide.

* Pains that are unexplained.

These symptoms, of course, can manifest in a number of other conditions. But, if they are present in a person for an extended period of time or if they begin to interfere with daily life, it’s time to see a doctor. Generally, depression is diagnosed if at least five or more of its major symptoms are present and have been so for at least several weeks.

There are medications that can take the edge off depression and enable a person to go about their life “feeling” things again. Therapy, too, can help a person deal with any root issues that may be adding to the sense of helplessness, such as a traumatic event or even substance abuse.

Feeling blue is one thing - depression is another. A sense of sadness generally passes as happier thoughts or pursuits take hold. But for the person enduring depression, finding the happiness in life can be difficult. Even things that should bring joy feel muted.

Getting help for depression is the first step to regaining control of a life. It’s a serious and real condition that demands attention. The person suffering with it does not have to do so.

If a single symptom of depression is present, it doesn’t necessarily mean the condition is present. But if several show up for a period of time, seeking help is the smart choice.

#1 Resource

Depression treatment and resources.

http://www.depressionportal.com

Is Avoiding Past Panic Attack location The Best Solution Or The Worst?

A lot of people who encountered panic attack tend to develop a certain level of fear to the place where the attack took place.

Those with less fear will start to avoid going to the exact location where the event happened, whereas those with more fear will be avoiding similar place altogether. And, some with serious fear will probably develop a social sickness called “Agoraphobia”.

Agoraphobia is fear of open spaces or of being in crowded, public places. Those with this sickness have a great fear of leaving a safe place, and eventually, wanted to stay at home, or in their most familiar sanctuary, their room.

This is a typical case where we human tend to do, that is taking the easy way out when we face pain.

“If avoiding the location of the past pain event can reduce the risk of getting the pain happening again, why not?”

But, when anyone does this, the following 3 things happened.

First, instead of solving the fear or anxiety cause, you are hiding and avoiding it. So, instead of forgetting about the panic attack, you are actually building a strong foundation to remember about the pain.

Secondly, you are putting a restriction to your own freedom. Your life start to change, there are certain locations that becomes a restricted zone for you. You are building new pressure to your fear, anxiety and stress level.

This is all happening sub-consciously, most of the time, you are glad that you do not have to face the location of the past event, but you know for the fact that deeply in your heart, you are becoming more and more fearful to that location.

Thirdly, the next time you have no choice but to face the location again, you start to think automatically about the past panic attack without knowing it.

You do not even have to physically be at the location, but just by thinking of getting close to the location might have just triggered the attack.

And, this time, it is going to be worse.

And, when all these 3 things happened, it trigger the worsening cycle of panic attack; and the fear to attack and attack to more fear cycle will sneak its way in to your life.

The next thing you know, panic disorder becomes a parasite living within you.

Instead of avoiding the location of the past panic attack, you should try to do the following.

Step 1:

Do not avoid the location by all means. But, before you complete this 4 step fear elimination process, try not to be too close to the location. Try not to let the trigger being pulled.

Step 2:

Analyse the location, your fear behind the event and the root cause of the fear.

Take an example, you were jogging alone along a pathway as usual, and suddenly the panic attack happened while you are passing through your neighbor house.

Ask yourself why this location and not other place?
What is there that you thought something might happen?

Is it because of the dog your neighbor having?

Is it because you are afraid of seeing someone that may appear there?

Or, is it because you suddenly realized that you forgot to lock your door?

Step 3:

What could you do to eliminate the root cause of the fear?

Let’s use the example again.

If it is because of the dog, can you get someone to accompany you next time?

If it is because of someone that you afraid to see, can you understand why you are afraid of the person and try to remove the fear to the person?

If it is because the fear of someone breaks into your house, can you make sure that you lock the door next time?

Step 4:

Take action to clear the fear.

After analyse the reason and determine how to solve the problem, you must take solid action to make it happen.

Step 5:

This is crucial and a must do. You must now re-visit the location again, doing the same thing you did during the last attack.

Be prepared to the symptom of the attack, if you start to feel uncomfortable about the place, do not quit. Move on, because of you well prepared, you are very unlikely to face the event again.

The next thing you know, you are no longer a runaway refugee to that location.

The Mind Is The Limit.

Kam Meng, Mok is the co-author of the free ebook “Stress No More ” which is available for download at http://www.PanicAid.com.
Visit his blog about personal development and the power of mind at http://www.brainszone.com

Is Depression a Sign of Intelligence?

Are you depressive? Congratulation, there is every reason to be. It is quite normal. I would say that only an insane person would not be depressive in a world like this. Open any magazine, newspaper, watch TV or listen to the radio. There is disaster, corruption, cheating, catastrophes, heart breaking cruelty, misery, drama, hatred, war and crime everywhere. What to speak of the common problems of life: Disease, old age and death.

The ancient Indian scripture called Bhagavta Purana describes modern reality as follows: “When there is a predominance of cheating, lying, sloth, sleepiness, violence, depression, lamentation, bewilderment, fear and poverty, that age is Kali, the age of the mode of ignorance.”

It seems to be the reaction of at least a somewhat healthy mind to become depressive in the face of all these horrible things, in the face of death and disease, which might strike at every moment. In the same old Vedic scripture of ancient India it is said: “Padam padam yad vipadam na tesam. This is a world, where there is danger at every step.” Who could deny it? This indeed is very depressing.

So, to me at least, it seems that each and every person not suffering from depression must be either blind or have found some other shelter in a place, which is devoid of all these calamities. I would suggest that the majority of people dragging along according to the motto “Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we shall die” fits into the latter category. It is a main ingredient of material life, especially its modern variation, to forget. Ignorance keeps the masses dragging on.

People are eager to numb their minds. Drug abuse, sex addiction, TV addiction, eating, drinking, everything just to forget the miseries of life, which would be unbearable otherwise. Their mind is so dull that they cannot afford to be depressive. They have taken shelter in ignorance and a superficial life of cheap, fleeting and unfulfilling sense gratification.

But there are those healthy people who dare to be depressive. While the former cannot be helped so easily according to the statement “It’s folly to be wise where ignorance is bliss”, the latter are more open for advice. They actually KNOW that this sort of life IS depressing. They do not deny it. They don’t escape. They sometimes even do not respond to therapeutic treatment, which’s only aim is to scatter the sane considerations of the depressive client to make him believe, against the obvious facts, that everything is alright.

It is interesting that those who blame metaphysically oriented people to be escapists all the while have nothing else to do than to use every and all means just to make them forget depressing reality.

Who is an escapist? The one, who sees life as it is, with all the war, disease, death and cruelty, or the one who refuses to do so? And nevertheless he calls himself a “realist”! And, admittedly, there are nice things in this world, too. But this does not change things for the better, but for the worse. It is like enjoying ice cream, delicious fresh ice cream, with sand in it. This could drive you crazy.

I remember an incident over a quarter of a century ago, when I talked with my eldest sister about happiness. Together with my father we were out for a walk at my grandma’s place, when the discussion came to this subject. I said to her that people have no real standard of happiness. They actually take ignorance as a substitute. Therefore their enjoyment - hampered by the mode of ignorance - is very shallow and superficial. I added that it is important to enlighten them about this fact.

My sister did not agree at all. “If they are happy, leave them alone”, was all she said. I grew so angry that my loud voice drew the attention of my father. At that point I stopped the conversation, being totally frustrated my sister.

Although I know that her response was the consequence of her own ignorance and fear, today I can at least appreciate one very important point she made. There is no use to force people to acknowledge the brutal facts of this material life, culminating in the fact that one day - and it could approach at every moment - we have to leave everything behind. They will not appreciate you pulling the carpet from under their feet. We have at the same time show them an alternative, a better way of life.

It is a sign of intelligence to be depressive. It shows at least that a person does not bury his or head in sand like an ostrich. He or she is too intelligent to believe the old saying “Out of sight, out of mind.”.

But depression is no solution. It is even more intelligent to ask whether there is any other way out from this tragedy than just ignorance. And there is. But this is the second part of the story.

Friedrich Asen has ove