What is Depression?
Everyone at some point in their lives has experienced depression. This can range from mild bouts of sadness and feeling like life is just not worthwhile, to more serious depression which returns regularly or is continuously present.
The symptoms of depression vary widely from feeling agitated and restless to stuck or numb. You might get tearful easily and feel low-spirited much of the time. Low confidence and self- esteem may mean that you stop going to events that you usually enjoy. You may have difficulty sleeping or be sleeping longer hours. You may have no appetite for food or be "comfort eating. Negative thoughts pervade and you may think thoughts like 'what's the point' or 'I can't' or 'I'm no good'.
You are not alone. Statistics from the Mental Health Foundation show that 1 in 4 people will experience some kind of mental health problem in the course of a year.
Depression and Complementary health
All forms of complementary health can help with depression. Simply having a person to talk with about your situation who is not connected to your daily life and your family relationships can be deeply healing. A professional therapist will have skills at listening and supporting you where you are right now. All forms of massage and touch therapies can ease away your anxiety, refresh your mind and feel deeply nourishing. By working with the energy meridians Acupuncture and Shiatsu can effect change on a biochemical level. Herbal medicine and Nutrition are also really helpful for counteracting depression. There are many routes to choose from. It's helpful to find a practitioner and a therapy that you like and have a course of sessions. This way you will have ongoing support to make the changes that you want to make. Your therapist may also recommend things that you can do for yourself at home to support your treatments.
Depression and Self Help
A symptom of depression is lethargy and a 'can't be bothered' attitude. However managing any of these simple steps below will help you.
- Water
drink 6 - 8 glasses of water each day. This will help the electrolyte balance of the body, give you more energy and make you feel much better. - Sunlight
Sun helps the nervous system to function effectively. Just 10 mins each day is all that's needed. - Exercise
Take an exercise class, go for a walk, swim, or put on some music and dance around the room. All movement will help. - Positive thinking
Notice your thoughts and give your mind something positive to focus on. Affirmations; repeating positive statements to yourself will help you to feel more in control and alleviate tension. - St. Johnswort is a herbal remedy that's long been used to alleviate depression. You can buy it at your local pharmacy.