Almost 10% of the American population suffer from depression. Depression is a grave illness that affects day to day life and can destroy families. It is a disorder that controls the mind and its functions causing loss of appetite, sleeplessness, mood swings, and a deep sense of despair.
There are various symptoms of depression and the severity can change with time. According to experts depression can be an inherited disorder, caused by life threatening illnesses, or everyday stress. Other causes include diseases, medicines, drugs, alcohol, and/or mental illnesses. Women seem to experience more depression than men due to hormonal mood swings, menstrual cycle changes, pregnancy, miscarriage, pre-menopause, and post-menopause.
Common Depression Symptoms:
- An unshakable sadness, anxiety, or emptiness.
- Overwhelming hopelessness accompanied by pessimistic feelings.
- Extreme guilt, feelings of helplessness, and no sense of self worth.
- Loss of energy, a slowing down of metabolism and activity levels. Being plagued by constant fatigue.
- A sense of helplessness along with an increasing inability to focus and indecisiveness.
- Loss of sound sleep and development of extreme insomnia.
- Inexplicable weight loss or weight gain. Triggered by loss of appetite or eating binges.
- Brooding and suicidal inclinations.
- Irritability, short temper, as well as restlessness.
- Physical afflictions like headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain for no particular reason.
If you experience any of the above do consult your doctor. He will give you a thorough examination to rule out physical causes for depression as well as any underlying medical problems. If required he will recommend that you consult a psychiatrist or psychologist.
Natural Solutions to Depression:
- Remove negative terms from your vocabulary such as exhaustion, worthlessness, and hopelessness.
- Change your life by setting yourself a few goals.
- Try and relax, meditate, and enjoy music.
- Start new activities that absorb your time as well as interests.
- Go out and meet people and participate in-group activities.
- Avoid the company of negative people.
- Make up your mind to enjoy a movie, ballgame, family outing, picnic, or trek.
- Be positive, self-confidant, and have faith in yourself. Faith is itself a great healer.
- Decide to change your world for the better.
However, do follow the doctor’s advice if your depression escalates or you are suicidal seek help from your family physician or health care provider as soon as possible. Also you can call a local health department, a community mental health center, or hospital or clinic. Someone will extend a helping hand and talk you through the crisis.