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We all feel sad at times. We get lonely when someone we love
ignores us. We feel disappointed when we fail at something. And
we may lose something that we value. At times, our sense of loss
is enormous, and we feel grief.
Depression, however, can also become a pervasive mood that
slowly destroys our lives. It erodes our health and well-being,
diminishes our self-esteem, and destroys our relationships.
While chronic depression is a clinical problem, requiring
professional intervention, there are a few practical things we
can do to snap out of feeling blue. Thus, although pervasive
feelings of despair are due to past trauma, it is possible to
take care of reactive depression that arises from circumstances
by taking some practical measures.
Exposure to Light:
A common form of depression arises from deprivation of light and
sunshine. This has been called S.A.D. or Seasonal Affective
Disorder.
Insufficient exposure to sunshine triggers the secretion of a
hormone called melatonin. When this is low in our bodies, we
feel lethargic and uninterested in anything.
Since the nights are longer in winter than in summer, more
melatonin tends to be secreted. This lowers our body temperature
and makes us feel sluggish.
Simple remedies include lighting up the room better, especially
with light bulbs that simulate natural light, walking more
outdoors during the day, and spending more time exercising.
Inspiration:
Busy people are often inspired people, and they are less likely
to feel depressed. Doing what you love, taking inspired action,
and associating with lively people is a sure-fire way to
overcome feeling down.
Passionate action arises from creating goals. Intentions give
meaning to our lives. As we act on them, we develop an
unshakable belief in our own self worth. A positive attitude
emerges from meeting and overcoming challenges.
Recuperation:
Occasionally, fatigue causes a drop in our mood levels. When we
are stressed, our minds become frantic and our bodies get
exhausted. Taking hot baths, getting a massage, or just doing
something fun can rapidly shift our moods.
Diet:
Eating right can improve our mood. While caffeine and sugar may
give you a temporary energy spike, they also stimulate anxiety.
And while alcohol may be considered a way to forget problems, it
is actually a depressant.
Exercise:
Exercise stimulates endorphin and catecholamine, which are
stress-reducing natural chemicals. Similarly, neurotransmitters
like dopamine and serotonin are exercise-induced natural
chemicals that make you feel optimistic.
Socializing:
Finally, a lot of depression is simply due to isolating
ourselves. Many jobs are object-related with little social
interactions. With a warm circle of friends, we tend to view
life in a more optimistic way.
Besides, the possibility of partaking in social engagements,
words of encouragement, timely advice, moments of camaraderie
and high humor can do wonders to lift our spirits.
Intimacy:
Finally, of course, intimacy is the highest form of friendship,
where the power of touch has a way of soothing and relaxing us.
Experiencing respect and care is essential to being human. Love
is the ultimate cure for depression.
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