Internet Addiction and Depression - What's the Connection?

Some recent studies conducted by British psychologists showed striking evidence that Internet addiction and depression seem to be related. The study found that a small proportion of Internet users were considered to be Internet addicts and that these people had a greater likelihood of getting depressed than Internet users who were not addicted.

Psychologists say that the reason behind this is that people who become addicted to the Internet eventually find themselves replacing real-life social interactions with online interactions in chat rooms and social networking websites. Since real-life social interactions are necessary for the psychological and emotional stability of a person, lack of it can lead to depression.

The study was conducted based on a questionnaire that was answered by over 1300 young people and adults aged between 16 and 51 years old who used the Internet regularly. A link to the questionnaire was placed on various UK-based social networking sites. The questions mainly revolved around Internet usage, such as how much time they spent online, what they do online, and so on. The questionnaire also included the Beck Depression Inventory, a series of questions that measure the severity of depression or depressive symptoms.

Only about 1.4% of the total number of survey participants were found to be Internet addicts, and they seem to have had more severe depressive symptoms. It was not clear, however, whether people who are already depressed turn to the Internet to fulfill their basic human need for social interaction, or if Internet overuse comes first.

The psychologists reported that over-engaging in social networking websites can easily occur and can just as easily lead to psychological disorders like addiction and depression. People therefore need to consider the large-scale societal implications of social networking sites on mental health.

A similar study, however, gave light to what was missing in the previous study. Another study was conducted in Australia and China, where over 1000 teenage students in China were exposed to uncontrolled Internet use. The students were completely free from anxiety and depression at the start of the study. Sixty-two of them were moderate pathological users of the Internet, while two were found to be severely unable to control their urges to go online. The study took nine months. In the next evaluation, it was found that an alarming eighty-seven of the students developed depression and another eight showed significant symptoms of anxiety.

The study suggests that Internet overuse comes first before depression. Researchers made it clear, however, that the study was conducted in a developing country, so results may differ in developed and underdeveloped countries where the circumstances are different. Nevertheless, they recommend that young people who may be at risk of getting addicted to the Internet should be screened to see whether they need treatment or counseling.

H Pylori Infection Causes Gastritis

My Mother died aged just 60. When doctors performed her autopsy, they reported that she had been suffering severe gastritis and bleeding of the stomach and small intestine. In ten years of medical care, nobody had bothered to check her stomach for the presence of damage.

My Mother died as a result of septicemia: an infection developed in her psoas muscle, burst and allowed the infectious bacteria to enter her brain. It is fairly clear to me that the infectious organisms that caused the sepsis broke into her circulation through her damaged stomach and intestine.

This is a serious topic!

Gastritis simply means "inflammation of the stomach". H pylori infection is the leading - but not the only - cause of gastritis.

In fact, any word that ends in 'itis' means inflammation. For example, colitis is inflammation of the colon, arthritis is inflammation of joints, uveitis is inflammation of the eyes.

Most of the pain people experience is caused by inflammation. If tissues in your body are inflamed, you'll tend to feel pain there.

However, inflammation does not always cause pain and this is one of the most important lessons you can learn regarding your health because "silent" inflammation causes most of the diseases that afflict the Western population.

Chronic, long term inflammation can lead to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, depression, IBS, autoimmune disease and many other disease processes. These diseases don't appear over night, they are the result of a long term process.

H Pylori, Gastritis & Stomach Pain

H pylori infection always causes inflammation. This inflammation is generally located in the stomach and small intestine, where it is known as gastritis and duodenitis, respectively.

In some folk, gastritis and duodenitis will cause them to experience pain consciously, but other folk will not feel this pain. This is similar to the situation in celiac disease, where some people feel extreme pain upon eating gluten, whereas others feel no discomfort whatsoever, even though the gluten causes huge amounts of inflammation in the intestine.

Individual differences in the way we react to the H pylori infection, in addition to the specific strain of H pylori involved, seem to be the primary reasons why some folk develop stomach pain, heartburn and other uncomfortable symptoms while others do not.

The most common symptom of gastritis is a burning pain that occurs between the breastbone and the bellybutton. The pain can either be worsened or made better by food.

Nausea, loss of appetite, bloating and other common digestive symptoms may also be signs of gastritis. Severe gastritis can lead to stomach ulcers or bleeding, both of which must be treated by a medical professional.

If you have severe pain, burning, nausea, vomiting - especially if you vomit blood or coffee-like granules - or if your bowel movements are unusually dark, seek medical attention immediately as you may have bleeding in your stomach or intestines.

Three Main Causes Of Gastritis

There are three major causes of gastritis:

First, H pylori infection is believed to be the number one cause of gastritis.

Second, NSAIDS such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), Naxopren (Aleve, Naprosyn) are used to treat pain syndromes such as arthritis and headaches. They are available over the counter, without prescription.

They work by decreasing the formation of some of the body's pain signalling chemicals, known as prostaglandins. Gastritis and bleeding of the stomach are known to be side effects of using NSAIDS. For example, in one study it was found that the use of one adult strength aspirin per day triples a person's risk of being hospitalised for a major gastrointestinal bleed.璽?玲?/p>

Third, several diet and lifestyle factors may cause or contribute to the development of gastritis. Here are some of those factors:

• Alcohol consumption (alcohol is a major irritant of the GI tract)
• Cigarette smoking
• Dehydration
• Eating smoked, pickled and processed foods, for example bacon, salami, pickles, vinegar). Processed meats that contain nitrates and nitrites are preservatives are especially problematic.
• Spicy foods such as chilli
• Greasy foods containing processed vegetable oils
• Consuming gluten-containing foods (from wheat, rye and barley)
• Cow's milk products, especially when they are pasteurised
• Sugar consumption
• Coffee drinking
• Food allergies: common triggers include cow's milk, wheat, corn, yeast, nuts, eggs
• Stress (yes, stress has been shown to directly cause inflammation)

Overcoming Gastritis

Overcoming gastritis is not difficult. If you have digestive pain above your bellybutton, the chances are that you have gastritis.

So first, check your lifestyle against the factors listed above and correct any of these that need correcting. Remove problematic foods, stop smoking and talk to your doctor about whether you need NSAIDs.

If this does not relieve your symptoms, make sure that get a test for H pylori. You can get a test from your doctor. We recommend that you two tests: a stool antigen test and a urea breath test.

If H pylori is detected in your testing, you must take steps to eradicate the infection using triple therapy antibiotics or a well-designed herbal protocol such as the one I used when I had H pylori.

Once H pylori has been successfully eradicated, substances that are helpful in healing a damaged stomach and intestinal lining include DGL, zinc-l-carnosine, l-glutamine, cysteine or n-acetyl cysteine, gamma-oryzanol, colostrum and probiotics.

If you are experiencing very severe symptoms, I recommend that you ask for an endoscopy examination from your doctor or specialist. The endoscopy procedure can help you identify how severe your gastritis is. It can also determine whether you have developed stomach, or peptic ulcers, Barrett's esophagus, atrophic gastritis and other conditions, including cancer. A biopsy can also be taken during the endoscopy procedure to identify H pylori infection.

Do not underestimate your body's messages. If you have pain in your digestive system it means there is something wrong. H pylori can cause stomach cancer if it is left untreated. So what begins as simple gastritis can end up causing very serious problems.

Please don't take chances. Alter your diet and lifestyle habits and, if this does not bring relief, seek medical attention immediately.

What Is Manic Depression and How Does It Differ From Bipolar Disorder

What is Manic Depression?

In the past it used to be known as manic depression, a name which sums up the two components of the condition, but now the name bipolar is used. This new name still alludes to the dual nature of the condition. Those who suffer from it have mood swings that are out of their control, leading them to heady highs and terrible lows.

What are the Causes of Bipolar Disorder?

The science behind mental illnesses is still young and complete understanding of the illness may only be achieved through the use of multiple disciplines. There are of course biological causes such as important neurotransmitters being imbalanced in the brain, and of course psychological issues that may compound the problems and cause more harm. The brain and the mind have natural systems in place to regulate the mood of the person and when they fail, such problems as depression and bipolar disorder are the result.

The duality of the condition means there are a minimum of two different factors to look out for when seeking the symptoms. Someone who is in the manic phase and having a manic episode will be subject to a certain euphoria, have an abundance of energy, their thoughts will be racing, they may even talk very fast in order to keep up with their thoughts. They might have unrealistic beliefs, increased appetite for sex, frivolous behaviors such as gambling, or be aggressive, or consume more alcohol or take drugs. While many feel on top of the world during a manic episode it also has its dangers and it's easy for savings to be lost, huge debts to be wracked up, and relationships wrecked during this phase.

The lows of depression are of course equally concerning and involve the usual worries that come with normal depression. Those with bipolar depression will find themselves sad, feeling listless, having little energy, and of course are at risk of committing suicide or harming themselves in other ways. People also self medicate with substances.

Even specialists have trouble identifying bipolar symptoms from normal every day behaviours. To diagnose the condition they therefore look back retrospectively on a person's life and have them discuss the things that happened and record the various symptoms. These are then collated on a scale.

It's possible that once the condition is identified for professionals to treat it effectively. Not only are their drugs available, but also humanistic treatments such as counselling or support groups. Psychologists can help to identify the triggers of a mood change and allow enable the person to learn how to avoid the problems such mood swings cause.

Conclusion

The good news is that those who face their problem and seek treatment have a better chance of preventing their illness from getting worse. Early treatment appears to have a stabilizing effect on the disorder. It's something that will always stay with a person, but there's no reason for it to prevent a normal life.

Different Types of Sleep Deprivation Symptoms to Look Out For

Regardless of whether you suffer from short or long-term sleep deprivation, several symptoms will become evident. Sleep deprivation symptoms range from obvious ones like sleepiness to more severe conditions like memory complications and hallucinations. Understand that severity of symptoms rely on two factors. These include the amount of deprivation versus the amount of time you are awake and the intensity of the symptoms according on your circadian clock. Sleep deprivation symptoms become more evident when you cannot sleep at times you should naturally be asleep.

Sleepiness

Sleepiness automatically comes with sleep disorder. When you lack sleep, the body naturally feels sleepy. For people suffering sleep deprivation longer or more frequent, sleepiness can be much worse. Drowsiness can also cause related sleep disorder symptoms like feelings of exhaustion or fatigue. People experiencing fatigue often feel weary and uncomfortable. Along with sleepiness, you can also fall asleep faster when sleep disorder. Short sleep latency causes extreme daytime sleepiness and even narcolepsy in the end. Depending on other conditions you have, sleepiness can be either advantageous or disadvantageous. For people with insomnia, added sleepiness is helpful. For other individuals, additional sleepiness can only get in the way of accomplishing tasks.

Moodiness

Sleep deprivations symptoms also include mood changes. If you lack sleep, you can have a shorter temper. The amount of sleep you have is directly proportionate to your mood. A good night's sleep can bring a great mood while a disrupted slumber can lead to irritability. Changes in your mood may progress other serious complications like anxiety and depression. Previous studies established the link between sleep and psychiatric conditions. Symptoms and disorders usually overlap with depression. For example, health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) come with nightmares and loss of sleep. Additionally, individuals suffering from chronic insomnia are more at risk of suicide. This only emphasizes how important sleep is to overall health.

Lack of Concentration and Decreased Productivity

Good concentration relies heavily on a well-rested mind. If you do not get enough sleep, you damage or impair your ability to focus. In some cases, individuals suffering long enough from sleep deprivation become used to the impairment, making it hard to realize the problem. When a person losses focus, their level of productivity also decreases. Lack of alertness can lead to accidents and errors jeopardizing performance. This only emphasizes how important you should look out for symptoms. If you can pinpoint sleep deprivation symptoms earlier, you can address the problem before it becomes worse.

Cognitive Impairment

Sleep is very important for the thought process. It reenergizes the mind to help you think better and sharper. Without enough sleep, your cognitive abilities suffer. Sleep deprivation affects not only the thought process but also how the mind processes memories.

Many sleep quotes will make you realize how crucial sleep is to your overall health. Get enough sleep to avoid suffering from these symptoms and other health problems.

How To Keep Your Major Depression Symptoms From Increasing

Dealing with depressive disorders will make men and women feel like their planet is finishing. Visiting a psychiatrist or getting prescription medicines might not be alternatives you intend to check out.

Dealing with depression symptoms can be created less difficult by using a assistance class. Having a conversation with others which can be frustrated is helpful. Many people can show you new things in regards to the condition, and assist you to learn to handle your depressive disorders.

Tend not to count on a crutch to eradicate your depressive disorders. Many people select alcoholic drinks to ease depression. Although this may possibly help you feel excellent, it is just subsiding your major depression briefly.

Sometimes receiving sympathy from family and friends can frequently help gas your awful conduct if you make you believe that regardless of what you do those family will invariably forgive you. It's healthier that you can focus on getting optimistic and to stay away from property on the unfavorable issues in your lifetime.

Should your mood is nearing adverse, make sure you consume 3 dishes each day. Depression may cause appetite loss, but heading with out foods can contribute to on-going major depression and less enthusiasm as well as. If you are eating improperly and not getting ample energy daily, it makes it actual difficult for your body to operate appropriately. If you eat regularly, your body receives the electricity it will require to help you feel good physically and mentally.

To defeat major depression, you have to be realistic. Consider the goals and anticipations that you have in your lifetime, and in case they aren't sensible, you need to fine-tune them to ensure they doing this. Wanting things which are not likely to happen, or seeking to obtain the extremely hard, is only going to make you dissatisfied. This may make you come to be further more stressed out.

Diet regime may well be a factor in your signs of depressive disorders. Processed foods could have a depressive impact on considered designs, making you think that you're in a loop with no way out of your signs you're experiencing. Try out avoiding fattening food items to enjoy much more healthfully.

Take into account scheduling a consultation to find out a psychological counselor. Interventions that combine prescription drugs and therapy typically produce achievement in the treatment of major depression. Incorporating these 2 kinds of treatment options is much better than making use of any one 1. Prescription drugs operates by controlling the sudden frame of mind downswings, when therapy really helps to workout your issues that lead to major depression.

Do things step by step. Depression can make it sense extremely hard or overpowering to acquire every thing done all at one time. If you focus on taking little methods and making small changes in your life, it is far from as overwhelming on you, and it will be simpler to perform your desired goals.

An antidepressant is great at rejuvenating the total amount of chemical compounds within the human brain to their optimum levels. Even so, if you would like normalcy reconditioned in your own life, you should also physical exercise and take part in therapy.

Assistance to launch hormones within your head with exercise. Brain hormones can be a stimulant that increases your mood. By merely getting up and relocating, you will probably find your depressive disorders helps in reducing up immensely. A very high vitality exercise routine gives you the best results. The exercise will help alleviate your symptoms and improve your state of health.

Having a record to show your sensation in are often very cathartic. You might feel much better when you express your feelings in a record. Documenting your emotions also permits you to acknowledge achievable styles.

Workout has advantages beyond just your health. One of the main great things about exercising might be to assist cope with depression symptoms. Getting some exercise is a wonderful way to help keep you focused entirely on some thing apart from your major depression. Exercising releases hormones to the method, improving disposition and lowering unwanted pressure. Creating and sticking with a regular exercise regimen will help you to fight depression symptoms on a regular basis.

While you are unemployed, it is possible to sometimes sense depressed. Regardless if you are the sole earner with your family members or simply just the one that adds, reduced earnings can demonstrate nerve-racking and all of-encompassing. The economic problems enhance the anxiety of trying to find a new job and supplying to your loved ones.

While you have experienced within the above ideas, there is lots of information you may attain well before looking for solution for your depression symptoms and it's this knowledge, in addition to assistance from your doctor, that can help enhance your symptoms. Fit everything in you need to to identify a therapy that works for you.

Quotes For Life Insurance Online

Over the course of the past few decades the market for life insurance has become extremely competitive. This high rate of competitiveness has been and continues to compel life insurance companies to continually introduce new promotional offers and policies in the hopes of garnering a greater share of the market for their product.

Compare Premiums Online

As a general trend however; it is the premiums on life insurance policies that are the primary factors that motivates a majority of customers. So, in turn it is rates on policies that most people tend to look at when they are comparing policies online and online is where the greatest number of policies can be examined and compared in the least amount of time.

Side By Side Comparisons

As a direct result of the new developing trend in online life insurance sales, quite a number of website have appeared to make policy comparisons more expedient for buyers. Many of these new sites in fact, allow someone to compare quotes from as many as five carriers simultaneously. These side by side comparisons make it far more easier for someone to determine the exact policy that is best for them.

Secure Websites

For many people, security is an issue when shopping online and life insurance companies do request sensitive personal information in their questionnaires. It is for this precise reason that the more reputable of these sites have security measures in place to protect their visitors and don't share any of their information with third parties.

How to Fight Depression During Pregnancy, Permanent and Fast in 6 Weeks

Visualize yourself going through this very special time of your life, enjoying every moment, knowing deep down that there is a healthy way how to fight depression during pregnancy. Envision this time as wonderful and safe experience for you and your unborn child. I gather, you would do anything for an easy, care-free pregnancy and delivery, and a joyful time with your loved ones when your baby is born.

Reading word for word of this article, you'll find out soon enough that there is a method that has helped over 30,000 depressed people to overcome depression, completely naturally. How would it be for you if I told you that there is secret but simple method that shows you how to fight depression while pregnant, would you be interested?

One out of five women show symptoms of depression while pregnant. I reckon, you'll have asked yourself many times what kind of effect your depression will have on your child. I'm sure you want the best for you, and your child, and get better.

The reasons why women get depressed are many. It depends on family circumstances, personal attitude, environment, hormonal changes, and a predisposition to fall into depression.

Worrying thoughts about yourself and the baby can make you feel stressed about the well-being of your baby. You probably already know about new findings stating that everything that you experience also the baby will. As a result you start feeling guilty that makes the situation even worse.

To be more in control, and less at the mercy of downward spiraling thought, it helps to adopt a healthy routine. Make a plan of what you want to do during the day. Starting in the morning, write a list of activities you wish to undertake. The morning you can begin with easy exercises such as walking, deep breathing, and meditation that assist you to be in a stable frame of mind.

Also, performing simple domestic chores can help you to stay focused and watching a balanced diet with lots of fresh fruits, and vegetables. Apart from this, make sure to spend time in nature, and stay connected with your family and friends. When you experience severe symptoms of depression seek professional help bearing in mind that taking medication may harm your unborn child.

Making Choices - Dating a Bipolar Man

Are you dating a bipolar man, or have you ever been in a relationship with a person, affected by the disorder also known as manic depression? Last night, I went out with a man in Raleigh from Match.com, who is attractive, creative, successful, extremely intelligent - and bipolar -- which I found out on our first date. According to WebMD, "About 5.7 million adults are living with bipolar disorder in the United States."

Before meeting in person, my date and I chatted by phone and text messaged each other. Over the phone we got along pretty well, and appeared to have a great deal in common. When he invited me to go out to dinner with him I happily agreed. We decided to try a chic little Asian restaurant downtown that happens to be new.

While eating our citrus braised beet salads, my date started discussing his last serious relationship. I picked up my glass of white wine, and as I was sipping it, he uttered three words I will never forget.

"I am bipolar," he said.

I almost dropped the glass of wine.

"Oh really," I responded trying to sound perfectly at ease with his statement.

He began talking about being a bipolar man, but he stated it was not, "that big of a deal." My date also indicated that he is fine, and that he does not take any medications or engage in treatment. After his declaration, I found myself thinking about his statement -- and honestly I was caught off guard. I was unsure what to think or how to feel.

I am not going to pretend to know a lot about dating a bipolar man or the actual disorder. I dated a person with pretty serious emotional issues in the past, and it was certainly not the most peaceful time in my life. Perhaps I am judgmental, but I simply know I am not equipped to act as a pseudo therapist, for a person who needs the guidance of a trained professional.

Respect and Personal Choices
I will say I actually respected my date more for telling me that he is bipolar on our first date. I was appreciative of the fact he was so open, and that he was honest enough to allow me to make a choice about dating a bipolar man. I think that more people should embrace that sort of honesty and openness. I definitely realize that nobody is perfect, so I focused on enjoying the rest of the evening, and getting to know more about him.

Life is all about personal choices, and earlier today after a great deal of thought, I made a choice of my own. I came to the conclusion that I definitely do not want to pursue dating a bipolar man.

What is Bipolar Disorder?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, "Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. They are different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through from time to time. Bipolar disorder symptoms can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide."

Causes
WebMD states, "Though the exact cause of bipolar disorder has yet to be found, scientists confirm that bipolar disorder has a genetic component, meaning the disorder appears to run in families. Some research suggests that multiple factors may interact to produce a chemical imbalance in the brain, which results in bipolar disorder's symptoms of major depression and mania. Examples of environmental factors may include stress, alcohol or substance abuse, and lack of sleep."

My Dating Experience
Ultimately, bipolar disorder can be treated, but I am not willing to gamble on someone else's mental health, in the context of my next romantic relationship. I may sound like a harsh individual, but I have been there done that -- and I have no desire to pursue it in the future.

I am very intuitive and also sensitive, when it comes to personal relationships. I do find that depressed people negatively alter my own usually positive well-being. In the typical Piscean manner, I will take a friend's issue and make it my own. It is almost as though, I identify too deeply with what they are experiencing or feeling. Luckily, the majority of my friends are extremely upbeat, "glass half full" people.

I am moody at times, but my mild mood swings are boringly predictable - hunger and PMS.

Making Contact
When I contacted my date today, I again stressed that I had a very nice time with him and I thanked him for a great date. Although I was not exactly sure what to say, I decided to be upfront about my concerns. I told him that I was not sure if I could date a bipolar person, based upon my own dating history. He inquired about the specifics of my last serious relationship, and I said I did not want to go into it. Really I felt like it would be too much information at that point, considering I did not intend on dating him in the future. He then made a statement that actually reassured me regarding my decision.

"They tagged me as a bipolar man. I never believed it. I am actually more of an Aries."

I am not quite sure of the correlation there, but needless to say I am not going to try to figure out what he means while dating him. Yesterday, on our first date, he felt like being bipolar was significant enough to share his disorder with me over dinner. Today he is trying to act like it was a misdiagnosis, and he is just a stereotypical Aries.

I am going with what he initially revealed to me, in order to avoid the likely confusion and "emotional roller-coaster" down the road.

Bipolar, Aries, who knows? I am definitely choosing to not go there in a dating environment. We did agree to continue as friends, and to hang out in the future. He is a good guy, and while I am not willing to take on a romantic relationship with him, I would love to work on just being friends.

Sources

NIMH: Bipolar Disorder [http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder/what-is-bipolar-disorder.shtml]

WebMD: What causes bipolar disorder?

Fish Oil and Depression - They Go Together Naturally

Ever wonder if fish oil and depression go together? Well I've got good news. They do and they go together well. Depression can hit people of any age at any time. Depression isn't simply a case of the blues that lasts for a day and then goes away. It is a long lasting sense of helplessness, gloom and doom, or feeling that you simply haven't been happy in a long time and you aren't going to be happy.

Treatments do exist than can assist with your feelings and help to elevate the moods, permitting you to be happier and more involved in your own life. Some kinds of studies indicate that more natural methods of treatment are very helpful when used in cooperation with other medications. One such adjunct treatment is fish oil, which has been studied in depth in terms of how helpful it may be in combating depression.

In fact, there are studies that indicate that fish oil, when used as a supplement, might be nearly as effective as some kinds of tricyclic anti-depressant medications when prescribed in the right dosages.

Dr Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D. of the Mayo Clinic believes that the two, when taken in combination, will be far more effective than simply one or the other alone. He also states that a great deal more research will be necessary to determine how the fish oil supplements work and why fish oil for depression is a good form of therapy.

The one conjecture is that fish oil is an excellent source of fatty acid such as the omega 3's. These acids are well known to play a significant role in the function of the brain along with the normal development and growth of the brain and body.

New research indicates that some people who may suffer from depression could be affected by lowered level of EPA, which is also called eicosapentaenoic acid and is one of the acids or fatty acids which are part of the makeup of fish oil.

While Dr Hall-Flavin believes that it is too soon to be able to recommend treatment or to oppose treatment with fish oil for depression, he believes that it may be helpful. As with any other kind of treatment or therapy that you are considering, you will want to always visit with your physician about the possible side effects or interactions that may occur when using it.

In reality, there are several very natural ways to get the fatty acid called Omega 3.You may eat a diet that contains more fish products such as salmon and tuna fish. In addition, the other natural methods of finding EPA and omega 3 are seedpods such as pumpkin seeds and some varieties of nuts, including walnuts. Canola oil is also a good source of the Omega 3 fatty acid.

Bible Quotes On Love - Overcome The Struggles

All of us will end up going through hard times at one point in our lives. The fact of the matter is that this life just isn't easy. We lose friends and loved ones to sicknesses and accidents, and we also have our own share of personal struggles. Amidst all the depression and disasters there is hope that comes from the Bible. Many of the passages in this sacred volume of scripture were meant to lift up your spirits and help you to overcome the struggles that are presented to you. Here are some reasons to frequently read Bible quotes on love.

First of all, it can help with your personal life. If you are always depressed and lonely, thinking that no one loves you then it is pretty hard to go out and make a difference. There are many Bible quotes on love that can help you understand how important you are to God and how much he actually loves you. There are many encouraging scriptures that you can study that will inevitably change your life.

Another good reason to study Bible quotes on love is they can help you in your relationships. Whether you are dating, married, or just want to improve your relations with friends and family, these inspired words can help you.

Bible quotes on love will help you remain positive with in yourself and to believe in the power of love. Love being so powerful that happiness will always be prevailed and strength in your relationships always achieved.

Always Tired, fatigued, Anxiety filled? Maybe you need a Depression Test

Depression has become one of the most widely increased diagnosed disorders in this country over the past few years. Things like the falling economy causing a decrease in personal finances, in addition to life's daily stresses and worries have caused many Americans to become depressed.

You may have seen the recently advertised television commercials offering depression testing. Depression not only saddens an individual's state of mind, but also causes symptoms like fatigue, anxiety and loss of motivation, even in the simplest of daily activities. People who are depressed are not temporarily moody or sad. The condition is unfortunately, long-term and negatively affects the way a person feels, thinks and behaves.

Depression is a genuine medical condition that can be treated, but the help has to be sought out. That in itself can often times be a difficult task for someone experiencing this ailment. A Depression Test is important because depression is a disease that requires attention and medical treatment. If it is not treated, it can last for months, and in some cases, even years.

If you have been feeling out-of-sorts for an extended amount of time, you might consider taking a depression test. There are several ways you can do this. If you don't feel up to a doctor visit, go online. Visit a website that can offer you a simple questionnaire to decide whether or not you might be clinically depressed. There is a wonderful website called lexapro.com that offers a very good depression test which is in the form of a simple questionnaire. You will also find answers there to any questions you might have about the way you are feeling. Another good web resource is depression.com. Please keep in mind that if your depression test results lead you to believe that you are in fact suffering from depression, you must make an appointment to see a physician and get treatment.

If you are, or know someone who is suffering from depression, seek help. There is nothing to be ashamed. You shouldn't have to live in sadness so don't continue to let life pass you by. You are valuable part of this world and you deserve to experience the same happiness as everyone else around you.

Stuff Happens and it Shouldn't Keep You From Getting a Good Price on Life Insurance!

I don't know what some life insurance companies are thinking when they rate a policy because someone was on or is on an anti depressant or anti anxiety medication due to something completely situational like a divorce, the loss of a job or a death in the family.

But, the truth is that most companies lump short term situational mood disorders in the same bale with long term chronic mood disorders. If there is current or a history of depression they will automatically bump a client to a standard rate. Some companies just swallow a bottle of stupid pills and decline an application that has any mention of mood disorders at all.

Is this fair underwriting? Is it a true reflection of the mortality risk and the mortality experience between situational and chronic mood disorders? The answer to both of those is NO! While companies are free to set their own underwriting criteria, unless there are extenuating circumstances, anything worse than a preferred or preferred plus rate for situational depression or anxiety is simply another case of the wrong agent using the wrong company at your expense.

I've had clients come to me after being battered by an insurance company for having taken anti anxiety medication during finals in medical school, or having taken anti depression meds after losing 3 family members in a short period of time. Let's be real. These are reasonable times to feel anxiety and depression and it just isn't out of line to ask your doctor for some help in getting through that period. In fact, far better to ask for help than to let the moods drag you down into a deeper, more chronic situation. Comparably, most companies don't have a rating if your cholesterol is high and a doctor prescribes cholesterol lowering drugs.

So what to do? If you have or have had a situational mood disorder and have just needed some months or even a year of medication to smooth things out, discard any life insurance agent who quotes you standard rates or worse. Seek out an independent agent who understands the issue and has a large number of companies to shop your case to.

Bottom line. Life has its' ups and downs and there is no mortality risk based reason for life insurance companies to beat you up because you happened to have experienced one. Find the right agent and they'll find the right company.

What Are the Causes of Manic Depression?

A manic depression is different from a normal depression in the fact that a person not only has periods where he feels very sad, he also has periods of time where he feels himself abundantly well. Although this may sound good, this is not the case as people loose reality of who they are and what they can do. Some people for instance think they are superman or god and will act in the same way.

Their are many possible causes that are the root of this order but the truth is we do not know exactly how a disorder like Manic Depression is caused. However, from what we do know scientific research has shown that there is a genetic link. The incidence of this disorder is higher among patients where their father or mother also had manic depression. This does not explain the whole process why some people do and others will not get this disorder.

The threshold theory says that everybody has a chance on manic depression, but for one person the chance is much higher than for the other. If you will get a certain disorder like manic depression would depend on the amount of stressful life events. So this theory states that it is a combination between sensitivity and stressful life events.

Although this theory has some very strong points, it also has some flaws as it is a very general one not pointing to the very complicated structure of the brain. More research is needed on this topic before we can fully understand what are the causes of manic or bipolar depression.

Why Financial Crisis is a Good Thing Or How to Thrive in the Gloom and Doom

October 7th, 2008 Dow Jones took a dive by a whopping 508 points. Over the past three months global markets were hit by an $8.1 trillion loss in value. Banks fail one after another, panic in the Wall Street... That's what already came to be known as the biggest economy meltdown since the Great Depression.

The helter-skelter of the stock-exchange swiftly resonates everywhere. With media fuelling the buzz you need to have a steel nerve or live deep in the forest not to be concerned with the crisis thing. The home-grown economic prophets loudly predict 'the end of the world as we know it'.
The last thing you'd want to do in times like that is start a business, right? - Not quite.
Great Depression Creates Great Opportunities

History knows a lot of cases when economic meltdowns created opportunities for new ventures and bold startups as well as remarkably profitable marketing investments. The Great Depression turned out the golden ticket for hundreds of businesses. Disney, Procter & Gamble, Camel and Chevrolet, to name a few, were among the companies that bloomed and thrived while others were desperately fighting for survival. They saw an opportunity and seized the moment. They were advertising when others cut down marketing budgets. They offered new products when others thought no one could afford to buy. They stayed calm in the across-the-board market mess and they ended up outstandingly victorious.

What does it have to do with you? Everything. The ongoing crisis is your chance to start a new venture, grow your business and make money even when the economy seems to go wild. And the best place to do this is online. Against the background of economic downturn the prospects of the Internet market look especially promising.

Why Online Business is Recession-Proof

Although the cyberspace is tightly tied to the real-world economy, the negative market trends seem to turn out the positive way online. Both retail customers and investors seeking ways to safeguard their capitals end-up putting their money online. Here's the proof that Internet market is here to stay no matter what goes on offline.

* Shoppers go online

In every recession it is the low-to-middle class who take the biggest blow. When big companies go bankrupt it is the regular workers who suffer most. Off course CEOs and investors lose monstrous sums but at least they don't have to worry about how to feed the family.

In times like that people do their best to tighten the belts and cut the expenses. We go hunting for bargains and the first place to look at is the Internet. The reasons are obvious: you can compare prices without leaving the house; you don't have to waste time and money on the gas running around the shops and you can really buy cheaper over the Internet.

Offer the best price and people will buy. Make a discount on something they could do without but would rather own, and people will buy. What's even more important, even after the economy goes stable, your customers will stick with you. Read on to learn how to pick the right product and get a discount for it.

* Companies Invest in Online Advertising

However slow the economy is a business needs to invest into advertising if it wants to stay afloat. Under the tight budget ROI (Return on Investment) becomes the focal point. The Internet offers lots of measuring instruments other media lack. Computer technology allows tracking the money you earn from each banner or text ad up to the last cent. Therefore businesses cut down or completely abandon the press, and TV, but they'll never give up on SEO, contextual or banner ads.

Outsell Inc., The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), IDC and other research agencies all report Internet advertising growing at a galloping tempo (18.2% for the first quarter this year) while print, TV and outdoor ads lose their share of the market.

IAB reported that advertisers invested $5.8 billion in Q1 2008. Part of that money could be yours.

With marketing budgets zipped up businesses seek every opportunity to advertise online. If you have a website or blog with some traffic companies will line up to pay you for advertising. If you don't have any, it's very much the time to start one. Read on to learn how to create a successful advertising platform and promote it in the search engines.

Selling ads space is just one of the many ways to make money online. There are many more such as paid subscriptions, affiliate marketing, review posting, sponsored directory listings, etc. They all create great opportunities to start an online business. And of course, you don't need to put all eggs in one basket. You can combine various online marketing techniques into a powerful money making blend that would be 100% recession proof, no matter what goes on across Wall Street.
Here's a Step-By-Step Guide To Starting an Online Business

What does starting a business start with? Naturally before you start selling something you need to decide what that something will be. So your first step is

1. Choosing a Product to Sell

A product to sell is not necessarily a 'product' as such. It could be a paid subscription or a service and you don't even have to 'sell' it directly. You just need to offer something of interest: information or functionality that will drive visitors to your website and will make them want to stay and come back. Get traffic and you'll have tons of ways to transform it into cash.

There are a number of things people are most interested in now. Here's a list of

What's Hot in Cold Economy:

* Information

People's desire to know what's going on doesn't cease in bad times. Moreover, the worse it gets the bigger their interest. The 'hottest' right now is financial information.

According to comScore Media Metrix the number if visitors to finance-related websites jumped 30% this year. European websites skyrocketed to record peaks of up to 141% in traffic growth.

Start a blog or website about anything in the finances from the market trends to personal investments and loans, promote it in the search engines and you'll see tons of traffic you can convert into money. Read on to learn how.

* Stress-Relief

During the Great Depression people went to the movies to relieve the stress and forget about their problems. Nothing has changed over time except for the movies. The general trend is when bad things happen people still pay for entertainment even though it's getting harder to afford.

* Discounts

With economy staggering and stock exchange falling down the bills still remain the same. And bills are to be paid. Naturally we want to save on everything. If you know how to show us the way to a good bargain we'll stick with you. And bargains are plentiful on the Internet. You just need to take the time to find them and gather in one place.

* Surviving the Crisis Guides

When it comes to our wallets we get emotional. When it comes to our wallets getting thinner we get extremely emotional and even start to panic. Surviving the financial crisis is a hot topic right now. Therefore if you read this article to the end you'll get a double benefit:

* You'll secure a sustainable income for yourself and your family.

* You'll be able to help others do the same.

Moreover you'll have an undeniable proof of your paycheck to show people the way, and they will follow. This will bring you not only money but also self-satisfaction of doing a good thing.

The list is just a small fraction of the niches you can take up with your business. Explore the web for a while and you'll get tons of other ideas to choose from.

Once you've picked your product(s) you can get down to launching a website.

2. Going Online

Depending on the focus of your online business you need to decide whether you will use a website, a blog or both. Blogs are easier to start and maintain. If you decide to focus your marketing efforts around information this is your best choice to go. You can set up a free blog at WordPress.Com or Blogger.com

Websites offer more functionality but may take up more time and skills to manage. You can hire professionals to have a website set up for you. In the slow economy the quotes should get very affordable. You can also explore the free options for there are plenty out there. There are even ones that will get your website up and running in about 5 clicks.

Google 'free websites' and you'll get one before you can say 'How do I make a website?'.

3. Getting Traffic

A website without traffic is a dead one though. Visitors are the blood of your website that gets its heart beating. So your first and foremost concern now is to attract traffic to your website. The only most effective way to do it is promote your website in search engines.

According to Pew Internet 84% of internet surfers use search engines. About 68 million Americans will use the search engines tomorrow. If your website appears at the top of search results a large portion of this traffic will come to you bringing you money.

Now the question is how do you get your website to the top of search engines? The answer is by optimizing it for natural search. The process is called Search Engine Optimization or SEO for short. Even if you hear the term for the first time, it won't take you long to figure out what it's all about.

There are a lot of do-it-yourself SEO guides out there. However they all seem to miss the most important point. It's actually doing SEO not just reading about it what drives your website up in search engine rankings and earns you money. Good news is that there's one SEO Book that tells you the exact things to do in a way that let's you get right down to doing them. The e-book is called SEO in Practice. It is the ultimate guide that will help you get your website to the top of search engine rankings in a matter of weeks.

One of the great things about SEO is that it gets you traffic (read customers) free of charge. No fees, no bills. You do everything yourself and you reap the benefits of what you've sown. However, when doing SEO you'll most likely stumble upon the same problem all SEOs do: There's just not enough hours in the day to do everything by hand. The way out I found for myself is automating some of the SEO tasks with special SEO software.

There are a lot of tools out there. I personally use SEO Software by Link-Assistant.Com (I've put a link to their website under the article). It has all the functionality I need and I like it. But you can use any software (just make sure it's good quality) or no software at all. You can go and search around for free SEO tools. They are usually of limited functionality as compared to the paid versions, but can still be helpful.

4. Earning Money

After you've read and followed the tips outlined in the SEO Book you'll see a sustainable stream of traffic coming to your website. This is great but we're looking to make money not just traffic, right? There are many ways to monetize your website traffic, some of the most popular and effective are:

* Advertising

People pay you to put up a banner or text links on your website. The more traffic you have the more you can charge. Search around to see what the general pricing is and test several pricing options to see which suits your prospects best.

* Affiliate Marketing

I had been earning a good living from affiliate programs for several years before I completely jumped into the SEO services. The system is dead simple. You help businesses sell their products and earn a percentage of every sale. To achieve the best you need to pick a product you believe in (preferably the one you own and use). This way you'll be speaking confidently and with authority and people will buy from you.

* Paid Subscriptions

If you deliver quality info or analysis that is unique and is of value to your visitors you can offer paid subscriptions. The subscription can grant more info, earlier delivery or whatever bonuses you can think of.

As your online business gains momentum you'll find yourself living a new life. The one that is stress-free, recession proof and incredibly enjoyable. And what's more important you'll be living your whole life for yourself. No one can fire you; no one can cut down your pay. You're an independent entrepreneur and it's up to you when you come to work and when you leave. Your paycheck solely depends on you.

Please note, this is not a get-rich-quick kinda trash. You'll have to work first and most likely work hard. Not too hard perhaps, but hard enough. This is how it is and I strongly believe this is exactly as it should be. First you work for your business, then your business works for you. Invest into your future now and you'll be able to reap the benefits later. Do nothing and nothing will happen.

What are the Risks?

The word venture itself contains a pinch of risk attached to it. Starting a business certainly has its risks. But the world is like this:

"Sometimes you do something, and you get screwed. Sometimes it's the things you don't do and you get screwed." - Fight Club

You start a business and you may fail, and then start another one and still another one until you succeed. But if you don't try you never succeed. You may sit and wait for the economy meltdown to hit you in the pocket or for the company you're working for to go under. These are also the risks we take by just living in this world. And compared to them the risks of starting an online business are nothing. In fact all you invest is your time and effort.

You can start securing your future right now. Work for you business an hour a day at first, than more until you can finally go your own way.
So Why Financial Crisis is a Good Thing

Slow economy is sort of a market janitor. It gets rid of the mismanaged thrash and gives way to new players with fresh ideas and innovative approaches. The big and weak go under and the apt take over their place. This is your chance to change your life once and for good. Go pick your product -> set up a website -> promote it in search engines -> and earn the living you've always wanted to.

What Does it Mean to Be Bi Polar?

People with bipolar disorder usually experience strange intense emotional states that occur in different periods called "mood episodes." An overexcited or overly joyful state is called a manic episode, while an extremely sad, helpless or hopeless state is called a depressive episode. There are times when a mood episode includes symptoms of both mania and depression. This state is called a mixed episode.

People with bipolar disorder may be volatile and irritable during a mood episode. But manic depression is not just mood swings. More complex features of manic depression include the following:

o    Mixed episodes - Mixed episodes happen when a person experiences aspects of both depression and mania at the same time. Sometimes mania is prominent but sometimes it's the depression.

o    Rapid cycling - Rapid cycling happens when four or more episodes of major depression, mania, hypo mania, or mixed symptoms occur within a year. It affects more women than men.

Bipolar has very frightening characteristics of psychosis, a loss of contact with reality. These may include:

o    Paranoia - highly exaggerated mistrust believing that a person or group is actively working to harm them.

o    Hallucinations - A profound distortion in a person's perception of reality such as hearing or seeing things that are not there.

o    Delusions - The persistent beliefs in things that are not true.

Perhaps the most dangerous aspect of manic depression is the suicidal tendency. Study shows that the suicide rate among people with manic depression has been estimated to be five to fifteen percent. An astounding number of  people make unsuccessful or repeated attempts on their own lives.

There are some myths and fact about bipolar disorder

They say that people with bipolar disorder can't lead a normal life. Being Bipolar myself I beg to differ.

The truth is many people with bipolar disorder have successful careers and satisfying relationships including happy family lives.

They say that the disorder only affects mood.

The truth is bipolar disorder also affects your physical and energy level. It also affects judgment, concentration, memory, sleep patterns, appetite, sex drive, and self-esteem. Furthermore, bipolar disorder has been associated to substance abuse, anxiety, and health problems such as diabetes, migraines, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

They say that there is nothing you can do to control bipolar disorder aside from taking medication.

The truth is, while medication is the basis of bipolar disorder treatment, therapy and self-help strategies also play significant roles. You can also help control your symptoms by exercising regularly, eating right, getting enough sleep, monitoring your moods, relax to keep stress to a minimum, and if you are surrounded with supportive people, it really help a lot.

People with manic depression are often highly intelligent and extraordinarily gifted and talented. They have made the highest contribution to our society while they themselves are struggling every day to function to survive, and to stay alive.

Signs of Drug Addiction and 6 Proven Recovery Tips

People experiment with drugs for many different reasons. Some do it out of curiosity or to have a good time, stress, anxiety, or depression. Drug abuse and addiction is less about the amount of substance consumed or the frequency, but more about the consequence of drug use. No matter how often or how little you're consuming, if your drug use is causing problems in your personal relationships, at home, work etc, you're likely to have to have a drug abuse or addiction problem.

Common signs and symptoms of drug abuse:

You're neglecting responsibilities at work at home, due to drug consumption.
Your taking high risks or using drugs under dangerous conditions, such as taking drugs whilst driving, or using a dirty needle.
Your drug use is getting you into illegal problems such as arrest for disorderly behaviour or driving under the influence.

Common signs and symptoms of drug addiction:

You need to use more drugs to experience the same affects you used to attain with smaller amounts.
If you go too long without drugs you start to experience symptoms such as nausea, insomnia, depression, sweating, shaking and anxiety.
You use drugs more than planned, even though you told yourself you wouldn't. You may want to stop using but feel powerless.
You continue to use drugs even though you know that it is bad for you.

Recognising that you have a drug problem is the first step on the road to recovery. You need to be willing to seek help and want to recover.

Here are some proven tips on how to recovery from drug addiction:

Firstly you need to be willing to get help for recovery. It must be something that you desire to do.

Educate yourself about the addiction of drugs and what it does to your body. It helps to know about the recovery process as well as the damage it causes to the body.

Cross addiction can take place so be very mindful of taking any other forms of drugs for example drugs to overcome flu, as you can become addicted to them too.

Surround yourself with supportive people who are willing to help you recover. You need all the support you can get during recovery

Formulate a relapse prevention plan. In order to recover more quickly, write down all the triggers that make you relapse during your treatment. By knowing the triggers it can help you avoid them in the future.

Don't beat yourself up about the mistakes you have made. You need a positive overview and atmosphere. So find ways of being optimistic and positive.
There you have some tips that can help you recover from drug abuse and addiction. The first thing must be for you to be willing to make the change yourself; otherwise others helping you won't make a difference as you will not want treatment or their help. Instead you will be isolating yourself into a darker hole

Suffering From Depression? Try Playing a Video Game

Did you know playing non-violent video games can help ease suffering from depression? Well, in a recent clinical study conducted by East Carolina University, 60 test subjects diagnosed with clinical depression were monitored for changes in symptoms and mood after playing G-rated video games. The results were nothing less than remarkable.

Compared to a control group comprised of half of the sixty who did not play the games, test group participants realized a reduction in their symptoms by an average 57%. Improvements in mood and heightened levels of anxiety were also recorded.

Dr. Carmen Russoniello, director of East Carolina University's biofeedback clinic and psycho-physiology lab talked the notable results of the study by stating, "The results of this study clearly demonstrate the intrinsic value of certain casual games in terms of significant, positive effects on the moods and anxiety levels of people suffering from any level of depression."

Dr. Russoniello went on to advocate the playing of these games by stating, "Given that only 25 percent of people who suffer from depression are receiving treatment, it seems prudent to make these low-cost, readily accessible casual games video games available to those who need them. They should be made available at health clinics, community centers, online 'medical sites,' and given out by therapists as a means of intervention."

The study, underwritten by PopCap™, was designed to follow sixty subjects suffering from depression by tracking their psychological, psycho-physiological, and biochemical, states. Thirty subjects played Bejeweled簧, Peggle簧, and Bookworm Adventures簧 games, while the other thirty were placed in the non-playing control group.

Results were also analyzed for differences between male and female subjects, as well as, between older (25 or older) and younger (younger than 25) subjects.

All subjects in the video game playing group were reported to have achieved "across-the-board reductions" in symptoms.

Following the study, seven subjects who had been initially diagnosed with moderate to severe depression were now upgraded to minor or minimal depression. Nine subjects who had been diagnosed with minor depression were reduced to four subjects.

Additionally, those in the group playing these video games saw an average 36% improvement of their physical symptoms of depression.

Subjects' symptom improvements remained even after thirty minutes of playing the games and during the month the study was conducted.

If you're interested in reading more about the results of the study you will find them at the ECU web site.

So if you are suffering from depression you may find it beneficial to spend a little time playing some family-friendly video games.

Borderline Personality Disorder Test

Borderline Personality Disorder known as BPD is a type of mental illness which is considered to be quite serious. It is characterized by instability in behavior, moods, interpersonal relations and self-image. Family and work life, long term planning and awareness of one's individual identity is usually affected by this instability. People with BPD often find it difficult to regulate their emotions. Though this disorder is not as popular as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, it does affect 2 percent of the adult population, mainly young women. The rate of self-harm without having the intention of suicide is high in such cases. In some cases patients suffering from Borderline Personality Disorder also tend to commit suicide. Among patients hospitalized for psychiatric problems, patients with BPD make 20 percent. Over time many improve with help and are able to lead useful lives eventually.

While people suffering from bipolar disorder or depression tend to display continued state of mood for a longer period, people suffering from BPD may undergo severe outbreaks of anger, anxiety and depression lasting for a few hours or maximum a day. These may have associations with series of aggression which is impulsive, such as alcohol or drug abuse and injury to self. Lack of self esteem is also common amongst patients suffering from BPD. They may feel mistreated unfairly, empty, or even bored at times. These symptoms are most severe when people having Borderline Personality Disorder feel that they do not have social support and are isolated.

The social relationships of people having BPD have highly unstable patterns. There is a change in their attitude towards their friends, family and loved ones, from love and great admiration to dislike and intense anger. BPD often appears with other psychiatric problems such as bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, depression, substance abuse, and other disorders. BPD is caused by the abnormal functioning of the Lymbic area of the brain controlling emotions. It may involve neurotransmitters such as dopamine, acetylcholine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.

A borderline personality disorder test is an evaluation used for diagnosing borderline personality disorder. A mental health professional administers the borderline personality disorder test. The test usually comprises of a series of questions or statements which the patient has to answer accordingly. If five or more symptoms are identified through the patient's answers then the diagnosis follow accordingly.

Some of the questions covered in the test are check for reactions to abandonment, relationship issues, instability, questions pertaining to self esteem and self image, questions that try to find out more about the self destructive behavior of the individual or patient, questions on suicidal thoughts and behavior, or self injurious behavior, questions pertaining to feelings, especially feelings of emptiness and difficulty in controlling emotions especially anger and ones revolving around paranoia and loss of reality.

There are a number of websites having border personality disorder test which can help you determine whether someone you care about may have the symptoms of BPD. Once you have administered the test you can then discuss the results with a mental health professional to help with diagnosis and treatment of BPD. The causes, symptoms, signs are generally covered by the borderline personality disorder test. Treatment along with the steps you can take by yourself to fight this condition should be recommended by qualified doctors only.

There have been improvements in the treatments for BPD in the past few years. Individual and group psychotherapy have produced positive results for many patients. A new treatment termed dialectical behavior therapy known as DBT, is a psychosocial treatment that is usually recommended for BPD and seems to be promising. Depending on the specific symptoms the patient has, medications may be prescribed.

Treatment of Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder)

There is psychotherapy available to treat Manic depression (Bipolar Disorder). They are usually aimed at treating core symptoms, reducing negative expressed emotions in relationships and recognizing prodromal symptoms before full blown recurrence. The types of treatment with the largest efficacy range is cognitive behavioral therapy, family-focused therapy and psychoeducation. For most individuals with bipolar disorder a good prognosis comes from good treatment, which comes from an accurate diagnosis. Bipolar disorder can be a severely disabling medical condition, but many people can live full lives. A naturalistic study from first admission for mania or mixed episode (representing the hospitalized and therefore most severe cases) found that 50% achieved syndromal recovery (no longer meeting criteria for the diagnosis) within six weeks and 98% within two years. 72% achieved symptomatic recovery (no symptoms at all) and 43% achieved functional recovery (regaining of prior occupational and residential status). However, 40% went on to experience a new episode of mania or depression within 2 years of syndromal recovery, and 19% switched phases without recovery. The following behaviors can lead to depressive or manic recurrence:

o Discontinuing or lowering one's dose of medication.
o Being under- or over-medicated. Generally, taking a lower dosage of a mood stabilizer can lead to relapse into mania. Taking a lower dosage of an antidepressant may cause the patient to relapse into depression, while higher doses can cause destabilization into mixed-states or mania.
o An inconsistent sleep schedule can destabilize the illness. Too much sleep (possibly caused by medication) can lead to depression, while too little sleep can lead to mixed states or mania.
o Caffeine can cause destabilization of mood toward irritability, dysphoria, and mania. Anecdotal evidence seems to suggest that lower dosages of caffeine can have effects ranging from anti-depressant to mania-inducing.
o Inadequate stress management and poor lifestyle choices. If unmedicated, excessive stress can cause the individual to relapse. Medication raises the stress threshold somewhat, but too much stress still causes relapse.
o Often bipolar individuals are subject to self-medication, the most common drugs being alcohol, diazepam/sleeping tablets and marijuana. Studies show that tobacco smoking induces a calming effect on most bipolar people, and a very high percentage suffering from the prolonged use

Why Is A Black Light Effective On Antique Porcelain And Glass?

We often come across exquisite price of an antique that we think is an excellent buy. You really do not know what kind of condition it is in because your naked eye cannot really pick out hidden defects. So we should show caution before we buy anything depending on what the eye tells you in the normal light.

The real antique hunters have a great and effective tool called black light. As an antique collector or trader this is the first tool you should have. This tool will spot any repairs or modification and help you determine the age of the item.

If an antique expert worked on your item and made some incredible repairs you will not ever spot it under normal light. There are also age-paint test that you cannot detect. The black light is able to bring them out in ultra violet test.

This is amazing that what your naked eye cannot detect this ultra violet light can. That is because the small repairs are so hidden and done well only the black light has the capability to reveal. This is proved scientifically.

By no means make this your ultimate test. I am only introducing you the start of many tests you will have to perform before you can trust an antiques and buy it. Let me show you what you do with test on porcelain and glassware.

For porcelain take it to a dark room and shine your black light on it all over looking carefully for any break in the pattern. There are versions of black light which you can even carry in your pocket. If there are modifications or repairs it will show clearly and you cannot miss it.

What you should be looking for is the break up in the final finish that is where it will show. Any small curve or line that is out of the pattern is your clue. You will know it. You cannot miss it. The glow on it will reveal if there is recent paint work on it. This determines your age.

In glassware you need to be aware two important varieties, the Depression and Vaseline glass work. These items should glow in the ultraviolet black light. During the period prior to 1930 artists used uranium oxide with their finish on glassware. This will show in the test. If it does nothing the work is recent and not antique.

So if you are a beginner this article on 'Why Is A Black Light Effective On Antique Porcelain And Glass' will start your hunting in the right direction.

Teenagers and Adults - Is Depression a Chemical Reaction?

Brain doctors agree: The 15 million U.S. adults who are battling major depression are suffering from a real medical illness. Studies point to a shortage of the brain chemicals serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, the neurotransmitters that ferry messages between nerve cells. Doctors have no test to determine which ones are lacking, but there are drug therapies available to boost them.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) Serotonin is made from amino acid tryptophan; it regulates mood and appetite. SSRIs such as Paxil and Zoloft raise serotonin in the gaps between brain cells to normal levels, and for some patients, this helps lift their mood.

Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) As a key message sender for those nerves that command your body without input from your brain, norepinephrine controls your response to ultrastressful situations. Low brain levels of it have been linked to depression-related symptoms, including fatigue, insomnia, sleeping too much, agitation, and trouble concentrating. SNRIs such as Effexor and Cymbalta work by blocking brain cells from removing both serotonin and norepinephrine.

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) TCAs, such as amitriptyline and imipramine, are the modern-day precursors to SSRIs and SNRIs. They're just as effective but they act more broadly in preventing the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine, so they may not be tolerated as well.

Studies suggest that for some people, they may take longer to kick in; can cause weight gain, drowsiness, or low blood pressure; and may even affect heart rhythm.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors, the oldest class of antidepressants, deactivate a protein called MAO-A that deplets neurotransmitters. The side effects of these drugs are nasty, but research into how MAO-A works may help develop new therapies. In a study published late last year in the Archives of General Psychiatry, researchers at Toronto's Centre for Addiction and Mental Health found that depressed patients lose neurotransmitters at different rates based on the number of monoamine transporters found on the surface of their brain cells and elevated MAO-A.

These findings help explain why patients with more transporters have more severe symptoms, says study leader Jeffrey Meyer, M.D., Ph.D. "We now have a more precise disease model for developing more effective and targeted treatments."

As Doctors and Psychiatrists continue to study, and find new drugs and chemicals to combat depression there is a common lesson in all these studies. Our brains have immense control over our entire body, psychology, and well-being. Where studies fail in grasping is the absolute control an individual has over their mind and thoughts. Studies are performed on a subject with symptoms receiving a dosage of medication and measuring results.

The studies fail in creating a mental shift in order for the individual to create new levels of Serotonin in their brain. Studies are paperwork; the human mind and individual are capable of anything they choose. A mind can create a vision or dream, and then create a life through that mindset. You have the complete power to be great and create a dream-infused life today.

Manic Depression - Stop Me Before I Go Crazy

Believe it or not, taking prescription medications is not the way to treat manic depression. The problem with western thought is that doctors focus on treating symptoms with a pill. That pill is often not as effective as it should be, and it comes with a boat load of side effects that can be worse than the way you feel before you take them. Really, ask yourself how much sense it makes to give a person with manic depression a pill that can cause suicidal thoughts.

Instead of taking a medication that is only going to cover what you have going on in your mind, find natural ways to not only treat your symptoms but help make you free from the ties of manic depression. Below you will find five steps that are recommended by Carol Tuttle an author and a Certified Master Level Rapid Eye Therapist in private practice.

The first step is to stop your negative thoughts. As funny as it may sound if you have difficulty stopping your obsessive thoughts go out and buy an eye patch and use it to cover your right eye. Closing off or patching your right eye will "turn off" the left hemisphere of your brain which is where the negative obsessive thinking is taking place.

Next you can "zip up your central meridian." Scratching your head right now, your central meridian is the energy pathway that is located on your body and it runs from the pubic bone to your bottom lip. You are a portal for all energy negative and positive if you don't have it zipped up. Pretend that you have a zipper on your body and imagine yourself zipping it up.

Go for a walk each and every day. Walking is a great exercise that every person can do regardless of age. Exercise is a great mood booster. Walking will help give your natural endorphins (the feel good chemicals in the brain) a boost. Walking will also get the energy flowing from left to right and right to left which will improve your mood by about 50%.

So you have to deal with manic depression. Do you really have to think of it that way. Instead of thinking that you suffer from manic depression think of it as a cut on your finger. A cut can heal with time and proper care. Stop thinking that you are afflicted by a curse that will plague you forever. You can't imagine the impact of just changing the way you think.

Now, believe that you can get better. Believe that you can heal. The power of the mind is an amazing thing and there have been medical miracles and everyday medical "phenomena" that all relates to the way the person thought about their ability to heal. You can think yourself sick... or you can finally think yourself well. You do have natural, effective treatment options available to you. It is all a state of your mind.

Students Stress and Anxiety!

High school and college students suffer from and are faced with significant amounts of stress and anxiety that can result in both physical and emotional health issues.

A recent study shows that five times as many high school and college students suffer and are dealing with stress, anxiety and other mental health issues as their counterparts that were studied during the Great Depression. This research study is based on the responses of 77,576 high school and college students who from 1938 through 2007, took the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI).

* Students themselves point to everything from pressure to succeed - self-imposed and otherwise - to a fast-paced world that's only sped up by the technology they love so much.

* Another major contributor appears to be the unrealistic feelings ingrained in young people, that they need to have huge amounts of money to be considered a success. This leads to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety and depression.

* In addition, today's youth is brought up in a "you can do anything" environment. This leads to false expectations which when not met results in anxiety and depression.

Are you a student or parent of a student that suffers with stress and anxiety? Here are some ways for students to maintain good health and keep their sanity.

* Establish a quiet space to study. This is a place were you can focus and concentrate away from distractions. If you live with a noisy roommate, find a quiet spot in the library or your favorite coffee shop.

* Create a schedule. Leave yourself plenty of time to study for exams and get work done.

* Don't pull "All Nighters". Make sure to leave yourself enough study time.

* Stay away from caffeine, alcohol and drugs. Caffeine only provides a temporary jolt. You will eventually crash from excessive use. Need I say anything about excessive alcohol use other than moderation my young friends, moderation. And please just forget about drugs altogether.

* Get on a healthy diet.

* Get plenty of sleep.

* Don't obsess on results. Test scores are important but you need to keep things in perspective. Otherwise you will become overly anxious about a test's outcome which can actually cause you to do poorly. You need to shift your focus and stay present minded. Try some positive affirmations and visualization techniques to change your perspective, and remember that Yoga and Meditation techniques are time tested and proven stress relievers.

* Know your learning style. Not everyone learns in the same way. It's important to know if you're a visual, auditory or kinesthetic type learner.

* Practice visualization techniques. Imagine yourself having already achieved your desired results.

* Develop optimism. People that are optimistic are healthier, less stressed, and more successful.

* Use stress management techniques. The Yoga Awakening Meditation Collection is comprised of over 24 stress reduction techniques and exercises that will help. This meditation collection is complete and comprehensive, and includes everything you need to control and manage stress and anxiety.

There are so many secrets that Yoga and Meditation will reveal to you. There are so many ways that Yoga and Meditation can make your life easier and more fulfilling. Come and explore these secrets with me now by going to: http://www.yogaawakening.com

On Grief and Depression, Inspired by M. Scott Peck M.D.

Since mentally healthy human beings must grow, and since giving up or loss of the old self is an integral part of the process of mental and spiritual growth, depression is a normal and basically healthy phenomenon...
~M. Scott Peck M.D., Wisdom from The Road Less Traveled, 2001.

Enter the world of the anti-depressant - the pharmaceutical therapy that "fixes" many who've undergone just the sort of latter depression Peck talks about... It doesn't happen overnight but it can often happen especially if the following is considered likewise.

According to Peck, life for all of us involves the process of giving part of ourselves up continually. It's a condition necessary to life lived with 'good effect.'

This is personal change management as we encounter the varying nuances of life including our reaction to them. Change in this way is inevitable unless we bow out of life - which is not really an option for 99 percent of us!

Life is hence all about balancing. It counteracts the things about ourselves we are giving up; it reduces the pain--the discipline of balancing or maintaining life balance.

And Peck nails the crux of the issues of grief and depression here. "The loss of balance is ultimately more painful than the giving up required to maintain balance." (Italics added.) Most people don't have the self-discipline to maintain life balance, but life would be far easier if they did have it.

And this is such a pity because what costs less actually delivers more joy and less pain; but we're duped in not wanting to let go of those things or attributes or habits or relationships - those "bits" of ourselves - that hold us back.

Perhaps this 'giving up' process is not too dissimilar to the 'Let go, let God' mantra of many recovery programs like AA. It is death to things that constrain us that provides our lives with more meaning. According to Peck this is the secret central to all religion.

Both grief and depression involve a lot of giving up. At some ends both grief and depression are maladjusted forms of giving up - they don't want to or simply can't give up those things holding the person back; not "yet" anyway. And surely the very idea that recovery is slow, and the fact we must be patient, should ease the burden.

Grieving and depression are inevitable life phases for us - almost none of us will be exempt.

And then again, surely the wisdom needed firmly in mind is that having the spiritual courage to give up things about ourselves, surrendering them, is the key to warding off symptoms of depression and resolving grief in the first place.

Sometimes it just takes a little time that's all.

Notwithstanding, the motivation to 'give up,' with good effect, should presumably be what we should be aiming for - to maintain balance through effective application of self-discipline.

穢 2010 S. J. Wickham.

Peck also says, continuing his quote from above, "... [depression] becomes abnormal or unhealthy only when something interferes with the giving-up process, with the result that the depression is prolonged and cannot be resolved by completion of the process."

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Test

Unfortunately, those who suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have no definitive way to test for the condition to see if they truly have it. The only true way to really check to see if you are suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is by professional observance of the symptoms you are having, and to undergo a blood test at your doctor's office. Viruses such as the Epstein Barr virus, chemical imbalances in the body, or other illnesses such as cancer or infections has been thought to contribute or to cause the condition.

Since there is no definitive test that can tell whether or not a person may have it, there are some common symptoms associated with CFS such as extreme tiredness, weakness, drowsiness, depression, anxiety, appetite loss, mood swings, body aches, constant headaches, memory loss, and confusion. Compiling these symptoms along with blood work can be an indicator that a person may have the condition.

A blood test to determine if your body is chemically balanced is often recommended by physicians. If there is a chemical imbalance, certain supplements or foods can be added to your diet to help balance it out. Some health care professionals believe that a chemically imbalanced body can cause Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Undergoing a simple wellness checkup by your doctor may help determine whether or not you are suffering from CFS. During your wellness checkup, symptoms can be documented that may point to CFS. Some doctors may then determine to test for viral or bacterial infections as well. They may even do blood test or some other test to see if you possibly could have cancer or a disease that could be causing symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Once the symptoms and causes are determined, the condition can often be treated or sometimes even cured. If you are suffering from the symptoms of this condition, be sure to consult with your doctor about the best way to test for and treat Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Combat Depression - Beating Negative Thought Patterns During The Winter Months

The winter months are often a terribly depressing time for Canadians. The lack of sunshine alone can lead to decreased energy levels, a loss of interest in daily activities and the need for additional sleep.

But what if you're still feeling depressed once spring arrives and the warm weather and sunshine beckons you outdoors?

Although we may casually refer to "feeling depressed" during a momentary unhappy time in our life, individuals who suffer from prolonged depression feel sad and empty to the point that their feelings impair their day-to-day activities and interactions with other people.

In 2002, Statistics Canada reported that approximately 8% of adult Canadians experience a major depression at some point in their lives. Depression and anxiety continues to be Canada's fastest-rising diagnosis. From 1994 to 2004, the number of visits made by Canadians to office-based doctors for depression and anxiety almost doubled-a staggering 11.6 million people in 2003.

And while medication may be necessary in cases of clinical depression, it needn't be your first line of defense if your altered mood is a result of a variety of negative experiences you've suffered in your day-to-day life and you find yourself in a downward spiral.

Sure, if you're looking for a quick fix, antidepressants may work in the short term. But if you'd like to make a significant long-lasting change in your life, you have to be willing to make a significant long-lasting change in you the way you think- changing negative thought patterns into positive ones.

It's been my observation that depression and low self-esteem go hand-in-hand. People with high self esteem feel confident about themselves and have positive thought patterns; whereas those who suffer from low self esteem often experience feelings of shame, guilt or self-doubt-negative thought patterns.

Most of my clients come to me at a time of depression. They've felt lost, lonely, abandoned and neglected for most of their life. As a life coach, I believe in self-awareness and emotional intelligence. What does this have to do with depression? Well, before you can change your negative thought patterns, you need to learn who you are. To do this, I work with each of my clients and explore their behaviours-both positive and negative. Through this process we learn who they are: their values, strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes. And then we use that information to set goals.

One depression-fighting strategy I encourage my clients to adopt is a regular exercise routine. Medically proven to boost your mood and lower rates of depression, exercise removes the buildup of stress hormones in the body, allowing you to sleep and concentrate better. When you exercise, your body produces endorphins, or feel-good chemicals, and leaves you feeling happier even after you've stopped. And with more oxygen flowing through your red blood cells, you become more receptive to new ideas and ready to take on more challenges.

In addition, maintaining a regular exercise routine provides a structure and focus in your life as you set and meet new goals. The accomplishment of these goals-no matter how big or how small-leads to a sense of achievement and improved self-confidence and self-esteem.

Using exercise as a way to combat depression is not a new strategy, nor is it the only method you'll need to employ in your journey to better mental health. But making exercise a priority in your life will bring you one step closer to the ultimate goal of a healthy mind, body and soul.

Why Am I Always Depressed? The Reason Why You're Always Depressed

Ever sit back and wonder to yourself; why am I always depressed? If you are like many of the other people who suffer from unexplainable depression, then the information contained in this article could be the reason why you're always depressed.

While most medical professionals will try to tell you that depression is just one's mindset, or that it is caused due to some traumatic event, or the loss of a job, home, or loved one; the truth of the matter is, that there is so much more to what causes depression. This article will deal with three alternative health causes of depression in people. So if you have had many different treatments for depression, trying to control it and finding that nothing works, you might very well have one of these three causes.

1. A parasitic infection or infestation can cause a person to feel less then up to par in their daily lives. Parasites have a bad habit of attacking the body in vulnerable spots such as the immune system, and neurological system. When these areas of the body are being overworked due to an increase in parasites in the body, then the host grows weary and tires easily. This fatigue and this suffering from these microorganisms can cause the chemicals in the body and the brain to change, creating a depression within the person suffering.




2. An imbalance in the hormone levels in the body can cause a person to feel sluggish and depressed. There are certain hormones that out body needs, which are produced by the adrenal glands such as adrenaline, cortisol, DEHA, and many others, that help keep our system balanced. When one or more of these hormones experience a spike or a drop in their levels the body has an adverse reaction, while trying to combat what ever caused the rise or the fall of these hormones.




3. A deficit in the nutrients the body needs to survive can cause a person to feel tired and sad, as nutrients are very important to keep all parts of the body functioning well together. When the body is not getting the right amount of nutrients or the right kind of good nutrients the immune system suffers, lowering its defences allowing other illnesses to sneak in such as depression and anxiety.

In the end, if you are still suffering from symptoms that just won't go away even with modern medicines, then you can be assured that you have one of these three issued going on inside your body. While there is no real quick fix, changing your diet and daily lives to one that is healthier and more active is a good start for feeling better. There are also cleanses such as a parasite cleanse to flush out your system, and with more fruits and vegetables in your diet you should be able to replenish the missing nutrients which ultimately could help balance out your hormones once more, eliminating depression from your life.

Teen Bipolar Disorder

Children and teenagers with bipolar disorders can have manic or depressive symptoms. Some children may mostly have depression and others a combination of manic and depressive symptoms. Highs are usually combined with alternative lows.

Bipolar disorders usually begin in childhood and during the teenage years, and may be diagnosed in adult life. This illness can affect anyone and without any specific history. If one or both parents have a bipolar disorder, the chances are greater that their children may develop it at an early age. Family history of drug or alcohol has also been associated with greater risk for bipolar disorders.

Symptoms of bipolar disorders in children and teenagers are - severe changes in -- unusually happy, silly, sometimes very irritable, angry, agitated or aggressive. Some teenagers experience unrealistic highs in self-esteem, for example, a teenager may start feeling very powerful or like a superhero with special powers. They may develop an increase in energy and the ability to go with little or no sleep for days without feeling tired. An adolescent may start talking too much, too fast and changes topics too frequently, without interruption due to depression. They also get distracted very easily, and attention moves constantly from one thing to another. They may also develop repetitive, high risk-taking behavior; such as abusing alcohol and drugs, reckless driving or sexual promiscuity

When a teenage is in a depression he or she may develop excessive irritability, depressed moods, unrelenting sadness, frequent crying, thoughts of death or suicide, loss of enjoyment in favorite activities, frequent complaints of physical illnesses such as headaches or stomach aches, low energy level, fatigue, poor concentration, complaints of boredom and a major change in eating or sleeping patterns, such as oversleeping or overeating.

Teenagers with bipolar disorder can be successfully treated. Treatments include educating the patient and their families about the illness, mood-stabilizing medications such as lithium and valproic acid and psychotherapy. Mood stabilizing medications will often reduce the severity of manic episodes, and also help prevent depression. Psychotherapy helps a child adapt to stresses, rebuild self-esteem and enhance relationships. The diagnosis of bipolar disorders in children and teens is complicated and involves careful observation over an extended period of time.

How to Deal With Job Interview Rejection

I experienced job interview rejection yesterday but that did not deter me to stay focused and positive. Instead of burrowing myself into the pit of self-pity, depression and stagnation, I bravely dealt the issue and came out stronger and determined than ever. With this in mind, I would like to share some insights on how to face job interview rejection, get over it and move forward.

1. Accept reality

This is very important. First, you need to accept that you cannot please everybody. In a job interview you are trying to prove your worth and give the interviewer an impression of what you have and what you can do. Though you try real hard to convince them that you are fit for the job, sometimes, it isn't enough and you end up rejected.

Second, you may think that you are good enough for the job you're applying for but you aren't and you end up rejected. Learn to accept this facts and you will be in a better position to see what you need to improve.

2. Don't take the rejection personally

A job interview is not a measure of your self-worth. A company has a specific set of criteria in finding a specific applicant that fits the job. Your not being a perfect match doesn't mean you're not good at other areas.

3. Take rejection in a different perspective

It's how you see it. If you view rejection as a gauge of your total being then you will get frustrated, disappointed and you will lose self-worth. Instead of viewing rejection as a failure, take it as an opportunity to assess yourself of your strengths and weaknesses and a chance to improve yourself in areas where you are weak.

4. Relax. Treat yourself.

Literally, you need to unwind and free your mind from negative thoughts. Grab a meal from your favorite burger stand, go to the beach and watch the sun as it sets. Or you can go to a nature park and amuse yourself with the wonders of nature.

Cook your favorite meal. Not only will you be able to have a feast of your favorite filet mignon or fettuccine alfredo, you will also enhance your cooking skill.

For relaxation, I listen to my favorite piano music: Roy Todd's Piano Portrait while having a sip of my favorite Davao Robusta coffee. The aroma is soothing and invigorating.

5. Visit a friend and have a chitchat

Engage yourself in a fun and entertaining conversation with your friend. You may choose to organize an on-the-spot get-together with some of your closest friends. Have fun time with them and energize yourself with laughter. No topics about jobs and rejection. Remember, you are with them to enjoy, not to share your remorse.

6. Read motivational quotes; watch inspirational videos

Your friends, relatives or family members maybe busy at this time so you don't have anyone to talk to. Be not dismayed. You can find comfort and encouraging words through motivational quotes. You may choose to watch inspirational videos. Remember, you are not alone in this situation. There are people out there who experienced the same thing. Learn and draw strength from their story of success.

7. Focus on your strength

Each of us has his/her own field of expertise. Focus on what you are really good at and not on your imperfections. Enhancing your strength instead of blaming yourself will make you better.

8. Pray. Ask for Guidance

What we want may not always what we get. And in some cases, we do not get what we need at the time when we badly need it. Ask for guidance through prayer. Leave all doubts behind. There's more opportunities in the world. Be diligent. Seek more and you will find more. If God closes a door, He opens a window.