Are These Signs My Wife Is Depressed? How To Tell If Your Wife Is Suffering From Depression

Has your wife been acting different lately? Is she being lazy? Mean? Too quiet? When you're asking yourself "Are these signs my wife is depressed?", the answer is not always clear. Here are some ways to tell if your wife is depressed, and some things that you can do to help her.

A lot of people think that a depressed person has to be either sad all of the time, or angry all of the time. That isn't true at all. Depression doesn't affect everyone the same.

Constant sadness is definitely a sign that your wife is depressed. While it is normal for a person to be sad once in a while, it is NOT normal for someone to be sad all of the time.

If your wife is usually a nice person, and happy most of the time, and she has started being mean and hateful, or getting mad about what seems to be nothing at all, then she is probably depressed.

Please know that these actions are NOT your wife's fault - she doesn't even know she's acting like this! Depending on the severity of the depression, she may know that something's not quite right, but she doesn't see the things that you do.

Another sign that your wife is depressed is that she is tired all of the time. Not just tired, but exhausted. All she wants to do is sleep.

Depression drains the life out of a person. A truly depressed person doesn't want to do anything at all, and they have no energy to do anything. If your wife just lays around all day, she's not being lazy. It's not that she is purposely not doing things - she knows things need done, but she just can't muster up the energy to do them.

The absolute LAST thing you should do, if you see these signs of depression in your wife, is to get angry with her, or to yell at her. Like you, she doesn't understand what is happening. Try to talk to her. Tell her that you are worried about her.

Let her know that you love her, and would like her to go to see a doctor. Maybe she is sick, and when she gets treated she'll feel better. If she refuses, try to get her to go by tricking her. Tell her that YOU are sick and have to go to the doctor, and would like her to go with you. So whatever you can to get her to a doctor.

You don't have to take her to a therapist. Your family doctor can prescribe medicine to help her. Sometimes it's easier to see your family doctor - that way, she won't feel funny. She's just going to the doctor because she doesn't feel well.

When you think you are seeing signs of depression in your wife, don't let her get too much further down. If she is depressed now, she can get into a deeper depression soon, and she will be twice as bad as she is now.

Do your best to help her by loving her. Understand that she doesn't mean to be like this - she is ill right now. Your marriage will see better days soon.

6 Tips For Dealing With Depression That You Can Hang Your Hat On

The word depression is linked with various feelings that people go through under certain situations. Feeling down or sad, tired, taciturn, pains, lack of sleep i.e. insomnia etc are some of the symptoms of depression. Beating depression is possible if you are ready to take a few steps towards fighting depression naturally.

Depression brings negative thoughts along with it. If you really want to come out of depression, start thinking positively. Try to engage your mind in some activity that you like to do, like reading, swimming, solving puzzles etc. This way you mind will be pre occupied with something giving it no time for negative thinking.

1. Never sit alone at house. There are so many support groups that help people come out of depression. Join one such group. Share your experiences with other group members. Listen to others' experiences. That will give your mind a power to fight depression.


2. Adapt healthy eating habits. Foods that are rich in Omega 3 are considered the best when it comes to elevating your mood. Stay away from fatty, unhealthy fast food as it increases the sad feelings.


3. It is very necessary to workout regularly. It has been proved that regular exercise can help in lifting your mood when you are depressed. Increased heart rate and good blood flow refreshes mind and body giving rise to positive thoughts.


4. Diary writing is a good habit especially when you are depressed. It helps you keep trail of your emotions. When you read your diary next day, it will give you a fair idea about your emotions and feelings and will give some relief from tensions.


5. It is proved that if you go for morning walks, the early morning sun rays will help increase serotonin i.e. a chemical that increases the happiness in the mind. Going for walks will help you improve your psychological and physical health at the same time. It will boost your moral and keep you away from sad and depressing thoughts.


6. Do not sit alone in front of the television. Try to mix up with your friends and family members. The more you stay with people; there are more chances of your beating depression naturally and quickly.There will be at least one activity that you enjoy the most. It may be painting, reading, playing some musical instrument etc. Try to keep your mind busy in any such activities. It is said that 'empty mind is devil's workshop'. Do not let your mind be a devil's workshop. If you keep it unoccupied then there are more chances of suicidal thoughts coming into your mind and making you more depressed.

Follow above mentions ways to fight depression naturally and you will certainly be able to come out of depression. Always keep your mind occupied. Speak to your doctor, friends or family members. It will relieve some of your tension. If the marital problems are the main reason behind your depression, try to solve the issue tactfully so that you can save your marriage and cure depression naturally.

Beck Depression Scale

The Beck Depression Scale (BDI) is a scientific depression test to measure the presence and level of depression symptoms used by psychiatrists worldwide. It is meant to use the inventory to help diagnose individuals suffering of different forms of depression. Different settings make an important part of the test. The scale is meant to identify the presence and severity of symptoms and for this reason the Beck Depression Inventory can help professionals to learn more of the case.

The Beck Depression Scale can be used for both adults and adolescents of at least fifth or sixth grade reading level skills and up. It means that also teenagers are able to take the inventory. Since its inception in the 1960s the inventory got further developments and updates.

The BDI, as the scale is also called, consists of 21 items to assess the intensity of depression in clinical and normal patients on a self report scale. The BDI assesses physical and physiological symptoms of depression such as mood, pessimism, sense of failure, self-dissatisfaction, guilt, punishment, self-dislike, self-accusation, suicidal ideas, crying, irritability, social withdrawal, body image, work difficulties, insomnia, fatigue, appetite, weight loss, bodily preoccupation, and loss of libido. Only about ten minutes is enough for the most people to complete the BDI and afterwords a health professional gets an indication about presence of depression with a patient and severity of the disease.

Each of the inventory items corresponds to a specific category of depressive symptom and/or attitude and scores on the BDI indicate personal state of mind to confirm the presence of depression. The BDI has been shown to be valid and reliable, but anyway the tests scores can be manipulated by a testing person if he decides not to give correct answers.

The scale does not provide overall reliability: if one goes through the inventory at a different time it often demonstrates different results all depending on changes in a patients mental state since the previous depression testing. Even the testing environment can be a factor of influence for BDI results. Also social factors and expectations can be influential on the answers of a patient.

The Beck Inventory is not meant to serve as an instrument of diagnosis, it is more intended to assess the presence and severity of depression in psychiatrically diagnosed patients. After testing patients take a talk to their doctors about the test results and further treatment if necessary. That is why it is very important not to use BDI as a diagnostic tool, as depressive symptoms may be part of other primary psychiatric disorders.

Learn more about the Beck Depression Scale and take a talk to your psychologist about BDI procedure and outcomes. The early BDI testing can prevent you from deepening into depression and helps you to find the shortest way back to happy life.

Signs of Depression and What To Do - Spot The Signs, Stop The Illness

Do you know the signs of depression and what to do if you recognise them in yourself or some you know? To find out more about depression and how to treat it, simply complete the signs of depression and what to do questionnaire...

Section 1. Simply answer yes or no to the signs of depression and what to do questions to find out if you may be suffering from depression...

Do you have no interest or take little pleasure in the things your do?

Do you feel down and helpless?

Have your sleeping patterns changed, either you're sleeping a lot more than usual or you are having more trouble sleeping than usual?

Have your eating patterns changed, are you noticeably eating more/less than usual?

Have you suddenly lost or gained weight?

Do you find it hard to concentrate?

Do you constantly feel tired and lethargic?

Have you had thoughts about harming yourself?

Do you have any feelings of self loathing?

If you have answered yes to more than 5 or the signs of depression and what to do questions you may well be suffering from depression. You must visit your doctor immediately to discuss your condition and treatment options.

Section 2. The worst thing you can do is ignore depression and let it go untreated. Some people try to ignore their depression and pretend that they don't have it, in hope that it will go away. Don't let anyone convince you that there's nothing wrong with you, and that you should just pull yourself together. This is terrible advice. Instead, you need to speak to a Doctor and get some professional help.

Section 3. Remember... you're not alone. Millions of people all over the world suffer with depression, so why not talk to some other sufferers about the signs of depression and what to do and how they cope. You could join a local support group or even get on-line and chat to people on forums or in live chat rooms. Discussing how you are feeling is a great way to help you understand your depression, and may even start to make you feel better.

Section 4. Antidepressant pills work wonders for some people and help them live normal and healthy depression free lives. But, you must take some things into consideration before deciding whether or not to take medication. These drugs are often highly addictive, have severe side effects and you may begin to depend on them. Be sure to discuss your signs of depression and what to do with your doctor before you make this decision.

I hope you now have a better understanding of the Signs of Depression and What To Do if you're depressed. If you would like some more information on the signs of depression and what to do about depression click on the links below.

Coping With Herpes Diagnosis - Depression, Dating, Relationships & Myths Dispelled

A herpes diagnosis can send even the most well balanced individual into an emotional tailspin of depression. It is an incurable disease and although it isn't deadly, and considered a mere annoyance to the medical community - carries a taboo throughout all of society. Chances are you feel incredibly lonely, isolated, dirty - and angry. If you are single, you're also concerned about your chances of having a healthy and fulfilling love life as well. Depression is a very natural reaction to have when you suffer from the herpes virus - but now is the time to educate yourself and learn what it is that you can do to overcome these feelings and live a normal life.

Top Herpes Myths Dispelled:

1. I can't have children: This is absolutely 100% FALSE. The herpes simplex virus will not prevent you from having children, nor can you pass on the disease to your children in utero or during the conception process. HSV type 1 (oral) and type 2 (genital) are contracted via skin to skin contact. This is why many in the medical community consider the virus to be more of a dermatological disease, even though it is often passed through sexual contact. You will contract herpes through seminal fluid, vaginal fluid or blood. If you are a man, you can still reproduce - and if you are a woman, you can still conceive. It is important that your doctor knows your status ahead of time because most often, a woman with genital herpes will be given a Cesarean section (c-section) instead of having a vaginal birth to reduce the chances of the child coming into contact with the virus in the vaginal canal.

2. I can't donate blood: FALSE! The inability to donate blood is another common misconception associated with the herpes virus. Let me state once again - the herpes simplex virus is not a blood-based virus. When you contract herpes, oral or genital, it "lives" within the nervous system of the body. If you have oral - it generally rests in the base of the neck, when you have genital - it rests in the base of your spine. When dormant, it just kind of lays there - harmless, but when active - it travels via the nervous system to it's outbreak location. According to the Red Cross and all medical studies, donating blood when you have HSV is perfectly safe. They ask that you avoid doing so when having your initial outbreak or even subsequent recurrent outbreaks.

3. I can no longer work around or hang around kids: FALSE! The guilt and depression associated with the virus tends to cause some sufferers to withdraw from the world. They feel that they are the most disgusting person around and go through great lengths to avoid interacting with people, especially children. Once again - stop beating yourself up! The chances of casually transmitting the virus to children are very slim. Did you know that an estimated 75% of the U.S. population has some form of HSV - for the large majority it is type 1, oral herpes. Don't allow your diagnosis to cause you to stop living your best life possible. Now the virus is passed from skin to skin contact, so common sense hygiene practices are in order when dealing with the public. Keep your hands clean, avoid touching any sores during outbreaks, and keep your hands away from your mouth and eyes.

4. My sex life is over: Herpes will undoubtedly change your sex life, but it is far from over. You will definitely need to be careful, more responsible - and less spontaneous...but you can have a full happy sex life. You aren't limited to the type of sex you have either, you are just limited in the ability to be "carefree". This can be a good thing though - so don't fret.

5. No one will want a serious relationship with me: FALSE! I won't try to paint a rosy picture of easy dating and acceptance by everyone you come across. Relationships aren't easy to begin with, and that is even more true when you have an incurable disease of any sort.There are some people who will reject you without even giving you the benefit of the doubt. Others may give you a chance, only to later decide that they don't want to take that risk. You may also decide that you rather only date other people with herpes, if that is the case - there are thousands and thousands of people waiting to meet you. There a several great online dating sites for people with the herpes virus - including PositiveSingles.com and MPWH.net

Using Reflexology To Treat Depression

Although Depression is a mental illness it's effects can show in a variety of ways throughout your whole body, this could include stomach problems, headaches, and unexplained aches and pains, the list is endless. Often more disturbing to the person suffering from this illness though is the effect it has on their mental wellbeing. Depression will often alter the way a person thinks about them self, causing them to feel worthless, it will also affect their mood and their reaction to certain situations. All these symptoms can be hard to deal with, so seeking professional help is essential. Your doctor may recommend medication or counselling to help you deal with your depression, and if you feel these are suitable for you then give them a go. What your doctor won't often tell you though is that alternative therapies have also been shown to help depression sufferers.

Reflexology is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine belief that stimulating certain points on the foot can have an effect on the organs or other areas within the body. This is believed to be due to the fact that blockages can occur within the bodys systems, and by using reflexology these blockages can be broken down, ensuring the energy flow within the body is supporting all of the required functions.

When treating depression a reflexologist would focus on certain points within the foot, in particular the pituitary, thymus, pineal, thyroid and parathyroid glands. These areas are known to regulate our emotions and our mental well being, so will often not be functioning properly in someone with depression. These area's will be massaged deeply to break down the lactic acid build up and restore the proper function of the glands.

Whilst the therapist may focus mainly on these areas to help alleviate the mental symptoms of depression it is important that they carry out a full reflexology treatment as the physical symptoms will also need treating.

Your reflexologist will examine your feet, looking at their colour, appearance and condition to see if there is any underlying cause for your depression, they will then treat the areas they feel need attention.

Reflexology is generally a relaxing treatment, however different sensations can be felt when receiving a treatment, and if strong pressure is needed then it can be slightly uncomfortable, however if you are finding it too painful then tell your therapist, and they can adjust the pressure they use to suit you.

It is unlikely that reflexology alone will cure your depression, but it may help alleviate some of your symptoms, so is worth trying. You can also use reflexology at home as a self help method if you feel this would be suitable for you, as it can help you in times of distress.

Effects of JWH-018 and Why is it Dangerous?

JWH-018, also called a 'synthetic cannabinoid', is an emerging drug of choice to replace the use of Marijuana. Since it provides the same effect or even better than Marijuana, most herbal smoke blends incorporate JWH-018 as part of the ingredients to achieve a better 'high' experience. Nevertheless, effects of JWH-018 still vary between individuals. Usually, novice smokers may undergo a much more profound "high" experience compared to regulars. A few users may or may not show the same signs and symptoms, however they may experience the same effect of JWH-018 in general.

Cognitive and Psychological Effects of Smoking JWH-018

JWH-018 mimics the mechanism of THC found in Marijuana, thus affecting the functions of the brain resulting to CNS depression. Since it binds itself to CB1 receptors dominantly found in the brain, expect to notice symptoms of alterations in the control of emotions, motivation, judgment, memory and learning. For smoking a regular dose of 3 to 5mg of JWH-018, its psychological effects include:
* heightened mood
* enhanced sense of humor
* heightened curiosity and intrigue
* racing thoughts
* time distortion and dilation
* buzzing or humming like a psychedelic experience
* reduced concentration
* relaxing state
* mild euphoria (phasing in between bouts)
* Manic-depressive (hyperactivity to moments of dullness and vice versa)

Physical Effects

Same as its cognitive and psychological effects, physical effects are also predominantly, if not greater, the same for all users. JWH-018 causes the same Cannabis effects and actually confirmed through these following symptoms:
* bloodshot eyes and droopy eyelids (only noted to some users)
* drowsiness
* tachycardia (increases heart rate)
* visual effects (colors appear more full and vibrant)
* heavy sinking feeling
* respiratory suppression
* controlled breathing
* gastrointestinal discomfort (rarely happens)
* possible heightened pleasurable sensitivity

It also renders some positive effects such as analgesia and anti-anxiety. But, these claims are doubtful up to this day due to lack of evidence from scientific researches. Therefore, the proposal for its medical application as a response to its therapeutic effect is still out-of-the-question.

Dangers of JWH-018

Although no cases of dying from JWH-018 known, smoking higher doses of JWH-018 might be quite dangerous. Reported scarier and harmful effects include short-term memory loss, extreme sedation that may lead to coma, euphoria, paranoia, anxiety, slight confusion and vomiting. It clearly creates shocking brain effects, even cause severe life-threatening hallucinations, and some seizures. Aside from that, the frightening physical effects in the cardiovascular system, such as increase heart rate and blood pressure, may pose a threat to the body of the user. Thus, ignoring such negative effects of JWH-018 is big no-no.

It is even more disturbing that JWH-018 may actually have a greater possibility for abuse. There was a case study about a man actually demonstrating withdrawal symptoms when he abstained himself from using JWH-018. He experienced tremors, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, bouts of headaches, insomnia and palpitations and even seemed restless with unclear thoughts.

With all the commotions going on about JWH-018, especially its negative effects to the body, the issue remains at a standstill. There are already quite a number of reports proliferating in the Internet and even reached the ears of lawmakers, however the information remain as speculations. Since no clinical evidences and thorough scientific studies to back these claims, it is obvious that it will just become another rumor. Hence, hearsay or not, using something without knowledge about its possible harmful effects is still just plain ignorance.

Depression During Pregnancy - An Examination Of The Underlying Causes

Suffering From Depression When Pregnant

There are hormonal changes taking place that are substantial and can trigger depressive illnesses and in more extreme cases even psychosis can be triggered. Did you know that the time period in a woman's life when she is most likely to be diagnosed with a mental illness is during her pregnancy or during the year following the birth of her baby?

For Those With A Previous Diagnosis Of Depression Or Mental Illness

For those women who have experienced mental illness before pregnancy, even in mild forms, these women are much more likely to have an experience again, but this time the symptoms are likely to be more extreme.

The underlying causes of depression during pregnancy are multi-various. The physical strains of pregnancy, such as sickness, fatigue and, for some, limited mobility can cause a woman's mood to be affected. These physical triggers do not only have a psychological effect but measurable physiological ones too: sickness can lead to imbalances in electrolytes with cascading consequences on hormones which can and do alter mood.

Whether it is due to fatigue, a body changing its shape or a lack of mobility, some women don't feel able to exercise during pregnancy. However numerous studies have shown that regular exercise is a valuable tool in helping to combat mild to moderate depression

Potential Triggers

There are a lot of potential triggers which make is understandable as to why some women will suffer from some level of depression for the first time in their lives during pregnancy. For existing sufferers the symptoms can become worse unfortunately.

Psychological factors will play an important fact as to whether women will be triggered into depression during pregnancy.

Multiple Miscarriages

Some women suffer a number of miscarriages or stillbirths. In these cases as the pregnancy progresses these women's chances of suffering from an increase in the symptoms of depression increases. The reason for this is that the feeling of uncertainty continues to increase.

When you think about the fact that many first time mothers are coping with feelings of fear regarding their own capabilities, then try to imagine how women who have never had a live birth, but have been pregnant must feel. These women deal with an intense fear of another failed pregnancy, which of course can have the catch 22 effect of increasing the symptoms of depression.

Coping

To cope with a pre-existing condition or a newly diagnosed condition, it may help to find a pregnancy buddy, who can help motivate you to take some physical exercise to begin. Even light physical exercise can help and as it does you may feel able to increase the level of exercise.

Talk to someone you can trust. This can either be a close family member or companion, or a suitable organisation.

Try to find something that you enjoyed doing when you were a child and do it for nothing more than amusement and therapy. This could be anything at all, especially anything that we do with our hands, like painting, sewing etc. Once you are working with your hands you will find you should alleviate stress to some degree.

We've heard it thousands of times, but get out into nature, it does work!!?

The Bullying Spouse - What to Do? Some Tips

A bullying spouse puts down their partner in order to feel better about themselves.
~Janvrin & Selleck.

This quote is self-explanatory and is personally relevant to every person in a spousal-type relationship, for bullying is not a label so much as a behaviour we get into when we're ruled by fear.

So many resist the term "bully" as it's stigmatised.

Yet a bully is characterised not by the personality trait of bullying but by the behaviour of bullying.

For the person who's partaking in the bullying behaviour and making life hell for their partner, there must be a way to identify the source of fear and strive past it, feeling hopeful and "safe" again--perhaps even for the first time. (This is one reason why God is great.) Fear and aggression are intrinsically linked; as is often with them (though not always), symptoms of depression.

This spouse, if they're not normally characterised by this behaviour, may just need to be gently but firmly reminded that this behaviour will not be tolerated.

For the person who's on the receiving end of the bullying, perhaps it's time to do some thinking. Is your partner characterised by bullying behaviour? Do they bully others too or just you? Is it only certain times or periods that they bully? One thing for certain, they must be engaged in an adult "boundary" conversation when they've cooled off. Try not to delay this.

Staying "adult,"[1] strong and emotion-free is critical. Obviously relationship counselling is advised. The problem needs to be addressed.

Finally, to the person who's doing the bullying--and we've all "bullied" people, without exception--find the source of your unhappiness and lack of self-worth. It will be entirely worth the search, personally and interpersonally. Safety and peace will be yours (and theirs).

穢 2010 S. J. Wickham.

[1] Recalling adult behaviour is rational, responsible, reasonable, reliable, realistic and logical. In other words, it's emotion-free.

Take the Depression Test

Depression can come in many forms and in many levels of potency to the individual and the scary thing is that you might be suffering from some form of depression and not even know about it. What you need to do when you are not sure whether or not you have depression is to take the test and it will let you know whether or not there are any grey areas you should be addressing about your own personality matrix.

Depression is a serious condition and when it spills over to a clinical condition, then people have to sit up and take notice. It is no longer than a simple emotional disorder, but a progressive mental disorder that can be characterized by known signs and symptoms. Causes of depression can range far and wide, but normally, you should look at the bio psychosocial process within the body. This is actually a holistic theme that is placed on all the body's natural functions and looks at the psychological and social, as well as the normal processes in the body and how these can affect and bring about serious cases of depression.

One of the major causes of depression is from the vulnerability of the psyche, or the diatheses that has been caused by stressful events in life. There is also a study that looks at the interaction between nurture and nature, and how a schematic experiential factor can be the major driving and continuity factor that drives major depressive disorders. In the end of the day, we all know the signs and symptoms of someone who is depressed, but what of people who are merely depressed at times. These are the beginning signs when the condition would start to gnaw away at the spirit and perhaps build up in the subconscious.

You should do all you can to avoid this and you need to take a mental status examination, the only known way to spot the signs of clinical depression in the mind. What it is really is a series of tests and procedures that assess the mind and the state of mind of a patient in a psychiatric environment. The purpose of the MSE or mental status exam is to really look at the behaviour, the mood, the thought process and the cognitive insights of the individual, and help to ascertain if there is in fact any sort of depressive or any other mental disorder in the mind.

Data here is actually collected through two main ways, which can be either direct or indirect, and they come from a battery of biological testing, questions, social information schemes and focused psychological tests. This is a good way for anyone to ascertain whether or not they have any debilitating condition in the mind. So, if you are not sure whether or not you have depression, or just a passing phase, then take the depression test and find out for yourself. Any move to detect and take away clinical depression at an early stage is good.

What Are The Chances That Chronic Depression Leads To Schizophrenia?

Chronic depression is one type of depression that lasts for years and tends to recur after some time. Some call it "being in and out of depression". It usually starts as a mild case of depression where feelings of sadness are very minimal. The symptoms become more severe after some time, though, and that's when one realizes that he or she has been in a state of depression for a while.

Risk Factors

Chronic depression can happen to anyone, but some people appear to have a greater or higher tendency of developing it:

• Women, possibly due to hormonal changes


• Victims of child abuse


• Sufferers of a chronic illness, such as cancer


• Individuals with familial history of depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder

Although there is yet a more severe form of depression, the chronic type of depression needs to be dealt with accordingly. The consequences or symptoms of this form of depression can be threatening to your physical, emotional, and mental health. Specifically, depression of this nature can cause or manifest in the following symptoms:

• Sleeping disorders. Not being able to sleep well or oversleeping may occur with chronic depression.


• Poor nutrition. Some individuals with depression may lose the interest to eat while others may resort to eating excessively. Not making wise food choices may also come with depression.


• Low libido. Depression can make one lose interest on sex, too.


• Low energy. Energy levels can dip so low when you are suffering from depression.


• Schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia

Perhaps, one of the worst things that can occur with chronic depression is schizophrenia. A form of mental disorder, schizophrenia is characterized by:

• Hearing voices other people cannot hear


• Paranoia


• Hallucination or the inability to identify reality from things imagined

Chances of schizophrenia developing is very high to people who are not getting the right treatment, who refuse treatment, who stop getting treatment against doctor's advice, who smoke and who take illegal drugs like marijuana.

Preventing Chronic Depression

Well, prevention is always better than cure, is it not? Although there are risk factors for depression, there are preventive measures that reduce the likelihood of it happening. Here are a few of them:

• Take vitamin supplements especially Vitamin B complex, and Vitamin C. Here are some reasons why:


• Vitamin B1 or Thiamine converts glucose into useful energy.


• Vitamin B3 more popularly known as Niacin detoxifies the body and helps boost body metabolism. Not having enough supply of this B vitamin can result to fatigue, physical and mental, and may result to schizophrenia.


• Vitamin B5 otherwise known as Pantothenic Acid is necessary in hormone-production. Hormones as we all know affect our stress levels and cause a variety of physical and mental changes.


• Vitamin B6 or Pyridoxine is a mood-regulator. It also strengthens the immune system.


• Vitamin B9 or Folic Acid has an important role in the synthesis of DNA. Apparently it is recommended not only for pregnant women but also for everyone, with or without tendency to develop depression.


• Vitamin B12 is Cobalamin. This B-vitamin is necessary in red blood cell formation and in the prevention of anemia. Untreated anemia can complicate into mood swings and mental disturbances.


• Vitamin C in the form of Ascorbic Acid is needed to produce serotonin, the chemical in the brain that affects mood.


• Eat right. Getting the right nourishment is necessary to be in the right state of mind. Avoid processed foods and all forms of toxins, if possible. Feast, instead, on raw vegetables, fruits, and fish. Foods that are high in B-vitamins and Omega-3 fatty acids are foods your brain needs the most.


• Exercise. Make time to exercise daily. Exercise regulates mood and balances the levels of your stress hormones.


• Avoid all forms of vices, especially smoking and substance abuse. Smoking and drug abuse affect oxygen levels in your brain, killing your brain cells.

With these preventive measures, you may be able to ward off chronic depression and/or keep it from progressing into schizophrenia.

Ten Tips For Beating Depression

I heard about a woman who was suffering from depression, so her concerned husband took her to a psychiatrist. The doctor listened to the couple talk about their relationship, and then he said, "The treatment I prescribe is really quite simple." With that, he went over to the man's wife, gathered her up in his arms, and gave her a big kiss. He then stepped back and looked at the woman's glowing face and broad smile. Turning to the woman's husband, he said, "See! That's all she needs to put new life back into her." Expressionless, the husband said, "If you say so, Doc, I can bring her in on Tuesdays and Thursdays."

Okay, that's not how to treat depression, but I have a few other suggestions that make more sense. As a result of trial and error, over the course of thirty years, I've found ten blues battling strategies that often help me. These are not quick fixes, and this list is not exhaustive. It is also not a "must do" list.

When you're depressed, the last thing you need is a list of expectations to live up to. Don't stress about forcing yourself to accomplish all these things. They're not items to be checked off a list each day. The only one that is crucial is number one. After that, you can experiment with the others as you feel able to.

1) Get the Facts and Get Help.

Web sites and books on depression abound. Find them and do some research. You need to know what you're dealing with. Learn all you can about depression, so you can make educated decisions about your own health, learn how others cope, and find what medical treatment is available. Many books have self tests to help you determine whether you are experiencing clinical depression or temporary sadness in reaction to an event. In addition to reading everything you can get your hands on, one of the most important things you can do for yourself is seek medical help right away. Depression is much too complicated for you to solve on your own. Clinical depression is a serious medical condition that is very complicated to treat. Often it is a physical problem that requires long term medication. In my own experience, it's taken years of medication, counseling, and practicing various self help methods to slowly emerge from it, and it's still a daily battle.

Many people suffer needlessly from depression because they won't consult a doctor. If you're waiting for God to heal you, consider this: God gives scientists intelligence, which they often use to create helpful medicines; and He gives doctors wisdom to treat illnesses. Wise doctors and modern medicines are gifts from God and vehicles through which He often heals. Doctors can help you determine whether what you feel is truly depression, or if you are just reacting normally to a sad life situation.

If you've experienced depression, you already know it is not an illness you can "snap out of," no matter what others may tell you. It's not something to be ashamed of either. Depression can be a serious physical illness caused by an imbalance of brain chemicals or other factors. Like any serious medical condition, depression needs to be treated. Without the proper treatment, none of my suggested coping strategies will do any good.

2) Get Focused.

Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness pervade the life of a depressed person. The opposite of depression is a hopeful attitude. Focusing on hope and developing a hopeful heart is a must. It can be accomplished in a couple ways. One way is to search the Bible for the numerous Scriptures that tell how God has helped those who felt hopeless. It's helpful to memorize verses like these: Hebrews 4:15 (For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet was without sin.); 2 Corinthians 4:8 & 9 (All-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.); Matthew 6:34 (Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.); Isaiah 41:10 (Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.); and John 14:27 (Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.).

The story of Job and the book of Psalms are the most worn pages in my Bible. While at my lowest, I've read and re-read them more times than I can count. My fridge and the mirrors in my house are covered with sticky notes reminding me of how God intervenes in the lives of His people.

Another way to focus on hope is by practicing positive self talk. This simply means telling yourself good things. I made a list for myself of positive affirmations like "God cares and understands my pain. God values me. God is giving me strength. I am made in God's image. I can choose my attitude. I choose not to put myself down. I'm a worthwhile person. I have a purpose. I enjoy life. I choose to be happy and I am competent." If you struggle with depression, I think you'll find it helpful to write down as many of these affirmations as you can think of and read them every day. Even if they're not currently true or you don't really believe them, it's okay. Say them to yourself anyway. Your mind will come to believe what you tell it, so tell it you are already the type of person you want to become. Be sure to remind yourself often that God is with you and He is pouring his strength on you. "Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance. ...For You are the God of my strength..." (Psalm 42:5 and 43:2 NKJV)

2 Corinthians 4:18 says we need to "fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." Focusing on positive, heavenly things rather than earthly things will keep the feelings of hopelessness at bay.

3) Get Friendly.

Fellowship with other people is a mood lifter. Being alone is the worst thing you can do when you're depressed. Unfortunately, it's usually the very thing I want most. Depression grows best in isolation. I find it very difficult to get out and socialize when I'm depressed, but if I push myself to do it, I'm almost always glad later. Some ideas for socializing include joining a club, taking a class, inviting someone to meet you for lunch, or visiting a nursing home to chat with the residents there. It especially helps me to be with friends who enjoy the same hobbies I do. Shopping, watching movies, and rubber stamping are some of the things I enjoy doing alone, but they're twice as much fun when I do them with friends.

4) Get Giggling.

I collect cartoons and funny newspaper columns. I visit humor web sites online, watch funny movies, and read funny books. Best of all is laughing with friends. One of the reasons I enjoy my grandson so much is because he makes me laugh. I can act goofy with him and let go of my inhibitions. We dance and sing and make up silly rhymes. I have photographs of us wearing funny glasses with big black mustaches. I laugh every time I look at those. Laughing affects brain chemicals. It releases endorphins, which make you feel good. Chocolate does the same thing, but a good laugh is less fattening.

A friend of mine, who had a very frustrating job, told me that one day she was inspired by someone who had a huge, bright smile. She decided to emulate that woman and smile at everyone she encountered. Right away, she realized that smiling was addictive. It seemed to make the time pass more quickly and she found herself less frustrated and more at peace. She told me, "It sounds corny, but it really works!"

Paul wrote, "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4 NKJV) I've heard that a person can act her way into feeling better. Act happy, act glad, and it helps you to feel happy and glad. Paul exhibited this truth in his own life. Acts 16 tells how Paul and Silas were attacked, beaten, locked in stocks, and thrown into solitary confinement. Yet, at midnight, what were they doing? Feeling sorry for themselves? Asking God, "Why?" Moaning and complaining like I do? No, they were singing! Sure they were suffering, but they knew they were children of God. Paul may have even been remembering his personal encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. (Acts 22:10) They were praising God because they had been rescued from their sins, filled by the Holy Spirit, and added to God's family. No jailer could take that away. That was worth being grateful for, no matter what else happened to them. Even if they were to be killed, it would only send them to heaven. So why should they fear? That's some awesome faith, isn't it?

5) Get Rhythm.

When I feel a case of the gloomies descending, that is not the time to play melancholy music. Positive upbeat tunes are in order -- the sort of music you might hear at a parade or a circus. Music gets your toes tapping and your blood flowing. It makes you want to sing. Singing and dancing sends a message to your brain that you're happy. Your brain is an actualizer. Whatever it "thinks" is true, it works to bring about. This is why positive thinking works. You tell yourself, "I'm happy" often enough and your brain accepts it as fact. It actualizes that truth, making it happen. I've found that when depression takes hold of me, I tend to ruminate on negative thoughts. Listening to good, Christian music with positive lyrics helps to pour good things into my brain and crowd those negative things out. There's a list of good things to ponder in the fourth chapter of Paul's letter to the Philippian church. It says to think about whatever is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, noble, right, or admirable. Philippians 4:8 says, "If anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things." Christian music helps me accomplish this.

6) Get Busy

We all need to feel like we're involved in something significant. We need to participate in something outside ourselves. You might consider volunteering at a local women's shelter or food pantry. I've enjoyed both and discovered that when I stay busy helping others and concentrating on their problems, I get a break from focusing on my own troubles. This is how HUGS and HOPE began. It started with a small effort to make a difference for one family and it grew. I've learned that joy boomerangs. When you give it away, it comes back to you. Helping others gives you the heart-warming satisfaction of knowing you are making a difference in the world. That will elevate your mood as well as your self esteem.

7) Get Physical

This is two-fold. Physical exercise is good for us, but physical contact is equally important. Our bodies need to move to be healthy, and going for a walk is the easiest exercise for me to do when I'm depressed. It doesn't require as much energy and motivation as other activities. Breathing the fresh air and looking at the beauty of nature can be helpful, and taking my dog along is even better. Just watching his ears flop as he bounces down the road in front of me often brings a smile to my face.

Exercise affects brain chemicals, and the healing touch of physical closeness does too. If you're depressed, hug somebody - anybody, everybody! A hug is good medicine. It reduces stress and tension and it boosts your immunity to illness. Hugs raise self esteem and lower blood pressure. They feel good and make people happy. And they're free! Hugs are the universal language that communicates love and acceptance. They're healthy for the "hugger" as well as the "hugee."

8) Get Quiet

I need to lean heavily on God's word and spend time with Him. When I pray, I talk things over with God. When I read the Bible and meditate on it, I hear Him speak to me and I contemplate what He says. I've found this to be one of the best anti-depressants there is. However, I need to add a word of caution here. Too much solitude can worsen depression. Isolating yourself and avoiding people can make depression grow. Don't use meditation time as an excuse to avoid human contact. Time with God is of the utmost importance, but balance between quiet time alone and time spent with others is essential.

9) Get Forgiveness - And Give it Too!

I've read that many psychiatrists agree that depression is guilt or anger turned inward. David is an example of someone whose guilt led to depression. After committing adultery, he wrote, "When I kept silent, my bones grew old through my groaning all the day long. For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; My vitality was turned into the drought of summer." (Psalm 32:3-4)

Sin makes you feel bad, but when you receive God's forgiveness, your guilt is removed; and often depression is removed too.

Depression can sometimes be caused from the need to forgive someone else or yourself (whomever is making you angry). Grudges cause feelings of frustration, which aggravate the hopeless feelings of depression. When we forgive, we let go of past hurts and give up bitterness. Then depression has no negativity on which to feed. If you free yourself from feelings of hate and open yourself up to feelings of love, you may feel as if the depression is physically lifting off your shoulders.

My friend Nance went through a difficult divorce, which left her bitter about the past, anxious about the future, and miserable in general. She harbored a lot of grudges and guilt, and she worried constantly. She felt the need to control everything in her life, yet she knew she couldn't. After attending a women's retreat, Nance realized what her negativity was doing to her.She released her worries, fears, anger, and resentments at the foot of the cross. Then she felt a renewal in her heart. She was happy and at peace.

When she was dying, Nance told me that the most difficult thing she'd ever had to do was forgive - both her ex-husband and herself -- for past mistakes. She said forgiving was even harder than dying!

Forgiveness isn't a simple one time event. It's a process that often takes time (sometimes years), but it's an important step to healing.

Jesus taught forgiveness when he said we'd be forgiven in the same way we forgive others, and when he told Peter we should forgive, not seven times, but seventy times seven. Of course, Jesus also lived forgiveness. While hanging on the cross, he looked at his torturers and said, "Father forgive them for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)

10) Get Thankful.

When I'm depressed, I need to make a conscious effort to count my blessings. An attitude of hopelessness and discontent has a hard time competing with an attitude of gratitude. 1 Thessalonians 5:28 says, "In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." It's important to remember that depression is not fatal and it doesn't last forever. You WILL survive! Remind yourself that this cloud of despair will pass eventually. It may seem like there's no light at the end of the tunnel, but trust that there is; and be thankful for that, as you wait for the light to appear.

So, while kisses from your husband (or a psychiatrist) may be great, they can't cure depression. But along with medication and the proper treatment, now you have some practical steps you can take for your own well being. There are times when one of these strategies may be more helpful than the rest. Other times, it may seem that none of them makes a huge difference. But I keep practicing all of them anyway, because I know they are steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Following them on a regular basis may not eliminate depression forever, but they help me to minimize their severity.

These tips can be helpful for people who are not depressed too. They can be useful for anyone who is a little discouraged, a little blue, or needs to refocus on more positive things in life.

I hope that by trying these ideas you may find yourself on the way to experiencing more joy.

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Depression Can Hurt - Learn How to Test For Depression

Bill had everything that he could ever ask for in his life. A dream job, his own house, a car and an absolutely beautiful girlfriend the he has been going out for years. Secured in all aspects of life, what more could he ask for? Then, his world came crashing down. When he popped the question to his girlfriend, her response was she wanted to be alone. Time flew with him losing interest in his social life. He isolated himself from his family and friends. Suddenly, he was found dead by a neighbor with a note saying that he was worthless and a burden to everyone. Upon learning the situation, his family was enveloped with darkness to the point that liveliness was took away from them. It has always been a hot topic to friends of the family increasing frustration and that dark cloud enveloping them.

Depression hurts. It can affect you emotionally, mentally and physically. Emotionally in a sense that you always feel worse than sad even if there was nothing to be sad about. You cannot possibly get yourself to liven up try as you may. Physically, since depression has clung to you, your normal routines skewed affecting your eating habits from 3 times a week to sometimes none. Other symptoms of this disorder are not being able to get a night's rest or sufficient sleep for the day; Lack of vigor for social interaction; feeling of burden to everyone; tendency to be suicidal; have a hard time to concentrate; and finally that feeling of being tired all the time but you have not done a thing for the day. If these symptoms arise, immediately consult your friendly psychiatrist to assess your situation. He knows what is the best for you whether rehabilitation, self-medication or anti-depressants. Remember, depression is a serious issue that needs attention. Be aware of its symptoms and consult if need be.

A person undergoing a state of depression may not even know it. He may blame stress and a sleeping disorder for his lack of energy for day to day tasks which can be the common reason, but if the symptoms persist and even though having enough sleep and rest, then he should accept that it is depression and actually find out what may have caused it. There are test for depression that are given in order to help you find out for yourself. The tests involve you mainly observing yourself and even answering a few questions. Some test would be to observe your weight and watching daily routines.

You may say the since you gain weight it would only mean that you ate too much since you tempted by good food, but if you eat too much than what you usually eat then it may mean that you are undergoing depression. There are people you tend to eat so much since their mind works overtime thinking of a lot of things and end up having to eat food at night since they can't sleep. It can even be cause by you using to food to satisfy yourself since you feel that emptiness so much that you want to fill it up in some way.

Another would be to watch your daily routines especially those that you love to do at either a daily basis or weekly basis. There are things that you may end up forgetting but would be normal, but if you feel that you don't feel like doing something like the weekly laundry, even though you really have to, it can be depression taking over. If it would be something that you just enjoy doing, let's say a hobby of yours, but you end up having to energy or not up for it then it is a sign that you are undergoing depression.

These are just some of the free test depression, do make sure to observe yourself and try to understand more about yourself. No one else can tell you things about yourself especially if you are a silent type, so to know you are depressed is up to you and you should take the necessary measures to overcome it.

Depression: How Senior and Disabled Adults Can Overcome It

James, a 42 year old from Greenville, SC was in an automobile accident in 2000 resulting in a serious spinal cord injury. After the accident, James became very depressed and started having anxiety attacks at home and whenever he left his house. There were times he did not want to be around people.

While James acknowledged that he had the support of his family and friends, he still felt that he needed something more in his life.

Fortunately, in 2005, he had a case manager who identified the warning signs and offered him a lifeline in the form of adult day care. Adult day care filled a void for him. The social interaction combined with the opportunity to help others who were facing far greater challenges changed James' perspective. He began getting out of the house more and his life had purpose and meaning.

Today, James attends the adult day care center in Greenville three days a week, and while he is there he helps the staff with the younger adult group. Whenever there is a new admission, James spends the day with them making them feel welcome. Although he was born without an arm, he is a very gifted artist. In addition to helping others, he spends much of his time drawing and painting while he's at the center.

James' case isn't unusual. More than 15 million adults in America suffer from severe depression. And disabled adults and seniors are common prey. Although less publicized, depression among seniors and disabled adults is a significant problem, as they more so than others, are prone to face many of the common triggers (chronic medical conditions, financial problems, loss of close friends and family members).

While depression can strike anyone, a report from the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention found a correlation between depression and age. Specifically, the report found the following.

• Six to nine percent of older Americans who are in a primary care setting suffer from major depression.
• Suicide rates for men rise with age, most significantly after age 65.
• The rate of suicide in men 65+ is seven times that of females who are 65+.
• The suicide rates for women peak between the ages of 45-54 years old, and again after age 75.
• About 60 percent of elderly patients who take their own lives see their primary care physician
within a few months of their death.
• Risk factors for suicide among seniors include: a previous attempt, the presence of a mental
illness, the presence of a physical illness, social isolation (some studies have shown this is especially so in older males who are recently widowed) and access to means, such as the availability of firearms in the home.

If left alone, depression not only prevents seniors and disabled adults from living life to the fullest, but can seriously affect their health. By learning to identify the signs of depression and finding ways to get them the help they need, they can be happy and remain vibrant throughout their lives.

Signs of Depression in Children

Depression is a deadly condition that if left unattended can escalate to self harm and even suicide. Depression in children is very similar to depression in adults with a few exceptions. These exceptions are that children are not as articulate as adults in expressing emotions, so it is unlikely that they will come to you and say "I'm depressed". In fact they may not even realize that something is out of the ordinary.

It is for this reason that you, as a parent, should apply parenting tips to become aware of the symptoms and are able to identify signs to look for. Effective parent child relationship is helpful so that parents and children will be more open to each other, thus helping each other when the other has problems.

Depression doesn't discriminate between young, old, gender, rich, poor, functional and dysfunctional families. It is estimated that 1 out of 10 children have difficulty escaping the symptoms of depression for long periods of time.

Fortunately there are clear warning signs of depression in children and adolescents that you should be aware of.
Some of these are:

*Sudden changes in behaviour
*Regular aggression, agitation and anger outbursts.
*Lower self esteem
*Withdraws from friends and activities and family
*Gives up valued possession loses interest in activities they once enjoyed.

Then there are emotional signs some children display are:

*Sadness the child my get upset and cry over the slightest thing. Some children may hide their tears and become withdrawn.
*Anxiety The child may become anxious, tense and panics over the slightest thing.
*Loss of Interest Withdraws from activities they once enjoyed.
*Turmoil/upset The child may become worried and irritable. They may lash out of anger or distress.

Some of the Physical Signs displayed:

*Weight loss or gain change in appetite and weight is another symptom of the depressed child. Some children lose their appetite while others take comfort in food.
*Sleep Pattern Change a child suffering from depression may have trouble sleeping or staying asleep however some children may over sleep.
*Children in depression usually become sluggish, often the child will talk, react and walk slower.

Behaviour changes demonstrated may be:

*Avoidance and withdrawal from everyday activities they once enjoyed. They may withdraw from friends. You may find that the child prefers their bedroom where they go to escape and find solitude.
*Exaggerated sense of insecurity is another trait of children with depression.

Cognitive Signs of Depression:

*Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt every day.
*Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts
*Negative view. Children in depression may become pessimistic, perceiving themselves, their life and their world in a very negative light.
*Another symptom of children with depression is that they may suffer severe headaches at least once per month.

In Summary.
Preschool or young primary school aged children may appear serious or vaguely sick. They may show states of tearfulness, irritability and frustration spontaneously. He/she may say negative things about themselves and in more serious cases they may be self destructive.

High School through Adolescence - these children may present with disruptive behaviour problems with friends and a dislike for school and study. Sometimes the child may express hate for themselves and everyone and everything else and if extreme may self mutilate.

If you suspect that your child is in any form of depression it is important that you discuss your concerns with your doctor and have the child evaluated. Left undetected depression is a very serious condition that could escalate to bipolar disorder.

Bipolar Disorder and Diabetes - What's the Connection?

Diabetes and bipolar disorder are co-morbid conditions. This means they often coexist, with many people having both bipolar disorder and diabetes.

Research indicates that this is more than an unfortunate coincidence. Some studies have shown people with bipolar disorder are up to three times more likely to have diabetes than members of the general population.

Also, there is evidence that people with bipolar disorder and diabetes are more likely to face other health challenges such as being more prone to rapid cycling, and more likely to have chronic, as opposed to milder, mood episodes. There may be other negative lifestyle consequences as well. One Canadian study found that 81% of bipolar people with diabetes were receiving disability payments, versus 30% of bipolar patients without diabetes.

In diabetes, because of either a shortage of insulin, or an inability by the body to make use of insulin, sugar and other food can no longer be correctly metabolized and turned into energy. Sugar simply continues to accumulate in the blood, causing a variety of health problems.

The diabetic mood swings resulting from excess sugar and carbohydrates in the body are extremely similar to the mood swings experienced in bipolar disorder. A person with diabetes may seem depressed, or manic, or both.

There is also pre-diabetes, some experts consider America's largest healthcare epidemic. Also known as Syndrome X or metabolic syndrome, this condition occurs when a person's blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes. As of 2009 there are 57 million Americans who have pre-diabetes.

To make matters worse, several of the leading medications used to treat bipolar disorder can cause significant weight gain, insulin resistance, and hyperglycemia.

Diabetes is usually treated by changes in diet and through medication, for example regular injections of insulin.

The most important dietary changes are to opt for foods high in nutrition but low in calories, sugar and fat. As stabilizing blood sugar is so important, it is ideal if you can eat your meals at the same time every day, and consume a healthy proportion of carbohydrates, proteins and fats, with little variation to the ratio from day to day.

Increased physical activity such as the kind of exercise program that also protects against mood swings and depression is also important in both treating and preventing metabolic syndrome and Type 2 diabetes.

Why do diabetes and bipolar co-occur? This question has yet to be answered definitively. However, there are several theories, including the following:

• The stress hormone cortisol tends to be elevated in both bipolar patients and diabetics. In particular, very high level levels of cortisol have been observed in people suffering from bipolar depression. Too much cortisol leads to insulin resistance so it is possible that the elevated cortisol in people with bipolar disorder leads to diabetes.


• People with bipolar disorder often self-medicate with food, including the "comfort foods" high in sugar and saturated fats that contribute to both metabolic syndrome and Type 2 diabetes.
  All people diagnosed with bipolar disorder should immediately have a comprehensive physical exam to check for the presence of common co-morbid conditions, especially diabetes.

All people diagnosed with bipolar disorder should immediately have a comprehensive physical exam to check for the presence of common co-morbid conditions, especially diabetes.

Different Forms of Antidepressants and Treatment

Anyone who thinks he/she is sick from recurring depression must go for medical advice and recommended depression drugs from a health professional. Those who've suffered the symptoms of depression for over a month will have to approach a doctor as soon as possible. Delaying a checkup will make matters worse. People suffering from depression must be absolutely cooperative when bringing up health issues with the physician. The doctor must have right amount of facts to come up with the best analysis on the condition. One needs to give their clinical past, preparatory laboratory tests, and previous physical examinations. The advised medicines will come from a complete analysis of the patient's medical past and the disease's present condition.

Quite often, depression comes from medicines or a sickness relating to the disease itself. Anticipate the depression to be tone down once the causes and symptoms have been evaluated and medicated. Depression medications are usually given to those who need acute or emergency medicines, or long-term medication. Critical medicine is prescribed to "remove" the serious indicators of depression, clearing the course to contentment. The continuation medication is taken after the person is better. Continuation medicines prevent the recurrence of symptoms and the depression. Maintenance medicine is given to those who've had one or more instances of depression. Treatment is maintained throughout a longer period, hindering the repeat of the psychological condition.

Depression medicine works successfully in treating the three levels of depression's symptoms. Symptoms begin with mild depression, then moderate depression, and may escalate towards critical depression. Medication plays a important part in the therapy used for every symptom level. The involvement of drugs like antidepressants have proven to be effective and fruitful. The medication is commonly works with a medicine called happy pills. The medication can also be combined with psychopharmaca, or psychotherapy. Even if these therapies assure beneficial outcomes, their overall effect will take some time. Such methods grow within certain period of some months. The finest medicines, however, are capable of giving promising treatment in a month. Medications assure quicker treatment while psychotherapy works towards a long-term solution.

Side effects are expected in nearly all antidepressants. The typically recommended medicine are SSRIs or serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These inhibitors' extra effects are commonly sleepiness, nausea, sleep problems, and sexual complications.

The other kind of medicine is the uncommon antidepressant, which changes the brain's amounts of dopamine and norepinephrine. Its side effects are fatigue, weight gain, dry mouth, unclear vision, and sleepiness. Most people taking depression medication medicine experience withdrawal symptoms as soon as they abruptly stop taking the medicines. To prevent addiction, do not try sudden withdrawal. Instead, decrease intake over a certain period.

As expected in any other clinical disorder, depression is aptly healed during its early periods. Early treatment decreases the likelihood of severe signs and recurrence. The prevention of more critical symptoms is solved using a precise analysis and medicine recommendation. Once the doctor has dealt with the problem, it should be treated as soon as possible. Delaying medication can lead to severe recurrences, which can cost more because of the increased intensity and indications.

Types of Depression, Where Do They All End?

Depression is complex. It can linger and grow for months or even years before being detected . Studies have shown that millions of Americans will suffer some form of depressive disorder this year. Unfortunately fewer than 1/3 of these people will look for help. Often the sufferers don't even know they're sick. Every day stress is common in the modern world. It's more difficult to navigate the obstacles in life. Many families are surviving week to week. Trouble in the economy has made it more difficult than ever to keep a good job. Stress leads to depressive feelings. There are many different types of depression. Some of the labels mean the same thing. There is mental, medical, clinical and manic depressive disorder. There is also the fact that it gets severe enough to allude to the final stages of the disease. Depressive disorder can result from a variety of causes. One of these is simple biology, brain chemistry issues. DNA also carries it. Those with family histories of the disorder are at risk.

Psychology Information Online provides information on the following depressive disorders:

* Major Depression - This is the most serious type, in terms of number of symptoms and severity of symptoms, but there are significant individual differences in the symptoms and severity. You do not need to feel suicidal to have a major case, and you do not need to have a history of hospitalizations either, although both of these factors are present in some people with major depressive symptoms.
* Dysthymic Disorder - This refers to a low to moderate level that persists for at least two years, and often longer. While the symptoms are not as severe as the major version, they are more enduring and resistant to treatment. Some people with dysthymia develop a major case at some time during the course of their disorder.

* Unspecified - This category is used to help researchers who are studying other specific types, and do not want their data confounded with marginal diagnoses. It includes people with a serious case, but not quite severe enough to have a diagnosis of a major form. It also includes people with chronic, moderate, which has not been present long enough for a diagnosis of a Dysthymic disorder. (You get the idea!)

* Adjustment Disorder,- This category describes that which occurs in response to a major life stressor or crisis.

* Bipolar - This type includes both high and low mood swings, as well as a variety of other significant symptoms not present in other forms of the disease.

Other Types of Depressive Categories:

* Post Partum - Major depressive episode that occurs after having a baby. Depressive symptoms usually begin within four weeks of giving birth and can vary in intensity and duration.

* Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) - A type of depressive disorder which is characterized by episodes of a major case which reoccur at a specific time of the year (e.g. fall, winter). In the past two years, depressive periods occur at least two times without any episodes that occur at a different time.

* Anxiety - Not an official type (as defined by the DSM). However, anxiety often also occurs with depression. In this case, a depressed individual may also experience anxiety symptoms (e.g. panic attacks) or an anxiety disorder (e.g. PTSD, panic disorder, social phobia, generalized anxiety disorder).

* Chronic - Major depressive episode that lasts for at least two years.

* Double - Someone who has Dysthymia (chronic mild) and also experiences a major depressive episode (more severe depressive symptoms lasting at least two weeks).

* Endogenous - Endogenous means from within the body. This type is defined as feeling depressed for no apparent reason.

* Situational or Reactive (also known as Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood) - Depressive symptoms developing in response to a specific stressful situation or event (e.g. job loss, relationship ending). These symptoms occur within 3 months of the stressor and lasts no longer than 6 months after the stressor (or its consequences) has ended. Depression symptoms cause significant distress or impairs usual functioning (e.g. relationships, work, school) and do not meet the criteria for major depressive disorder.

* Agitated - Kind of major depressive disorder which is characterized by agitation such as physical and emotional restlessness, irritability and insomnia, which is the opposite of many depressed individuals who have low energy and feel slowed down physically and mentally.

* Psychotic - Major depressive episode with psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations (e.g. hearing voices), delusions (false beliefs).

* Atypical (Sub-type of Major or Dysthymia) - Characterized by a temporary improvement in mood in reaction to positive events and two (or more) of the following: o significant weight gain or increase in appetite
o over sleeping
o heavy feeling in arms or legs
o long standing pattern of sensitivity to rejection

* Melancholic (Sub-type of Major Depressive Disorder) - Main features of this kind of depression include either a loss of pleasure in virtually all activities or mood does not temporarily improve in response to a positive event. Also, three (or more) of the following are present:
o Depressed mood that has a distinct quality (e.g. different from feeling depressed when grieving)
o Depressive feeling is consistently worse in the morning
o Waking up earlier than usual (at last 2 hours)
o Noticeable excessive movement or slowing down
o Significant decrease in appetite or weight loss
o Feeling excessive or inappropriate guilt

*Catatonic - (Sub-type of Major Depressive Disorder) - This type is characterized by at least two of the following:
o Loss of voluntary movement and inability to react to one's environment
o Excessive movement (purposeless and not in response to one's environment)
o Extreme resistance to instructions/suggestions or unable/unwilling to speak
o Odd or inappropriate voluntary movements or postures (e.g. repetitive movements, bizarre mannerisms or facial expressions)
o Involuntarily repeating someone's words or movements in a meaningless way Treatment will differ depending on the type of depression based on its severity and various symptoms.

For example, the focus of therapy may vary or different antidepressants may be prescribed targeting certain symptoms. Common factors can lead to different types. Substance abuse can lead to depressive disorder. Both alcoholics and drug abusers can contract it. Mental disorder historically has a stigma associated with it. Prior to mental illness being recognized as a disease it was considered by many to be a personal defect. As a result treatment wasn't applied in a way that could help the patient. Negative effects persist through all the stages of depression. Therefore treatment requires early detection.

Major depressive disorder is probably one of the most common forms. You probably know a handful of people who suffer from it. The sufferer seems to walk around with the weight of the world on his or her shoulders. He or she seems disinterested in becoming involved in regular activities and seems convinced that he or she will always be in this hopeless state. There is a lack of interest in sexual activity and in appetite and a weight loss.

TYPES
Atypical: is a variation that is slightly different from it's major variety. The sufferer is sometimes able to experience happiness and moments of elation. Symptoms of the atypical type include fatigue, oversleeping, overeating and weight gain. People who suffer from it believe that outside events control their mood (i.e. success, attention and praise). Episodes can last for months or a sufferer may live with it forever.

Psychotic: sufferers begin to hear and see imaginary things - - sounds, voices and visuals that do not exist. These are referred to as hallucinations, which are generally more common with someone suffering from schizophrenia. The hallucinations are not "positive" like they are with a manic depressive. The sufferer imagines frightening and negative sounds and images. Dysthymia: Many people just walk around seeming depressed - - simply sad, blue or melancholic. They have been this way all of their lives. This is dysthymia - - a condition that people are not even aware of but just live with daily. They go through life feeling unimportant, dissatisfied, frightened and simply don't enjoy their lives. Medication is beneficial for this type.

Manic: can be defined as an emotional disorder characterized by changing mood shifts can sometimes be quite rapid. People who suffer from manic depressive disorder have an extremely high rate of suicide.
Seasonal:, which medical professionals call seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is something that occurs only at a certain time of the year, usually winter. It is sometimes called "winter blues." Although it is predictable, it can be very severe.

Cyclothymic Disorder:A milder yet more enduring type of bipolar disorder. A person's mood alternates between a less severe mania (known as hypomania) and a less severe case.
Mood Disorder, due to a General Medical Condition caused or precipitated by a known or unknown physical medical condition such as hypothyroidism.)

Substance Induced Mood Disorder may be caused or precipitated by the use or abuse of substances such as drugs, alcohol, medications, or toxins.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):This condition affects people during specific times or seasons of the year. During the winter months individuals feel depressed and lethargic, but during other months their moods may be normal.

Postpartum:A rare form occurring in women within approximately one week to six months after giving birth to a child.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder:This is an uncommon type of depressive disorder affecting a small percentage of menstruating women. It is a cyclical condition in which women may feel depressed and irritable for one or two weeks before their menstrual period each month.

What exactly is a depressive disorder?

Depressive disorders have been with mankind since the beginning of recorded history. In the Bible, King David, as well as Job, suffered from this affliction. Hippocrates referred to it as melancholia, which literally means black bile. Black bile, along with blood, phlegm, and yellow bile were the four humors (fluids) that described the basic medical physiology theory of that time. It is also referred to as clinical depression, has been portrayed in literature and the arts for hundreds of years, but what do we mean today when we refer to a depressive disorder? In the 19th century, it was seen as an inherited weakness of temperament. In the first half of the 20th century, Freud linked the development of depressive feelings to guilt and conflict. John Cheever, the author and a modern sufferer of depressive disorder, wrote of conflict and experiences with his parents as influencing his development of the disease.

The symptoms that help a doctor identify the disorder include:
* constant feelings of sadness, irritability, or tension
* decreased interest or pleasure in usual activities or hobbies
* loss of energy, feeling tired despite lack of activity
* a change in appetite, with significant weight loss or weight gain
* a change in sleeping patterns, such as difficulty sleeping, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much
* restlessness or feeling slowed down
* decreased ability to make decisions or concentrate
* feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or guilt
* thoughts of suicide or death

If you are experiencing any or several of these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor about whether you are suffering. From chronic illnesses such as heart disease to pain perception, sex, and sleep.

Sexual Problems - Learn how medicines can affect sexual desire and sexual performance.
Sleep Problems - Find out how this disease disturbs sleep and get some effective tips to help your sleep problems. Warning Signs

Learn more about suicide, including who is at risk, warning signs, and when to call for medical assistance.

Once the disease has progressed to a severe enough level that the illness must be treated. The calls for assistance weren't answered and now the chance to solve the problem is fading. Medications and therapy combine for a working treatment. Also available are support groups that can help. You can also find many natural herbal medications that have been proven effective in clinical studies. The good news is that very effective treatments are available to help those who are depressed. However, only about one-third of those who are depressed actually receive treatment. This is unfortunate since upwards of 80-90% of those who do seek treatment can feel better within just a few weeks. Some believe that depression is the result of a personal weakness or character flaw. This is simply not true. Like diabetes, heart disease, or any other medical condition.

Help is out there no matter the type is affecting someone. Seek medical help if you or anyone you know shows signs. We have more great articles for you to browse, why not check them out!

Japanese Lacquer Ware Tells An Ancient Love Story

There is a fascinating story to be discovered through a piece in Jacqueline Avant's fine art works collection. This has involved a vintage collection of mostly pre-modern Japanese lacquer wares on display in southern California not very long ago. The images which have been engraved on several beautiful pieces in the Avant Collection include references to the literature of the courts. Interpretations of poems appear on lacquer regularly from the 13th century to the present time. The Six Immortals (872-945 AD) in the preface to the "Kokinshu" anthology form the basis for early literary quotes in lacquer. By the 18th century, images from poetry about the seasons of romance, themes from court fiction, or images from noh drama held an important presence among lacquer designs. When the Avant Ono no Komachi "suzuribako" was produced, layers of reference had accumulated around a theme like Komachi's. Therefore, the sad story of Ono no Komachi is indeed an interesting one to reflect upon.

Komachi lived a life that became a legend in her own time and has grown since in popular fascination. She was a stunning beauty of a young woman. A number of interested young men attempted to gain her favor. However, Komachi was not interested in any of the men who tried to pursue her. According to the mythology which surrounded her, she informed one suitor that if he came to visit her one hundred times only then would she allow him his earnest wish. This man was madly in love with Komachi, so he agreed to the arrangement. After many visits, he began to feel confident about his chance of success in the end. Then there came a night when one of his parents died. He was summoned away for a time of mourning, so he could not visit Komachi on that occasion. When he returned to her, she promptly rejected him. Later, this man also died in a great soul-wrenching depression which was caused by the cruel way his lover had treated him. Consequently, Komachi spent the rest of her life alone. She lived beyond the age of one hundred as a destitute, old hag. Despite the enormous legend, there is very little in Ono no Komachi's original poetry to give details about her biography. There are poetic subjects of the spurning of a lover and the lifelong regrets about her fading beauty. In the end, her beauty was lost forever.

The design on one suzuribako- a container of brushes, ink stone, and ink stick -illustrates the famous Ono no Komachi at age one hundred in a Japanses play called "Komachi at the Gateway Temple." On the night of Tanabata, a celebration of the meeting of two constellations on the seventh night of the seventh lunar month, a priest from the temple Sekidera and his servant come near a hut near the mountains. The aged woman, known as "the ruin of Komachi," is supposed to reside there. This priest brings along children who are interested in the study of classic poetry. Their purpose is to request the interpretation of two of her very famous poems. One poem goes like this: "This abandoned house, shining in the mountain village. How many night has autumn spent there? Seeing the moonlight, spilling down through the trees, My heart fills to the brim with autumn." (Translation by Jane Hirshfield and Mariko Aratami).

On the elegant lid of this container, Komachi smiles and reveals her rotted teeth. She is seated upon a straw raincoat and watching the moon over the faraway mountains. Her kimono is wrapped around her body in a loose way. The wardrobe also bears dragon roundels over a diaper pattern. All of these aspects make up a formal design that dates back to her noteworthy past in the imperial court of Japan. However, those glorious days are long gone in this sad portrait of an old woman with little comfort left in life. On this box her hut is situated before a brushwood fence with young pine trees in the front and a bamboo grove in the back. Both of these types of plants are symbolic in Japan of endurance through adversity. On the outer face of the box lid, the moon and clustered chrysanthemums are springing from a basket to Komachi's side. There are indicators of an early autumn which is in harmony with the seventh lunar month. It is interesting to remember that chrysanthemums likewise are symbolic of long life. This engraved portrait is a powerful reminder of the famous story of this once beautiful, young woman.... and her tragic, bitter fate.

Japanese lacquer collections are worth the time to study thoroughly, and then to reflect upon. In addition to their timeless beauty, they create a profoundly Asian atmosphere simply because of their historical reference. The Avant Collection is something only for the serious, wealthy collector to be sure. However, there are likely many fine replicated pieces which would suit your home or office very well. Take some time to learn what is available. You may be happily surprised!

PTSD And The Connection Between Anxiety and Depression

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is typically categorized as an anxiety disorder, but the symptoms also include any form of depression disorder as well. The relationship between anxiety, depression, and PTSD is so strong that many people are misdiagnosed with any form of anxiety or any form of depression disorders. It is also interesting to note that many people are diagnosed, or misdiagnosed with personality disorders as opposed to PTSD. This is probably because anxiety makes you high strung and depression makes you slow down. The two are at odds with one another.

I believe that Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is more of a stress disorder and is the umbrella disorder that encompasses depression and anxiety. If you have PTSD, you naturally have all of the symptoms of both depression and anxiety disorders in addition to other symptoms. In fact, the other symptoms of PTSD can produce anxiety and depression, which makes it all a big revolving door.

For example, someone who suffers from PTSD can experience a trigger about their experience. Any sight, smell, sound, or thought that is related to trauma can trigger a particular feeling or memory. These can very shocking and upsetting to the person, which, in addition to other reactions like anger and rage, causes an abundance of stress. Stress, in turn leads to the hyper vigilant and hyper aroused response, which can produce physical symptoms like hyperventilation or heart palpitations. When a certain stress threshold has been reached in someone who has PTSD, the person is hyperventilating, their heart is going 90 miles and hour, this is called anxiety and the person is apt to experience panic attacks.

Anxiety inevitably translates into depression in someone who has PTSD. When stress levels are high and the person is on overload, their nervous system will disengage by causing the person to become very spacey. This is called dissociation, or disengaging and it is a physical symptom as well as an emotional one. As the person dissociates, they do tend to calm down, however, depression is never very far behind. As the limbic system, the brain, and the body relaxes, so does the hyper vigilant response and the surge of hormones that engage the fight or flight response. Mentally, it's like letting the air out of a balloon. Can you see how this is a revolving cycle in someone who has this disorder?

It's no wonder that so many people are diagnosed with multiple conditions, put on multiple medications that counteract one another, and are treated for the wrong conditions. PTSD is an anxiety disorder and a depression disorder. It is a unique condition that presents equal and opposite symptoms. The constant oscillation between depression and anxiety is exhausting and makes no sense to people that do not understand this disorder. The good news is that once you learn how to relate one symptom to another in a way that makes logical sense to you, you are in a better position to minimize these up and downs and regain your equilibrium.

Depression Commonly Mistaken for Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

A wide variety of chronic disorders of suspected neurological causes such as Fibromyalgia (FMS) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFIDS) involve the existence of symptoms such as sadness, fatigue, anxiety and confusion, symptoms that generally occur in patients with depression. However, after conducting a series of medical investigations, scientists have revealed the fact that lots of patients with clear signs of depression have been misdiagnosed with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome over the last few years, even if they showed no other symptoms characteristic to the mentioned syndromes. Medical scientists explain that due to poor understanding of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, the risk of confusing FMS and CFIDS with depression and other treatable psychological conditions (which rarely involve symptoms similar to FMS and CFIDS - generalized fatigue, intense, recurrent muscular pain, joint rigidity) is very high.

By revealing the fact that most patients with depression are still inappropriately diagnosed with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, the recent medical research has suggested that the incidence of FMS and CFIDS may actually be lower than previously thought. Today's overwhelming number of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome cases registered especially in the female population may be inaccurate, researchers suspecting that the number of such cases is in fact considerably lower.

Medical scientists state that most cases of misdiagnosed depression occur due to imprecise criteria of diagnosing neuropsychological disorders. According to neurologists and psychiatrists, the symptoms of depression can resemble the clinical manifestations of fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome. Such symptoms comprise fatigue and states of muscular weakness, with the difference that in patients with FMS and CFIDS they occur purely due to neurological causes, while in patients with depression the symptoms are self-induced. In fact, neurologists and psychiatrists claim that fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and depression are somehow related. They inform that although patients with depression rarely develop fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, patients with FMS or CFIDS can eventually be faced with depression.

In order to reduce the number of future cases of misdiagnosed depression, medical scientists have come up with more elaborate criteria of diagnosis. In the absence of major FMS or CFIDS indicators and with conclusive evidence of the presence of the following signs in patients, medical scientists believe that depression can be timely and accurately diagnosed. The specific criteria that should be used to diagnose depression include: indisposition and depressed moods, loss of interest in hobbies, feelings of guilt and worthlessness, decreased concentration and rational judgment, fatigue, changes in sleep patterns (decreased or increased sleep), unexpected changes in body weight (unintentional weight gain or loss), suicidal thoughts.

The existence of such manifestations points to depression when the symptoms are not caused by medications or existing mental illnesses and their occurrence isn't linked with a recent tragic event (death of a loved one). If patients also experience muscular pain, ongoing state of fatigue and joint stiffness, but the symptoms are of psychological nature (they are self-induced, having no concrete medical background), then the existence of fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome can be excluded.

What is Bipolar Anxiety - Is Bipolar Anxiety Dangerous?

As defined in Wikipedia: "Bipolar anxiety or disorder is a psychiatric diagnosis that describes a category of mood disorders defined by the presence of one or more episodes of abnormally elevated mood clinically referred to as mania or, if milder, hypomania. Individuals who experience manic episodes also commonly experience depressive episodes or symptoms, or mixed episodes in which features of both mania and depression are present at the same time. These episodes are usually separated by periods of "normal" mood, but in some individuals, depression and mania may rapidly alternate, known as rapid cycling. Extreme manic episodes can sometimes lead to psychotic symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations."

Explanation of the above paragraph in plain English:
For most people there are times when they feel anxious or stressed. This is a normal occurrence in our lives at some point in time. This type of anxiety or stress is not usually harmful. For those who let the anxiety take over their lives the situation can become serious if not properly treated and dealt with.

For some they experience depression and mood swings that become quite severe. It affects their thinking and can interfere with their personal relationships. They may have difficulty concentrating and performing their daily duties. Those people may be suffering from bipolar anxiety.

It is not uncommon for someone who suffers from severe anxiety to also be bipolar. The combination of these two disorders can be devastating to their lives. They may find that if they suffer from bipolar anxiety they will not be able to hold down a job or contribute anything to friendships they have formed with others. It is very important for those who suffer from bipolar anxiety get help to overcome the problem. Only then will they be able to live a normal and happy life.

Most people who are bipolar will also suffer from anxiety. It seems the two most often go together. It is often difficult for doctors to diagnose bipolar anxiety because either disorder can mimic the other.

If you suffer from panic attacks and experience significant fear, followed by periods of severe depression it is a good sign that you suffer from bipolar anxiety. Often symptoms will develop in children and grow worse with age.

A person who suffers from bipolar anxiety may find that it is difficult to get a good night's sleep. They may experience fear that they will not wake up or that something bad will happen to them while they are asleep. They may go to great lengths to avoid sleeping because of their fear. Often those who suffer from bipolar anxiety will pace the floor to ward off the sleep.

People who suffer from bipolar anxiety may also attempt to commit suicide because they feel this is the only way to get out of their situation. Many feel that life is hopeless and nothing is going to get any better for them. If the disorder gets this bad it is extremely important to get help.

You may need to consult your doctor to get the help you need to cope with both bipolar and anxiety. Often medication can be of considerable help. You should also find a friend or a coach that you can confide in. Talking your way through and episode may help give you the confidence you need to take control.

Try to determine what causes you to feel anxious or depressed. Often you will find that there are certain triggers that bring on an attack. Recognizing those triggers can help you to either avoid them or prepare for them. The worst thing that you can do is to try and keep everything bottled up inside.

Many people also find that certain relaxation techniques will be very helpful in combating the symptoms of a bipolar anxiety attack. Deep breathing exercises may help because it takes your mind off of what is bothering you. Taking a walk can also help. Getting outside and enjoying nature is a great way to relax and take stock of your life.

If you suffer from bipolar anxiety the worst thing you can do is nothing. Seek the help that you need to help you deal with the problem. In the end you will be glad you did.

Diet and Depression - Nourish Your Body to Heal Your Mind

How many people do you know who are on a diet? How many people do you know who are on anti-depressants? Is there a link?

Without question there is a link between food and mood which any mother of a 4 year old with a handful of M&M's can tell you. She can also describe her own sugar fueled mood swings. But beyond those daily ups and downs, food has a powerful effect on how we feel emotionally over longer terms and if we consistently eat poorly we will suffer from low energy, lack stamina, have brain fog and just feel awful. So awful that we may be tempted to find a pill for relief.

You are what you eat. Most people understand that if they eat highly processed, sugar filled, nutrient depleted "dead" foods, they will feel dead. However, many health conscious dieters don't realize that in striving for an ideal weight and depriving themselves of fresh, whole foods in favor of imitation "diet foods," they may be setting themselves up for a bout of depression.

Julia Ross, a clinical psychologist and an expert on the treatment of eating disorders and addictions, sees a connection between the skyrocketing rates of depression and the diet obsession in this country. She notes that we are 100 times more depressed than we were in 1900 and that fully 50% of Americans over the age of 14 are experiencing "significant debilitating depression and/or anxiety." You should find that shocking.

At the same time, she says, our diets have deteriorated to the point of "epidemic malnutrition." Processed foods did not become widespread until after World War II in the 1950's. Statistics show that in 1965, after the processed food industry had been going strong for about 10 years, the average U.S. woman was deficient in 3 nutrients, and by 1990 that deficiency had risen to 13 nutrients. Part of the problem can be traced back to the Twiggy phenomenon starting in the 1960's that led women to slash fat and calories from their diets. Compounding the problem was the introduction in the 1970's of high fructose corn syrup and similar sweeteners that are twice as sweet as sucrose and twice as addictive. This combination led to women wanting to starve themselves for the waif look but unable to resist hi-carb processed foods containing addictive high fructose corn syrup that made them fat.

The first sign of malnutrition may not be physical hunger, but what Ross, author of The Mood Cure, calls "false moods." Some people become irritable or quick to anger, sometimes even becoming violent. Other people exhibit signs of depression, becoming apathetic or having no energy, become shaky, teary and unable to deal with stress. Still others are overwhelmed by anxiety.

Diet is essential to correcting mood disorders, especially protein, which is brain food. However, protein has come under attack in recent years particularly protein from animal sources. Many are quick to say "Oh, I don't eat red meat anymore." However, for many people, protein, and especially animal protein, can make them feel strong, alert, confident and powerful. And as people eliminate or cut back on animal protein, many fail to find a replacement vegetarian protein source and end up just increasing carbohydrates, often the processed version. To stabilize mood, Ross recommends that everyone get at least 25 to 30 grams of protein per meal as compared to 18 to 20 recommended by many diets.

How do you avoid falling into the trap of these false moods? Start with a whole foods diet that sustains stable blood sugar for the longest time possible. This means striving for three square meals a day rather than grazing or eating small amounts throughout the day. It also means including saturated fats, high quality protein and lots of fresh vegetables in your diet. After that, some people will be able to add whole grains but others may not, depending on individual sensitivities. It also means avoiding sugar and processed foods, especially carbohydrates.

For people who are already depressed, malnourished and addicted to processed foods and sugar, taking amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and other nutritional supplements to decrease cravings for sugar and high starch foods, may be helpful to maintain a wholesome diet without giving in to cravings.

For those suffering from low moods, depression, anxiety and stress, a natural solution and first line of defense should be a nutrient rich high quality diet, before resorting to anti-depressants and their toxic effects.