Do you have any tricks for fending off depression when it begins to rear its ugly head?
Question:
Answers:
A week or two ago, Father Groeschel on EWTN answered a question from a caller who indicated that he was depressed. Father G. is a psychologist as well as a priest. I don't remember everything he said--however he did emphasize the importance of getting enough sleep. He said that people with depression should get 8 hours of sleep every night. He also said that people who suffer from depression should get out of bed as soon as they wake up in the morning--not linger in bed. He said lying in bed only makes the symptoms worse. He also said that getting physical exercise every day is very important for people with depression. These hints are things you can do to get yourself started.
Using thoughts to deal with depression is a good concept, however, I think doing small things with great love or genuine concern for others really can make a difference in driving away bad thoughts.
For example, yes, count your blessings! However, go one step farther and make a list of them and put them on your refirgerator or mirror.
Another idea: send cards or notes to family members or friends whom you have lost contact with. Especially do this for people who are ill or who do not have e-mail. Your card, note, or letter does not have to be lengthy or fancy--but do write down a happy memory or thought for the person you're sending this too. ( You could also send them a newspaper clipping or cartoon that you think they would enjoy.) This will surprise the person you are sending this to and make them happy. However, you should not have any expectations that you will hear anything in return from the person you are writing to. Doing this lets people you haven't seen for awhile that you are thinking of them with kind thoughts. Small things like this can bring great joy! Have a goal to send between three to five of these a week. You will be surprised how good doing this small thing will make you feel!
Definitely find someone to talk to--and don't wait! What about friends, family members, people you can trust in your faith community? Your Community Mental Health Center is a place to call if you feel professional help is needed.
A friend told me once that "suicide is a permanent solution for a temporary problem." How true this is! Whatever you are dealing with, better things are ahead and God has a plan for you! You are on our prayer list!
Other Answers:
masterbation
Think really hard about.antidepressants Excersice. Call a positive person. Get with friends who are funny. Do something that makes you feel good about yourself.
I literally force myself to stop being pessimistic (one of my greatest faults!). I busy myself with something constructive or creative - for example writing to my swindling bank to claim back all the unfair charges they have imposed or making my friend a birthday or hello card. If I can stop the "what if's" I can prevent depression from taking over.
exercise is probably a good idea.. doesn't have to been a total workout.. even a nice walk in a park or along the shoreline would be nice.. get together with friends or family.. the worst thing to do is be alone.. also meds help alot.. been suffering from depression for over 10 yrs now.. good luck
If I feel depressed I like to talk to my best friend. If she is not available put on some good music and just dance to the music and relax. Last but not the least read the Bible and Pray God can do anything no matter what your religion. Physical exercise is pretty effective.
Usually the cause of depression is a chemical imbalance.
doing exercises does increase the "happy" chemical
if you already smoke, that does too
antidepressants of course but should be carefully selected based on your chemical imbalance
Sunlight slightly increases them
personally, i have clinical depression, so i take paxil it works very effectively
I use affirmations: God's love fills my life with every good thing. I am well, prosperous, wise and free.
I don't have to reject myself if I've made a mistake.
There is enough time to do everything I want to do
Peace be still, no need to rush.
More Questions and Answers
- Anybody taken exstacy before?
- Does anyone have any practical ,self-taught methods of coping with depression?
- Anyone got a cure for the blues?
- How do I write an addendum to my yearly review?
- Do you think a psychiatrist is responsible if there patient commits suicide and how so?
- Why do I have this recurring feeling that everybody around me is enjoying life more than I am ?
- How to be more masculine?
- Does anyone have a child on Straterra that can give me any pros or cons of their progress? Any side effects?