ÒPOST HOLIDAY BLUES?Ó
The fact that the holidays are
over, weÕre all back to the humdrum of daily routines and weÕre still facing
two very solid months of winter can seem depressing to even the most light
hearted. Unfortunately there are those who will slip into a more serious
depression during this time of year, in fact if truthful with themselves they
are somewhat depressed year round but manage their symptoms well until the
darker colder days of winter set in. Whatever the reason for the depression understanding
and relieving the cause will ease the symptoms.
Most do not care if they understand
the definition of depression; they just beg it to be gone. Ordinary depression,
a sad or down mood usually caused by everyday stress is not something out of
the norm. Your human, itÕs to be expected. When the body, psyche, or spirit is
not given the time or tools to readjust, the mounting pressures of everyday
life can trigger a more deep-seated problem. What first triggers a more serious
depression in a person can vary greatly as there are many causes. Some of the
more common causes are serious physical disorders, chronic disease, thyroid
disorders, endometriosis and allergies.
We all have our dark days, and
times when we feel depressed due to death, illness, divorce or other losses we
may experience. Some of the symptoms of depression include chronic fatigue,
insomnia, excessive sleep, loss of appetite or eating to fill a void, headache,
feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy, inability to focus or maintain daily
schedules and routines. If you find that your weeks slipping by, and you just
canÕt cope, itÕs time to seek professional help.
Seeking professional counseling is
always wise if you have resorted to medications to manage your mood. Other
natural alternatives can be added to your regime that in the long run will help
you banish your dark mood for good. Many physicians choose to use the newer
antidepressant medications on the market, they do work to relieve symptoms-
then it is up to you to resolve the issues that are the real driver of your
depression.
A close look at the diet is always
a good place to start. If we want to enhance the brainsÕ ability to carry
neurotransmitted messages we need to literally eat brain food. Complex
carbohydrates and high quality proteins raise the levels of neurotransmitters
available and have a calming affect on the brain. Consume more carbohydrates
than protein if you are nervous and need to calm down, eat more proteins than
carbohydrates if you are tired and need to feel more alert. Beware of sugar
highs, fatigue and more depression will quickly accompany their intake.
Other useful tips and tools:
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Exercise, exercise, exercise!
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Stick with your routine, but allow for more short
breaks or even power naps.
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Get a massage, no armoring can withstand the power of
touch
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Bolster up friendships
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Resolve any past issues of anger or resentment
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Dump the junk food
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B vitamins are extremely important in treatment of
depression
Normal ups and downs happen to
everyone, but if your mood turns to one of depression you have nothing to feel
shameful or guilty about. Help is available; itÕs up to you to reach out. Till
next time, Rebecca.
1/17/08