Depression
Depression is a word used to describe a range of moods, from low spirits we all have occasionally, to a severe problem that interferes with everyday life.
There are positive, natural ways of dealing with it, providing you recognize the signs and act as quickly as possible.
The longer treatment is delayed , the worse depression is likely to get and the longer treatment will take to have a full effect.
Depression can fall into the following categories:
Reactive depression - triggered by a trauma such as divorce, bereavement, redundancy, serious illness or accident. Helped by counselling and loving family and friends, this type of depression usually lightens with time.
Endogenous depression - a more severe depression that has more to do with a person's psychological make-up. Moods tend to be worse at the start of the day and can be marked with guilt and self doubt.
Manic depression - severe mood swings from elation to utter despair, also from excessive energy to lethargy. Can also experience hallucinations or delusions.
Post-natal depression - also known as 'baby blues' this affects 50 per cent of new mothers and can occur between the third to tenth day after birth. It is thought to be caused by the sudden drop in oestrogen and progesterone, it usually doesn't last long but quick treatment is vital to avoid a deeper longer-lasting depression.
Masked depression
- usually the same as a reactive depression except the person appears to be happy and presents a smiling face to everyone, while often complaining of physical problems such as lack of energy or appetite. This can be a very dangerous depression if not recognized.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) - a winter depression triggered by lack of light. In the spring the depression lifts but returns at the start of winter. The best treatment is to be outside in natural light as much as possibleor to have light therapy using a light box.
A wide range of alternative therapies can help depression.
Herbal antidepressants such as St John's wort can raise the spirits, and have become a popular alternative to antidepressants.
Healing and relaxation therapies such as Reiki or Tai Chi can be very soothing.
Homeopathy using Bach flower remedies such as Rescue Remedy can also be useful. Counselling is also a valuable aid and as with all common ailments, a good well-balanced diet, regular exercise and plenty of sleep will aid recovery.
The good news is that 90 per cent of people suffering from depression can be effectively treated if caught in time.
Recognizing early signs can help you take preventative action to stop depression from taking hold.
Signs to look out for include Tiredness or lethargy, loss of appetite, agitation, restlessness, insomnia. wanting to sleep all the time, urge to cry for no reason, feeling unable to cope, loss of libido, forgetfulness, poor concentration, feeling of worthlessness.
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