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Monday, April 5, 2010

Digging Your Way Out of Depression


By Jamie Hayden
Depression is a very common illness that can affect anyone regardless of their age, race, status or gender. Many factors can cause a person to become depressed such as genetics, life events, social and family environment and medical conditions. Depression can be a life threatening condition and shouldn't be taken lightly. Severely depressed individuals can sometimes develop suicidal thoughts and professional help must be sought out immediately in these cases. If however, you find yourself mildly depressed or sad, here are a few helpful tips to help you dig yourself out of it.
1. Develop a Hobby. Depression is often accompanied by feelings of low self-worth; a great way of combating this is to develop a healthy hobby. Hobbies can be altruistic, pleasurable and constructive and can help you achieve a sense of accomplishment, satisfaction helping to raise your self-esteem.
2. Maintain a Positive Attitude. Hard as it may seem, always try to look at the optimistic side of things. When we're depressed we tend to focus on the negative and anticipate failure. It may comfort you to know that the brain cannot maintain two conflicting thoughts at the same time, so when you're feeling blue, try to think of something pleasant that gives you joy - go for a walk, do something you enjoy and you'll soon find your mood changing.
3. Evaluate your Life. External factors such as a failing relationship or job dissatisfaction can sometimes cause you to be depressed. For example if you're in a bad relationship with an abusive partner it's time to stop and evaluate your situation. Ask yourself if this situation can change for the better, be realistic in your expectations and if you feel your circumstances won't change then it may be time to get out. The same applies with a job you may be unhappy in. Try to work on any problems you may have in your personal or professional life and resolve them with the help and support of friends and family.
4. Build a Support Group. Many times when we're depressed we tend to isolate ourselves from others, this is counterproductive. Try to make new friends, re-establish contact with members of your family, surrounding yourself with others can be a very effective antidote or cure for depression.
5. Create Balance in Your Life. Balance is vital in life, if you feel overwhelmed with the pace of your life it's time to step back and take a look at how you spend your time. Setting aside some time for exercise is very beneficial in preventing and curing feelings of depression. Regular exercise can improve your mood and alleviate negative feelings while making you healthier and fit. Try to choose an activity you enjoy that makes you feel good.
Jamie likes to write on an assortment of subjects and has been doing so for numerous years. His newest web page is http://sonicaretoothbrushes.org which supplies folks with information on the Sonicare Advance toothbrush.

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