This is the final installment of this series on ten ways to live a healthy lifestyle. Managing depression is actually #7 on our list. Over the course of the last eighteen months, we have randomly selected one of the ten elements to address to our readers.
I visit my neurologist every three months. After the initial question, How are you doing? comes, Are you depressed? To the first, I could say, well doctor, I have discomfort in my joints in the morning, and continue with a list of things that are just not perfect
That answer, or anything close to that answer is not who I am. Not one to complain, my answer always is, I am doing well, thanks. To the second after smiling or a few times I actually caught myself laughing aloud before answering with a stern "NO."
I'm sure the good doctor sees may patients who are depressed and say so. Likewise, there are those certainly who may not consider themselves depressed, but may be so.
One in six people have experienced depression in their lives. Think about your friends and people you know. One in six makes this an important issue in our society.
If you are a caregiver for a person who has a history of depression, here are the symptoms.
- Lack of interest in normal activities
- Feeling hopeless
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Low energy level and tiredness
- Trouble sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Decreased sexual energy
- Feeling of worthlessness
What can you do to manage depression? Modify your diet. Buy fresh fruits and vegetables. Eat as healthy as possible. Start a regular exercise program. Begin slow and build as you get stronger. Spend time outside especially in the sun. Nature is the best kind of therapy. Get sufficient rest. Be active socially. Keep a journal, even if you don't like to write.
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