Old Age and Depression

Depression is an illness that causes constant feelings of sadness. It is also known as clinical depression or major depression. Bouts of depression can affect the cognitive abilities of an individual. It is not just about emotional issues, but can also lead to significant physical issues. People with depression experience an overbearing sense of meaninglessness, and find it difficult to carry out simple routine tasks.

The feeling of sadness is common. The depressed state is experienced by every individual during their lifetime. Depression is a transitory phase, however for those affected by clinical depression might have problems with their daily life. According to medical dictionary depression means "a mental state or chronic mental disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, loneliness, despair, low self-esteem, and self-reproach; accompanying signs include psychomotor retardation (or less frequently agitation), withdrawal from social contact, and vegetative states such as loss of appetite and insomnia."

Old age can give an individual more reason to feel depressed. In old age a person is confronted with issues like financial crisis, death of partner, diminished ability to work, old age related health issues, and above all lack of attention from kin. Elders do not stay depressed all the time, 1 in 30 elders are prone to illness caused by depression.
Some common signs of Depression:

There is no specific sign for depression in old age, it is same as found in youth with depression. Old people, unlike youth, are prone to under-report the symptoms of depression for e.g. they may not acknowledge being depressed or low.

Below is the list of few symptoms that can help in identifying the chances of chronic depression.
• Feelings of worthlessness and meaninglessness of life
• Feelings of exhaustion without any visible cause i.e. getting tired frequently
• Weight loss and loss of appetite
• Restlessness
• Feelings of restricting social contacts
• Irritability with people and other issues
• Lack of sleep
• Feelings of guilt
• Lack of focus
• Loss of self confidence.

There are other physical illnesses that can give symptoms similar to depression for e.g. lack of sleep and loss of appetite can also be caused by health issues related to thyroid gland. Depressed elders are more prone to feel so when they have physical health issues. However, treating depression will not let an individual deal with these issues, but can make these physical ailments much bearable. There are various aged care support facilities today that give specialized care to elders with depression.

In the next article we will talk about the particular issues related to depression in elders, and ways to treat them.

Kadji the Care provide elderly care services, it is a unique care home in Gujarat, that lays special emphasis on the overall well being of an individual.

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Am I Sad or Depressed?

Do you experience any of the following?:

Lack of sleep or too much of it
Can't focus and finish tasks
Hopeless and Helpless
Too many negative thoughts
No appetite or eating too much
Thoughts that life is not worth living

Feelings of sadness, loneliness, disappointment etc. are nothing but natural human emotions. Depression on the other hand is an intense and persistent feeling of hopelessness and worthlessness. It affects our daily life and those who are around us. We basically lose interest in life and everything that is related to it.

Depression varies in every case. Each person is a unique case but there are common signs to all. It is important to note that all signs of depression are part of normal human existence. But the more intense the symptoms the more one is prone to depression. We should always remember that the basis of any disorder is its severity and intensity. Also, time is always an important factor so seek help immediately.

These are the signs of Depression according to DSM IV TR:

- Depressed mood most of the day, nearly everyday
- Diminished interest or pleasure in all, or almost all, activities most of the day,
nearly everyday
- Insomnia (lack of sleep) or hypersomnia (too much sleep) nearly everyday
- Psycho motor agitation or retardation nearly everyday
- Fatigue or loss of energy nearly everyday
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt nearly everyday
- Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness, nearly everyday
- Recurrent thoughts of death, recurrent suicidal ideation without specific plan,
or a suicide attempt or a specific plan of committing suicide

Depression takes a lot of our energy and zest for life and this makes it more difficult for us to do what needs to be done to be better. Overcoming depression it not an easy task or journey. We cannot do it by only will power; we need some level of control. The secret is to begin with simple and small steps and then build your core from there. Feeling better requires time, but for us to be there we need to make positive choices for ourselves TODAY. Yes, it is difficult but it is definitely NOT IMPOSSIBLE.

For a start, do not aim for big results, just keep focused on the small things of everyday life, those that are within our reach and within our resources. Take time to appreciate yourself for each accomplishment. It may be small, but they will soon add up. All your efforts will bear fruit someday.

Here are some helpful tips in coping with Depression:

1) Build Relationships

Surround yourself with people you love and trust. It is not easy for someone who is under depression. The mere thought of reaching out can be exhausting but to remain in isolation will make the situation worse. You may feel too exhausted to talk, but just gather your energy and remind yourself that you need this, that these people care for you and wants to help.

Who are they?

a) Family Members - No one will ever love and understand us than our family. Never hesitate to ask help from them.
b) Trusted Friends - Next to our family, they are the ones who knows us best. The things that we hide from our family are revealed to our friends. There are certain things that only a trusted friend can do.
c) Participate in Social Activities - it is very difficult for someone who is depressed to do this. You don't have to enjoy the activity, just force yourself to be there.
d) Join a Support Group for Depression - Being surrounded with people who share the same problem will make the task a bit easier and makes you feel that you are not alone. You can also be inspiration to each other.

2) Think Positive

When you're depressed everything around and inside you is negative. Thinking positive is not enough to conquer your pessimistic mind set. You must change negative thoughts with more realistic and balanced thoughts.

What are the ways?

a) Think outside of yourself - imagine yourself saying those negative thoughts about you to someone else. How would you feel? Don't be too hard on yourself. Change those negative statements with a more realistic description.
b) Allow yourself to be less than perfect - most of depressed persons are perfectionists, they set high (impossible) expectations on themselves and beat themselves when they fail. Challenge yourself to think that it is okay to fail and that you are not perfect and no one is.
c) Be with positive people - even if you don't feel like being with them, try to emulate their optimism and positivity in outlook amidst difficulty.
d) Log your negative thoughts - list all your negative thoughts during the day. Review it when you feel a bit in a good mood. Rephrase those statements into positive on the other side of the paper/journal.

3) Love Yourself

How can you expect others to love and take care of you when you yourself is not giving it to yourself. To overcome depression you need to plan activities that will enhance your lifestyle.

a) Have 8 hours of sleep - Sleeping problems is one of the signs of depression. Go get enough, take note, only enough sleep is needed.
b) Be in the sun everyday - Lack of sunlight aggravates depression. Have at least 15 minutes of sunlight a day, for example, go for a walk or jog in the park.
c) Keep away from Stress - Stress can trigger depression. Make a list of your stressors and make a plan on how to avoid them.
d) Relax - Relaxation time everyday may reduce depression and boost your well-being. You can try yoga, meditation or just some quiet time.
e) Have a pet - Nothing can replace human connection but it won't hurt to have a pet. Pets bring joy and companionship which is vital in overcoming depression. It will also enhance your capacity to care. The feeling of being needed and caring outside yourself is a powerful motivation to overcome depression.
f) Do things that you enjoy - For someone who is under depression this may be hard, but just list the things that you used to enjoy and force yourself to do it even if you don't like it.

4) Exercise

This may be the last thing on your mind when you're depressed but exercise is a very big help in dealing with depression. Studies show that regular exercise is an effective antidepressant.
Have a 30 minute exercise everyday, even if you have to drag yourself, DO IT! Here are some easy ways to exercise:

Take the stairs
Park in the farthest part and walk
Walk with your dog
Find a partner (for exercise)

5) Healthy Food

Do not skip meals because being hungry will make you irritable and tired. Maintain a balanced diet.

6) Ask for HELP

Never hesitate to ask professional help if you find your depression getting worse. Do not be afraid, depression can be treated and you will be better!

If you have questions / queries or just need someone to talk to, feel free to contact our counselors at 866-321-4188 or email us at affordableonlinecounseling@gmail.com

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Six of the Common Causes Related to Depression

A wide range of factors are likely to be involved when it relates to a case of depression. Research hasn't been able to pinpoint any particular cause for a person to experience depression. It is generally believed that the environment and genes can both have a role in how someone acts and behaves. Below are some of the main causes that are linked to depression:

Genetics: In many cases there are indications that depression is in part inherited, and can run in the family. Although, there is likely to be just as many people who have depression, but have no history of this condition in the family. At present, it hasn't been possible to report on any specific genes that might relate to the onset of depression in a family.

Low quality nutrition: If a poor or unhealthy diet is consumed this is a further contributing factor for depression. A diet that lacks the recommended daily intake of minerals and vitamins is likely to cause some of the symptoms that relate to depression. Also, if they diet lacks the required omega-3 fatty acids, then this has been associated with a higher chance of suffering from depression. A high intake of sugar is a further concern, and this is often linked with the onset of depression.

Medical Illnesses: A further area that is associated with depression is from experiencing a significant medical illness or injury. If a patient is likely to experience chronic stress as a consequence of an illness, this can go on to cause a major episode of depression. Also, there are a variety of illnesses, like liver disease, Addison's disease, and thyroid disorders, there are able to give similar symptoms as seen with depression.

Legal and recreational drugs: It is often reported that a great number of legal or illegal drugs are able to cause a range of symptoms that go on to cause a mild or major episode of depression.

Stressful events: When a person starts to experience a life event that is very stressful and starts to become overwhelming, this has the potential to start the onset of depression. It is often reported that the cortisol hormone is secreted in those times of high stress, and this might help with inducing an episode of depression.

Loss and grief: A further area where an episode of depression might be experienced relates to those times of suffering a loss or death in the family. Even though it is a normal response to experience grief throughout this time, for some the stress that is related to this loss is often found to cause a major case of depression.

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Beat Depression, by Forgiving Your Past

When we are trying to beat depression, the weight of life can just seem too big to carry anymore. We may sincerely wish someone would lighten the load. But at the same time we may be holding on fiercely to old resentments from our past.

In the 1960s Paul Boese wrote, "Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does enlarge the future." And the future that expands does not necessarily belong to those we forgive. It belongs to us. For forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves.

This is nowhere more evident than when we forgive people who have hurt us in the distant past. They may be gone from our lives, or they may even have passed away. But if we don't forgive whatever injury we feel they did to us, we continue to carry it with us, weighing us down with depression and regret.

Acknowledge that we all make mistakes. Imagine the person who hurt you. Was it a real hurt, or just some slight that they were not even aware of at the time? If you are still mad at someone who shot you down in high school, get over it. Think of them, and wish them well. Admit that everyone has been thoughtless at some time, and let it go.

Consider that life may not have been kind to them either. Everyone alive has their share of hardships. You might find that the people you resent actually deserve your pity. And if you open yourself up to feel some of their pain, you can lessen your own. Send them thoughts of kindness, and hope that they find peace.

Send forgiveness to the world. If there just seem to be too many old wounds to heal, try releasing all the pain at once. You can repeat it as a prayer to God, voice it to the universe, but repeat the thought, "I forgive," and send thoughts of kindness to everyone who ever hurt you, even those you don't remember.

Ask for forgiveness for yourself. Whether you come from a religious tradition or not, ask for forgiveness, and allow yourself to receive it. As the Lord's Prayer says, "forgive us... as we forgive." When you have released others from the bonds of your resentment, you can release yourself and your depression as well.

Lastly, forgive yourself. If you have been harboring old wounds, then it is likely you have been carrying a load of your old mistakes right along with them. And chances are that many of your faults are as insignificant as those you held against other people.

Allow yourself to feel uplifted. Imagine all your old anger and sorrow drifting away, and taking your depression with it. You should feel lighter and refreshed. And if you are ever tempted to pick up your old baggage again, know that you are better without it, and let it all go.

A Course in Miracles tells us that "Forgiveness is the key to happiness." Depression and forgiveness cannot exist together. Forgiveness always wins.

For more tips and great information on how to beat depression, check out ClearYourStress.com. You'll also find many guided exercises and meditation methods to relieve stress, connect with your inner wisdom, and enjoy a balanced lifestyle. Visit ClearYourStress.com now to get started.

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It Takes a Village to Beat Depression, So Why Are You Doing It Alone?

Trying to beat depression? Here's a clue: depression and isolation are best buds. If you're down in the dumps, then you probably haven't felt like going out and socializing lately. I get it, I do, but if you really want to nip this depression thing in the bud, then it may be time to re-think your loner strategy. Here are some of the best ways you can make beating depression a group effort.

• Spill it to Someone

Even if you're not the type to blab on and on about your problems to anyone who will listen (and let's hope you're not!), you still need at least one person who you can spill the beans with. Anyone who knows how to deal with stress and depression will tell you that keeping all of your negative emotions to yourself is counterproductive. Of course, you'll want to make sure the person is trustworthy and won't go blabbing themselves, but once you've identified a confidante, go ahead and vent. Just getting things off of your chest and maybe even having a good cry will do wonders for your mood.

• Join a Group

No, I don't mean a support group, (though that's not out of the question either). Any group will do as long as you have a motivation to join. Want to lose weight? Join a weight loss group. Love reading? Sign up a book club. You get the idea-simply being around other people who share a common goal or interest will help you move out from under that dark cloud that's been following you around.

• Volunteer

If you're hyperfocused on learning how to deal with stress or the problems in your life, then you may be overthinking things, which could be contributing to your depressed mood. Volunteering your time and energy to help someone else can help snap you out of this self-centered mindset and give you some perspective. It also has the added benefit of getting you out and about in the community where you can meet other charitable people like yourself!

• Find an Exercise Buddy

If you've done any research at all on how to deal with stress or beat depression, then you know that exercise is a great tool, but you may not have thought that doing it in pairs could have a double effect. It's true! Exercising with someone else can help you forge a positive relationship and give you the chance to socialize a bit while releasing feel-good endorphins. Having an exercise partner also makes you accountable to someone, which means you're likely to get moving more often!

If you've been trying to beat depression alone, then you're neglecting some very important resources-other people! We are social creatures even when we don't feel like it. Embrace this part of yourself and go out there and socialize. Don't wait until you feel better or that time may never come! Do it now and start learning how to deal with stress and depression more effectively.

Check out http://www.clearyourstress.com/ for more tips and great information on how to clear your stress and beat depression.

You'll also find many guided exercises and meditation methods to connect with your inner wisdom, and enjoy a balanced lifestyle >> http://www.clearyourstress.com/beat-depression/.

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Suicide Prevention: Understanding Self Harm

Understanding Self Harm

Self Harm is a way of expressing or dealing with pain. It is a battle, one of the worst kinds of battles, because you're fighting yourself. Self-harm isn't something that should be romanticised or made into an art, it should be taken more seriously. Injuring yourself is a way of coping with sadness, self-loathing, emptiness, guilt and rage.

Silence and stigma about mental distress, self-harm & attempted suicide only makes things worse. 1 in 4 English people have suffered violence or abuse, greatly increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicide. According to research most self harmers are young women, but young men seem to be on the increase. It is estimated that 10% of 15-16 year olds have self harmed, usually by cutting themselves, whom are most likely to be girls.

Are You Cutting?

If you are cutting or scratching your skin, burning or scalding yourself, hitting yourself or banging your head, preventing wounds from healing or swallowing poisonous substances, these are all symptoms of self harm. The less obvious ways of harming yourself can be driving recklessly, binge drinking, taking too many drugs or having unsafe sex.

You may have noticed signs of self harm, if you're a parent, friend or colleague and are concerned. The amount of sadness someone feels isn't defined by the amount of scars they have. You may of noticed unexplained wounds, blood stains, sharp objects or cutting instruments, frequent accidents, and covering up of arms or legs to hide wounds.

Self harm and eating disorders are not pathetic. Making someone feel so bad about themselves, that they harm their body, that is pathetic. It is a myth, that people that self harm are seeking attention, most people do it in secret. People that self harm are not trying to kill themselves, but deal with pain. But are at much higher risk of suicide than those not self harming.

5 Simple Techniques To Deal With Pain

1) Triggers. Gain awareness of any thoughts, feelings, places or people that trigger you to self harm. Understanding why, can help you to avoid these situations or gain insight into the things that trigger your behaviour.

2) Distractions. A temporary solution that is very effective in the short term. When you experience a trigger find a distraction instead of self harming. It can be something as simple as having a warm bath, calling a friend or going out for a walk. Whatever the distraction technique, make sure it is something you enjoy and have thought about it before. Use your smartphone to keep a list, so you can choose.

3) Express Your Emotions. It is very helpful to have a professional counsellor or therapist who can help you express the painful emotions you are experiencing. If seeking help is too much of a big step for you right now. Share this secret with someone you trust, that will listen or can help signpost you, where to get support.

4) Find a substitute. Some people that self harm experience a release from the cutting sensation. Instead of cutting try a rubber band or pen to create a similar sensation as cutting but without lasting marks. It may help you to express your pain in an alternative way.

5) Stay connected & supported. It is easy to isolate and spend long periods of time alone when self harming. There are many online support networks and resources through social media. If you don't feel like being connected to people you know, you can connect with people you don't know online, who are experiencing similar issues to you and understand how you are feeling.

Ultimately it is ideal to seek professional medical advice if you are self harming or you have concerns about someone you know or suspect of self harming.

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Stress Busting Super Foods From Your Pantry

When we stress, our diets often take a dive for the worse. Additionally, your body produces corticotrophin-releasing hormone, which in turn produce a variety of hormonal responses. Your body is affected by conditions ranging from muscle tension, digestive problems, weight-gain or weight-loss, insomnia and a myriad other symptoms. All this happens because of stress-responses that deplete your body of vital nutrients.

Eat these foods to fight off the symptoms and effects of stress:

• We'll never hear it enough - fruit and vegetables are essential. In addition to being good for your waistline, they also help boost your mood. Potatoes and bananas contain potassium, which is good for your mood, and helps you to cope better. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidant vitamins that help boost your immune system. Broccoli is rich in vitamin K, which enhances your brain function. Beans help manage blood sugar levels and vitamin B that helps with depression caused by stress. Apples, pomegranates and pineapple contain histidine that could help minimize stress. Citrus contains vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and combat stress symptoms.


• Nuts and seeds are versatile and tasty, whether you mix them into your cereal, smoothies, salads or vegetables, or whether you simply snack on them throughout the day.


• Fish is rich in vitamin B3 and omega-3 fatty acids and oysters are rich in zinc.


• Brown rice is a good source of B-vitamins and is low in GI.


• Brewer's yeast has a number of nutrients that are good for the immune system. It can be added to smoothies and cereal.


• Cayenne pepper helps ease anxiety and improve your cardiac helaht.


• Milk is rich in tryptophan, which the liver converts into vitamin B3 to raise serotonin levels. Serotonin helps regulate your appetite, mood and sleep patterns.


• Protein boosts energy and alertness, while also increasing hormone levels, particularly for dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenaline.


• Healthy fats from avocadoes and almonds increase endorphins that make you happy.

Stress and the Modern Diet

Sadly, most people see eating healthily as expensive, or as a chore. Also, with the depletion of nutrients in mass produced food, it has become impossible to obtain all the nutrition we need from readily available foods. For this reason, supplementation has become essential. The body can produce most vitamins in the cells, but minerals have to be consumed from our food, or from mineral supplements, superfoods such as Baobab fruit powder and fulvic acid supplements.

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Symptoms And Treatment Of Seasonal Affective Disorder

Do you tend to feel down in the dumps during the winter? Is it hard to get going in the middle of February? You may think that this is just a natural reaction to the cold and dark, but if you feel unusually depressed during the winter, you may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder.

This disorder, also known as SAD, is a form of depression that afflicts people during certain times of the year. It is most commonly experienced during the winter, but people can suffer from SAD during any season. The defining characteristic of seasonal affective disorder is that it occurs at the same time each year and goes away during other seasons.

SAD can affect anyone, but occurs more commonly among people who live in areas with pronounced changes from season to season. Women tend to suffer from seasonal affective disorder more frequently than men. The disorder most commonly occurs between the ages of 15 and 55. It also tends to run in families, so if you have a close relative who suffers from SAD, you are more likely to suffer from it as well.

The symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include feelings of sadness, irritability, and anxiety, a loss of energy, difficulty focusing on daily activities, and a tendency to eat more and gain weight. You may also find yourself sleeping more and having a hard time staying awake during the day. If you have SAD, your symptoms will recur at the same time each year.

The causes of seasonal affective disorder are unclear, but most researchers believe that the disorder is related to the amount of sunlight. Your body's circadian rhythms are regulated by the amount of daylight. As this changes through the year, your brain may have difficulty regulating your body. In some cases, the levels of serotonin, a chemical in your brain that affects your mood, may be disrupted.

Since the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder overlap with those of depression, distinguishing the two disorders can be difficult. To determine whether or not you are suffering from SAD, your doctor will ask you a number of questions about when your symptoms occur. This way, he can determine whether your symptoms are displaying the seasonal regularity which is diagnostic of this disorder.

One of the most effective treatments for seasonal affective disorder is the use of light therapy. Since the disorder seems to be related to a lack of exposure to sunlight, exposing you to more light can provide relief. There are two main ways in which light is used to treat SAD.

A light box can be used to provide bright light treatment. In the morning, you will sit in front of the box for about half an hour. The other technique is to provide a simulated dawn in the morning. A dim light comes on as you are sleeping, and the light slowly brightens to simulate the sunrise.

Seasonal affective disorder can be difficult to deal with, but there are effective treatments that can provide relief from your symptoms. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned that you are suffering from SAD.

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What Happens When We Are Depressed

When you suffer from depression, you may not just feel low; a number of other symptoms can also affect you:

1. Appetite: You may lose your appetite or develop a tendency for overeating.

2. Concentration: You may have difficulty focusing on things such as listening to music, watching television, reading books, or talking to other people.

3. Energy: You may feel tired all the time, have little energy and not be bothered to do things, or do them only with a lot of effort on your part.

4. Interest: You may lose interest in hobbies and sex, and find that nothing really gives you pleasure anymore.

5.Movement: You or other people may notice that you're moving or speaking much slower than you used to. Or, you may be more fidgety or restless, moving around much more than usual.

6. Self-worth: You may feel that you've let yourself or other people down and feel bad about yourself. You may see yourself as a failure.

7.Sleep: You may find getting to sleep difficult, or you wake up once or more times in the middle of the night or too early in the morning. Alternatively, you may find that you sleep too much, and struggle to get up.

8.Thoughts of self-harm: You may have thoughts that you'd be better off dead, that the world would be better off without you or that life is just not worth living anymore. Or, you may think that you want to hurt yourself in some other way. Such thoughts can be very distressing.

If you recognize any of the above symptoms in yourself-particularly if they've been going on for a couple of weeks or longer, or they're severe, consult your psychiatrist without delay. Various treatments, including talking therapies and medication, are available to you and can be very effective in getting you back on track.

Common reasons for feeling low

If you feel low, this doesn't necessarily mean that you suffer from depression. Here are some other common causes of low mood-which may at times turn into a 'full' depression:

• Bereavement and major life events: A time of mourning is a natural reaction to the death of someone close, and you're bound to feel low for a while, often for weeks, months or even years. Sometimes, other life events such as getting divorced or losing your job can lead to a period of feeling low. Seek medical advice when the death of a close person is affecting you more than you'd expect or when you find that getting back on with your day-to-day life is difficult.


• Illness: Many infectious diseases and chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and osteo- or rheumatoid arthritis can be accompanied by symptoms of depression. If your depressive symptoms last for longer than a couple of weeks or they're very severe, consult your psychiatrist.


• Medication: Certain drugs such as the oral contraceptive pill and blood pressure lowering medication can sometimes make you feel depressed. Check the information sheets that come with any medication that you take for possible effects on your mood, and consult your psychiatrist if you're concerned.


• Stress: Feeling overworked or under pressure at home or work can bring on stress and low mood, particularly when this situation has been going on for a while.

Taking the first step towards getting help if you suffer from symptoms of depression can take a bit of courage. You've got a very good chance of getting better after receiving appropriate treatment, and your psychiatrist should be the first port of call.

Prashant Kukreja is an adept medical content writer for HelpingDoc. The company focuses on providing patients with online appointment booking solutions with top-end doctors of variable expertise. This inherently reduces patients' time and helps doctors too. To book online appointment with the best Psychiatrists in Delhi, browse through http://www.HelpingDoc.com

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How To Use St John's Wort For Depression

One of the most common psychological problems suffered by millions of individuals around the world is depression. Depression is defined as an emotional abnormality characterized by being too sad, to the extent that the body and the mind fail to function correctly. Some studies have shown the St John's wort may actually be helpful in treating depression.

This plant has yellow flowers and has become popular in the United States as a useful weed. It can treat anxiety, mild depression, include positive properties for digestion, and benefits blood circulation.

St John's wort is a type of grass that grows yellow flowers. It has been used for medical purposes for thousands of years now, although strong scientific evidence about the full benefits of this herb wait to be published. However, a big research was conducted to find out whether it can be used against clinical depression.

And positive results came in. It was proven that St John's wort can actually help individuals suffering from minor depression issues. St John's worth supplements, which may come in pills, teas, or liquid forms, are supposed to be taken regularly, more frequently during bouts against depression, to help alleviate the effect of the disease. The common dose is 300 mg daily.

St John's wort works in almost the same manner as prescription antidepressants. Right now, it is the more natural choice for people suffering from the disease. Being so, it is believed to have fewer side-effects than prescription medicines.

A survey was taken among the users of this plant where the level of stress was measured for each people. The most surprising fact of this survey was that people who have used this plant for a short time benefited from unexpected results.

However, taking St John's worth for severe depression is not recommended. The same study indicated that the effect of the herb for severe depression cases is not as potent as it does for mild to moderate cases. As such, people who find it difficult to function physically and mentally because of their condition are encouraged to see their doctors. It was also believed that the herb may possibly interfere with other drugs. Administration must be under the guidance of a medical expert at all times.

This flower possesses the power to change your mood without you any major side-effects. It brings an all round development to your life. It is not recommended using this plant with oral contraceptives, other antidepressants, or serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

Before using this herb, be very careful about St John's wort side effects. Read all about it before taking St John's wort anxiety supplements.

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Waging a War Against Depression Through Exercise

This time of year many people suffer from depression and / or anxiety. It is getting colder outside, it starts to get darker sooner, and the majority of your free time is spent indoors. If you suffer from depression, anxiety or just pure frustration at what's going on in your life - there's good news. Medical Studies have shown that the difference between exercising regularly and doing nothing can have a dramatic effect on your mood, perceived depression and overall outlook on life. Just how much of an effect, and why is exercise overall so important for you to stay happy, let's take a look?

Exercise's benefits are most often connected with the physical effects on your body, but go through an exercise session yourself and you can see right away the effect it has on your overall mood, and actions throughout the day. Just think about this, exercise not only helps you to reduce stress, boost energy, strengthen your heart and muscles, reduce body fat, improves health it also indirectly ward off worry and anxiety. Whether you're worrying about the economy, anxious about possibly losing your job, frustrated with your kids, or even in fear of a speech you have to do the next day, whatever the case exercise can help relieve overzealous feelings and bring you back to center.

Often times, people turn to these "depression" pills you see on TV, or even worse accept depression as a "condition" that they are victim to. While the case is likely to be that they just aren't exercising, getting out of the house, and just dwelling on their own problems. Research has shown time and time again that exercise is an effective, but often underutilized method to help combat depression symptoms. Anyone can get down if they constantly think negative and about their problems rather than positives and solutions. Exercise serves as a great distraction and helps you break out of the downward spiral and onto a new path, often a much brighter path, especially if the exercise you're doing is an outdoor activity. Depression is mostly brought on when you stay in the same place in isolation. For example when you are incessantly in your house and don't get out of your home. Outdoor activity is a wonderful way to brighten your mood and put cheer into your day, this is especially important during the winter when feelings of depression are more common, indoor activity is a great option then.

Or you can get out and join a group of some sort, and make new friends. Joining small study groups at church or spending time with brothers and sisters in Christ socializing and interacting is critical in warding off feelings of depression. Even if you don't feel like exercising at the moment, rest assured as soon as you take that first step, stride or whatever you do your mood will start to improve and you'll want to go further. Just try it; when you're in a really bad mood or just frustrated with life, all you need to do is just grab your iPod and tennis shoes, go for a run, spend time meditating, praying and focusing on all the good things that God has given you and by the end of your run you will totally forget what it was that you were so stressed about.

One of the reasons, is exercise may increase levels of mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain, reduce levels of stress hormones such as cortisol, and give you an outlet for your energy which in turn will also improve your quality of sleep. Plus if you just think about it, knowing that you're doing something positive for yourself, gives you a sense of confidence and accomplishment, which in turn will likely cause you to take more positive actions subsequently.

I know even myself, if I exercise first thing in the day, my day always seems brighter. If I happen to skip an exercise session or wasn't able to fit it in, that day just doesn't seem to run as smoothly. Things seem mentally harder, I'm generally more irritable, and I can sometimes just boil up with frustration at people and the world. So I can attest to the benefits of exercise on your mood from personal experience.

This doesn't have to be anything advanced or even super vigorous. Anything that gets your blood flowing, muscles active and mind off of whatever worries you may have during the day. Whether that's walking, yoga, biking, jogging, swimming or lifting weights, they all provide the same benefits toward stress and depression. And the time period is not as critical, even just 10 minutes at a time can have a positive effect. While you would certainly want to ramp up the time to see optimal effects for both mood and physical fitness, starting anywhere is a great way to break a downward spiral and start going up.

So next time you are feeling down or just bummed, rather than turn to one of those "anti-depressants", caffeine, or some other stimulant that may only temporarily help, turn to exercise. It really is the best anti-depressant and ongoing tool to help you maintain a positive mood and outlook on life. You will not only mentally feel better but you will start to transform your body and become a better steward of the body God has given you, and you will become a better witness for the good news of Jesus Christ to all that you come in contact with.

Jennifer Hayward is one of the founders of the Christian Fitness Ministry, Fit for Faith Ministries. They can be found at http://www.fitforfaithministries.com,

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How to Deal with Depression When Mourning the Death of a Loved One

Are you filled with despair and emptiness? Has life lost its meaning for you, and no one could possibly understand your feelings? Do you believe there is no future without your loved one? It is likely, if you are feeling this way that you are suffering from what is often called normal reactive depression. You are down and reacting because something or someone you cherish is gone.

We are not talking here about clinical or biochemical depression, although reactive depression can evolve into the clinical type. Depression from the loss of a loved one usually does not require medication, although in some instances it is prescribed, and is useful on a temporary basis. Here is what you need to know.

1. Not everyone gets depressed after the death of a loved one. It is perfectly normal not to suffer depression as it is to have to deal with it. However, after the death of a loved one, thoughts and attitudes often trigger loneliness and resulting depression, which occurs early in grieving. It features confusion, little motivation, altered self-esteem, lack of meaning, reduced functioning in one's social circle, insomnia, and low energy.

2. If you are depressed, acknowledge it. Describe it in detail, where it hurts, and what it feels like. "What is the message or messages this emotion is delivering to me?" is an important question to address. What do I need to accept? To let go of? The refusal to accept the loss is often a root cause of depression. Depending on what you believe about your depression will lead to choices that either help you manage it, or prolong it.

3. Talk to your best friend. Remember, the more you isolate yourself--and this is what depression tends to do--the more you will increase emotional and physical stress. Saying how you really feel (especially what you fear and how angry you may be) to someone you are confident of being with, is an excellent antidote for your grief and to deal with depression. And, forgiving yourself and others, will also release depressed feelings.

4. Use a universal treatment for depression: exercise. Physical activity will have an affect on brain chemistry and help in the management of depression. Take 10-15 minute walks, preferably with someone. This will activate your endorphins and affect mood.

5. Find a symbol of comfort and guidance. Create a symbol that will bring back loving memories of the person who died and/or of your Higher Power who is with you at all times, and will help you through your great loss. Keep the symbol in a place where you will see it often and use it as a cue to think of loving memories--and to accept the new conditions of life.

6. Are deep seated negative beliefs (I can't go on alone, I'm being punished, I'm never going to feel better, I'm worthless, etc.) adding to your depression? Regain your power. Take it back from those beliefs that say you are less and not more. Believe you can get well. Create opposing affirmations and keep repeating them throughout the day.

7. Start learning to tolerate uncertainty. This can be accomplished by turning toward your spiritual and symbolic beliefs. You will increase your options by letting your spiritual beliefs guide you and strengthen your faith that you will get through this hurtful loss. Know what you can and cannot control. You can control how you deal with major changes; you cannot control what others say and do or what has already happened.

8. Let possibility educate you out of depression. Here is where your imagination can help in a very positive way. Are you open to exploring the numerous choices there are for dealing with loss? Begin to learn about them from others, support groups, readings, and the experts. By creating options for dealing with fear, anger, guilt, and negative thoughts, you can change your view of what lies ahead.

9. Check your eating habits and whether you have an insufficiency of amino acids. Protein consumption at all three meals can affect neurotransmitters and your energy levels. Reduce carbohydrate (not complex carbs), sugar, alcohol, and fast food consumption, and increase fruits and vegetables. The way you feel physically will add to or detract from depression.

Whenever you feel depression creeping back in, immediately ask yourself this key question, "What are my choices here?" If you are burying your feelings and not facing them, depression is a common result.

Refuse to withdraw from life; make connections and express your feelings to a support group or to your best friend. If your depressive symptoms go on for more than a couple of months, be sure to consult a professional counselor. You can get through this darkness and into the light by taking action early (don't wait for it to worsen) to deal with this pervasive emotion.

Dr. LaGrand is a grief counselor and the author of eight books, the most recent, the popular Love Lives On: Learning from the Extraordinary Encounters of the Bereaved. He is known world-wide for his research on the Extraordinary Experiences of the bereaved (after-death communication phenomena) and is one of the founders of Hospice of the St. Lawrence Valley, Inc. His free monthly ezine website ishttp://www.extraordinarygriefexperiences.com.

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Agitated Depression - The 6 Unique Symptoms

Most people have never heard of agitated depression but it does exist. It reveals itself in a way that is indicative of its name - moods of irritability, short temper and aggravation. Often times the condition presents itself as an anger management issue as the individual will have outbursts of anger and rage.

Often times, the underlying feeling that they have is that they are misunderstood and that no one knows how they are feeling. This type of depression is a hypo-manic depression meaning they exhibit hypo-manic behavior.

Even in cases of other depressions, such as major depressive disorder, there can be levels of irritability, aggravation and agitation. However, when it comes to agitated depression, these moods are enhanced and more pronounced. Moods of irritability and agitation are just a few of the classic symptoms of agitated depression. There are many other symptoms as well and understanding them will make it easier to understand and diagnose. It's important to note that these symptoms also present themselves in cases of manic depressive disorder so sometimes diagnosing can be a bit tricky.

The assumed anger management issues also pose a problem, as professionals may wrongfully diagnose a manic depressive disorder or agitated depression and prescribe antidepressants unnecessarily. This can result in amplifying things whereby the agitation and symptoms of depression actually worsen. This also increases the thoughts and risk of suicide.

When someone has agitated depression it can be quite serious and the characteristics and symptoms can be mild in nature or become quite severe. The severity of the depression and angry outbursts really depend on the individual themselves. This type of depression is more prevalent in middle age to elderly people however it has been diagnosed in younger individuals as well.

There are a variety of symptoms that you should look out for if you suspect someone is suffering with this form of depression. Often times the person will be "antsy" and have a difficult time sitting still or staying in one place for too long. They also have serious, spontaneous mood swings where they will be calm, cool and collected on minute then have an emotional or physical outburst the next. Violent verbal outbursts are also a possibility.

Below you'll see a list of other symptoms that may present themselves as well.

• Tearing or pulling at the clothing
• Intense feelings and thoughts
• Endless thoughts and movement which are essentially without base
• Talking nearly continuously
• Wringing of the hands
• Violent verbal outbursts.

If you, or someone you know, are/is experiencing some or all of these symptoms then you should consider contacting a professional for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. As with many other types of depression, agitated depression can be successfully treated. The treatment plan may include antidepressants, psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or in severe cases admission to a depression treatment facility. Bottom line is that there is hope for anyone suffering with depression. The key is to acknowledge that there may be a problem, seek out support from a professional and embark on a successful treatment plan.

Dana Zarcone is a National Certified Counselor. She created www.depression-test.net to provide information, tools and assistance to those suffering with depression. Learn more about agitated depression and other types of depression by going to her website.

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