Anxiety Self HelpFind helpful information about anxiety.

Everyone goes through the doldrums it is very normal and while we may say oh, Im depressed; it is generally a temporary condition. Depression is when the feeling(s) of unhappiness, irritability, or lack of interest in daily life is ongoing. Ongoing depression, like all the different types of mood disorders needs to be taken seriously.

The first step is to speak with a medical professional. It may be suggested that you see a psychologist to determine the cause. Often a treatment plan of therapy and medicinal drugs are recommended. In many cases natural remedies are available; however unless you are seeing a naturopath you may have to suggest it to your doctor.

One of the leading inhibitors of our natural ability to fight depression is Seasonal Affected Disorder. The long and short of this is that your body does require a certain amount of sunlight to heal itself, and when it is deprived of it (generally in the longer winter nights) it suffers the loss of vitamin K which is the bodys own depression fighting agent.

While physical issues are common in todays worlds, the leading cause of depression is an imbalance of neurotransmitters being generated in the patients brain. This balance can be controlled with the use of mild drugs. However, most do have common side effects like weight gain, loss of appetite, sexual dysfunction and dizziness.

As with most things in life, healthy living can help dramatically. Things you can do immediately to feel better are:

Exercise: as it increases endorphins which are a natural way to improve your mood. Endorphin release is highest when you get a cardio workout such as aerobics, running, skiing. While yoga is not a cardio workout, the breathing exercises along with centering yourself is very therapeutic.

Diet: Your body needs certain nutrients to keep healthy and a balanced diet is essential. To keep your energy up small meals several times a day. Also ensure that you drink at least eight glasses of water a day as dehydration can cause fatigue. In order to produce serotonin, your body needs carbohydrates; however too much can lower your serotonin levels. Turkey, cheese, and other dairy products.

Herbal Supplements: It is important to speak with a medical professional prior to taking herbal supplements. St. Johns Wort is by far the most popular supplement for the treatment of mild depression. Studies have proven that it has very few reported side effects. There are a number of other herbal supplements available such as Liquorice, Ginkgo (Ginkgo Biloba), and Siberian ginseng, Basil, Clove, Ginger, Rosemary, Thyme and Sage.

By: Dr. Eva McPherson MS, LMHC, BCBA. Does life seem to be too much to handle at times? Do you feel sad all the time? Do just lack the get up and go? Come visit to see if is depressionor another type of mood disorder?