Australian Fashionista
Simple Tips for Overcoming Depression
April 16th 2008 08:59
:
The Green Edition
Depression affects us all in many ways so I thought I would share some really simple, really effective ways to overcome the daily battles many of us face.
1. Music - listening to music can move, inspire or motivate us so listen to music which moves you on a regular basis. It can be a mood elevator and you can listen to whatever you choose, and (with modern technology) wherever you choose.
2. Sing - following on from no. 1, this is equally as important and somewhat more effective. When you sing you activate your diaphram which releases the tension we often hold in this area. It also fills an inherent need we have to 'join our voices' with others which may be activated by instinct. Why it works, not important, it works, so go somewhere private or jump in your car and stretch those vocal chords!
Singing also allows us to express anguish and other emotions we may not normally give in to or express in day-to-day life. It's another way to release this pressure which can hold us down if we bottle it up.
3. Meditate - you don't need to be spiritual or religious to feel the benefits of switching off your mind and breathing deeply. When we are stressed or anxious, we often hold our breaths or take more shallow breaths without even noticing. Practising deep breathing once a day will allow us to recognise when we aren't getting enough oxygen (or not breathing properly) and fix this by using the methods we have learnt from meditating quietly.
Use a quiet space along with soothing music or sounds if you like. Sit or lie down, try to breath deeply into your stomach and your lungs will expand second. Hold for 3 seconds then release slowly. After doing this a few times your body and mind will relax. If you have busy thoughts then concentrate on the sound and feel of your breath to clear your mind.
4. Avoid drugs or alcohol - it may seem like a quick fix to relax or wind down but drugs and alcohol will definately make the situation worse. Drugs & alcohol impair our judgment and often inflame minor issues. They also have a 'down'side equal to any good feeling achieved, they can cause depression and other mental health problems.
5. Perform Charity - whether it be doing a favour for a neighbour, volunteering for an organisation, visiting an aged care facility or cleaning up your local area, charity work is as rewarding an activity than many realise. The feeling we get from doing something for others or the environment is what is missing from many of our daily lives, sometimes working in jobs that we don't find satisfying or performing tasks which are menial and repetitive.
Give it a go!
6. Exercise - want to get some of those good endorphins you've heard so much about? A natural 'antidepressant' is produced by our bodies after we exercise, and the more we do, the better we feel. Don't go too hard, just do something you enjoy eg. swimming, bikeriding, jogging on the beach, walking your dog, playing cricket with some friends, the possibilities are numerous.
7. Aromatherapy - one of our senses that we don't always pay attention to is smell. The subconcious effect of aromas on the mind are instant. Try smelling flowers when you go for a walk or purchase some natural essential oils from a health shop (they will have much more info). Perhaps try burning some incense if you find it helps you relax. Choose smells which are relaxing to you and avoid any which bother you.
8. Medication - if you are prescribed medication by your General Practitioner, never stop taking it without medical advice. Stopping certain medications suddenly can have dangerous side-effects. If you are unsure about your medication or treatment, always consult a professional first.
9. Ponder Positively - take a look at those less fortunate. Do some research on the homeless, or third world population. Things instantly appear much better than they seem when we focus on the reality of situations. It is sometimes the emotional attachment we apply to the world that makes it seem hard to bear.
Think about the many things you have to be thankful for, perhaps your health, family, artistic ability, individuality, all these things and more are to be infinitely grateful for.
If all else fails, please smile
Please note: the above ideas are not the advice of a professional or meant to be used in place of professional treatment. If you think you may be suffering from or know someone who may be suffering from depression, please visit www.beyondblue.org.au call their info line on 1300 22 4636 or contact your local GP for more information.
1. Music - listening to music can move, inspire or motivate us so listen to music which moves you on a regular basis. It can be a mood elevator and you can listen to whatever you choose, and (with modern technology) wherever you choose.
2. Sing - following on from no. 1, this is equally as important and somewhat more effective. When you sing you activate your diaphram which releases the tension we often hold in this area. It also fills an inherent need we have to 'join our voices' with others which may be activated by instinct. Why it works, not important, it works, so go somewhere private or jump in your car and stretch those vocal chords!
Singing also allows us to express anguish and other emotions we may not normally give in to or express in day-to-day life. It's another way to release this pressure which can hold us down if we bottle it up.
3. Meditate - you don't need to be spiritual or religious to feel the benefits of switching off your mind and breathing deeply. When we are stressed or anxious, we often hold our breaths or take more shallow breaths without even noticing. Practising deep breathing once a day will allow us to recognise when we aren't getting enough oxygen (or not breathing properly) and fix this by using the methods we have learnt from meditating quietly.
4. Avoid drugs or alcohol - it may seem like a quick fix to relax or wind down but drugs and alcohol will definately make the situation worse. Drugs & alcohol impair our judgment and often inflame minor issues. They also have a 'down'side equal to any good feeling achieved, they can cause depression and other mental health problems.
5. Perform Charity - whether it be doing a favour for a neighbour, volunteering for an organisation, visiting an aged care facility or cleaning up your local area, charity work is as rewarding an activity than many realise. The feeling we get from doing something for others or the environment is what is missing from many of our daily lives, sometimes working in jobs that we don't find satisfying or performing tasks which are menial and repetitive.
Give it a go!
6. Exercise - want to get some of those good endorphins you've heard so much about? A natural 'antidepressant' is produced by our bodies after we exercise, and the more we do, the better we feel. Don't go too hard, just do something you enjoy eg. swimming, bikeriding, jogging on the beach, walking your dog, playing cricket with some friends, the possibilities are numerous.
7. Aromatherapy - one of our senses that we don't always pay attention to is smell. The subconcious effect of aromas on the mind are instant. Try smelling flowers when you go for a walk or purchase some natural essential oils from a health shop (they will have much more info). Perhaps try burning some incense if you find it helps you relax. Choose smells which are relaxing to you and avoid any which bother you.
8. Medication - if you are prescribed medication by your General Practitioner, never stop taking it without medical advice. Stopping certain medications suddenly can have dangerous side-effects. If you are unsure about your medication or treatment, always consult a professional first.
9. Ponder Positively - take a look at those less fortunate. Do some research on the homeless, or third world population. Things instantly appear much better than they seem when we focus on the reality of situations. It is sometimes the emotional attachment we apply to the world that makes it seem hard to bear.
Think about the many things you have to be thankful for, perhaps your health, family, artistic ability, individuality, all these things and more are to be infinitely grateful for.
If all else fails, please smile
Please note: the above ideas are not the advice of a professional or meant to be used in place of professional treatment. If you think you may be suffering from or know someone who may be suffering from depression, please visit www.beyondblue.org.au call their info line on 1300 22 4636 or contact your local GP for more information.
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