subject: How To Deal With Depression [print this page] Nowadays, so many people are depressedNowadays, so many people are depressed. We should take into consideration just what causes depression. The factors contributing to depression are universally understood, and well documented, but what actually is the cause of depression remains an enigma. There have been studies that have uncovered some reasons as to why some people develop depression.
Stress is without doubt the leading cause of depression. It is a fact that if our environment is stressful it can lead to depression.
Stress is a broad concept comprising social stress, lack of job opportunities, relationship difficulties, financial issues, staying up late, an out of control lifestyle, and academic pressure. Additional events that could result in depression are: death, certain transitions in life like a change of job, continually moving from one place to another or even the fear of the unknown can end up in depression.
The list is infinite. While these events form part of life processes, we must define the best ways to effectively cope with stress and be able to thrive in the most stressful of situations.
People who consume alcohol and drugs are even more susceptible to depression and when drugs and alcohol are used by younger individuals, they can affect the brain in so many negative ways. Because these substances are addictive; they give a sense of well-being but in the long run, cause the person to become dependent.
Drugs release dopamine in the pleasure center of the brain. Let us take delicious food as an example. It boosts dopamine release by approximately 50 percent. Sex may even double this number. However, drugs can increase dopamine release up to four to ten times anywhere in the body. This inevitably leads to depression once the sense of well-being subsides. The brain circuitry is definitely affected.
In fact, drugs can make a person more depressed than happy. Dependence ultimately results in tolerance; the person taking drugs eventually requires more and more of the same substance in order to break the chain of depression that follows each spike of 'feeling high'.
According to studies, 40 percent of adults do not get the adequate amount of sleep daily and more shocking is that up to 71 percent of students actually complain of sleep disorders due to a lack of sleep.
Sleep is vital to a person's health. While sleeping, the body repairs itself and the mind can start afresh the following day. Lack of sleep however, contributes to a lack of coherence in brain waves. This situation often leads to depression and anxiety.
If our sleeping patterns are interrupted such as sleeping too much during the day and staying up late at night will interfere with the body's natural rhythms. This can lead to depression.
Here are few ways on how to counter depression.
Sleep is a fundamental component for the prevention of depression. An equilibrium must be reached in life with enough rest and exercise on a daily basis. Most people need between seven to eight hours of sleep daily.
Regularity is also essential. You should try to organize your activities in such a way that they become anticipated and habit forming.
Once you have set a normal routine, your body will adjust to these new activities and will prevent depression from setting in.
Know your limits and do not go beyond them. Keep stress under control and try to avoid stressors if you can. This is easier said then done but try to deal with the stressors in a way that reduces the damage they cause, until they influence you minimally.
Sunlight and even moderate exercise can help the brain to function at a higher level. So take time or even 'make time' to enjoy the sunlight and aim to stay active in the daylight when possible.
Keep away from alcohol and drugs. They are tempting, but all they really do is cause chaos in a person's life.
Make at least one warm meal daily a priority. Good eating habits and good health are essential if you want to stay away from depression.
Social activities such as chatting, joining a support group, practicing sports, and other hobbies can be surprisingly helpful towards healing a stressed out and busy mind.
Depression can definitely be avoided and treated and it can actually be enjoyable and fun to do so.
Follow the above mentioned tips for a happy and successful start to your day. You will look and experience the benefits without a doubt!
