Simple and effective ways to treat depression
“Eventually all things fall into place. Until then, laugh at the confusion, live for the moments, and know EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON.”— Albert Schweitzer.
During the time I was unemployed I used to suffer from severe depression and loneliness.I can understand the pain and misery that depressed people go through.So,here are some tips that I learned during my dark days,that I’m sure will help other people too.
Eat healthy
It’s very important that you eat natural and healthy food. It reminds me of a dialogue in a Hollywood movie that ‘’food is the only beautiful thing that truly nourishes us’’.So don’t ignore the importance of healthy food to strengthen your mind and body.
Take delight in eating healthy. Cook for yourself spicy vegetable, eat juicy fruits and drink lots of water. Do not just limit yourself to foods that spike the level of serotanin ,eat a variety of natural foods—lentils,vegetables,fruits,peas,lean meat and cereals.
Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D. a certified dietician says ’’ Several studies have found that people who ate a poor quality diet — one that was high in processed meat, chocolates, sweet desserts, fried food, refined cereals and high-fat dairy products — were more likely to report symptoms of depression. The good news is that the people who ate a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fish were less likely to report being depressed’’.
Take long walks
A long walk is the most relaxing and stress free exercise .Instead of running on a tread mill take a long slow walk in a natural setting .The beautiful surroundings will soothe and relax your mind. It’s much more healthy and enjoyable to be among trees than slumped on a sofa or running on a tread mill.Studies have shown that getting active releases feel-good endorphins in your blood and lowers the level of cortisol hormone which produces stress.
Keep pets
As Colette the French novalist observes“Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet,” make sure to keep a pet around.
To build a relationship with an animal is easy, because they aren’t complicated like humans. They do not ask you questions and, they do not criticize you. When you are very depressed, you are weak and lack the strength and patience to build loving relationships with humans ,but it’s the time you need love the most.so keep a pet around.A cat is a best anti-depressant you can have. Edward Creagan, former president of the mayo clinic staff has prescribed pets to many of his patients because of his conviction in the healing powers of pets.
If you cannot somehow keep a pet, just observe nature. Ever wonder why so much beauty has been created in the world—it is so that we don’t feel depressed.
Avoid drugs and alcohol
Addictive drugs and alcohol are quick fix solutions. They may make you feel better for a while, but you’d surely end up feeling worse later and, before you know you are hooked.So it’s better to avoid them altogether. Alcohol is very dehydrating which can lead to headache and even more depression. Combine alcohol with any other drug and you have a lethal cocktail.
Coffee or tea( green or black )are much better options. I have been drinking coffee for several years and have never experienced’’down feelings’’ simply by drinking coffee. Coffee in moderate amount (3-4 eight ounce cups per day) will not hurt you.
Listen to music
"Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours’’.I couldn't agree more with Elton john.
For a depressed person— in my opinion—Instrumental music is much better, because its closer to sounds in nature and you also can’t interpret it negatively, like some sad songs. For music to cast its healing spell on you—go to a quiet place,be there alone, and turn the music out loud.
During my years of depression I would listen to movies and videogame music.The soothing music of final fantasy would make me forget anything—thanks to the genius of Nobou uematsau.
Pray
Though Albert Schweitzer says that “The only escape from the miseries of life are music and cats...”but for a person who believes in God, there’s one more escape---praying.
This is most important.you need to be in contact with God. Just like a lost child is anxious and worried without her mother so are we when we have no contact with God. Go to a quiet place and ask God for help and strength .Ask God to solve the problem that’s causing depression. People suffer from depression when they think they can control their situations. As humans, We cannot control the outcome of anything, we can only do our best and if we are patient, we are rewarded for the effort.World’s major religions urge the followers to pray. The Bible commands "And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints" (Ephesians 6:18).Quran says’’Verily in the remembrance of God do hearts find rest.’’
Instead of explaining your troubles to people,explain them to God. Talk to Him with sincerity and devotion. Cast all your worry and anxiety upon God—he will take care of it.
