There are circumstances that turn our world upside down, and which we normally react to by becoming depressed. Depression is part of life. It is normal when appropriate to the situation. Yet depression can make us feel very low. It can also make us sick, or force us to withdraw from social activities and to push away people we care about. That is why when depression strikes, we must learn how to cope with it in a constructive manner. Chocolates, they say are good for depression. But let's not forget that chocolates are high in sugar. So even though eating a chocolate bar does get you out of the blues, the feeling does not last long, and feelings of depression may get worse after just a few hours.
So what is good for depression?
Vitamins. Vitamins, especially B-vitamins, Vitamin C and Vitamin D, are good for depression. Making up the family of B-vitamins that are beneficial to depressed individuals are:
B1 (Thiamine) that enables the conversion of glucose (sugar in the blood) to energy, reducing chances of overfatigue that can occur with depression.
B3 (Niacin) that helps in the detoxification process and in promoting better metabolism. Not enough Niacin in the body can cause mental fatigue that can worsen into psychosis.
B5 (Pantothenic Acid) that works with amino acids and other substances in the brain to control depression.
B6 (Pyridoxine) that boosts immunity and is essential in serotonin production. Not enough Pyridoxine contributes to the development of mood swings.
B9 (Folic Acid) that enables DNA synthesis.
B12 (Cobalamin) that helps to ensure you have enough red blood cells so as to prevent mood swings, confusion, and even paranoia.
Vitamins C and D are essential vitamins for depression, too. Vitamin C is essential in serotonin production, and while it is not clear how Vitamin D helps with depression, there are many studies suggesting that Vitamin D does relieve depression in one way or another.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids. Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which are needed in normal brain development and function, are also good for depression. Accordingly, people who live near coastal areas are not as likely to suffer from frequent bouts of depression as those who live somewhere else. This is because they have easy access to fish which is believed to be high in Omega-3 Fatty Acids.
Yet, although these essential fatty acids are found in great amounts in fatty fish like mackerel and sardines, doctors do not recommend eating them daily because of the danger of contamination with highly toxic substances. If you want to benefit from Omega-3 Fatty Acids, take instead high quality fish oil supplements that are processed in a way that toxins are completely separated from the fish oil.
Time Off. A break does anyone a lot of good. If you are feeling gloomy (whether the reason for your doing so is valid or not), taking some time off will make you feel better. It's called breaking the routine, and it often works. Drive out-of-town or take a vacation somewhere. Make time for yourself, too. Get a new haircut or have a total makeover. Changes (not just changes of scenery) will do great things to your senses.
Kids. Kids, for me, are natural antidepressants. Being around them lights up my day and reduces my stress levels. Their simplicity and laughter are contagious. If you have kids at home, spend as much time with them as you can. Or why not volunteer a few hours a day at a day care center? Allow yourself to be a kid again, even for just a day or two.
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