Depression

1. I have depression because I am depressed. The cause of depression is multifactorial. It is thought to involve changes in the receptor-neurotransmitter relationship in the limbic system. Depression is often classified based on how the illness presents. If you have low spirits for a short while, there is no need for alarm. If you feel unable to lift yourself out of your misery, seek professional help.

2. I am coping with a tragic event or difficult situation. The depression will be relieved once the tragedy passes. If your sadness is tied to a stressful event, you may recover soon enough. If your depression persists for six months or more, your brain chemistry may have changed as a result of prolonged sadness, and you could be clinically depressed.

3. I am a weirdo because I have depression. Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders. More than 21 million adults experience depression each year in the United States.

4. Depression is only a psychiatric disorder that leads to no physical health conditions. There is a strong relationship between depression and cardiac illness, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, cancer, dementia, and asthma. Depression may lead to suicidal ideation or attempts if left untreated.

Depression is commonly characterized as:

Depression with Psychotic Features, Depression with Melancholic Features, Depression with Atypical Features, Seasonal Depression, Postpartum Depression, and Persistent Depressive Disorder (formerly Dysthymic Disorder).

Identifying the type helps determine which treatment is most likely to be effective.

• Two hours of early-morning sun can help lift depression. Spend as much time as possible outdoors.

Take daily walks, preferably in a park or along the seashore, to connect with nature. Fresh air and deep breathing exercises promote relaxation and good oxygenation.

Avoid spending extended time in enclosed buildings.

Make a list of activities you enjoy, both indoor and outdoor, alone or with others. Incorporate these into your daily routine as a treat to yourself. Review the list often and modify it as you wish.

Get plenty of rest. Overtiredness and depleted nerves create feelings of depression.

Sit down and analyze your situation. If you can pinpoint the source of your depression, you may feel better. Once you understand the problem, you can begin to figure out what to do about it.

Find a friend to share your feelings with. If you are in a seemingly hopeless situation, sharing it with someone who can offer a different perspective helps. Simply knowing someone cares and wants to listen makes a difference.

Have a good cry. If talking about your problems leads to tears, go ahead and cry. Crying is a natural release, especially when you know what you are crying about.

Volunteering and helping others is a way to focus on someone other than yourself and your own problems.

Some medications, caffeine, cigarettes, and certain hormonal contraceptives may contribute to depressive symptoms in some individuals. Paint solvents and other toxic chemicals can also produce symptoms of depression. Minimize contact with these where possible.

Limit caffeinated beverages if they affect your mood or sleep. Reduce alcohol intake. Use herbs in cooking, fresh in salads, and as spices. Eat more wheat germ, which provides energy. Pears, apples, and nuts contain bromine, which supports proper nervous system function.

Do not hold grudges. It takes enormous emotional energy to maintain a grudge, and a guilty conscience damages health. Learn the art of forgiving.

There are numerous studies conducted over the past several decades. A pilot study on acupuncture treating depression was published in Psychological Science in September 1998 (Vol. 9, No. 5). This research suggested that acupuncture may prove at least as effective as psychotherapy or drug therapy for treating depression. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes depression as one of the conditions treatable by acupuncture.

$95/session, $45 consultation. 30-45 minute initial consultation.

Alberta Health Care does not cover acupuncture. Most company benefits cover acupuncture when treatment is provided through a Registered Acupuncturist. Contact your HR department or insurance company for coverage details.

Many people receive acupuncture treatment for depression. It is a reasonable natural modality with the potential to help. “It works for many” does not mean “it works for you.” As for you, there is only one way to find out.