Depression

Dear all,

For those of you who feel depressed, I feel your pain. For those of you who live with someone who is depressed; God love you, don't get sucked into it. This is a serious issue that hits home for me. I rarely speak out about it, but I have been treated for depression for over 25 years. When I quit taking meds, the depression comes back. I've quit twice over last the ten year period and regretted it five or six months later. The condition for me is chronic. I've tried a bunch of different medications over this time and seen a number of psychologists and psychiatrists.

But this isn't about me, it's about those of you who are touched by this condition. First the bad news. The professionals and the medications that can be used to treat this condition are not cheap. Thankfully, once a med regime the works is found, you don't need to see the doc as often.

Now for the good news. The condition is treatable both through professionals and "self-help".

1. Of the meds I have taken, Lithium Carbonate gives the most bang for the buck. It's a mood enhancer. Maximum recommended dose is 30 mg a day. A 30-day supply for me at a Wal-mart pharmacy is $6.00. You need a prescription. Unless, you live near Saratoga Springs, NY where the compound is in the natural springs around there. Do not attempt to overdose on this stuff.
2. On the non-prescription side of things, St. Johns Wort has the most documentation as an anti-depressant. This can be complemented by taking Ginseng. These two can be found in a nutrition store like GNC. Both have demonstrated effectiveness in mild to moderate depression. If the case of depression is severe, you should see a doc so that meds can be prescribed.
3. Exercise produces a natural mood enhancer (also a natural anti-histamine). For exercise to work, the heart rate needs to be elevated for about 30 minutes. (Sorry, going over to the blue forum and mousing around will not get the job done). Plan on sweating if you're not in a pool.
4. Tell yourself the truth. No pity parties! What lies are you believing that are contributing to your sense of worthlessness and failure? Our brains are like computers, garbage in, garbage out. There is a book, Telling Yourself the Truth by William Backus, that I highly recommend. You can get it from Amazon in paperback for $3.50 plus S&H.
5. Be social. Clean up and go out with your significant other for a short outing. Don't hold people at arm's length. Don't be afraid to let your friends know you're feeling depressed. You don't need to wear a sign saying you're depressed. If one of your friends was feeling depressed, wouldn't it help you deal with them? Why are your friends any different?

This list is not comprehensive or exhaustive by any means. These are the highlights of things that have helped me as I wrestle with chronic depression.

Whoever you are, you can come to an accommodation with chronic depression, or beat depression that has got you in a strangle hold. You can do this.


Best wishes to all.