"India, the most depressed nation worldwide", a leading newspaper, times of India carried this headline, a few days before. It was a full-fledged report which was based on the alarming rank of India in the index of depression released by WHO. One of the biggest factors behind the alarming number is the lack of awareness.
Depression is still a topic of shame in the Indian society. As per the world health organization, depression is the 4th leading cause of disability. But by 2020, it would be the second leading cause of disability. That’s just in two years!
The figures and reports are extremely alarming. We are surely doing something wrong with ourselves. So it’s important to understand depression and adopt significant ways to eradicate the illness from the root cause.
Depression is a mental illness, that can affect how you think, feel or act. The depressed person will feel isolated, sad and low in life. There are ample of reasons for this condition. Such as increased stress, lonely lives, falling of relationships or any major blow recently. The good part is that depression is treatable.
However, the first step begins with the recognition of the illness. Here are few simple yet effective steps that can be a big step to treat depression. Whether you are depressed or not, there are enough reasons why each one of us needs to know these methods. So let’s see how can one ward off depression by introducing some changes in the lifestyle.
Wake up early, even it’s like fighting with yourself
Studies have found that depressed people tend to wake up late! This is because they are highly pessimistic in life. This is a big issue. As rising early has a direct connection with a healthy and optimistic mind.
Waking up early is one of the big ways to take the first step to a healthy mind. By just waking up 30 min early, from the scheduled time, can help you to calm your mind. Just sit calmly and relax your mind! This can set the tone of the day for you.
Combat depression with Meditation, ,Yoga and Exercise
It’s a fact that meditation is more successful and effective than drugs or counseling for controlling stress. Any kind of stress is the genesis of depression. According to Harvard healthy report, there are a number of studies conducted which stated the potential of yoga in treating depression.
Use of breathing techniques is also effective in diminishing the symptoms of depression. So reduced the stress levels and control depression.
Write, write, and write…...writing is a great way to release your emotions
One of the main symptoms of depression is that you become isolated. Expressing your emotions is difficult for a depressed person. In such a case there can’t be any better way than writing to release all your emotions. A recent study published in journal “Behavior therapy” stated that expressive writing can help to get rid of depression symptoms far easier than otherwise.
Socializing can be a great way to boost your low self-esteem and ward off depression
If you have ever experienced depression or known anyone suffering from it, you would know that socializing can be really difficult for a depressed person. But no matter how difficult it may be, it’s important to socialize. Talking, meeting and spending some quality time with your loved people can be a great therapy for your mind. It’s also the best way to boost the low self-esteem.
Drink plenty of water
Our body is made up of 95% of water and hence lack of water content in the body can lead to many symptoms. This leads to headaches and a feeling of lethargic and grumpy. Water is one of the most overlooked aspects of the human body. But by just keeping your body hydrated we can maintain the overall health of the body. So switch to soda, lemonade or flavored drinks before leaving home.
Get enough of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids
The depletion of vitamins and minerals in the body can lead to many illnesses to the body. And depression is not away from this. Researchers behind 2013 meta-analysis noticed that participants with low vitamin D levels had higher chances of depression than people with an adequate supply of vitamin D. Thus, getting enough of vitamin D and also omega 3 fatty acid is essential for brain functioning.
Develop a more positive attitude in life
Having a positive outlook is necessary at every stage but even more when you are going through or recovering from any mental illness. The underlying philosophy is that, if you can change the thoughts that cause you distress, the depression can be controlled to a great extent.
No comments:
Post a Comment