Overview

     We are creatures of habit. Depression occurs when we get stuck in habitual patterns that keep us unhappy. We are often unaware of the patterns, and don't think that things could be any different. These negative patterns are formed by an accumulation of specific unresolved events. Examples are physical and emotional shocks or traumas, and abandonments or losses (including loss of youth or health). Chronic frustrations and irritations can add sticky layers to the patterns. Changing patterns means changing the way energy flows through your life, and making different choices about how to spend your time (less news and more walks in nature?). Life is too precious to let it slip miserably away because of harmful habits.

Treatment

• Antidepressant medication is most effective when used in combination with psychotherapy or counseling to change the patterns of thinking and behavior. Medication changes brain chemistry, but not necessarily unconscious patterns that keep us unhappy.
• Exercise is especially helpful (and likely to be done ) when you find it enjoyable.
• Cognitive-Behavioral therapy can help you to recognize and change negative patterns.
• Connecting with others in meaningful ways provides opportunities to be useful and less preoccupied with your own problems. Love is a powerful healer.
• Homeopathic or Flower remedies often help to change patterns without side effects.
• Energy techniques such as "tapping" can change patterns that are locked into the body.
• Nutrition and diet may play a role: include Omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, B6 and B12.

Symtoms of Depression *

• Persistent sad or "empty" mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities, including sex
• Decreased energy, fatigue, being "slowed down"
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia, early?morning waking or oversleeping)
• Eating disturbances (loss of appetite and weight, or weight gain)
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
• Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts
• Irritability
• Excessive crying
• Chronic aches and pains that don't respond to treatment

* Compiled by the National Institute of Mental Health and included in the document "Depression and Heart Disease" found online at http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/depheart.cfm