Archives for August 2021

Depression – more formally referred to as Major Depressive Disorder – impacts more than 17 million American adults in just one given year. 

Depression is a serious medical condition most often characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness. It can require long-term care and treatment and can even lead to suicidal thoughts and actions. 

If you recognize any of the following signs of depression in someone you know, encourage them to seek assistance.  

1. Loss of Interest 

Someone who is depressed may lose interest in the things they once enjoyed doing. An individual may no longer enjoy the things they once loved.

2. Feelings of Fatigue

While depression commonly goes hand-in-hand with feelings and emotions, those emotions can be draining. Depressed individuals often lack energy and notice overwhelming fatigue. 

3. Hopelessness

Those struggling with depression may have adopted a very hopeless outlook on life. Their general thoughts can include, “what’s the point?” and “things will never change.” 

4. Decreased Sex Drive

Just like someone may lose interest in other hobbies and activities, this same person may also lose interest in sex and even experience impotence. 

5. Weight Loss or Gain

Clinical depression can either decrease someone’s appetite or lead to overeating. So, significant weight loss or weight gain can point to a problem. 

6. Irregular Sleep

For some, depression can look like consistent oversleeping. For others, the illness can cause insomnia, restless nights, and early-morning wakeups.  

7. Trouble Concentrating

Depression can make it difficult for someone to concentrate. A person with depression may lose their train of thought frequently or have trouble making decisions.

8. Irritability

Mood swings are common for people with depression. Even small issues can lead to angry outbursts or significant frustration. 

9. Unexplained Physical Problems

Those struggling with depression may have unexplainable physical problems, such as persistent headaches or back pain.

10. Thoughts or Attempts of Suicide

Typically, the most severe cases of depression can lead to suicidal thoughts, comments, and even attempts. These signs are serious and require immediate medical intervention. 

Did you know that about 40 million people in America alone experience anxiety? Children, teens, and adults alike can be impacted by both temporary feelings of anxiety and serious anxiety disorders. 

Each case is different, but by implementing some of all of the following measures, you may be able to reduce your anxiety.

1. Establish Routines

An excellent way to minimize anxiety is to establish a routine. When anxiety takes over, it’s easy to panic, feel stressed, or feel uncertain. 

Routines can help you take back control in your life, improving your overall focus, organization, and productivity. 

Having a routine can also help you plan time to take care of yourself along with your other responsibilities.

2. Drink Less Caffeine

Caffeine is a big “no” for anyone who has chronic anxiety. Research shows that caffeine intake can worsen feelings of anxiousness and may exacerbate anxiety disorders.

Caffeine is a stimulant, which heightens the senses, causes jitters, and disrupts regular sleep patterns. By cutting caffeine out of your diet – or at least minimizing your intake – you may be able to significantly improve your feelings of anxiety. 

3. Practice Self-Affirmation

While some people may not feel comfortable practicing self-affirmations, many others find them very helpful in managing their anxiety. 

Self-affirmations are positive phrases and statements you can say to yourself to get through hard days, hours, or even minutes. 

Try repeating phrases like the following to yourself when you’re feeling anxious:

• My anxiety doesn’t control me. 
• Today is going to be a good day.
• I’m okay. 
• I have a great and happy life. 

Simply saying these phrases to yourself can help you overcome feelings of anxiety. 

4. Exercise

Consistent exercise is good for your body physically, but it’s an excellent natural medicine for your mental state as well. 

Exercise has been proven to minimize stress, reduce tension, and burn energy – all of which can contribute to feelings of anxiety.

Plus, exercising releases endorphins, which improve your overall mood. It can also serve as a nice, healthy distraction from the worries running through your mind.