Help For the Depression of Divorce - 5 Steps to Overcoming Divorce Depression Naturally

The end of a marriage brings about a whole gamut of strong emotions and big changes in your life. Given that there are often huge transitions to be made in your ideals and vision for your life, living arrangements, time with kids, impact on relationships with mutual friends and family members, and financial status, it is not surprising that many people struggle with symptoms of depression during this time.

Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, feelings of persistent sadness or hopelessness, anxieties about the future, and changes in sleep or appetite can all indicate depression. If the symptoms are severe, this may merit a medical intervention, but natural methods can often be employed successfully for milder cases. Here are 5 natural methods to combat divorce depression:

1. Eat healthy foods. The mind and body have a connection, and supporting physical health can help support your emotional well being. Whenever possible, choose foods that are organic and unprocessed. Avoid highly processed and sugar laden foods. If you struggle with poor appetite, try carrying around healthy snack foods to be consumed in small amounts throughout the day. If you have the opposite issue and tend to overeat, try setting a time in the evening when you stop eating food, and avoid eating while distracted, such as in front of the television.

2. Take vitamins and supplements as needed. A naturopath can design a supplement plan tailored to your health needs. Many people can benefit from adding a fish oil and food based multivitamin supplement. L-theanine is a natural anti-anxiety supplement. 5 HTP is a natural precursor to the brain neurotransmitter serotonin, and may be of benefit to certain individuals.

3. Exercise! Check with your doctor to determine the appropriate level of activity, then commit to getting as much as you can. Cardiovascular exercise is ideal, as it increases your endorphins, which are feel good compounds that increase your feelings of mental well being. Increased physical fitness and improved body image are an added bonus.

4. Talk things out with others. The emotional support of friends and family at this time is very important. Other helping professionals can be a great asset to your support network, such as counselors and coaches. A counselor can help you work through "why's" and help you process your grief, while a coach can help you as you begin to look toward moving ahead in your life and setting some new goals for the new single you.

5. Do one thing for yourself each day to send the message that you are worth the care. Make a list of small pleasures you enjoy, and choose one each day to complete.