Depressed While Pregnant - Why Is That? (part two)

At first there was thought that a pregnant woman could not suffer from depression. Nowadays it has been shown, that it is possible and even dangerous.
More women suffer from depression while pregnant than we could imagine.

What is even more important to know is that some women are more likely to get depressed than others. Why is that? Well it all depends on various factors, like: depression in the family history,
problems in relationships or other personal matters, complications with the baby, other miscarriages or just that they are not ready to have a baby yet.

Depression, like all other illnesses has symptoms. So here are some clues that could indicate if one is suffering from depression. If someone is feeling sad, or guilty or just comes to think that there is no
hope left in the world for him, this could mean depression. If this sadness lasts more than 2 weeks, and is accompanied by some other clues, the person is definitely suffering from depression.
Other clues could be: sleeping problems, eating disorders, like loss of apatite, problems concentrating, mood swings or even thoughts of suicide.

So as you can see, this is nothing to take easily. There could also appear complications at a pregnant woman, because of this state. It is believed that a pregnant woman that suffers from depression will want to live
a solitary life and not want to seek help. will abuse alcohol, even drugs and will end up hurting both herself and the baby. This is the reason why, one should ask for help and use treatment as soon as possible.

so, if a women decides to seek help and treat her depression, what actually happens? Well there are various ways of treatment. The first and most common would be the psychotherapy, because it does not endanger neither the mother
nor the baby. This works by trying to find why this happened and start from there.

There is also the case in using antidepressives, but this is very risky. Using such drugs can lead to miscarriage. It is best to ask more doctor' s opinion before taking antidepressives.
One antidepressive used to be given has been discovered to be very dangerous. Scientists found out that this drug can give the fetus heart disease, hypertension, lung problems, trouble eating. So as you can see, it is best to consult as many people as possible
before taking such a decision, but use treatment.

And if one has given birth and thinks she is off the hook where depression is concerned, think again. Most women suffer from postpartum depression, which has the same symptoms. But this is another subject.

Symptoms, Causes and Fast Effective Treatments For Mania Depression

Bipolar disorder or mania depression is usually categorized under two disorders: Bipolar 1 disorder and Bipolar 2 disorder. The first type of disorder is evidenced by elevated moods for at least 5 days, sudden talkativeness, lack of need to sleep, constant flight of ideas and so on. On the other hand, Bipolar 2 disorder sufferers go through depressive moods with the minimum of 1 hypomanic episode and can seriously disrupt the social life of the sufferer because of constant erratic mood swings.

There are medical theories that bipolar disorder is caused by chemical imbalances in your brain or simply uncommon thyroid hormone levels. If you noticed anyone experiencing mood swings from being severely depressed to extreme states of happiness and vice versa, it is vital you track such periods and note the duration and severity. Early detection helps the sufferers from spiraling down to suicidal thoughts and can achieve faster effective treatments.

Fast Effective Treatments For Mania Depression

Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy has long been hailed as one of the most effective treatments for mania depression. It supplies you with the right tools to view your problems or situation from different perspectives. Essentially, any events or situation that may seem good or bad, relaxing or stressful is totally based how you appraise them.

For example, you might be getting a promotion at work and you have every right to feel happy about it. But what if the exact same situation means more work and time away from your family and could result you in thinking about the future commitments you have to make; thus causing unnecessary stress. By doing something in a more positive and empowering way, psychotherapy enables you to view any situation in positive light by taking responsible actions and therefore positive results will follow.

If you feel your burdens or projects are too huge to handle, simply break them into smaller segments and work on them diligently. Write down your successes no matter how minor you deem them to be and give yourself a pat on the back. This will induce a sense of achievement and you will quickly increase your self-confidence and esteem. By doing something different and getting positive results, you are once again in control of your life and can defeat this mental illness fast and permanently!

Natural Herbal Remedies For Mania Depression
Natural herbal remedies are considered to be very safe and affordable compared to prescription drugs as they come with fewer side effects. Among the more effective remedies are St Johns Wort, Siberian Ginseng, Ginkgo Biloba, Valerian Root and so on. Each herb has its unique beneficial effect on your body for treating depression. Find one that works for you is an action you must take. For example, St Johns Wort is perhaps the most well known natural anti-depressant herb as it has similar results as tricyclic prescriptions but with fewer side effects. However, everything should be taken in moderation and should not be taken with drugs without consulting your physician.

Omega 3 Supplements
Many people indulge in diets which contain low fat, thus depriving their bodies of essential fatty acids such as Omega 3. Your body cannot produce these fatty acids, so you must either take supplements or include foods which are rich in Omega 3. These fatty acids are vital for healthy construction and formation of your brain's nerve cell membrane. The nerve cell functions depend on proper function and fluidity of the membrane, and lacking of it will have a drawback effect on your behavior, mood and mental focus. Luckily, Omega 3 can easily be found in flax seeds, black currant and fish oils, as well as egg yolks, salmon and cod. Depression studies have shown that decreased intake of omega 3 correlates with higher rates of depression in the global population.

US Retailers Looking to the Canadian Market to Propel Growth

With the US enduring the worst economic environment since the depression new markets are being eyed for growth, particularly Canada. Ease of entry makes this a logical and relatively low-risk move towards market development. Canada offers a stable economic environment (one of the best globally through the recession), political stability, and a consumer that is already very familiar with US based brands. From Target to Crate and Barrel to Marshall's and beyond - the move north is fast and furious.

Opening up shop in Canada means more than leasing retail space and marketing. The supply chain and distribution network must be clearly planned and in place. Continuously moving up product from the US can be costly, as can be establishing warehousing and distribution facilities. Quite simply, upon entry, new US retailers (and any international brand expanding into Canada, for that matter) have yet to achieve the scale required to efficiently establish dedicated distribution. This is particularly at issue with smaller entrants.

Flexible Third Party Warehousing and Distribution to Reach Largest Canadian Markets

Rather than tying up much needed capital, retailers entering the market can look to lease warehousing space on an as-needed basis. In this sense, in fact, there is no lease to speak of. Third party warehouse and inventory management companies are offering everything from product storage, management, and fulfillment/distribution services. This lets retailers utilize the space required - scale up or down as needed - and also to distribute products across the country to their locations "on demand" from a domestic distribution point. In fact, establishing distribution in the GTA market (Greater Toronto Area) provides retailers ready access to the entire "Golden Horseshoe" area, which represents over one quarter of the entire Canadian population. That proximity and ability to penetrate a relatively affluent Canadian consumer base is highly attractive. Further, the majority of Canadians live in a handful of major urban centres; distributing to Montreal, Vancouver, Edmonton and Calgary markets beyond the GTA reaches even a far greater portion of the country.

The Role of E-commerce

Having a physical presence establishes the brand, yet the opportunity is increasingly attractive when the e-commerce opportunity is in place. With Canadian distribution established with a third party provider, it is a logical extension that direct-to-consumer drop shipment of online driven orders is not only possible, but increasingly essential. Almost immediately, US and international brands can establish a brick presence and e-commerce presence supported by ready-distribution with the right outsourced warehousing and distributions partner.

While the US economy continues to struggle to bounce back in the area of consumer spending, a ready market in Canada is seen to be the most logical location for growth. Executed carefully, profitable sales may be achieved with a Canadian consumer base keen to have the best brands the US has to offer. Establishing relations with the right distribution and fulfillment partner may be a key to achieving such success.

This is My Story - Suffering in Silence

The reason I am writing this is to help someone who is in the same situation where I found myself eighteen years ago so they can benefit from my own funny, unique, sometimes hurtful, painful, uncomfortable and even humiliating personal experience. I am writing this is to answer the questions I had about myself, the discovery that my depression was not clinical depression but that it was manic depression, the onset of my mood swings and Christianity in my own life. If North America can be described as the 'Prozac Nation' by the North American author Elizabeth Wurtzel and the USA coined the terms 'hype' and 'spin' then why is mental health such a low on the list of priorities of the people we voted into power when it basically affects everyone around us directly or indirectly, in a significant manner or otherwise?

It is a psychiatric illness also known as bipolar mood disorder or having mood swings. I have lived with this debilitating, mysterious and deadly disease my whole life. I have struggled to overcome the stigma attached to this disease by people who are intimidated by anything that they do not have any control over.

This is my story. Sometimes I imagine that I am standing on a stage giving a seminar when I say those words.

I am just like you. I believe there is nothing extraordinary about my life except the way I choose to live it. Some people have to have physical proof that something is amiss with their body. We put so much of our faith into the hands of healers. Faith is a supernatural force of will. Time, God, homeopathy, holistic repatterning, reflexology, full body massage, tea, herbal infusions, therapists, psychiatrists and doctors are all healers. We don't have time to visualise and reflect what our bodies are trying to tell us why we are hurting.

The illness was there for a long time. Now when I look back the truth about it is undeniable. It can be cured - or at best prevented from recurring - to the best of the patient, the doctor and the pharmacist's ability.

I don't believe in labels like gifted, talented, creative genius or eccentric.

It is such a fine illness that influences subtle nuances in an individual's behaviour, that it takes a cluster of specific symptoms to diagnose it. It takes charge of your brain's serotonin and dopamine levels. The feel- good hormones in your brain and that are when your slow descent into a personal and very private hell begins - your secret pain.

I was brought up in a liberal-minded household by parents who believed that love, happiness and peacefulness where greater aspirations than prestige, position and status. I am part of only a lucky few. I was taught not to bear grudges. I was told when someone hurt my feelings to ignore him or her and see him or her for who they truly were. I was taught to be forgiving and understanding and that there wasn't any difference between the rich and the poor children at the schools I went to. I was taught that the noblest profession in the world was being a teacher. Re-enforcing values and excellence, as well as enriching wonderfully young lives filled with so much hope and promise.

My parents taught by example. My father is a community leader and my mother is a teacher.

What I do believe is that the word stigma is a synonym for phobia. I believe people choose to see the very best in someone and that their judgment is clouded when they ignore the rest. Acceptance is something that I think we all think comes at a very high price. It is the denial of human dignity that comes at a great price with unforeseeable circumstances.

The signs and symptoms of a hypomanic episode are as follows. You behave wild and free, have depressive slumps, spiraling depression. You don't sleep. You don't nap. You are the focus - the centre of the universe. You are beautiful, smart, determined but the reflection that everybody else sees is militant, horribly annoying and irritating.

You feel humiliated in later introspection while others felt uncomfortable in your presence. You were Dr. Jekyll incognito and Mr. Hyde in the flesh.

There is a genetic predisposition to depression and mania as well. There has been a history of mental illness on my father's side including alcoholism, depression and suicide.

Depression is a devastating illness that affects millions of people worldwide. The more family values are on the decrease the more suicide is on the increase.

People refer to their depression as sadness and stress. Mental health seems not to be a moot point for people in government. To the world at large that are still suffering in silence, I say, break the silence; add a visible, outspoken voice. There are more of us out there than you realise. Keep on fighting. I did. I do everyday and as I take my first breathe for the day, I thank God I am alive. It's not brave when you're not scared and sometimes I am both good days and bad.

I had no idea I was sick for a long time. Later in the beginning stages it defined who I was. My whole life revolved around hiding my disease. Sometimes it was easy to hide and sometimes it wasn't. It was cerebral. It was a catalyst. There was no scarring, no wound, no stitches and sutures required. I have changed. I have changed for the better only just these last few years. I am a nicer person. I am kinder. My rough edges are softer. Perhaps it is a clique but it has become true. As the popular song goes, 'We can find love if we search within ourselves' but also, I believe, everywhere if we look hard enough.

People who suffer from mental illness think that they are a burden to society. Fact. The suicide rate amongst teenagers - the most vulnerable group - is growing. Fact. Social grants are on the increase as well due to a decrease in family values, growing up as orphans or having a single parent, poverty, unemployment, depression and stress. The list goes on. Rape, domestic violence, battered woman syndrome and the stigmatisation of mental illness is never-ending.

Fact. Some people still continue to have a blind faith in their medical aid or fund, that is, if they have one. Ignorance is like scar tissue, subterranean and lurking beneath the surface. Whoever said ignorance is bliss was duping her or himself. Unless a forum or a platform can be raised to break the silence, annihilate in one blow the stigma of mental illness and of prejudice. Suffering in silence from depression and stress, families will break up and kids will be caught in the crossfire of divorce. There is nothing more devastating in the world than a child who feels unloved and has no self-esteem.

Both Princess Diana and Mother Theresa said that the greatest disease that exists today is the feeling of being unloved.

I felt bewildered when I read 'The girl in the Parisienne dress', an article that was published in another popular women's magazine on Ingrid Jonker; a celebrated South African poet. She was a genius, that goes without saying, but also deeply emotionally unstable because of her childhood and her past and the one man who she would never gain approval or love from - her father. You can't colour happiness outside the edges of your life and imagine it's a sea mist surrounding your body when inside you're backsliding and waning in gloom and doom. Everything around you is blacker than night. William Styron, an American writer, described depression as 'darkness visible' and that was the name of the book he wrote chronicling his own depression as well. I think that there are no two words that describe depression and stress better than 'darkness visible'.

There is one thing that I have learned during the past eighteen years. The future is still in my power, even though the past cannot be changed. Mental illness is not a human stain. Currently I am working on an anthology of my poetry, a collection of short stories and I am beginning work on a novel co-authored with my father called 'From hell to eternity: A memoir of madness'. Earlier this year I received a grant from the National Arts Council which not only encouraged me to begin to write again - this time with both my survival and my experience in mind - but to put together some of my earlier poetry in a collection entitled 'Africa, where art thou?' Yes, my life has turned out rather unconventionally from who, what, where I'd envisaged myself being but not day goes by now that I am not thankful for. I do not question why I am here or what my divine purpose is. I am not driven by fear and uncertainties anymore or if I behave self-consciously. Although there is still a sorrow here I cannot reform, that yields stillness in quiet moments of reflection or contemplation, every event in my life composes furious life anew. Through all the infinite wisdom of my mistakes that came before, the love of my family still remains. It is both a reminder of what came before and what lies ahead in my future.

Can Clinical Depression Cause Suicide?

Clinical depression is responsible for many other symptoms and conditions that can disable someone's everyday life. This condition is often responsible for the sadness that many Americans feel as well as many other mental conditions that make up depression. One of the most dangerous symptoms within clinical depression is suicide. You may think sadness can't kill someone but clinical depression may very well cause someone to commit suicide, or at least have a much higher risk of committing suicide.

To increase your awareness level of suicide within depression patients, we will be reviewing actual statistics of suicide rates here in the United States.

Around 6 to 12% of the United States population go through depression at some stage within their lives. So it should be surprising that suicide takes about 32,000 lives each year here in the United States of America. Which makes suicide the eighth leading cause of morality in the United States. Many people that have mental disorders such as clinical depression have died from committing suicide, of these people about 90% of them had such mental disorders. So you should be able to understand that the more unstable a person's mind or mental abilities the more that can lead to suicidal behaviors. In such, those that have mental conditions should not do any type of drugs or have substance abuse problems. As substances that normally cause an elevation in mood may provoke a negative effect which can cause suicidal behaviors in someone that has something such as depression.

Patients that go through adverse and dramatic life events may have a higher risk of suicide, especially if they have a condition such as clinical depression. However, suicide is not a normal response to stress!

There are many risk factors that involve suicide which you should be aware of:

Please keep in mind these risk factors for suicide apply both to clinical depression and other mental conditions. Patients that have attempted suicide in the past may have a higher chance of committing suicide again, violence within the family may also provoke suicide, family history of suicide can be passed on to later generations, being in jail or in constant incarceration can provoke suicidal tendencies, having firearms and other weapons in the house can provoke suicide, experiencing extreme pain or illness can provoke suicidal thoughts. These are just a sampling of the risk factors for suicide, so please keep in mind there are many other risk factors that you may take notice of in the real world.

Looking for Light in the Mental Health Care Wilderness

Paul Raeburn writes poignantly of his experiences as a father helping raise three children, two of whom suffer from mental illness-a son with bipolar disorder and a daughter with depression. His account will elicit a shudder of recognition from clinicians with institutional or agency experience and will resonate with the many parents struggling to get help for distressed children from managed care and the medical profession.

Raeburn's son Alex, a fifth grader, "detonated" one day upon learning that his art lesson had been cancelled. Screaming in fury, he ran through the halls at school, smashing the glass on a clock with his fist, barreling through the front door, and leading the school staff and police officers on a chase through the neighborhood. The cops wrestled him down, yelling, punching, and kicking, packed him into a squad car, and drove away.

The accounts of this incident and of the many that follow are replete with details familiar to those who work with bipolar children:

• seizurelike rages that give way to exhaustion, sleep, and a subsequent total lack of recall


• agitated or rambunctious behavior in class


• oppositionality and reckless defiance


• risky and rebellious impulsivity


• threats to kill


• a mysterious decline in academic abilities despite superior intelligence


• dark, brooding malevolence interspersed with creativity, brilliance, and sweetness

With the skepticism of a veteran observer, Raeburn traces the family's journey through a maze of hospitals, physicians, therapists, and medication cocktails. Just as age, maturity, and possibly blind luck seem finally to be allowing Alex to regroup, the Raeburns' daughter, Alicia, then in sixth grade, becomes symptomatic and is found to be swallowing handfuls of pills and cutting herself. Once again the family is driven back to the hospitals and practitioners who worked with Alex.

Through the years the Raeburns continue to find the results of treatment frustrating and at best mixed-a pharmacological cornucopia, substance abuse, involvement with the juvenile justice system, and therapists who blame parenting skills, intramarital conflict, and, in Alicia's case, the trauma of rape rather than brain chemistry. Perhaps inevitably, given the severity of the stressors, the Raeburns' marriage dissolves. The parents go their separate ways. Raeburn writes unflinchingly about the loss of his marriage and his own experience of psychotherapy.

Formerly a senior writer and editor at Business Week with years of experience covering science and medicine, Raeburn is no stranger to research. He has mined his family's medical records and has interviewed-and quotes-not only Alex and Alicia but also their brother, Matt, and other parents and children. He writes:

As I began the research for this book, I became increasingly aware of the scandalous disregard with which we treat our mentally ill children. Children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders are among the most neglected and mistreated members of our society. Of the millions of American children with emotional problems, only one in five receives any medical care... But the problems with mental health care cut across the economic spectrum... Treatment of children's psychiatric disorders is often abysmal. The diagnosis is missed. The children are given the wrong drugs, or the right drugs in the wrong doses. They are offered little or nothing in the way of counseling and psychotherapy. They are admitted to psychiatric hospitals repeatedly, and discharged under the orders of insurance companies after only a few days or a week, long before a diagnosis can be made or an effective treatment established. Many of the few children receiving care lose it abruptly when their insurance runs out, which happens much sooner for mental illness than it does for diabetes, heart disease, or any other ailment. Some parents are forced to give up their jobs to become full-time care managers for their children. Some lose their jobs, because they can't get their work done while they are being called away to emergency rooms, school classrooms, police stations, hospitals, and juvenile detention centers to attend to their children.

Convulsed by the torment of their children's illnesses, many parents attempt to conceal their struggle and out of shame or embarrassment. But as Raeburn so accurately observes, the medical system and the nation are failing us all. The suffering of sick children amounts to a public health crisis that demands attention: "The longer the epidemic remains hidden, the longer it will continue."

This wise and informed account of the horrors of medical care for mental illness among some of our youngest citizens and their families is must reading for mental health professionals and parents with troubled children. "What we found," Raeburn says, "was a splintered, chaotic mental health system that seemed to do more harm than good." Many therapists will readily agree. Now is the time for us social workers, parents, and ordinary Americans to take action. By failing to respond to the needs of the nation's children, after all, we jeopardize our collective future. In the process, we disrespect the children we once were.

Reviewed in this article: Paul Raeburn's Acquainted with the Night: A Parent's Quest to Understand Depression and Bipolar Disorder in His Children (New York: Broadway, 2004).

Manic Depression - Signs and Symptoms

Manic depression refers to mood swings from overly high or manic to overly low or depressed. This illness is also referred to as bipolar disorder. It is a brain disorder that causes unusual changes in your moods, energy as well as your ability to function normally. Although this condition can start at any age, it normally begins in late adolescence. It affects people of all ages, races as well as men and women. Besides affecting your life as the sufferer, this condition can also devastate the lives of your immediate family members.

Symptoms of this disorder are classified as either manic or depressive episodes. A manic episode is diagnosed when an elevated mood occurs with three or other symptoms. This can happen on a daily basis, nearly every day or for a week or even longer. If your mood is irritable, four additional symptoms must be present.

A depressive episode is diagnosed when five or more of these symptoms are exhibited most of the day, nearly everyday or for a period of more than two weeks. In a mixed bipolar episode, you will manifest symptoms of both mania and depression at the same time. You could for example be very sad while feeling energized at the same time.

When you have this condition, you will also experience an increase in energy as well as a decreased need for sleep. Reduced attention span and impaired judgment are other symptoms. Causes of manic depression can be genetic, childhood precursors as well as life experiences and events. There are several pharmacological and psychotherapeutic techniques that treats this condition.

Dealing With People With Depression

Dealing with people with depression is not easy. They are negative and absorbed in their own thoughts, worries and fears, and seem to refuse to come out of it. Communication with them is almost impossible. They might even try to get you to leave them alone by saying hurtful words and doing hurtful actions, even though they might not mean it. This is the most difficult period of time for their loved ones and the people surrounding them, friends, colleagues and acquaintances.

Depression is very difficult to define. Different people will define depression differently. Most people might think that a person who is sad all the time and has a terribly negative attitude to be suffering from depression. So they would be shocked to hear that the person who is always positive and seemingly happy, commits suicide, and the negative person is still around! Depression is not easy to diagnose, and is very different for each person.

People who are in severe depression for a long time should go and see a psychiatrist. Mental illness is a disease much like any other disease. There should be no stigma or shame in going to see a psychiatrist. Admitting that you need help is the first step towards recovery.

Clinical depression is a serious mental disorder. People diagnosed with this illness will find it hard to maintain jobs or relationships. They tend to look at the glass half empty, which is an old cliche but rings true with those who suffer from depression.

It can be frustrating for loved ones dealing with people with depression. People suffering from clinical depression will most times refuse help, preferring to wallow in their own dark thoughts and emotions. It can be tempting to just want to ask the person to just "snap out of it", but this could make things worse.

A person who is clinically depressed cannot just "snap out of it", although they know all the facts that you might have tried to reason with them to come out of it. This condition might be caused by an imbalance in their brain chemicals, and it is an illness, just like cancer is an illness. It does not just disappear overnight.

Trying to push a person with depression further might make him feel even more useless and unworthy, and it might push him towards suicide to end it all. Loved ones and caretakers of clinically depressed people should use a lot of gentle love.

Characteristics of Manic Depression

Manic depression is also commonly known as bipolar disease. It involves alternating mood swings that range from a high point known as mania, down to a low point known as depression. The reason that it is also known as bipolar disease is due to the mood swings from the high pole to the low pole. At times a person with bipolar disease will experience dramatic switches in their mood very rapidly. It is more common that a person will manic depression will experience these mood swings in a gradual manner. One of the problems that people with this disease have to contend with is that this disease can affect their ability to think clearly, also it can affect their judgment. A more serious affect is when their social behavior is altered by bipolar disease. It can cause embarrassing and serious problems in a social setting. Manic depression is a chronic condition that is reoccurring, but with proper treatment, it can be a manageable disease.

Some characteristics of the more severe episodes that a person with manic depression may encounter are psychotic symptoms. Some of the more common of these symptoms include hallucinations, such as hearing things or seeing things that are actually not there. Another severe characteristic of a person with this disease is delusions. Delusions can cause a person with bipolar disease to believe in certain things that normal logical reasoning would otherwise not believe in. Psychotic symptoms may involve that person believing that someone has special hero like powers, or someone is a president or king from another place. Normally these types of symptoms happen during the high point of their mood swing. Some characteristics of a person that has bipolar disease can also involve a delusion of worthlessness, guilt or believing that someone is in terrible trouble. These symptoms normally occur during the low point in their mood swing. Not all characteristics are severe. In fact, most characteristics can include irritability, trouble sleeping and not being able to sit still. On the depression side of milder characteristics of manic depression can include not wanting to socialize, not wanting to talk and feeling sad and blue.

Manic depression does have some characteristics that are nothing more than a myth. Many people think that a person can not have a normal life with it or that they can not get better. The truth is that many people that have bipolar disease have a successful career and a happy family. Another myth is that manic depression only affects their mood. It can also affect their sleeping habits, ability to concentrate, energy and appetite. While medicine is a popular treatment for manic depression, there are self help things that can be done. Manic depression symptoms can be controlled by regular exercise, plenty of sleep and eating right, just to name a few. Living with bipolar disease can be challenging. With the right treatment, coping skills and an excellent support system, a person with manic depression can lead a normal and happy life.

Eradicating Depression

ARE YOU FEELING DEPRESSED?

Depression is multi-faceted and this test is intended only as an indication - seek professional medical advice if you feel depressed or are in any way uncertain.

IT'S AN EASY MISTAKE TO MAKE

If you experience depression then you know you can't just snap out of it. Especially if you've tried different techniques or been on anti-depressants or in counseling for a long time it's easy to think that you've tried everything or that nothing will help. If you experience depression or know someone who does, don't give up hope before you've read this article and contacted me.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION

繚 You feel sad or cry a lot, get irritated often and overreact, or you feel 'nothing' a lot of the time.
繚 You feel guilty for no real reason; you feel like you're no good; you've lost your confidence.
繚 Life seems meaningless or like nothing good is ever going to happen again.
繚 You don't feel like doing a lot of the things you used to like and you mostly want to be left alone.
繚 It's hard to make up your mind. You forget lots of things, and it's hard to concentrate.
繚 You sleep a lot more, have trouble falling asleep or wake up really early in the morning.
繚 Your eating habits change; you've lost your appetite or you eat a lot more.
繚 You feel restless and tired most of the time.
繚 You think about death, or feel like you're dying, or have thought about committing suicide.

THE CAUSES OF DEPRESSION

Although there are some common causes of depression (listed below), we are all different:

繚 Excessive and prolonged stress and anxiety
繚 Unresolved emotional issues
繚 Deep seated beliefs and feelings of unworthiness
繚 Genetic / hereditary causes
繚 Unfulfilled dreams and a lack of purpose
繚 Chemical imbalances or a lack of vital nutrients in our bodies

The reasons for depression are mostly unconscious and a lot of people don't know why they feel depressed. That's ok - there is help!

CRITICALLY IMPORTANT & OFTEN MISUNDERSTOOD ASPECTS OF DEPRESSION

繚 Depression is not who you are. It's not that you are depressed, it is that you feel or experience depression; it is something separate from you. Even making small changes in the way you think and speak about depression will help you start the process of uplifting your depression.

繚 Depression is often an unconsciously learnt strategy. This does not mean that you are actively or consciously 'trying' to be depressed or that it's your fault, all in your head or that you're making it up!

繚 Even though this may seem counter-intuitive at first, your state of depression is trying to protect you from actual or perceived emotional, physical or other pain and discomfort. It is not an enemy to be destroyed; it is an ally that's simply not going about things in the best way. The more you work with it rather than against it, the better your chance of working through it and enjoying life again.

繚 I often think of depression as a gift, in painful 'wrapping paper'. It is by unwrapping this painful wrapping paper and opening ourselves up to receive the gifts in the experience of depression that we can finally let go of the pain.

CHEMICAL IMBALANCES

The natural chemicals in our bodies and brains play a significant role in the way we feel. Some people that experience depression have measurable chemical imbalances and others don't. At a time in my life that I felt severely depressed (and had been for months), medical tests showed normal levels of all the essential natural chemicals and nutrients in my body. The good news is that the methods I use work - whatever your situation.

ANTI-DEPRESSANTS

For some, anti-depressants can be an important part of getting better; a 3 month course that I took in 1998 probably saved my life. At the same time I believe that anti-depressants mostly do not address the underlying issues that cause depression in the first place; the techniques that I use release and re-pattern these effectively and naturally.

Always consult with a health expert before you stop taking prescribed medication.

OTHER SUPPORT

Many people who experience depression use a variety of support and techniques to help them through tough times and I strongly recommend that clients initially keep all their current positive support systems intact e.g. medication, working with a health practitioner, a 12-step program, yoga etc.

MY OWN STORY

It was my own experience with depression that led me to specialise in treating it.

I experienced severe depression at various times in my life and experimented with all sorts of therapies and counselling like psychotherapy, reiki, crystal healing, homeopathy, meditation, affirmations and acupuncture.

My first EFT in 2003 helped me to shift more of the heavy emotion I was feeling at the time than I thought was possible and I knew at that moment that I wanted to learn the technique. I now specialise in showing others how to uplift their depression because I understand the hopelessness and despair that often comes with depression, and the delight of being through it!

I am the living proof that it is possible to overcome depression and to live a rich and fulfilling life. Wouldn't you rather have someone who has personal experience of depression help you with yours?

WHAT IS POSSIBLE FOR YOU

With the discovery of 'Energy Therapies' (like EFT) and techniques including EFT, NLP and Hypnosis it is now possible to experience deep personal change much quicker than ever before.

繚 release your energy blocks to set yourself free from depression
繚 interrupt non-helpful thinking and behavior patterns
繚 install a deep sense of worthiness and well being

As your depression starts lifting (most people experience relief even after the first session) and you start feeling better it starts up a new, positive cycle - the better you feel, the better you feel!

WHAT IS EFT

The meridian points in our body are like the electrical outlets in our homes and the meridian lines are like the wiring that connects them. If the wires in your home got cut or blocked then electricity couldn't flow through them and your electrical appliances or lights won't work. It's the same with us - if the energy flows in our bodies get disrupted or blocked in any way then we start feeling unwell and this could manifest as physical disease or pain, or emotional discomfort such as fears, phobias, anxiety, stress and depression.

EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) is a technique that uses our body's natural ability to heal itself by (literally) tapping into the body's energy system to release 'energetic blocks'. It combines body/Mind science with acupuncture (without needles).

By tapping on some of the meridian points on our bodies while using language in a specific way EFT releases these blocks, allowing the energy to flow freely, allowing ourselves to get well again - often very quickly and when nothing else will.

WHAT IS NLP

NLP is a very effective way to interrupt unhealthy or unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour and replace them with more healthy and helpful thoughts and actions so that you can move ahead in your life powerfully.

NLP utilizes a variety of techniques including the purposeful use of language, anchoring positive emotional states into your body so that you have access to them any time you want and actively using your imagination to create the change you want in your life.

WHAT IS HYPNOSIS

Hypnosis is simply a way to communicate with our unconscious minds and make the changes at the deepest levels where it matters. Used in this context it is nothing like 'stage hypnosis', you are not 'put under' and certainly cannot be made to do anything against your will. Quite often it's like being told a story and most people find it quite relaxing.

Are You Possessed by Demons? Symptoms and Signs of Real Demonic Possession

Demon possession is real and silently affects most souls on Earth. Below we will outline symptoms and signs of real demonic possession and what to look out for.

Demons succeed in not being detected due to "partial possession". What most people do not understand is that demons seek to only "partially" possess the mind, body and soul of a human being. They do this because they wish to remain undetected within the soul of a human being. These demon spirits seek to disrupt a soul's spiritual path and to steal its light. They do this by causing addictions within the soul and by increasing feelings of low-self worth, self-hate, anger, rage, hate, grief, sadness, depression and anxiety. The majority of human beings who are possessed by these dark entities have no idea they have such an entity within them.

Demons pray on souls who are in a weakened state emotionally, mentally and physically. This weakened state causes splits and fractures in the soul and leads to "holes" in the aura. Demon entities are then able to enter the soul without detection. Most demon possession occurs as a result of the soul "fragmenting" due to emotional trauma or shock or fright. This phenomena is explained by Jesus Christ in the following channeled message from Kim Michaels:

Jesus Christ: "As the soul experiences a traumatic situation, a part of it separates itself from the main part of the soul. When a part of the soul's substance has been split off, there is a vacuum inside the soul. Because of the imperfect conditions found on this planet, it is highly likely that the vacuum is invaded by non-material beings such as demons. The vast majority of human beings have some kind of split or fracture in their souls, and therefore have been invaded."

Symptoms And Signs You Are Demon Possessed

Demon possession is nearly always responsible for the following human conditions: mental illness, depression, schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder, multiple personality disorder, paranoia, acute anxiety, panic attacks, personality disorder, psychosis, delusional disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, narcissistic personality, serial killing, rape / murder / torture, mental / emotional / sexual abusing, child molestation / pedophilia, addiction (drug, alcohol, sex, obesity, etc), eating disorders, suicide and suicidal thoughts, self-harming behavior (cutting), Alzheimer's / dementia, insomnia.

The above conditions are more chronic symptoms of a "large" number of demon and earthbound spirits having gained entry into the soul. Demon spirits in fewer numbers are commonly responsible for causing physical pain, cramps, physical illnesses, headaches, mood swings, and more intense "fear-based" emotions such as anger, hate, bitterness, depression, sadness, anxiety and low self-worth.

This article has been written to educate souls on this phenomena of demon possession and to let you know there are many tools available on the below mentioned website to protect you from these dark forces and to cleanse your soul of any existing demon entities.

What Are Some Herbs for Anti-Depression?

The most traditional treatments for depression are medications and psychotherapy. Herbal treatments are becoming increasingly popular. This is because they are all natural and have few if any side effects. Using herbal treatments should be done with the approval of your physician.

The reason is because herbal supplements could reduce the effectiveness of some of the medications you may already be taking. They could also intensify the results. For example, if you are considering taking an herbal supplement to lower blood glucose levels and you are on medications for that, your blood sugar could drop to a dangerously low level. Herbal supplements are every bit a medication.

For our purposes here, we will look at only a few of the herbs that can be used for anti-depression. They can be very effective and you will want to get the best quality supplement possible. Top quality supplements are of pharmaceutical grade and the metabolic paths of each ingredient are studied at the molecular level. The interactions of the ingredients are also evaluated, so this ensures quality and lets you know that what is on the label is what you are getting.

Milk Thistle is also known by the name of Silybum Marianum. It helps to protect the liver from diseases such as Hepatitis B and aids in the synthesis of protein in the liver. It works well in a supplement when combined with certain other nutrients.

Chamomile has been known for awhile as a mild sleep aid. It helps to ease anxiousness and relaxes the nervous system. It is usually taken as a tea that is made from dried flower leaves and boiled water that is poured over them. Chamomile may also help to elevate your mood and boost the metabolism.

Passion Flower is another herb that while not specifically used for depression, it helps relieve insomnia. It also helps to relieve nervousness, anxiety, and pain. As these are relieved, your mood may also be elevated, thus reducing your depression.

Depression is an illness with varying degrees of intensity and duration. The depression can cause loss of interest in usual activities, changes in appetite and sleep, and a certain amount of self consciousness. You are not crazy, unsociable, or inept in any way at all. You are certainly not alone. There is help and treatment available. Your doctor can help you to find the right course for your particular needs and with the right treatment, you can feel better.

Severe Depression - The Worst of Its Kind?

Severe Depression occurs when the illness is in its worse stages. Too many Americans will not seek help for this disorder until it is so severe that it takes years to bring under control. Depression of some type afflicts 15 million people in the USA annually. Medical attention will only be sought by about 4.5 million of these people. They try to hide it, wish it away, because of fear of being labeled crazy or insane. The problem is that Sever Depression will not be wished away. The condition gets worse and those afflicted will lose control.

Many Americans are too ashamed to admit they are afflicted. Severe depression does not make you sub-human. It doesn't make you less of a human. Depression is a disease like any other disease. Medical care is needed. The normal symptoms of depression are multiplied in severe cases. The illness and its effects get much much worse. It becomes harder to deal with every day situations. Negative feelings intensify to make you a total loner. This disease can't be avoided. Treatment is possible. Attacking it in its early stage is a key.

The ability to identify the symptoms associated with depression is essential in the process of diagnosis and treatment. Depression is associated with many symptoms. A transparent one is that the sufferer will withdraw into themselves. Dealing with other people becomes too difficult. They cannot overcome their feelings of guilt, hopelessness and uselessness. They always seem angry and short tempered. In some cases of severe depression people claim to hear evil spirits whispering in their ear. Suicide often becomes a way out for victims of severe depression. It takes treatment and a great deal of support from loved ones to help people with the disease..

Severe depression is terrible. Those who suffer it cannot live normal lives, as they once knew it. There is no feeling like the feeling of losing self-control. Hope is slim, but treatment is hope. Typically, anti-depressants and 'talk therapy' are prescribed to treat depression. There are also many support groups available to assist these individuals to adjust in society. Once victims seek treatment they can be put on the road to a better life. They can again be the ruler of their own domain. But first the illness must be admitted and treatment sought.

Which Do You Choose?

You have two choices. You can either choose to fight for your emotional health, find peace of mind and live a happy, productive life, or you can choose to remain on your roller coaster. Only you can make this decision.

Surprisingly, 90 percent of people suffering from bipolar disorder choose to make no effort and be proactive in bettering their life. They enjoy the ups and downs and will inevitably continue down a very destructive path, be misunderstood and live a great deal of their life in misery. If this is you, then accept the alternative and give up now.

I, however, have chosen to be in the 10 percent who have taken control and become a productive member of society and lead a somewhat 'normal' life. If you choose the second option, to move forward, stabilize and regain your mental health like me, then you're well on your way. But remember, it's ultimately up to you to put in the work. Trust me, no one is going to come knocking on your door and say, "Please excuse me, but would you like me to fix you? And by the way, it's on the house!" And if you do find someone who wants to fix you who isn't a doctor, run like hell, especially after knowing them for a short period of time. They don't know what you've gone through and how hard you've worked, only you do.

One afternoon several years ago I was watching an episode of Larry King Live. The episode was entitled "20 Years of Bipolar Hell." The guest was actress Linda Hamilton (from 'Terminator'). Caller after caller was desperate for answers she didn't have. I sat frustrated as I watched and listened. I'm sitting there talking back, no, practically shouting, to the TV, "I know the answer! I know how!" This is when I knew I could help people, my passion. I could teach them by sharing my strategies and coping tools to manage my bipolar disorder on any given day with its many challenges.

Most famous people have money and resources available to them that we don't have the luxury. It's so easy for them to just say to go to the doctor, get medicated all will be peachy keen. NOT! And don't be fooled. You can bet half of them are half-step'n it. What I want to know is, how are all the people walking around with no place to live, no money, no food, no work who suffer from manic-depression going to turn their life suddenly into a bed of roses?!

Add the daily pressures of life, housing, transportation and money issues. And those are for the 'normal' people. We get to deal with severe, ever-changing emotional cycles, commonly referred to as mood swings (I hate that term, it sounds unstable lol). Some last seconds. Others days, weeks and months. And don't forget all the ones in between. There's long ones and short ones all intertwined. They take you from wanting to stay in bed for days on end, pull the sheets over your head and want to disappear, only to be followed by a huge high and feeling like you can take on the world and solve all its problems. Don't forget the confusion, racing thoughts, insomnia. You get the picture.

Your case may be even worse. You could be having chronic panic attacks or in a great deal of physical pain. Say, for instance, back problems, arthritis or migraine headaches. In these cases, what ends up happening is the emotions and the physical aches and pains decide to wage their own war inside you; they exacerbate one another. When you can get through one of these days, go to bed being thankful, pat yourself on the back and say it was a great day.

Wow! That's a lot of crap to deal with. But let me assure you - IT CAN BE DONE! And the payoff will be amazing! Even to the point that people will have no clue that you suffer from this illness unless you tell them. You should see the looks on their faces. You'll love it. And this may sound strange, but you will probably be one of the sanest people you know and have abilities you never dreamed you have.

The day I realized that the only thing wrong with me was a genetic chemical imbalance, just as natural as the color of my blue eyes, it actually came as a huge relief. It meant it wasn't my fault. Just knowing it isn't your fault should bring you comfort because being aware is half the battle. You know what you're dealing with and this knowledge will give you the power to take control.

See, I understand. Good news is, it could be worse. You have a gig that can be managed, some people don't. They don't have a choice. Just remember that in making your decision.

Curing Depression Naturally Begins With Asking The Right Questions

Despite what the pharmaceutical companies may try to tell you, curing depression naturally is not impossible. In fact, it can be the most effective way and quite possibly the only way. Let me explain...

Antidepressants serve a purpose, indeed. However, they are like a set of crutches. They sure can be handy. But, they won't heal your broken ankle. Your doctor may need an X ray of your foot to determine how bad you've broken your ankle, and may have to readjust it before she puts a cast on it. After she does this, then and only then do the crutches make sense!

Curing depression naturally involves 'taking X rays' and finding out what is going on inside your body. Your doctor may need to run some internal tests to figure out what's going on inside of you. Too often doctors simply prescribe an anti depressant without getting to the bottom of what's causing it. What if you need counseling to deal with disappointment or discouragement? What if you are not simply getting the nutrition you need?

What are the 'X rays' needed in curing depression naturally?

The tests that need to be run are holistic. Depression can be caused by many different areas of our lives.

1. We need to test our emotional well-being. What are we sad, mad, and glad about? Are we expressing these emotions or bottling them up?


2. We need to test our physical well-being. Are we getting enough exercise, fresh drinking water and fresh air? Are we eating the proper nutrients?


3. We need to test our mental well-being or our mental patterns and habits. Do we err on the side of pessimism? Do we beat ourselves up?


4. We need to test our spiritual well-being. Where do we put ourselves in this world? What is our purpose?

Once you take these tests on yourself, you begin to find some clues and only then does curing depression naturally begin to take place. There is hope! You are worth it!

Studies Indicate That Yoga and Exercise Help With Depression

Is reducing depression as simple as adopting a regular exercise routine? Many of us have heard that exercise such as yoga, biking, or jogging can improve mood. However, you may be wondering if this is an opinion or if there is solid scientific research indicating that exercise can really help people who are battling depression.

The reality is that there is a wealth of compelling research that supports exercise, including yoga as a modality for helping treat depression. As stated in the 2008 Summary of the Physical Activity Guidelines put out by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, there are in fact many research studies that claim that those who adopt a regular exercise routine feel better and experience reduction in symptoms of depression.

It is, however, important to do the right type of exercise. The most beneficial forms of exercise for reducing depression are moderately challenging as opposed to very light physical activity. These may include aerobic exercise that incorporates strengthening elements. A yoga practice for example can be very useful alleviating depression.

Many research studies validate the claim that yoga enhances emotional well being and combats depression. For example research indicates that levels of cortisol (a primary stress hormone) in the bloodstream are lowered following a yoga routine. Also established research has found that yoga improves serotonin levels.

A study conducted in 2009 evaluated mood changes prior to and following yoga therapy. The moods of 54 participants, prior to and following 2 weeks of yoga therapy, were compared against one another. 64% of the study's participants experienced a decrease in mood disturbance, while 53% where found to have reduced their depression symptoms.

Amy Weintraub, a former depression sufferer herself, author of Yoga for Depression, and founder of LifeForce Yoga explains, "When the mind is absorbed in a negative spiral of thoughts, whether it is anxiety based or depression, the mind needs something to focus on that takes it away from that negative spiral." Yoga for depression, she explains, does precisely that.

Weintraub also recommends yogic breathing exercises as a remedy for depression. These work by stimulating the vagus nerve, which is known to decrease symptoms of depression. It was found that one breathing technique in particular was able to bring about as great as a 73% reversal of major depression.

The body of research as well as expert advice supports yoga therapy as a way to effectively reduce depression and increase emotional well being. Weintraub points out that it is not the particular style of yoga that is essential. Find a class that feels right to you. "Find a teacher," she advises, "which makes you feel, when you walk out the door, like your life has changed in that moment. That you are fresh and alive." Weintraub also warns people who are new to yoga not to change their medication. Even though many people start seeing improvement right away, it is better to wait for no less than 9 months of regular yoga practice before even thinking about stopping your prescription anti-depressants.

Users Say Dianetics is a Natural - Drug-free Remedy for Depression and Anxiety - Since 1950

Amidst the highly public debate on depression, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a Public Health Advisory (PHA) warning against worsening depression and increased risk of suicidal behavior in people taking antidepressants.

After a short-term study of nine antidepressant drugs revealed an increased risk of suicidal behavior in children and adolescents, the FDA directed drug manufacturers to add a "black box" warning to all antidepressants. The "black box" warning is the most serious warning placed on a prescription drug. In the FDA Review of Clinical trials, it warns that the rate of suicidal thinking or behavior with these drugs was 4%, twice the placebo risk of 2%.

Federal health officials are also looking into a suggestion by a University of Texas study that Ritalin and other stimulant drugs given to children might increase the risk of cancer later in life.
Depression is now ranked as a major global health crisis, affecting over 120 million people, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The symptoms of depression include feeling sad or down, losing interest in usual activities, feeling guilty, worthless or hopeless, or having sleeplessness and lack of energy. This means that practically every person on this planet suffers at one point or another from depression.

Harvard University psychiatrist Joseph Glenmullen says the questionnaire of symptoms used to "diagnose"
depression "may look scientific," but "when one examines the questions asked and the scales used, they are utterly subjective measures..."

The "depression screening" in the general community has undoubtedly influenced the 60 million prescriptions for antidepressants written in the U.S. - about 10% of the American population, including 1.5 million children.

Allen J. Frances, Professor of Psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center writes: "Psychiatry's claim that mental illnesses are brain diseases...is not true. There are no objective diagnostic tests to confirm or disconfirm the diagnosis of depression...There is no blood or other biological test to ascertain the presence or absence of a mental illness, as there is for most bodily diseases. If such a test were developed...then the condition would cease to be a mental illness and would be classified, instead, as a symptom of a bodily disease."

While there has been no shortage of biochemical explanations for psychiatric conditions, Glenmullen is emphatic, "...not one has been proven. Quite the contrary. In every instance where such an imbalance was thought to have been found, it was later proven false."

According to Elliot S. Valenstein, PhD and author of Blaming the Brain, "The theories are held on to not only because there is nothing else to take their place, but also because they are useful in promoting drug treatment."

As with any condition, treating only the symptoms, not the cause, has no real long-term benefits. With the current mainstream treatments, it seems therefore that no safe, effective therapy exists.

However, it is not true that no understanding of the causes of depression exists. In his book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, author and humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard lays out very clearly the exact anatomy of how the mind works, and what causes such things as stress, anxiety and unhappiness.

Dianetics fully explains the source of upsets and uncontrolled emotion, and explains how to get rid of them.
Current medical thinking treats physical illnesses as a function only of the body, while modern psychiatry treats mental illnesses as a dysfunction of the brain. In Dianetics, Mr. L. Ron Hubbard demonstrates how the mind affects the body. He shows how 70% of all man's illnesses are in fact psychosomatic, and he wrote,
"The problem of psychosomatic illness is entirely embraced by Dianetics, and by Dianetic technique such illness has been eradicated entirely in every case."

Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, was first published in 1950 and has been a consistent best-seller ever since. The information contained in this book can help people achieve a happier and healthier life using a program that is both natural and drug-free. Dianetics Techniques go straight to the source of the problem and handles the cause, thus alleviating the symptoms.

Depression is a very real and tragic thing. Dianetics can help to handle it and should be a welcome solution to a condition that is now regarded as a global problem.

To find out more about Dianetics, visit http://www.DianeticsBook.com/depression

Am I Stressed Or Depressed?

In years past, I used to think that was a rather stupid question. "Do I have signs of depression?" For goodness sake, you must know whether you're depressed or not. But it isn't quite as simple as that. After all, you may simply be having a 'down' day.

All right, maybe it does last for a few days, but perhaps you've just lost a loved one, so you're bound to feel miserable. But it isn't just the way you feel. Let's have a closer look at the symptoms of depression. They're common enough emotions and feelings and because of this, there can be a lot of confusion regarding diagnosis. So the question; 'Am I stressed or depressed?' becomes valid.

. Exhaustion On Waking
. Sleep Disrupted
. Unpleasant Dreams
. Waking Early, Can't Sleep Again
. Hobbies Less Interesting
. Difficulty Concentrating
. Energy Improves Throughout The Day
. Anxious, Worrying, Intrusive Thoughts
. Become Emotional For No Reason
. Short Tempered, Irritable

A good example would be someone suffering from Bipolar Disorder, or Manic Depression. They may become anxious and irritable, show a lack of interest in their hobbies and have trouble sleeping. All of these symptoms are the same as depression.

Now, if this person's mis-diagnosed as having depression, when in fact they have bipolar disorder, and they're prescribed anti-depressants in the category of SSRIs, then they could easily flip into mania.

Stress is another condition that on the surface could be mistaken for depression. People suffering from stress find it difficult to concentrate, they can be irritable, have varying degrees of anxiety and become emotional for no reason. Again, all these symptoms fit depression.

One of the main things to remember is that depression isn't just another mental condition mixed in with a whole plethora of other mental illnesses which affect people to a greater of lesser extent.

Clinical depression is the world's number one mental disorder and the second most disabling condition in the world after heart disease. And the problem's growing.

This is one of the reasons why it's so vital to write about it, to bring it out into the open, so that people come to understand exactly what it is... and not to be afraid of coming forward and seeking treatment if they think it's a condition from which they're suffering.

It's necessary, too, to explode all the myths and half-truths that are perpetrated, knowingly or unknowingly, upon the public as a whole.

One quick and singularly alarming example. The FDA has recently approved yet another treatment for depression. It's called 'Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation,' and consists of powerful magnets used to stimulate the parts of the brain that affect mood.

Dear God, dear old Mesmer was playing around with magnets two and a half centuries ago!

Hormone Imbalances And Depression

Serotonin depression is a mood disorder due to the imbalance in the hormone, serotonin. The symptoms can affect bipolar, anxiety and depressive eating disorders.

Serotonin is what is called a monoamine transporter. It carries important messages along the neural pathway in the brain. It's a bit like the postman who will use the pathways in the brain to carry the letter you posted.

In Serotonin depression it's as if the letter writer ran out of paper to write on or didn't mail it properly and the receptors pick it up too quickly and it gets scrambled up somehow. This causes an imbalance of mood, energy or understanding and can lead to depression. It has also been discovered that the release of serotonin is somehow tied in with the sleep cycle and the body's natural circadian rhythms.

There are two major types of serotonin depression. It can be due to a genetic defect in the brain's serotonin receptors (mailboxes), called 5HTT receptor sites. These are too short making them too quick to absorb the serotonin and then to release it back into the neural pathway properly causing a shortage.

Many antidepressant medications are designed to block these receptor sites (5HTT) from absorbing serotonin too quickly. That is why they are called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI's) and are used for depression but recent tests are now questioning whether they are as effective as it was first believed. They have also found that it has an impact on the teenage suicide rate.

SSRI's may not be effective in many cases because of the brain's inability to produce enough serotonin to begin with. If levels of serotonin are too low the SSRI's won't work. This is the second type of serotonin depression - the brain's inability to produce enough serotonin. The problem is that one cannot just take a serotonin supplement. The brain's defence mechanism called the brain barrier protects it from outside chemicals which are why the supplements don't work well.

Sometimes the brain can temporarily get the extra serotonin it needs from carbohydrates in sugars and starches as these cause the pancreas to release insulin to break down sugars. This insulin gets the brain barrier to open and absorb the serotonin compounds giving the person a 'high' for a while until they run out of serotonin again. Then they crave more carbohydrates, put on weight and create a cycle which is why this is not a good way to get serotonin into the body.

Research shows that the body needs different hormones at different times of day such as melatonin to help us sleep and serotonin during the day. The control centre that regulates these hormones is called the Suprachaismatic Nucleus, or body clock, and is in a part called the hypothalamus in the back of the brain. This body clock uses light as a signal to know when to produce the right hormones and uses darkness to produce night time hormones. As people age or suffer from stress it can malfunction causing many a sleepless night. Light produces serotonin and light therapy has been found to help with mood disorders especially in winter with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

In terms of natural supplements studies show St. John's Wort (Hypericum) can sometimes be as effective as Prozac in treating depression because it affects all three neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine). There is no other pharmacological medication that does this and it works by causing these neurotransmitters to stay in the synaptic system longer and stopping absorption too quickly. These neurotransmitters are the messengers, carrying the brain's commands to where they need to go. Since they stay in the system longer, the brain's cells communicate better with each other and this is why many depressed people respond so well to St. John's Wort. It is important though that if you are on medication you tell your doctor you want to start taking St John's Wort as it accelerates the liver's ability to break down and can inter-act with other medications.

A vitamin B deficiency is also usually in play when one is depressed due to low folic acid levels. That is how depression usually starts. Medications also work better if folic acid is taken. Vitamin B also helps with mood swings associated with low self esteem, menopause and PMT. It is important to buy the highest B complex that you can find.

Fish oils such as Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA and EPA) are also anti-depressants and studies show they can help in stabilising bipolar depression. These may work by nourishing the nerve cells in the brain which are mostly made of DHE fatty acids. Depressed people have low DHE levels so the fish oil will raise these as well as lowering the risk of heart attacks, strokes and help build better bones. It is important to take vitamin C and E and other natural anti oxidants with these as they can produce free radicals if you take too much of them. Goji Juice is one of the best antioxidants. Also fish oils can sometimes interfere with anti-clotting medications.

DHEA is also a natural anti depressant which helps with moods but it may also affect hormone levels as DHEA is produced by the adrenal glands and converted into oestrogen, testosterone and other hormones in the body. Too much may cause oily skin, some facial hair which is rare and a lowering of the voice. Chromium Picolinate is helpful in cases of dysthymia and selenium helps with concentration and energy whilst Zinc can also lift one's mood.

The old remedy of L-Tryptophan, 5-HTP used in the past does not work that well though. Although L-Tryptophan is the basic building block of serotonin and 5-HTP is a synthesized intermediate compound close to serotonin and the combining of these doesn't necessarily produce more serotonin.

Serotonin is a difficult substance to produce artificially and therefore it makes serotonin depression a difficult disorder to treat.

6 Tips For Dealing With Depression That You Can Hang Your Hat On

The word depression is linked with various feelings that people go through under certain situations. Feeling down or sad, tired, taciturn, pains, lack of sleep i.e. insomnia etc are some of the symptoms of depression. Beating depression is possible if you are ready to take a few steps towards fighting depression naturally.

Depression brings negative thoughts along with it. If you really want to come out of depression, start thinking positively. Try to engage your mind in some activity that you like to do, like reading, swimming, solving puzzles etc. This way you mind will be pre occupied with something giving it no time for negative thinking.

1. Never sit alone at house. There are so many support groups that help people come out of depression. Join one such group. Share your experiences with other group members. Listen to others' experiences. That will give your mind a power to fight depression.


2. Adapt healthy eating habits. Foods that are rich in Omega 3 are considered the best when it comes to elevating your mood. Stay away from fatty, unhealthy fast food as it increases the sad feelings.


3. It is very necessary to workout regularly. It has been proved that regular exercise can help in lifting your mood when you are depressed. Increased heart rate and good blood flow refreshes mind and body giving rise to positive thoughts.


4. Diary writing is a good habit especially when you are depressed. It helps you keep trail of your emotions. When you read your diary next day, it will give you a fair idea about your emotions and feelings and will give some relief from tensions.


5. It is proved that if you go for morning walks, the early morning sun rays will help increase serotonin i.e. a chemical that increases the happiness in the mind. Going for walks will help you improve your psychological and physical health at the same time. It will boost your moral and keep you away from sad and depressing thoughts.


6. Do not sit alone in front of the television. Try to mix up with your friends and family members. The more you stay with people; there are more chances of your beating depression naturally and quickly.There will be at least one activity that you enjoy the most. It may be painting, reading, playing some musical instrument etc. Try to keep your mind busy in any such activities. It is said that 'empty mind is devil's workshop'. Do not let your mind be a devil's workshop. If you keep it unoccupied then there are more chances of suicidal thoughts coming into your mind and making you more depressed.

Follow above mentions ways to fight depression naturally and you will certainly be able to come out of depression. Always keep your mind occupied. Speak to your doctor, friends or family members. It will relieve some of your tension. If the marital problems are the main reason behind your depression, try to solve the issue tactfully so that you can save your marriage and cure depression naturally.

Depression In Adults

Depression has become very common among the adults. Depression may occur in three levels which includes; mild depression, moderate depression as well as severe depression. Research has shown that one in every four women and one in every ten men will suffer from depression at some time in their lives. There are many symptoms that are associated with depression in adult such as; loneliness, suicidal thoughts, loss of appetite, loss of sleep, low energy, persistent sadness and so on. The more severe the condition becomes, the more the symptoms that the patient will experience. In most cases, the patients will get convinced that something really bad is about to happen to them such as a fatal disease or poverty.

Recent studies have shown that about 6%-19% of the population will suffer from major depression at one time in their life. Although there is no apparent known cause for depression, many researchers tend to think that it is a biological illness. The reasoning for this is due to;The condition occurs without any apparent reason for example without any changes in lifestyle,The condition tend to run down the family tree,It can be treated with medicines alone in most cases.

Depression is a condition that must be taken very seriously. If not checked, it can have severe impacts on one's life. It can interfere with social life, career life, family relations and can also impact negatively on your sense of self purpose and self worth.

Major causes of depression in adults

There are many factors that have been found to be possible causes of depression. Some of the causes include; alcohol abuse, change in seasons, physical/hormonal changes, traumatic events, hypothyroidism, stroke, heart attack and so on.

Common symptoms of depression in adults

-Anger and anxiety

-Withdrawing from family and friends

-Feeling of guilt and worthlessness

-Changes in eating habits as well as sleeping patterns

-Irritability,Lack of enthusiasm and motivation

-Persistent sadness

-Weight loss or weight gain

-Suicidal thoughts

Diagnosis of depression

There is no clinical test that can be conducted to determine if the patient is suffering from depression. Diagnosis is based on; the type of symptoms being experienced by the patient, for how long the patient has had the symptoms and also how the symptoms have impacted on the patient's life. Blood tests may also be conducted but only to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Treatment of depression in adults

There are different treatment options that are available for depression patients. Among them includes;

-Cognitive-behavioral therapy- This method tries to recognize what has caused depression and also helps to fight negative thoughts

-Use of antidepressants- These are medicines that brings re-establishes chemical balance in the brains. In some cases, antidepressants may be administered together with other medication such as antianxiety, anticonvulsant, mood-stabilizing or antipsychotic medications.

-Engaging in creative work of art, music or drama could help to relieve symptoms of depression

-Group therapy- it helps to fight feelings of isolation which may lead one to have feelings of loneliness.

-Other treatment options includes; St John's wort, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), exercising and light therapy.

H Pylori Infection Causes Gastritis

My Mother died aged just 60. When doctors performed her autopsy, they reported that she had been suffering severe gastritis and bleeding of the stomach and small intestine. In ten years of medical care, nobody had bothered to check her stomach for the presence of damage.

My Mother died as a result of septicemia: an infection developed in her psoas muscle, burst and allowed the infectious bacteria to enter her brain. It is fairly clear to me that the infectious organisms that caused the sepsis broke into her circulation through her damaged stomach and intestine.

This is a serious topic!

Gastritis simply means "inflammation of the stomach". H pylori infection is the leading - but not the only - cause of gastritis.

In fact, any word that ends in 'itis' means inflammation. For example, colitis is inflammation of the colon, arthritis is inflammation of joints, uveitis is inflammation of the eyes.

Most of the pain people experience is caused by inflammation. If tissues in your body are inflamed, you'll tend to feel pain there.

However, inflammation does not always cause pain and this is one of the most important lessons you can learn regarding your health because "silent" inflammation causes most of the diseases that afflict the Western population.

Chronic, long term inflammation can lead to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, depression, IBS, autoimmune disease and many other disease processes. These diseases don't appear over night, they are the result of a long term process.

H Pylori, Gastritis & Stomach Pain

H pylori infection always causes inflammation. This inflammation is generally located in the stomach and small intestine, where it is known as gastritis and duodenitis, respectively.

In some folk, gastritis and duodenitis will cause them to experience pain consciously, but other folk will not feel this pain. This is similar to the situation in celiac disease, where some people feel extreme pain upon eating gluten, whereas others feel no discomfort whatsoever, even though the gluten causes huge amounts of inflammation in the intestine.

Individual differences in the way we react to the H pylori infection, in addition to the specific strain of H pylori involved, seem to be the primary reasons why some folk develop stomach pain, heartburn and other uncomfortable symptoms while others do not.

The most common symptom of gastritis is a burning pain that occurs between the breastbone and the bellybutton. The pain can either be worsened or made better by food.

Nausea, loss of appetite, bloating and other common digestive symptoms may also be signs of gastritis. Severe gastritis can lead to stomach ulcers or bleeding, both of which must be treated by a medical professional.

If you have severe pain, burning, nausea, vomiting - especially if you vomit blood or coffee-like granules - or if your bowel movements are unusually dark, seek medical attention immediately as you may have bleeding in your stomach or intestines.

Three Main Causes Of Gastritis

There are three major causes of gastritis:

First, H pylori infection is believed to be the number one cause of gastritis.

Second, NSAIDS such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), Naxopren (Aleve, Naprosyn) are used to treat pain syndromes such as arthritis and headaches. They are available over the counter, without prescription.

They work by decreasing the formation of some of the body's pain signalling chemicals, known as prostaglandins. Gastritis and bleeding of the stomach are known to be side effects of using NSAIDS. For example, in one study it was found that the use of one adult strength aspirin per day triples a person's risk of being hospitalised for a major gastrointestinal bleed.璽?玲?/p>

Third, several diet and lifestyle factors may cause or contribute to the development of gastritis. Here are some of those factors:

• Alcohol consumption (alcohol is a major irritant of the GI tract)
• Cigarette smoking
• Dehydration
• Eating smoked, pickled and processed foods, for example bacon, salami, pickles, vinegar). Processed meats that contain nitrates and nitrites are preservatives are especially problematic.
• Spicy foods such as chilli
• Greasy foods containing processed vegetable oils
• Consuming gluten-containing foods (from wheat, rye and barley)
• Cow's milk products, especially when they are pasteurised
• Sugar consumption
• Coffee drinking
• Food allergies: common triggers include cow's milk, wheat, corn, yeast, nuts, eggs
• Stress (yes, stress has been shown to directly cause inflammation)

Overcoming Gastritis

Overcoming gastritis is not difficult. If you have digestive pain above your bellybutton, the chances are that you have gastritis.

So first, check your lifestyle against the factors listed above and correct any of these that need correcting. Remove problematic foods, stop smoking and talk to your doctor about whether you need NSAIDs.

If this does not relieve your symptoms, make sure that get a test for H pylori. You can get a test from your doctor. We recommend that you two tests: a stool antigen test and a urea breath test.

If H pylori is detected in your testing, you must take steps to eradicate the infection using triple therapy antibiotics or a well-designed herbal protocol such as the one I used when I had H pylori.

Once H pylori has been successfully eradicated, substances that are helpful in healing a damaged stomach and intestinal lining include DGL, zinc-l-carnosine, l-glutamine, cysteine or n-acetyl cysteine, gamma-oryzanol, colostrum and probiotics.

If you are experiencing very severe symptoms, I recommend that you ask for an endoscopy examination from your doctor or specialist. The endoscopy procedure can help you identify how severe your gastritis is. It can also determine whether you have developed stomach, or peptic ulcers, Barrett's esophagus, atrophic gastritis and other conditions, including cancer. A biopsy can also be taken during the endoscopy procedure to identify H pylori infection.

Do not underestimate your body's messages. If you have pain in your digestive system it means there is something wrong. H pylori can cause stomach cancer if it is left untreated. So what begins as simple gastritis can end up causing very serious problems.

Please don't take chances. Alter your diet and lifestyle habits and, if this does not bring relief, seek medical attention immediately.

Candida Test - How to Test For Candida With a Quiz Questionnaire

Are you looking to take a candida test? If so then the best recommendation I can make to you is to take an online quiz or questionnaire. They are easy to do and take very little time at all, most importantly they can reveal an awful lot of information regarding whether you are suffering from candida. Today I will provide 3 of the most common symptoms afflicting those with candida and will break them down into more detail to provide additional clarity regarding them.

Ways to know if you might have Candida

Do you often feel brain fog or a lack of mental clarity? This is often times felt as though you know what the answer is to a question but feel like its just on the edge of your thoughts or a lack of wits that is not normal for you. The cause of this is a toxin released into the body by candida. When there is too much candida in your body there will be an overload of this toxin, which your liver has to break down. It is at this point that an over-congested liver will begin to have negative consequences on your brain function. This is but one symptom of this. Depression and constant mood swings is another very common symptom, as well as anxiety and panic attacks.

Chronic food and environmental sensitivities

Have you noticed that you seem to be sensitive to just about everything? You may have had food allergies in the past, but now they're out of hand. Plus anything in the air from frangrances to smoke seem to trigger congestion, itchy eyes, sore throat or coughing? This is just another symptom of candida and it can literally wear someone down until they have to live in a bubble to prevent having a reaction!

Chronic digestive problems

If you feel as though you constantly have trouble digesting anything you eat and often feel bloated and gassy, there is a very high likelihood that you are suffering from candida. This is a very common complaint amongst those with candida because the main point of conflict in a person with candida is their digestive tract. Very often this will only the first of many symptoms to come for someone just beginning to fall victim to candida.

The Benefits of Fish Oil For Depression and Anxiety

Omega 3 fatty acids found in oil from fish can help with a variety of health issues relating to depression and anxiety. This is because the Omega fish oil can act as a mood stabilizer. How can this be?

More than half of the human brain's dry weight comes from different types of fat. One type of fat found in the human brain is Omega 3 fatty acid. These fatty acids play a key role in forming cell membranes. They also help to keep the membranes flexible, as well as regulate hormone flow and the flow of chemical messengers. The hormones and chemical messengers could affect your mood.

When your body is deficient in Omega 3 fatty acids, the flow of hormones and chemical messengers can be affected. Could adding Omega fish oil into your daily diet bring your mood back into balance? Studies are still being done to prove this theory; however, the studies are looking very promising.

What do the Researchers say about Depression?

There have been some positive results in smaller clinical trials where Omega 3s were being tested on depression. These studies did show significant anti-depressant effects; however, there needs to be much larger studies done to truly prove that these supplements can help.

What do Researchers say about Bipolar Disorder?

Research has also been done on Omega fish oil and bipolar disorder. There are some promising results for people suffering from this disorder. In one particular double-blind placebo-controlled study, one set of people were taking a placebo of olive oil and the other set of people were taking 10 grams of fish oil.

In the fish oil group, a remarkable 11 out of 14 reported less symptoms of depression. Only two of the 14 had manic episodes. In the other group, only 3 out of 16 people reported they felt better and nine out of 16 had major attacks.

Since further studies need to be conducted on a larger scale, researchers do feel the studies that have been conducted are going in a positive direction; however, they will not recommend that you completely replace other forms of medications with oil from fish. But, they are saying that it could be taken in conjunction with traditional mood-stabilizing medications. Remember, it is imperative that you do not change your medication or add Omega fish oil unless you talk with your doctor.

Why not just Eat Fish?

Fish can be contaminated with mercury. Eating too much fish can be unhealthy because of this mercury. In order to eat enough fish to actually stabilize your moods, you would have to eat six to 32 cans of tuna per day. This is not only unappealing to your stomach, but can contaminate your body with small amounts of heavy metals. Instead, simply add in Omega fish oil supplements to your diet.

Not all Fish Oil Supplements are Created Equal

Many store brand supplements contain high levels of mercury. It is important to know where the fish in your fish oil comes from. The best sources for fish oil include: salmon, tuna, sardines, anchovies, and other cold-water fish. Stay away from cod liver oil or other oil that is made from fish liver. This could increase the risk of vitamin A or D toxicity.

Create Money With The Magic of Believing

If you've never dipped into Claude M. Bristol's The Magic of Believing, it may be time to do so - especially if you need to hit the refresh key on your money & financial situation SOON.

Claude Bristol dictated the first draft of his brochure in its entirety in less than five hours, without notes or references of any kind before him. He had no idea what he wrote during those five hours would create a sensation. Demand for his brochure, T.N.T. - It Rocks the Earth - published in 1932, was so great that he later expanded the brochure into a book. A third book was called TNT: The Power Within You.

There is no question Claude Bristol felt believing added "plus value" to our lives. Bristol was a soldier in World War 1 in France and Germany, became a newspaper man who also spent years studying the power of belief, and later became a highly successful investment banker.

"You must have a clear pattern drawn in your mind. What is your exact goal?" Bristol asked his readers. "Wealth, can you fix the amount in figures? What achievements? Not one out of a hundred people can answer these questions," he claimed.

Belief attracts that upon which it is directed. Job, in the Old Testament, even admitted "For the thing I greatly feared is come upon me." Our positive thoughts, Bristol believed, bring welcome results eventually, even if our beginnings are bumpy.

Bristol quotes scientist Sir Arthur Eddington who claimed he believed "the mind has the power to affect groups of atoms and even tamper with the odds of atomic behavior, and that even the course of the world is not predetermined by physical laws, but may be altered by the uncaused volition of human beings."

The message of Claude Bristol in The Magic of Believing? "That people charged with the vibrations of strong beliefs sometimes do the miraculous, things others often say are unbelievable."

Our conscious mind is the source of thought, our sub-attentive mind (what some call the subconscious) appears to be the source of power, and Bristol believed its existence was "beyond space and time" and that it is "a powerful sending and receiving station with a universal hookup." It also operates best when much of the chatter in our mind is quieted.

"The subconscious mind," Bristol claimed, "will not take the trouble to work for those who do not believe in it." For those who believe the Source of Power is MORE than that possessed by what I call the sub-attentive mind, look at Bristol's statement about its connection with a "universal hookup;" in other words, a power source outside itself into which it is plugged and draws on for energy to carry out its assignments.

When you or I say, "Yes, I can do that," it is as if - to quote the philosopher William James - the faith of a man or woman "acts on the powers above him [or her] as a claim and creates its own verification."

Money, Bristol says, "always sensitive, runs to cover when fear suggestions begin to circulate." The opposite of fear is what Dr. Robert Schuller calls "possibility thinking." "We influence events," Dr. Shailer Matthews then of the University of Chicago claimed, "by great desires" in which we believe.

Yes, there are instances in life where we believe we believed as much as believing was possible and, in our view, things went askew and we can't understand why. These are cases where the advice of a former Supreme Court justice, Justice Oliver Holmes, is worth noting: "Have faith and pursue the unknown ends," he advised a young man who asked for advice on a personal matter.

Bristol's salary as a beginning investment banker was quite small, yet he always kept before him a "mental picture" of wealth. When on the telephone with a client or during quiet times he doodled $$$$$ signs on bits of paper that were on his desk. He wanted his "suggestible mind" to get the message that prosperity was important to him. "It is the repetitions of affirmations that lead to belief," Bristol wrote. "And once that belief becomes a deep conviction, things begin to happen."

"What one thing do you desire above anything else?" Bristol asked the readers of The Magic of Believing. He recognized and admitted "It is very difficult for the average person to concentrate or hold a thought picture for any great period." Too much else going on in the mind and it distracts us from our dreams all too often. This is why Bristol advocated writing your goals, as well as your faith or affirmation statements, on three by five cards and reviewing these cards daily to impress the inner mind that you are serious and you mean business.

If you're a sales person, Bristol - a businessman himself - claimed "You must be thoroughly SOLD on the idea yourself before you can convince [or sell] to others."

Bristol indicated he received thousands of letters from business people who told him his technique of looking in the mirror, into your own eyes, breathing to calm the mind, and speaking their affirmations aloud had helped self-confidence immeasurably as well as their profits. "Your mirror shows you the person others see when they look at you," Bristol observed. "There is no better way than rehearsing [your presentation] before the mirror. Use it to build yourself into the person you wish to be."

"A person who desires riches must go where the riches are," Bristol told his readers. It's hard to amass a fortune on a desert island. "If you're after money, you must go where it [money] is being spent."

We have untapped powers but few, to quote the British novelist Colin Wilson, have yet to activate the higher circuits. Of one woman he knew, an Opal Whitely, Bristol, commenting on her powerful beliefs, says "It was uncanny, almost supernatural, the way circumstances suited themselves to her plans."

The Magic of Believing is a success classic. Fear-thought hold us back every time we start to get excited about launching something new. These anxieties not only create a lot of unwanted chemical changes in our own bodies, they keep away from us the things desired that would, when realized, make more of those wonderful wealth-achieving chemicals that make us feel so good.

Until you have the kind of faith and confidence in your future that Bristol writes about perhaps the advice of Dorothea Brande in her book Wake Up and Live is a good place to begin. "Act [and live] as if it were impossible to fail." If you're not a believer yet, try her advice for one day - which is a lot easier than saying do it for a lifetime - and see what happens. Bristol would say, if you pay close attention, you'll find, in ways you never imagined, that your belief is paying off.

"You attract," Bristol wrote, "that on which you steadily focus your imagination."

Once you attract it? That's when the real work begins! Are you up for the challenge of being challenged on a scale you never dreamed your dreams would ask of you? If your answer is yes, then may your answer to your dreams be, "I'm ready to do the work demanded of me," and may your approach to your customers be like the sign Bristol saw in an office building: "We do the impossible - any place, any time."

"You have to think big to be big," Bristol said - and his message resonated with people from all walks of life, from salespeople to performers, from housewives to politicians - to get a better job, increase their income, find a mate, and to even get a restful night's sleep. Bristol wrote that his files were filled with letters from people in all walks of life telling him how The Magic of Believing had changed their lives. "...many have used it in their business to double, treble, even quadruple their incomes."

During America's depression years Bristol used it to save his firm from financial ruin. "In that same period it came to me in a flash why my firm was going on the rocks - not because of the threatening outside happenings and events, but because of the mental attitude of our employees. We were all succumbing to mass fear thoughts:...with our own thoughts of ruin we were attracting the disaster to ourselves.

"It occurred to me that to save the firm and begin fighting the Depression itself, all I needed to do was reverse the thinking of every person connected with our organization. I set about doing that very thing." Frank Camp, a friend, declared that Bristol's efforts were followed "by the most remarkable transformation of individuals and organization as well."

Will the Magic of Believing work for YOU? Bristol's answer would be: you can only find out by trying it yourself. The Magic of Believing, Bristol boldly claimed, was the EVIDENCE of things desired working their way toward us, and we better grab hold of belief in them while the opportunity is available.