Life Coaching - Dealing With the Symptoms of Depression

Depression has been explored and defined a million times over. There are many types of depression, and in some cases medication is the solution. Life Coaching is one way to deal with the symptoms.

Sometimes it's disguised in a low mood, negativity, lack of energy, unable to enjoy everyday life and generally feeling low.

There are simple things you can do to help yourself, by taking baby steps to maybe change your diet, cut out sugar, alcohol and by getting some regular exercise. Spending some time outdoors daily is a great natural aphrodisiac as well as connecting to others. (Take a walk in the park, smile and chat to people you see around your environment).

We all live very busy lives, and especially living in big cities where everyone is running around from one place to the next. At times we just need to have a chat with someone who can really hear us. Others may feel isolated for some other reasons, age, disability, health issues and struggle with low depression and have no one to turn to.

Sometimes we deny our feelings and try to cope, but we feel miserable inside and put on a brave face. We may not even be aware that we are actually struggling with depression. We may want to isolate, overeat or lose our appetite, drink too much alcohol, or escape into some destructive behaviour. This in itself can become a vicious cycle and lead to further depression. If we continue to deny our feelings for a long time we won't even know how we are feeling any more.

Life Coaching is a supportive way to explore the low mood (feeling consistently sad, depressed, down or empty) feelings you may want to avoid talking about. Coaching is about dealing with the present and moving forward, using practical tools to support you along your journey to happiness.

In our society we are not encouraged to express our feelings, and men usually have more trouble than women in this area. If we deny our feelings for so long that we don't even know how we are feeling any more. People who are out of touch with their emotions are not been true to themselves. A Life Coach can offer a safe, supportive place for the individual to explore their feelings and negative view they may hold of themselves.

If we are out of touch with our feelings we are not been true to ourselves. It takes up a lot of energy to push down those feelings than to actually face them.

So it will require some effort from you to overcome your current low mood, (depression). Only you can do it, and your worth doing this for. Sometimes we need to try something new and have faith and trust.

Successfully treating depression could even restore your confidence in yourself without you needing to work extensively on self-esteem.

When you recognise your feelings you are recognising your needs.

You deserve to be happy, joyous and free.

Different Types of Depression - Knowing the Type of Depression Can Save Your Life

Different types of depression. Depression can come in several different forms. Which type a person has depends on that person's life experiences. Whatever the form a person suffers from, one thing is for certain, they need treatment. They should get attention from a train professional who can determine what type of depression they are suffering with and the proper course of treatment. We will discuss the three main types of depression in this article.

First we will talk about Emotional Depression. Emotional depression affects a person for shorter periods of time due to emotional loss or emotional stress. This type can be brought on by a traumatic event in their life such as: the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, breaking up with their spouse or significant other among other emotional draining events. This is best treated with the emotional support of family and friends. Emotional depression, unless very severe, hardly ever requires therapy or medication.

Next we will discuss Classic Depression. This affects a person for long periods of time. This type of depression has no obvious cause. People suffering from classic depression will often experience: extreme mood changes, changes in their eating habits, no energy, and stops enjoying doing the things they use to love to do. This type of depression will affect their ability to interact normally in their work place, with their friends and their family. This type of depression is best treated with medication, therapy or a combination of medication and therapy.

Bi-polar Disorder Depression is the last type we will go over. This type of depression is generally associated with people suffering from Bi-polar Disorder. Bi-polar disorder depression can set in before or after a person experiences a 'manic' phase of this disorder. This can also set in after a person has not had an episode in a long time. Anti-depressant medications along with mood stabilizers are the recommended course of treatment for people suffering from this type of depression. People suffering with this type of disorder can only manage and learn to live with their condition. Sadly bi-polar depression is not curable.

Emotional depression, classic depression and bi-polar depression can affect anybody regardless of their age. Although there have been countless studies of depressed people there has not been determined a particular cause or event to trigger it. One thing is for certain, regardless of which type someone is suffering from, if left untreated, they will only get worse and never live a normal, healthy and happy life.

How Depression Can Affect Weight Loss

There is a definite link between depression and being over-weight. Excess weight and depression often go hand in hand. Depression is attributed to a chemical imbalance in our brain and this can often be caused by dietary and lifestyle habits or hormonal fluctuations.

Without treatment, depression can easily lead to weight gain because depression can lead to a lack of motivation, lethargy and a general decline in wellbeing. However, if steps have been taken to treat depression with certain medications, this can result in other challenging issues as some antidepressant medications can have the side effect of weight gain.

There are many things that we can do to make-weight loss easier despite these challenges, even if we are being treated for depression. Our first priority if we suspect that we are suffering from depression is to seek help and begin treatment as soon as possible.

Once we are under the care of a qualified physician, we can begin to make other changes to our diet and improve our health and general well-being:

Improve Diet

Studies and research have indicated a clear connection between certain foods and the chemistry of the brain. Refined and highly processed foods can be responsible for fluctuating energy levels as well as causing mood swings and be detrimental to our well-being. If we try to eliminate caffeine, sugar and white flour from our diet it will help to lift our mood and boost our energy levels. Ideally we should opt for mainly whole natural foods and drink lots of water to help restore the balance of our body chemistry.

Daily Exercise

Following a daily exercise regime can prove invaluable to helping boost energy levels and mood. Exercise helps to flood our body with endorphins, improves self-confidence and encourages feelings of well-being. During bouts of depression, the last thing we may want to do is exercise, but we need to remain focused and push ourselves into our exercises and gain a little enthusiasm, the benefits will be substantial. We do not have to perform a strenuous workout, a brisk walk, a swim, a short cycle ride or some light weight training will help lift our mood, relieve tension and stress and help us feel better both mentally and physically.

Therapy

Many of us may feel the need to seek help from a psychologist or therapist once or twice a week. A therapist may be able to help us deal with issues and challenges such as phobias or traumas which could be causing or contributing to our depression.

Depression can be overcome, and the most important thing is not to give up hope. Shedding those unwanted pounds and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is possible even if we are struggling with bouts of depression. We may need to be patient but if we can remain focused and determined we will achieve the reward of successful weight loss

Symptoms and Treating Postpartum Depression in Women

Postpartum depression in women is extremely common. Around one in five new moms are affected with the condition. It starts off as the baby blues, which is due to the drop in hormones after the birth of a baby. These hormones usually regulate within a couple of weeks and the new mom goes back to normal. However, there are times that the symptoms of postpartum depression can appear.

The main symptoms are disturbed sleep and a loss in appetite. This will change the weight of the new mom dramatically and will also cause problems of confusion and a lack of concentration. The body and brain need sleep to be able to rejuvenate and continue with the next day. There are many ways that postpartum depression in women can be helped.

The main one is rest. The new mom needs to be able to sleep. It doesn't matter when that rest is; it could be at night or it could be during the day while the baby is napping. However, there are times when the new mom is trying to do everything else around the house and is struggling to fit everything in. This is when friends come in; there is nothing wrong with having a friend to fold laundry or do the washing up while the new mom sleeps for 30 minutes.

A healthy diet plan is very important when it comes to curing postpartum depression in women. A healthy and balanced diet will help the body to rejuvenate and have the energy to get through the next day. Fruit and vegetables are perfect to add to every meal and as snacks. Wheat bread and pasta are also great because of the fiber and more protein should be included.

There are times that the symptoms of postpartum depression do not disappear on their own. At times like this, the new mom will need to speak to someone about her fears and the negative thoughts. There are times that she will want to speak to a professional so she does not feel judged for her thoughts.

Many women will have anxieties that they cannot care for their child but others will have feelings of resentment due to the lack of sleep. While these feelings are natural, they do need to be cared for. Some professionals have started using Emotional Freedom Technique as a way to help postpartum depression in women. This is the use of pressure on acupuncture points while the new mom thinks about her fears; there is also a talking element which helps the new mom come to terms with her fears and anxieties.

Beck Depression Scale

The Beck Depression Scale (BDI) is a scientific depression test to measure the presence and level of depression symptoms used by psychiatrists worldwide. It is meant to use the inventory to help diagnose individuals suffering of different forms of depression. Different settings make an important part of the test. The scale is meant to identify the presence and severity of symptoms and for this reason the Beck Depression Inventory can help professionals to learn more of the case.

The Beck Depression Scale can be used for both adults and adolescents of at least fifth or sixth grade reading level skills and up. It means that also teenagers are able to take the inventory. Since its inception in the 1960s the inventory got further developments and updates.

The BDI, as the scale is also called, consists of 21 items to assess the intensity of depression in clinical and normal patients on a self report scale. The BDI assesses physical and physiological symptoms of depression such as mood, pessimism, sense of failure, self-dissatisfaction, guilt, punishment, self-dislike, self-accusation, suicidal ideas, crying, irritability, social withdrawal, body image, work difficulties, insomnia, fatigue, appetite, weight loss, bodily preoccupation, and loss of libido. Only about ten minutes is enough for the most people to complete the BDI and afterwords a health professional gets an indication about presence of depression with a patient and severity of the disease.

Each of the inventory items corresponds to a specific category of depressive symptom and/or attitude and scores on the BDI indicate personal state of mind to confirm the presence of depression. The BDI has been shown to be valid and reliable, but anyway the tests scores can be manipulated by a testing person if he decides not to give correct answers.

The scale does not provide overall reliability: if one goes through the inventory at a different time it often demonstrates different results all depending on changes in a patients mental state since the previous depression testing. Even the testing environment can be a factor of influence for BDI results. Also social factors and expectations can be influential on the answers of a patient.

The Beck Inventory is not meant to serve as an instrument of diagnosis, it is more intended to assess the presence and severity of depression in psychiatrically diagnosed patients. After testing patients take a talk to their doctors about the test results and further treatment if necessary. That is why it is very important not to use BDI as a diagnostic tool, as depressive symptoms may be part of other primary psychiatric disorders.

Learn more about the Beck Depression Scale and take a talk to your psychologist about BDI procedure and outcomes. The early BDI testing can prevent you from deepening into depression and helps you to find the shortest way back to happy life.

Dysthymia: Myth or Monster?

Chronic, low-level depression has reached such epidemic proportions that the medical community has given it a name - Dysthymia (pronounced dis-thigh-me-ah). It's a big problem affecting nearly 8% of the U.S. population. Low-grade depression (dysthymia) is one of the most common ailments on the planet and one of the least likely to be diagnosed. Like its cousin, clinical depression, low-grade depression hits women roughly twice as often as men. Dysthymia is, by definition, chronic. A diagnosis requires the presence of symptoms on more days than not for a period of at least two years, which is what makes it so hard to pin down. Any given day might be okay, even happy. Yet in the general run of days, there are more gray ones than not, more unhappiness than joy. Most people afflicted with this kind of chronic malaise instinctively blame themselves: They would rather believe they can solve the problem-if they could just find the right job or the right man or lose weight-than admit they have a psychiatric disorder. Unfortunately, many people who are suffering do not seek help because they have been feeling this way for so long, the feelings of depression and malaise are their "normal".

The presence of two or more of the following symptoms persisting for at least two years is indicative of dysthymia in adults:

• Poor appetite or overeating


• Insomnia or hypersomnia


• Low energy or fatigue


• Low self-esteem


• Poor concentration


• Difficulty making decisions


• Feelings of hopelessness

So, what's the problem? Why are so many women having such an issue with anxiety and/or depression? One reasons is that we are taught and conditioned from our first day on this planet to go after "the American Dream" (or the European dream, or the Australian Dream - or whatever - you get our point) - to have it all - the family, the relationship, the career, the house, car, money, etc. Over time, one of two things seems to happen - either you fall short in one or more areas of life and eventually give up on your dreams, or you actually get it all and find yourself in this place of comfort and routine with no new goals on the horizon. In either case, you find yourself in a dark place where you feel absolutely stuck and dissatisfied with your life and if left unchecked, that dissatisfaction has a nasty way of manifesting itself as chronic, low level depression.

The mental health experts have identified all kinds of underlying factors why women, in particular, are so susceptible to developing depression in their middle years. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, women develop depression at more than twice the rate of men. We've boiled these factors down into six basic areas:

Frazzlemania (Overload): The demands on women today are huge! Most middle-aged women have careers, families, households, aging parents and a myriad of other responsibilities vying for their time and attention. Striking a balance between all of them has a tendency to leave one feeling like a failure - spend too much time on the career and the children suffer - too much time on the kids and the marriage suffers - you can see the problem. plus, many women were born at a time when it was very common for women to be stay-at-home-moms and there is guilt in play as well when they feel they are not doing as good a job managing everything as their own mother did. The guilt, coupled with the sense of failure and stress, make a fertile ground for depression to take root.

2nd Class Setback (Societal Gender Inequity): As evolved as we would like to think we are, the fact remains that in much of the industrialized world, women are often still not valued at the same level as men. Women who do not work outside the home are often perceived as sitting around watching soap operas and eating bonbons during the day. Women who do take time away from their careers to raise children have a difficult, if not impossible, time making up lost ground in terms of pay and retirement savings. These types of "no-win" scenarios can lead women to feel like second-class citizens and cause stress and hopelessness.

Foggy Glasses Syndrome: Depression is very much a disease of perception. Everywhere we look we see images of perfection - the perfect body, the perfect car, the perfect house, the perfect relationship, the perfect children, etc. Perfection is an illusion, yet everyone is trying to attain it. These images are hard to live up to at any age, but become particularly glaring as we age. Constant exposure to these images of perfection works on us in subtle, subconscious ways making us feel "less than".

The Sucker Punch (Traumatic Life Events): How we react to unexpected events in life certainly affects our mood and emotions. A stressful life event can plunge a person into depression, especially if a person is at risk for depression due to other factors. Stressful life events may include: prolonged medical illness; illness or death of a loved one; divorce; ending a close relationship; loss of a job; relocating; and financial or legal problems.

The Clone-Effect (Environmental Factors): The environment in which you were raised can be a major factor underlying your susceptibility to depression. If you were raised to think you were never good enough or that you were a "bad" kid or other negative ideas, these ideas are incorporated into your self-image over time. If you have a negative self-image, the twists and turns of life can make you much more susceptible to becoming depressed.

Comfortitis (Comfort vs. Achievement): This was my KEY underlying factor! I was a goal achiever from Day One - I always wanted to be doing it better, faster, smarter than anyone thought possible. Once I got to a point in my life where I had achieved the major goals I had set for myself, I became "comfortable" and in that "comfort", found myself utterly miserable. There are many people who need to constantly be striving for the next goal - without it, they feel rudderless, without purpose, and depression can easily take hold.

Regardless of the underlying factor (or factors) that caused it, the first step in getting through the depression is to admit that there is a problem. How many conversations have you had with yourself saying that you have to find a way to be okay with your lives, to accept it - this was just the way it was! Well, that's just not true! The life you are living right now is not the way it has to be! You are not a slave to your circumstances!

Sadly, everyone will at some time in their life be affected by depression, whether it be their own or someone else's. Fifty-four percent of those people believe depression is a personal weakness and that there is no hope for them to get through it, which is why 80% of people suffering from chronic, low level depression are not currently having any treatment. And get this, A National Mental Health Association survey showed that more than 50% of women believe depression is a "normal part of aging" and that treatment for depression during menopause is not necessary!

According to the World Health Organization depression is the second largest killer of man, after heart disease, with studies showing that depression is a contributory factor to fatal coronary disease. and current projections show depression overtaking heart disease as the #1 killer worldwide by the year 2020. There have even been studies done showing links between depression and illness including osteoporosis, diabetes, heart disease, some forms of cancer, eye disease and back pain.

But you know, we just don't pay as much attention to our mental health and well-being as we do our physical health. We read those statistics and most of us just shrug and say there is nothing I can do about it, that's just life. Well, in part, that's true. It is your life and that is because everything we do, every feeling we have and our belief system and the programming we received as a child are driving every result we are getting. That self-image, that belief system, is nothing more than a huge collection of habits - the programming. It's happening in the background and without your permission. It's like a computer virus. Those little bugs get inside your computer and wreak havoc, but they don't keep you from using your computer until things get so bad that the system just crashes. They operate in the background, not caring what you try to do, they just carry out their program unbeknownst to you. So how do you keep from becoming a statistic? Is there a way to change your programming?

The cool thing is that it really is possible and actually quite simple to re-program your "hard drive" with clean, virus-free programs of your choosing! It is so simple (although not necessarily EASY), but it's not something that we're generally taught. There's nothing new about it - it's been around for thousands of years, but it's stuff that isn't taught in school - although it certainly should be!

That feeling that life is hopeless or out of control, being angry at yourself for not being able to do anything about it, changes in sleep or eating habits, loss of interest in engaging in activities that once gave you joy - we've convinced ourselves that all of these are normal parts of life. We convince ourselves further that as long as we are not under a doctor's care or on prescription medications that everything is okay. But the fact is that these are all signs that something is wrong and the cause can be traced back to some "virus" in your mind. The emotional pain that you feel is the higher side of yourself screaming at you to live up to your infinite potential - to do more, be more, have more!

There is help out there! Traditional programs for stress and behavior modification get you all hyped up with motivation, but offer no follow through action plan. Think of the typical diet program - it teaches you how to modify your behavior to eat in a certain way, to exercise a certain way, but fails to address the root cause of the excess weight - the self-image - the programming! For lasting change to occur the cause of the problem has to be tackled, not just the symptoms.

It is your birthright to be happy and prosperous and your obligation to be all you can possibly be. Why on earth should we settle for the status quo when greatness and abundance beyond our wildest dreams is within our grasp?

What We Need to Be Happy

If you were to write a list with all the things you need to be happy, what would you put on that list? While the list may vary from person to person, it is often interesting to see how many dependencies people put on happiness. Naturally, the answers will vary from a loving relationship to financial independence, to being in good health, not having to work etc.

Often times we observe that the more we need to be happy, the less happy we actually are. Why is that the case, you may ask? It goes back to the question of dependencies. The more you make your happiness dependent on certain things you need to have in place in order to be happy, the less you're likely to achieve it.

If you wake up every morning thinking that you'd be happy if only you'd have that new exciting job, you're depriving yourself from being happy right now without that job. Or if you believe that you need that new house to be happy, you're actually telling yourself that you won't allow yourself to be happy without the new house. In other words you're acknowledging that you're unhappy. The same is true for all the other dependencies we've identified for happiness to materialize.

If we can detach happiness from these dependencies and make a conscious decision to be happy with or without the things we have on our list, we'll in fact not only allow ourselves to increase our level of happiness, but also open ourselves up to discover other things around us that add to our happiness.

"We are no longer happy as soon as we wish to be happier", Walter S. Landor

Omega 3 Deficiency Symptoms

There are some Omega 3 deficiency symptoms to be aware of, and you would do well to take steps to correct the problems that arise if you don't get enough of this amazing nutrient in your body. Omega 3 is a fatty acid that your body needs to function properly, and not getting enough of this acid can cause a number of problems. If you aren't getting enough of the acids, you may end up with one of the following Omega 3 deficiency symptoms:

Skin Problems

When you don't get enough Omega 3 in your body, you can expect to have dry skin, dry hair, and fingernails that are either very soft or very brittle. You may find that your skin has some rough spots on it, and you may even get little bumps that look like chicken bumps on the back of your legs and upper arms. You may find that you get skin allergies, such as eczema, your scalp may be covered in dandruff, and your eyes may be dry. All these things are caused by insufficient Omega 3, so you would do well to take steps to get enough of this fatty acid and correct this problem.

Focus Problems

If you are not getting enough of this essential fatty acid, your brain isn't being fed the fuel it needs to produce all of the important neurochemicals it needs to function properly. You may find that you have a hard time concentrating, and your mind may wander more than it should. People with Omega 3 deficiency symptoms often find that they are very hyperactive, and many of them actually develop attention deficits that can lead to ADD or ADHD. Be very wary of these things and try to increase your fish oil intake to prevent them from getting worse.

Energy Problems

Many people find that they are sorely lacking energy if they don't get enough Omega 3 in their body, and this is due to the fact that the blood isn't circulating properly. Not enough blood means that not enough oxygen is reaching all the organs and the muscles, which causes fatigue. Those that don't get enough of the Omega 3 will also be at risk of insomnia or just poor quality of sleep, and this is caused by similar problems.

Emotional Problems

Emotional problems are caused by the brains under-production of the neurochemicals that are required by the emotion centre of the brain, the hypothalamus. If the hypothalamus isn't fed the right chemicals, you may experience a lot of anxiety, depression, and irritability. Many of the people who don't get enough of the essential fatty acids often end up suffering from strong mood swings, as well as a short fuse when it comes to tolerating frustrations. Many of these people end up with wild emotional outbursts because they have no way to control their temper or emotions.

Swelling Problems

Inflammation is one of the main problems that accompany Omega 3 deficiency symptoms, and you may find that there are a number of inflammation problems that can be very serious. One such problem is joint pain, which is caused by the inflammation of the joints due to arthritis or other inflammatory diseases. Omega 3 helps to fight off this inflammation, but without it there is nothing that the body can do to prevent it. Those with other joint problems can take the supplement to help cure their pains, but not taking it may mean that the pains are much stronger.

These are just a few things that you can expect if your body doesn't get enough of these essential fatty acids, so it is important that you consume as much Omega 3 as is healthy for your body.

Low Cost Car Insurance - The Exact Steps To Follow

With the present economic depression, more and more people are looking for ways to cut costs. Finding low cost car insurance can help you save a few hundreds of dollars. Car insurance does not really have to be too expensive, I guess it first starts with knowing exactly how much you have on car insurance budgets. From there, you can do a couple of things to make sure you find a tailor made car insurance quote.

Usually, getting a low cost car insurance will involve window shopping for different car insurance quotes. This could be by way of contacting the insurance companies in your area by phone or by using online resources that are available at your disposal. The earlier could get very hectic while the latter is more desirable. You can actually get quotes from all the insurance companies in your area in a matter of minutes by using websites that are designed for this purpose.

Such websites gather their information from all the insurance companies all around the country and they are able to provide insurance quotes to anyone living anywhere in the country. You only need to provide your zip code and the details are displayed in minutes. Such information includes the car insurance quotes from different companies. You may subsequently have to supply the type of car you are driving, the model and so on. All these will be used to get you the perfect quote.

Car insurance quotes differ for different cars and for different people. Someone who is driving a Toyota Camry 2006 model may get a lower cost on insurance than someone who is driving a Cadillac 2008 model. These cars don't cost the same and therefore will not attract the same quotes. Also, someone with a bad driving history will get higher quotes than someone who has not obtained a ticket for bad driving before.

Returning customers also earn discounts from insurance companies for being loyal. Loyalty is rated by way of how many types of insurance you have with such a company. If you have your life, motor bike, family, health, house and all that insured in the same company, you will get a lower quote on your car than someone who is insuring for the very first time.

To therefore get a low cost car insurance, it is necessary that you do proper homework on the above. You will be guaranteed lower rates when you are driving a not so expensive car and when you have a clean driving history. Also, proceed with caution when selecting the website that will get your insurance quotes online because there are some sites that are affiliated with insurance companies and the quotes you will get is not true, but such as to lure you into dealing with such insurance companies.

7 Signs of Underactive Thyroid

Many of us think we are just tired or simply just getting old. Have you stopped to think that maybe there is something that is actually medically wrong? The hardest part of this whole thought process is that sometimes the symptoms can be similar to another medical condition so if you do have concerns, you should consult with your doctor as maybe you have an underactive thyroid. In this article, we will go over some common signs of underactive thyroid.

An underactive thyroid is called hypothyroidism and occurs when your thyroid gland no longer produces enough thyroid hormones which assist in regulating your metabolism. Hypothyroidism can easily be verified with a simple blood test and is easily treated. As you read this article, you may notice that some of the symptoms may already exist. Remember that some of the symptoms can be symptoms of other medical issues. If you have any concerns, please consult with your physician.

One of the most common symptoms of an underactive thyroid is weight gain. We all know that this is a common problem for most of us, especially as we age and we start moving slower. Keep in mind that this should not be the only reason you suspect that you may have hypothyroidism. Everyone, as they age, slow down a bit without changing their eating habits which easily results in weight gain.

• Another symptom is joint and muscle pain, even carpal tunnel syndrome in the arms and hands or tarsal tunnel which develops in the legs. Again, this is another symptom that can be related to other issues. This is not to say that the aches and pains are not signs of underactive thyroid but to inform you that they could be.


• Long term and/or severe constipation have been found to be associated with hypothyroidism.


• One very important characteristic to consider is family history. In the older population, problems with the thyroid may be called another term such as "goiter" or "gland trouble" but this is definitely something to keep in mind when determining if you may have an under active thyroid.


• Another sign of having an underactive thyroid is a discomfort in the neck area. If you neck and throat area feels swollen, it is possible that the thyroid gland that is located there could be inflamed. Your doctor can certainly assist you with determining this diagnosis for you.


• Changes with your hair and/or skin can change as the seasons change. The changes can also occur due to stress or hormonal issues such as aging.


• Another very common sign is depression. With so much going on in our lives today, it is very easy to become stressed and fall into a depression. Research has shown that anti-depressants do not help if depression is the reason for the hypothyroidism.

Please remember that simply because you may have one or more of the symptoms that is noted above, doesn't mean that you do have hypothyroidism. The signs of underactive thyroid are very common signs for a multitude of other issues. You have any concerns please consult with your doctor.

Depression Sufferers Cannot Help Themselves

What would the reaction of the media be if it came out that there was a disease that affected millions of people, for which they could not find help?

You would be right in saying that the reaction would be both swift and explosive.

There is a disease which affects millions, and maybe even hundred of millions of people, for which there is no help.

Actually there is help, but the problem is that the sufferers don't know that they are infected.

This disease is actually depression.

While the medical field has produced many therapies and medications to help those suffering from depression, this help is not reaching many of those who are affected.

The reason this calamity is taking place, is because many people walk through life without realizing that they are clinically depressed.

For this reason, Donny Lowy, has launched http://www.curemydepression.com.

Many people who are debilitated by depression could be effectively helped, if they only knew that they were clinically depressed.

http://www.Curemydepression.com offers detailed steps, strategies, and tips, to help provide guidance for those suffering from depression.

Even more importantly, it has articles that explain what the tell tale signs of depression are.

While the site does not give medical advice, it does provide explanations of what depression is, and what can be done to help someone who is depressed.

http://www.Curemydepression.com also offers guidance for those who might have a friend or loved one who is experiencing depression.

If you believe that the earlier a disease is spotted, the higher the chance of curing it is, then you know that time is of the essence when it comes to helping yourself, or someone you know, who is depressed.

4 Things on How to Handle Yourself After Break Up

Many people out there are suffering after break up, some of us don't know how to handle and comfort ourselves. We encounter many trials like we cannot sleep, we cannot eat, we cannot concentrate on what kind of work we had, we are not on the mood, we are angry of everything, only one thing what's on our mind, is that why this thing happened, why we get into this point of separation, why we cannot understand each other, why we did not trust each other, many why's we have on our mind and we keep asking to ourselves again and again. Why's?

First, you have to ask yourself if you still love him/her. If you want him/her to come back into your life, we are the one who can decide for this, advises and supports from friends are only second thoughts or second opinion, but our heart is the one who can decide for everything. If we want him/her to come back, we are the one who can make moves or actions to make him/her back. Pride is always there, after break up we are waiting for each other, who are the one who will first call "You or Him/Her". Because our goal if we are the one who will call first, he/she think that we are the one following him/her, but according to some quotes "If you love somebody, you will eat your Pride". But for some instances like even if you don't have mistaken you're always the one who called or you're always the one who asked for forgiveness or sorry. Time will come that you will get tired of this things and you will realize how awful you are in your relationship. But it doesn't matter how awful you are, the thing is you really love him/her and you are willing to do everything to make him/her back, nobody will stop you and as if you are willing to sacrifice even your own life just you want him/her back.

Second, if you do not want him/her to come back into your life, it's your decision, we know that it's hard but we have to decide in order for him/her to realize what is your importance in his/her life. According to some quotes "You will know the importance of someone, when his/she's gone". Do not put yourself down or betrayed, try yourself to control your feelings and emotions, let him/her do the moves if he/she still in love with you. But this is based on the gravity of the case, if you saw him/her dating with somebody, so what's the reason to stay with him/her. If that would be the case, stop all your means of communication to him/her like email, calling from landline & mobile, sending message through mobile, talking from his/her close friends or relatives. If it's possible change your zim card so that he/she will not reach you anymore, as if stop for contacting him/her at all, you have to cut totally your communication him/her.

Third, you are free now and you can do everything what you want to do, but still your feeling was connected with the past and still fresh for a break up, again it's not easy to forget your ex because it's automatically come in your mind about your sweet memories with him/her, but try yourself to move on, going out with friends, party, disco, swimming, travelling and other activities where you can get some fun and enjoyment. Make yourself busy like attending some seminar, training and business. As some saying goes you can move on if you find somebody whom you can start you're new life with your new love. But it's very normal even if you find a new love that you still remember your past relationship. This is the time now that you can improve your present relationship based from the past experienced, you are aware now for some mistakes and problems that may arise at present, because you learned from your past and you're afraid now to commit any mistake that may lead to another break up, you are be very careful to handle relationship on the second time around and you are strong enough to face any trials.

Fourth, to set your mind focus on what decision you have made, make yourself more attracted by changing your styles, your hair, your clothing line, your accessories and make yourself busy on how to change yourself from being new, make yourself more sexy and attracted. Reborn yourself from the past, change your fashion to a new. So that when your ex see you, he/she feel that you are not affected of the break up and you can easily move on, without any trace of hurt feelings when he/she leaves you. Make him/her feel that it's his/her lost and not your lost. Try to hide and control your feelings when you meet him/her, calm yourself, do not say anything about the past, never to discuss with him/her about the trials you are encountering when you leave him/her, focus on the present issue about his/her life, does he/she move on? Try to convince him/her that you are totally OK and you have already a new life together with your new love (even if you don't have at present). Just let him/her feel the regrets for leaving you, do not cry or do not show your emotion in front of him/her, try to get his/her feelings if he/she still in love with you, because you might know on the other side maybe his/she's the one who will cry in front of you and he/she wants to come back. Remember that you are not always the one who can fix things for your relationship, also your partner has to do the things to fix your relationship, should be give and take in every relationship.

What You Need to Know About Life Insurance Quotes

Every insurance company, before accepting an individual to insure must first assess whether he is insurable or not. After the assessment and the person passes the requirements or standards of the insurer, that person then could be issued a life insurance quote.

A life insurance quote provides the client with the premium rate that he must pay depending on the policy that he desires. It contains the rate class, the monthly premium, rate per day, and rate guarantee. Different insurance companies provide quotations online. It could also be requested by phone or directly from their offices.

The rate class is the category where the person belongs. An example is a category for a smoker and another category for a non-smoker. The monthly premium rate defines the amount that the individual must pay every month. The rate per day is equal to the monthly premium divided by thirty days, and the rate guarantee is the term or coverage period.

How to Get a Quotation

Before requesting for a quotation, you must determine what particular policy you would like to avail. Check your needs. Try to see whether you would require a long term or a short term policy, whether you want the basic term life insurance or the one with a savings component integrated in the policy. Also, think about the scope of coverage of the policy. Ascertain whether you would like it to extend to your children, to your liabilities, or even to your business. Lastly, make sure that the insurance company that you are most likely to consider is a highly reputable one. You do not want to end up chasing after insolvent companies in the future.

After coming up with answers in relation to the matters stated above, you could now start to look for companies where you could request for a life insurance quote. You could browse for different insurance companies on the internet, or if you have already chosen a certain insurer, you could visit their website for a quotation.

There are different ways that insurance companies give out a quotation on the internet. Some let you fill out general information pertaining to the state where you reside, gender, birthday, coverage amount, and the term period. After submitting these information, it would then ask you to fill out personal information and those that pertain to your health. These include biological information such as height and weight. Those involving personal health include whether you are a non-smoker or not, whether your family has a history of ailments such as cancer, stroke, diabetes, kidney or heart diseases and if a member had died from these illnesses, whether you or those in your family have been diagnosed of anxiety, depression or other similar psychological disorders. Some companies are more lenient and would just be asking for the general information and an email address, and would send the quotation directly to your email. Others integrate both general and personal information in a single page and give out the quotation after completely filling out the required fields.

In any case, once you receive a quotation, make sure that everything is stated without any ambiguity. The coverage period should be clear and the yearly or monthly premium must be certain. Determine first-hand whether the quotation you have received from a company is not overpriced. Do this by comparing premiums, coverage period, and benefits with quotations from other companies. Most importantly, verify the status of the insurance company and how reliable it is in paying up its dues to policyholders.

A life insurance quote is not a guarantee that insurance companies would insure you because they gave you one. They have to determine initially your insurability and your capacity to pay the premiums. Nevertheless, planning to obtain a life insurance policy is a good start for securing your future and your family.

Overcoming Depression Using Natural Hyperthyroid Treatment Methods

If you have hyperthyroidism and suffer from depression, then you might benefit from natural hyperthyroid treatment methods. Although depression is more prevalent in people with hypothyroidism, people with hyperthyroidism and Graves' Disease can also become afflicted with this condition. A high percentage of these people will be told to take anti-depressant drugs by their medical doctor, which frequently is necessary to manage the symptoms. However, this is only a temporary solution, and the ultimate goal should be to eliminate the underlying cause of the problem.

When someone with hyperthyroidism presents with depression, most of the time their medical doctor will recommend for the person to take anti-depressant drugs. As I just mentioned, taking prescription drugs to manage the symptoms is important, but these drugs won't do anything for the actual cause of the condition. Sometimes taking antithyroid drugs will help to regulate the thyroid hormone levels, and can help with the symptoms of depression.

The Key Is To Cure The Cause Of Hyperthyroidism

When depression is due to hyperthyroidism, using prescription drugs to manage the symptoms may be necessary, but the goal should be to restore the person's health back to normal. And while most endocrinologists label hyperthyroidism and Graves' Disease as being incurable, many people with a hyperthyroid condition can have their health restored back to normal by following a natural hyperthyroid treatment protocol.

Such a protocol will usually involve changes in certain lifestyle factors, including eating better, getting sufficient sleep, doing a better job of managing your stress, as well as taking certain nutritional supplements and/or herbs. It's definitely not an easy protocol to follow, but if it will help eliminate your symptoms of depression, and at the same time allow you to avoid taking antithyroid drugs for a prolonged period of time, and/or receiving radioactive iodine, then it's usually well worth the commitment.

In order to determine whether or not you're a candidate for natural hyperthyroid treatment methods, I recommend consulting with a competent natural endocrine doctor. Such a doctor will not only look at your thyroid blood tests, but will most likely recommend additional tests as well to help determine the underlying cause of your hyperthyroid condition. Then if this doctor feels they can help you, they will recommend a natural treatment protocol to help restore your health back to normal.

Can Certain Nutritional Supplements And Herbs Help With Depression?

There are specific nutritional supplements and herbs which can help with depression. However, while they might be a more natural option when compared to prescription drugs, one needs to keep in mind that these too are usually temporary solutions. So while it might be fine to take certain supplements or herbs on a temporary basis to manage the symptoms, just remember the goal is to get to the underlying cause of the condition.

Also, not all of the supplements and herbs I'll be listing below are effective in helping with moderate and severe depression. If you have severe depression then it's probably best to consult with your medical doctor, and it might be a good idea to take the anti-depressants on a temporary basis until the natural treatment methods kick in (assuming this is the path you decide to take)

In any case here are a few supplements and herbs that can potentially help with depression:

• St. John's Wort. There is a good chance you're familiar with this herb, as many people take St. John's Wort to manage the symptoms of depression naturally. In most cases this herb won't be effective for severe cases of depression.

• 5-HTP. This is a precursor to serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter which can help combat depression. While this can be effective in managing the symptoms of depression, there have been questions regarding its safety.

• Tryptophan. Just as is the case with 5-HTP, some health experts also question the safety of Tryptophan. This can help manage the symptoms of depression by increasing the production of serotonin.

• GABA. This amino acid can help with depression by inducing a feeling of relaxation and calmness. It can also help with anxiety issues as well.

• Omega 3 Fatty Acids. A lot of people take omega 3 fatty acids these days, as they have a lot of health benefits, specifically for cardiovascular health. But fatty acids also are important with regards to proper brain function, and taking them along with other supplements or herbs may help to manage the symptoms of depression. On the other hand, taking omega 3 fatty acids alone probably won't do much to help with your symptoms.

In summary, many people with hyperthyroidism who are also suffering from depression can have their symptoms eliminated through a natural thyroid treatment protocol. While you might need to take prescription drugs on a temporary basis to manage your symptoms, the ultimate goal should be to restore your health back to normal, which is possible with many people who have hyperthyroidism and Graves' Disease.

How Do You Get Diagnosed With Depression?

Depression is a part of life, but it can be destructive as well. Don't belittle what depression can do to you or to your loved ones. It's one thing to be sad when the reasons are appropriate, but the feeling of sadness does not last a very long time; neither does it affect one's state of health. If it does, then it no longer is a simple type of depression, but one that requires medical attention. Getting properly diagnosed is very important in order to get the right treatment and avoid complications.

Not only can depression compromise one's health, it can also lead to one's death bed. So if you suspect someone you care about deeply to be suffering from a more serious type of depression, get him or her to see a specialist. The specialist determines, usually through an intensive interview with the client, if depression does exist and what modes of treatment are appropriate under the circumstances.

Diagnosing Depression

Diagnosing depression is like getting on a hot seat, with the doctor asking the client many questions. Currently there are no laboratory examinations to confirm the presence of depression, so the doctor will rely mostly on:

• the presenting signs and symptoms


• the client's family history


• the client's medical history

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

The doctor will take note in particular the following manifestations that can signal the presence of clinical depression:

• extreme sadness


• difficulty to focus or concentrate


• agitation or restlessness

The doctor will also ask the client:

• his/her sleeping pattern and eating habits, and social activities. Abnormalities in these are symptoms of depression.


• How long these symptoms have been felt or experienced, and their severity.


• If this is the first time the client has experienced the symptoms.

Family History

As part of the diagnostic process, the doctor takes a look at the client's family history. Genetics, as it appears, is one factor why some people have greater tendencies of developing clinical depression than the others. Be truthful when asked if any one in your family has:

• Suffered from depression, regardless of whether the condition was diagnosed or not.


• Received treatment or undergone therapy for depression.

Current and Medical History

Definitely not to be missed is the determination of the client's current medical condition and medical history. As depression can be brought about by insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals and hormonal imbalances, your doctor will look into your dietary habits and determine if you are not getting enough vitamin supplementation. Women are especially prone to depression because of hormonal changes that occur during pre and post pregnancy and menopause. The doctor will take these in consideration as well.

In addition, the following questions may also be asked:

• Have you been treated for depression before?


• What medications were you given? Which of these medications worked best for you?


• Do you drink alcoholic beverages? How much and how often?

Diagnosing depression can be a long process. Chronic depression, for instance, cannot be diagnosed immediately. For chronic depression to be diagnosed as such, the client has to have depression symptoms (on and off) for a period of two years at least. Thus it happens that many people do not at all realize the importance of getting treatment right away.

Nonetheless to be safe, changing your lifestyle can prevent depression or reduce its impact on your health. An ideal lifestyle that promotes well being physically and mentally includes:

• A rich diet of vegetables and fruits (preferably in their raw and fresh state)


• Vitamin supplements (especially Vitamin B).


• Exercise.


• Proper stress management.

H Pylori May Cause Skin Diseases Like Rosacea and Urticaria

Your digestive system has an internal skin called the "Mucosal Barrier". This barrier protects you from invading organisms such as parasites, mold, bacteria and viruses and houses an immune army that stops these "bugs" from getting into your general circulation.

Many skin conditions miraculously clear up when care is taken to identify and remove hidden digestive infections and foods that irritate the gut lining. I've seen hives, rosacea, dermatitis and even psoriasis disappear simply by working on digestive health with my clients.

For example, it's now widely recognised that fungal organisms can cause dandruff, athlete's foot and jock itch. It's also well known that coeliac disease can manifest as skin disease (dermatitis herpitiformis).

We also know that foods such as cow's milk can also definitely lead to skin conditions such as eczema.

Spotlight On Helicobacter Pylori:

In 2009, an excellent paper was published in the European Journal of Dermatology. The paper, entitled H pylori Infection and Dermatologic Disease examined the available research associating H pylori with a number of common (and some less common) skin conditions.

The paper shows clear associations between H pylori and several skin diseases:

Alopecia
Atopic dermatitis
Chronic urticaria
Rosacea
Psoriasis
Behcet's disease
Immune thrombocytopaenic purpura
Lichen planus
Prurigo
Sjogren syndrome

It is not clear why disturbances in digestive function and the presence of infections such as H pylori lead ton skin complaints. It is believed that the body's immune response is the likely reason for skin manifestations.

Moreover H pylori and other digestive infections do not always cause digestive symptoms. Instead, they can lead to seemingly unrelated conditions such as skin problems, low energy levels and mood symptoms like depression and anxiety.

Unfortunately doctors will rarely run digestive testing unless severe digestive symptoms are present. This leads patients in the dark about what may be creating their mysterious symptoms.

Other bacteria, parasites and fungal organisms also have the potential to cause skin conditions. These organisms may include:

Giardia
Cryptosporidium
Blastocystis
Dientamoeba fragilis
Entamoeba histolytica
Endolimax nana

Clostridium difficile
Campylobacter
Salmonella
Yersinia
Vibrio
Citrobacter
E. coli

Candida species

Digestive Infections & Bacterial Overgrowth Are Toxic!

As you may know, your liver and kidneys are the powerhouses of detoxification. They process the metabolic waste products that our bodies produce on a daily basis.

Certain parasites, bacteria and yeast and fungal organisms are known to produce toxins (these are known as endotoxins). The toxins can leak from the digestive system into general circulation, particularly if the mucosal barrier in the intestines has been damaged by the presence of the bugs.

This increase in toxic load within the body can overload the liver and kidney pathways. As a result, the body has to find other ways to eliminate the toxins. One way this is achieved is by pushing out toxins through the skin.

Consequently, areas of skin through which toxins are being eliminated may become irritated, swollen and either itchy or painful. I've personally seen these rashes disappear in clients when they have followed programmes to a) eradicate digestive infections and b) boost their detoxification capacities, particularly through the liver and kidney pathways.

Summary

There is no doubt that disturbances in digestive function can lead to skin diseases. As discussed, we do not know for sure why skin conditions develop in response to digestive infections and foods, but it is likely that the immune response and toxicity are involved.

The likes of eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, rosacea, urticaria and others can all improve significantly when key foods are avoided and digestive infections are removed. This allows the "inner skin" of the mucosal barrier is allowed to regenerate.

Topical creams, lotions and gels will simply not work if the skin problem itself is being caused by internal imbalances in detoxification function and digestion. In fact, using topical lotions in these situations may make the conditions worse.

Instead, it is better to run clinical testing to identify exactly why the symptoms are occurring in the first place. The Metametrix GI Effects 2100 test is a good place to start (www.h-pylori-symptoms.com/h-pylori-testing)

Bipolar Disorder Brain - What Changes Does Manic Depression Cause in the Brain?

With modern brain imaging, it becomes clear that bipolar is not a disorder, but a brain disease, as real as cancer or a cold. While science is still investigating the differences between the brain of a normal person and the brain of a bipolar individual; here are four differences between the two.

1.) Ventral Striatum

The ventral striatum allows the brain to process rewards, such as feeling happy after eating or having sex. If someone suffers from bipolar, this part will be overactive and have a 30% loss in the amount of gray matter.

The ventral striatum also aids in judgment, such as what is considered normal or moral. Since bipolar persons suffer a reduction in this part of the brain, they will be prone to overspending or sexual promiscuity, especially when manic.

2.) Prefrontal Cortex

The prefrontal cortex allows the brain to process and regulation emotion, an important part of impulse control. For example, when one feels angry, they don't go out and hit the first person they see.

In those with bipolar disorder, there is a 20% to 40% reduction in gray matter material in the prefrontal cortex, causing rash behavior and anger control issues.

3.) Amygdala

The amygdala controls facial expressions and tones of voice. For example, if you see a person you like on the approach, neural transmissions will occur in your brain, telling you to smile. In the bipolar brain, there is a loss of gray matter in this area, causing a delay reaction in facial expressions.

4.) Hippocampus

In those with bipolar disorder, the hippocampus has lost branches that connect neurons, leading to a loss of an ability to tell the difference between danger and reward, causing a state of anxiety.

How Can I Beat Insomnia?

Question:

I have always suffered from sleep problems and am constantly tired. Sometimes I can't get to sleep, other times I wake in the early hours. I don't drink coffee and I keep bed times relaxed and regular. What can I do to improve my sleep pattern?

Answer:

Recent article in the Archives of Women's Mental Health journal suggests that insomnia is an overlooked epidemic among women. One person in five takes some kind of remedy for sleep problems, and the number of sufferers is undoubtedly increasing. If anyone has more than three nights of disturbed sleep a week something needs to be done about it complications from lack of sleep include fatigue, headache, irritability, anxiety, poor skin quality and reduced daytime performance. Researchers at Harvard Medical School are currently reviewing evidence suggesting that sleep is vial for memory and brain function, and many scientists believe that insomnia can lead to an increase in chronic disease.

The term insomnia embraces any disturbance of the sleep-wake cycle. Other sleep disorders include nightmares, sleepwalking and bed-wetting.

The causes of sleep problems are many and wide-ranging. Caffeine, alcohol, smoking and dehydration are common factors. Environmental factors, such as electrical gadgets and geopathic stress (which can occur where there are overhead power lines, electrical cables in a congested city and underground rivers, for example), may be involved. A lack of fresh air and an overheated bedroom can cause problems. Your body's air-conditioning system switches off during sleep, so you may become too hot, and your heart and breathing rates could increase. Aches and pains, arthritis, fibromyalgia, menopause, restless-legs syndrome, sleep apnoea, ME/chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis and cancer can all lead to insomnia.

The mind is a powerful disturber of peaceful nights. Stress, anxiety, bereavement and other emotional upsets can stop you dropping off and/or cause frequent waking between 3am and 4am. This early waking is due to the nervous system being hypersensitive to the production of daytime hormones (cortisol and adrenalin) at around this time, replacing the night-time hormones (melatonin and serotonin).

Insomnia can also accompany psychological disorders, such as schizophrenia, manic depression or paranoia.

In my experience, most people with insomnia have reversed day-night cycles. They toss and turn, their minds fully alert worrying about not being able to sleep. How much sleep you need is individual. Some people can feel refreshed after just a few hours. you need to adjust to your own rhythm: if you sleep less at night take a nap during the day. Even a few minutes of sleep or meditation can refresh the brain.

Here are my suggestions:

* Avoid food and drink that agitates the mind: caffeinated drinks, such as coffee and cola: more than one unit of alcohol daily, salty crisps and snacks, and anything containing monosodium glutamate (MSG).

* Eat your evening med early, by 8pm if you want to go to sleep at 1pm. Avoid rich, heavy food, such as curries, cream sauces, fried foods, lots of bread, mushrooms, citrus
fruit juices, fizzy water and beer. These cause a build-up of gas in the abdomen and need at least four hours to digest.

* Don't eat sweets at night as sugar activates the brain.

* After your meal, go for a gentle ten-minute walk

* Establish a pattern of winding down and preparing for bed at a similar time. Try not to stay up too late (beyond 10pm), as the body and brain become overtired and need much more sleep to feel restored.

* Don't have too hot a bath before bed as it may increase your heart rate and agitate the mind.

* Take one Calm Down capsule at bedtime for one month.

* Drink two glasses of still, room temperature water before going to bed, and go to the lavatory just before you sleep.

* If you wake in the night, sip some water and suck two tablets of the homoeopathic remedy nux vomica 30, then two tablets of belladonna 30. Do this for one month.

* Remove electrical gadgets (TV, music systems and computers) from the bedroom because electromagnetic waves alert the brain. Some researchers recommend positioning your bed, head away from power sources.

* Keep your bedroom window slightly open, if possible.

* Listen to a relaxation CD, or try chanting. This helps you to and body to calm down.

* Massage your neck and jaw - or ask your partner to do this for you - for ten minutes before going to sleep to help relieve tension by increasing blood flow to the brain.

What Are the Most Common Manic Depression Symptoms?

When manic depression symptoms are left undiagnosed and untreated for a long time, they can lead to many other more serious problems that can be threatening to one's mental and emotional health. For this reason, learning how to identify the signs and to differentiate them from other types of depression is truly very important.

Identifying the Symptoms

Before we enumerate the typical signs, you have to understand that this particular type of psychological disorder is very different from clinical depression or ordinary anxiety. It is actually a more severe variety of the illness, although the symptoms may be quite similar, but to a more serious degree. That said, it is crucial that you seek professional treatment as soon as you notice that you are going through these manic depression symptoms.

Possibly the most distinguishable sign is the frequent switching between extreme highs and extreme lows. For example, a manic depressive person may sometimes appear to be ecstatically and inexplicably happy. The same individual may also go into sudden fits of rage or depression, also without apparent reason. There is no telling when and where these switches can happen. Oftentimes, there is even no logical reason for them at all. Along with these erratic behaviors, manic depressive individuals may also express constant irritability and may easily get annoyed or exhibit violent reactions to seemingly ordinary events.

Another manic depression symptom that is quite common but not as obvious is the notion of grandeur. People experiencing this condition may believe that they are very famous or powerful individuals. Some may even have convinced themselves that they are super heroes of some sort.

Disconnected With Reality

In a similar vein, individuals are also usually disconnected with reality and may seem to have their own system of logic, which is nothing like the logic that most people recognize. They tend to speak incoherently and in disjointed sentences, all of which apparently make perfect sense to them. They also speak quite rapidly, which is probably due to their radically increased energy levels.

Due to their inability to think rationally, manic depressives will not be capable of making sound decisions, even for the simplest things. If their condition is not treated right away, it can worsen to a point that the damage might become irreversible. However, if the manic depression symptoms are identified and treated right away, there is a high probability that the person can go back to living a perfectly normal life.

Chemical Imbalance and Addiction - Fact Or Pharmacological Gold Mine

Over the past several decades the phrase "Chemical Imbalance" has become a household term that has evolved into the preconceived concept of a brain disease that is directly responsible for depression and psychological disorders. Obviously, no one would come to this conclusion without a little persuasion from the psychiatric community, pharmaceutical companies, or the media! But, what exactly is a chemical imbalance and how does it play a role in addictive behavior? First let's clarify the fact that there isn't a pathological test to diagnose a chemical imbalance. So, if you can't test for it, how does one confirm that it even exists?

Well, to be honest it's purely hypothetical in nature! That's right! There is absolutely NO clinical evidence that supports this theory let alone that it is responsible for depression or addiction. The chemical imbalance theory was created in the early sixties when a group of prominent psychiatrists conducted a research study using various psychoactive and hallucinogenic drugs including the likes of LSD. There conclusion is as follows: The study confirmed that the drugs tested do in fact alter the chemical balance and structure of the brain. Therefore, any abnormality in psychological and emotional behavior must be contributed to a chemical brain imbalance!!!! To most onlookers this conclusion flies in the face of basic common sense and questions the very intention of the researchers. Ironically, anti-depressant usage has more than tripled over the past two decades. Coincidence!! You decide!!

So, how does chemical brain imbalance play a role in addiction? Well, most inpatient and outpatient addiction treatments employ cognitive behavioral therapy which exposes the addicted person to psychotherapy, and quite frequently a chemical imbalance diagnosis. When a clinician diagnoses a patient with a chemical imbalance, in my opinion, he/or she arrives at that conclusion purely by speculation which is based on the above-mentioned hypothesis. None the less, many people including those that suffer from addiction are immediately tagged with a chemical imbalance diagnosis! It is no secret that the majority of all addicted people do suffer from depression; however, it is preposterous to claim it is caused by a chemical imbalance. The National Institute on Drug Abuse continues to push the addiction brain disease theory to the tune of billions of dollars, and they present hundreds of CT Scans demonstrating the effects of drugs on brain chemistry. No one can dispute the fact that drugs are mind altering drugs, but the (NIDA) has failed to present one single shred of evidence to demonstrate that a chemical imbalance is the root cause of a person's addictive behavior.

In my opinion, depression and addiction are directly related to self-esteem issues. These issues are propagated by the family dysfunctions control, abuse, alcoholism, and part-time parenting. Experience has taught me that these dysfunctions are generally at the root of the emotional pain that is responsible for addiction and depression. Therefore, the key to beating addiction and depression is to liberate oneself from the dysfunction that caused it and to restore self esteem through empowerment.

Best wishes,

David Roppo

The Addiction Freedom Coach

How to Identify Your Own Depression Warning Signs by Becoming Like Your School's Hall Monitor

Do you remember the hall monitor in school? They were the person responsible for helping to keep order in the school. They caught the kids sneaking around without hall passes. They made sure anyone who tried to skip out were caught. We used to dread them every time we tried to stay out late at recess. They were often the vigilant little helpers of the teacher that could make life miserable for the rest of us.

But you should try and become more like your hall monitor, at least when it comes to identifying your own depression warning signs.

I know what you're thinking. You're probably thinking "why on earth would I want to become more like a glorified snitch?" Let me first try and remind you that the hall monitors weren't all bad. Because in fact, if they hadn't caught my friend Jenny trying her first cigarette, her Mom might never have found out. Then Jenny may have taken up a really bad habit at the age of 14. But instead, her Mom disciplined her and made sure Jenny understood why she couldn't smoke, EVER.

So a vigilant hall monitor saved Jenny from undertaking a habit that would be hazardous to her health. But the good news is, you don't have to "tattle" on anyone to identify your own depression warning signs.

All you have to do is carefully monitor your own thoughts.

That's how you become a hall monitor for yourself. See, how easy that was? You just have to walk up and down the corridors of your mind and make sure the thoughts that are there aren't the signs of depression. Continual negative thoughts are the hallmarks of depression.

Here are some examples of thoughts that are depression warning signs:
1. I'm worthless.
2. The world would be better off without me.
3. I just don't enjoy life anymore.
4. I find it hard to concentrate and remember what I read.
5. I don't have anything to look forward to anymore.

One caveat: random negative thoughts vs. thoughts that are depression warning signs.

Random negative thoughts pop up into our head from time to time. Thoughts ranging from "I don't like this soda" to "I don't think she likes me" pop into our head from time to time. It's a part of life. But notice, there's a difference between "I don't think she likes me" versus "I'm worthless." You may not think someone likes you because of an interaction you had with them, but it doesn't mean you think negatively of yourself because of it.

You'll notice the depression warning signs listed above point to a low level of self-esteem and a general feeling that you just don't have the inclination to deal with life anymore. That's the key to distinguishing between a random negative thought and thoughts indicating you might be depressed. Random negative thoughts don't require the kind of intervention serious depression does.

The good news is, there are many options available to you once you identify that you are experiencing depression.

1. Try talking things out with a friend or a mental health professional who has experience in treating depression.
2. Try one of the natural remedies for depression, like exercise.
3. You can get anti-depressant medication if a mental health professional (like a psychiatrist) determines your condition requires such treatment.

That's why it pays to become a hall monitor of your thoughts. They can be good indicators if you're having an episode of depression. Then tattle on yourself by getting help. You'll find that becoming more like a hall monitor in this case will help make you happier in the long run.

Handling the Depression After Stroke

There are so many emotions that a person may feel when they are going through the terrible ordeal of a stroke. This is very hard time for anyone to go through and it is important for you to be very strong but it is important to be able to go through all the steps that are necessary to make a fast and good recovery.

When going through the ordeal of a stroke a person has to have a good support system. They have to have someone that will be there for them and give them the help that they need and someone to confide in as well. A stroke victim is going to need help with both the physical and the emotional part that they will go through. It varies between people, but even the most modest cases should be treated seriously. The stroke victim has basically just had his life threatened and was lucky to survive the ordeal; this time.

There will be many feelings and this is very important to address. Helping someone that has been through the process of a stroke is going to be something that you can do to make a difference. The worst thing that can happen is for someone to go into a deep depression when they are trying to recover from a stroke. These deep depression episodes need to be taken very seriously just like any clinical depression. We are not talking about the blues, but rather possible suicidal ideation. Make things easy for the victim so that things will not seem hopeless. Many know that the likelihood of another stroke is at least 33% or more if steps are not taken to reduce the risk factors.

Having fun is important too. Having fun is essential to the emotional and physical well being of the victim. Making a stroke survivor laugh is important so that they can see that they still have life ahead of them and that they are going to make it through the bad times and have many more good times ahead of them. Making sure that the person knows that they can still go out and enjoy life is very important. Some people will actually become "hermits" after a stroke and this increases the risk of the next stroke being a reality. Get this person to exercise, even if they can only do a little. A little goes a long way toward prevention.

If you or someone that you know has been through the process of a stroke, you have to get up and moving around, like I just mentioned. Get up every morning and get dressed. Make sure that you are feeling good about yourself and that you have the confidence to go through life. Share your thoughts and feelings with a significant person in your life. It also does not hurt to pray!

Make sure that a person that has survived a stroke is going to all the appropriate therapy sessions. It is important to get the strength back and get back to normal or as normal as possible. It will make the difference between someone gaining their life back and someone just giving up. Getting through this time is difficult and it is only time and healing that will make it better. I personally recovered most of my after effects in a short two month session of therapy to strengthen my left side up to normal. I still must walk every day in order to begin to loose weight and become stronger and healthier. My stroke was very scary and I had a very hard time giving up smoking and starting a walking program. Weight loss is next.

Depression is hard on anyone especially someone that has been through a devastating process like a stroke. The most important thing is to not stress over it and get through the bad times and know that good times are coming again and that the opportunity for a second chance has been given so do not pass it up. It is important to have a better diet and the right exercise as well so that the body can gain strength and be healthy once again. Depression and stroke - a deadly mixture. Please do me a favor and get help if you suffer any type of stroke.

The Nature of Depression From a Gestalt Therapy Perspective

Depression is one of the most common, yet still one of the most misunderstood of human states of mind. It can be debilitating and frightening, both for the sufferer and for those around them. Let us differentiate though between depressive feelings and true depression. We associate depression with feelings of sadness, emptiness, anxiety, helplessness, worthlessness and guilt. It may cause irritability, problems with sleeping, problems with eating, problems making decisions or concentrating and an inability to feel pleasure; even when undertaking activities which were once enjoyable. Physical manifestations caused by depression may include insomnia, excessive sleeping, fatigue, aches, pains or digestive problems; which often prove to be resistant to conventional medical treatments.

It is normal to have depressive feelings sometimes in our lives. In fact you will often hear people say, "I feel depressed" when something terrible or unwanted has happened. Normally, depressive feelings resolve with time, usually when the person's situation improves somehow. Such feelings are then a normal part of life. Sometimes though, these feelings persist and that is when depressive feelings have become depression proper. Conventional medical theory requires that such depressive feelings persist for more than 2 weeks, in order for a diagnosis of depression to be made. If some of you have ever wondered what the difference between normal depression and clinical depression are, the answer is there is no difference; clinical depression is merely depression that has been medically recognized i.e. termed as such by a doctor.

We are not concerned about the medical recognition of our depression. You know when you are suffering from a depressed mood or not, you do not need someone else to tell you. What you do need is to learn how to cope with depressive feelings so that you may return to happiness again. The restoration to a state of happiness is, as far as I am concerned the aim of any psychotherapy treatment for depression.

Some have said that depression results from a chemical imbalance in the brain, this is true to a point; but the imbalance is caused by the experienced feelings of unhappiness. Like some physical conditions caused by abusing the body, such as heart disease and lung cancer by smoking, depression is a condition which is caused by abusing the mind with negative feelings. Depression also be a result of other conditions worsening, such as stress or anxiety, it is therefore important to get on top of negative emotions right from the start. As depression in all of its degrees is the worst emotional state a human being can be in.

If you had to some up exactly what part of you depression affects the most then what would you say? It may be that you would say your mind, and that would be partly true. But we need to look even deeper than this; depression causes us to experience both physical and mental pain which penetrates to the very core of our being. A while ago someone I know very well said something to me which I feel truly sums up the nature of depression, they said "When I am depressed my body doesn't hurt and neither does my mind. What really hurts is my soul." Depression then touches an area that others can't see, that why they may simply tell you to "Pull yourself together!" or "Snap out of it!" It's not that easy, and that is because depression is a disorder of your feelings. Not a disorder as in a mental disorder, which is not what I am saying, but a disorder because everything within our emotions becomes jumbled by how we feel. Feelings are the cause, emotions are the reaction.

Though the trigger of depression may be something from the outside world, the depression itself is something that is going on in a person's internal world. When our internal world is in turmoil, we cannot step properly into the world that is outside. As when all is said and done, what you are really left with is what is inside you. It is from this inside world where your happiness originates, if you can be happy in here then you can be happy everywhere.

Why The Medicinal Use Of L-Carnosine For Anxiety Works For You

Those who suffer from panic attacks and bouts of depression, among other psychological condition may benefit from the medicinal use of L-Carnosine for anxiety. This natural ingredient is a combination of two non-essential amino acids which boost the function and health of your whole body. This natural alternative health supplement acts as a great nerve tonic and supports healthy nervous system functions. When all of your organ systems work in harmony with one another, they stimulate the body's natural healing response to reach optimal health conditions.

How using L-Carnosine for anxiety prevents recurrent symptoms

The main culprit of psychological disorders that cause the sufferer to experience severe anxiety is nutrient and body substance level imbalances. Certain Ayurvedic medicinal practices state that any imbalance in the body leads to pathological conditions. Using natural L-Carnosine for anxiety reduces inflammation, interruption and chemical imbalances that cause the symptoms of this debilitating disorder. This natural ingredient has the ability of relaxing the nervous system so that the sufferer experiences a sense of calmness, even during times of stress and stimuli.

Healthy benefits associated with the use of L-Carnosine for anxiety

This alternative health supplement normalizes activity in the brain while the naturally occurring antioxidants actually protect cells from damage from different harmful substances. This amino acid extends the life of healthy cells and stimulates the proliferation of certain tissues in the brain to reduce the presence of symptoms. This creates a healing process that starts in the brain and spreads throughout the body. The application of L-Carnosine for anxiety influences the mind to operate efficiently without delay which is essential in receiving chemical and genetic information from the proteins included in this ingredient.

Clinical analysis of the natural L-Carnosine for anxiety

Clinical research has been performed on the therapeutic effects of this amino acid which is naturally present in the brain. This anti-oxidizing substance complements any therapy currently used by the sufferer because of its innate ability to block to effects of chemical and nutrient imbalances that cause the signs and symptoms of this disease. Your cells and nerves need to be revitalized to heal from the progressive effects of this disease. When individuals begin use of L-Carnosine for anxiety, they may feel a great reduction of debilitating symptoms that cause pain, depression, and other mental and emotional disorders.

Out tips and considerations when L-Carnosine is used for anxiety issues

This key ingredient has many revitalizing properties that enhance the function of all organ systems of the body, starting with the brain and nervous system. These key amino acids act as catalysts for biochemical reactions in the body which normalize and sustain healthy functions so that individuals can live a functional life. When this ingredient is used in combination with other vitamins, minerals, and ingredients, its healing power is amplified so that the ultimate rejuvenating effects can take place. Using medicinal L-Carnosine for anxiety is a great natural solution to help normalize internal body health.

Inspiring Thoughts When Feeling Down

Some people have different things that can inspire them greatly in times of depression. If you have certain things that can make you feel better, why not write them out and place those papers around your home. This way you can see these inspiring thoughts at all times.

You need to remember that everyone has bad days. No matter who they are and how much money they have. A person will never in their life be happy all the time. It's not normal, and you can't ever expect it. That's why you need to remember inspiring thoughts at these low times.

Perhaps you have a favorite book that you enjoy many quotes from, maybe even the Bible. Even if you're not a very religious person there are some very good inspiring comments in the Bible that everyone can enjoy.

Think of something you've accomplished in the past. Be it a simple thing like a story you wrote or a poem even. Though it may never have been published when shared with friends they really enjoyed it. This should inspire you to perhaps even write another one, and get you out of that mood.

Movies that you always find that make you happy can have some inspiring thoughts in them to make you feel less down too. Placing that movie on and watching it, or just the scenes that always make you laugh or smile can be enough of a push to bring you from a down mood to an up mood.

Finally, you need to keep in mind that you are no different from anyone else. We all experience these feelings of being down. Just don't let them get too bad before you seek out a friend to talk too. If you ever get close to thinking of hurting yourself call your best friend up and chat, they will help you out.

Brands of Depression - Stress Relief Pills

Everyone can feel depressed at some time or another and that's just part of life. For some people, the stress builds into depression that consumes their lives and makes the person seek help. Some won't go to a doctor for depression because many people still believe that depression isn't something medical. The fact of the matter is clear however, clinical depression is physical and if left untreated can tear a person apart and lead to suicide just to stop the pain that they feel. Others can't know what they feel and eventually, the depression makes one believe that they don't deserve to even live.

There are certain drugs that are very helpful in controlling the symptoms of depression and if taken regularly, the person won't stay depressed for very long. There are still people who believe that taking depression stress relief pills makes them weaker or less than the people around them. It just isn't true and the word needs to get out that depression stress relief pills are no different than a cast on a leg or crutches to help people walk. With that attitude, more people might come forward and get the help that they need. There are many medicines now that can affect the brain by better regulating the chemical release of serotonin. A person's mood will get better and that allows the person to better control the many things that originally were becoming stress and depression.

Prozac

Many people have heard about the drug called Prozac but not everyone understands what it does. Prozac is a pill that effectively controls depression; a continuing depression that interferes with daily functioning. It also has a generic equal called Fluoxetine. They are the same depression stress relief pills; just one cost less because it is a generic which means that there isn't a brand name on it.

Wellbutrin

Another type of depression stress relief pills is called Wellbutrin. Wellbutrin works by affecting two chemicals in the brain that are believed to help moods; dopamine and norepinephrine. It usually comes in 150 mgs to 200mgs. This as with all prescription drugs should be monitored by a doctor. If something doesn't feel right make sure to call your physician and discuss symptoms.

Zoloft

One more depression stress relief pill is Zoloft. Zoloft is even more powerful than the others. It is prescribed for people that suffer from extreme depression. People with major depression will be in a very low mood that stays that way everyday. People with major depression are more susceptible to having thoughts of suicide. Taking a depression stress relief pill can help a person to feel better and handle stress better.

Alzheimer's Disease: Differentiating Dementia From Normal Memory Loss

As we age we are susceptible to increasing illness and eventually death. Perhaps the most feared illness is descending into Alzheimers's disease. By the age of 85 it is estimated that half of all Americans would have evidence of this condition. Fears have increased as news of the disorder spreads. The death of Ronald Reagan with Alzheimer's Disease emphasized our vulnerability and helped bring the disorder into greater public view.

Cliff, a spry 67 year-old man, was referred to me to help him overcome a belief that he was developing a rapid and early onset of Alzheimer's disease. He first noticed his condition about six months ago and it had progressed to its current more "advanced" stage. He had become depressed as he perceived that his memory was rapidly declining despite psychological tests and a neurological clinical evaluation that said he was normal for his age. He had become obsessed with the fear of his descent into the Alzheimer abyss, as he put it. "My memory is so bad, I know that it is the beginning of Alzheimer's, no matter what anyone has told me to the contrary."

He was afraid that losing his memory would cause him to lose control of his life. He worried about his declining memory's impact on his day's activities, the effect on his family, especially his wife and his fear of having a shortened life span. He gave me many examples of things he forgets to do, how he continued to misplace objects and forget appointments. "No matter what tricks I use I always forget where I put my keys."

I performed a few clinical tests that clarified that his memory was fully intact, which I immediately told Cliff. Such tests are simple to perform as illustrated:

• I asked Cliff to elaborate on something I had told him ten minutes earlier to determine if he remembered the subject and our previous discussion.

• I asked him to see if my memory was intact by seeing if I could repeat five to seven digits that he would give me. I deliberately made one mistake to see if he caught it. It would immediately be apparent if he knew my error since he would have had to also recall the numbers.

• I reversed the procedure and asked him to repeat a different series of numbers that I gave him.

• I gave him a series of nouns and told him to remember them since I would ask him to recall them later.

Advanced testing:

If anxiety interfered with the testing and if further reassurance was needed that he was not becoming senile, I performed an additional test to show him the intactness of his memory.

I gave Cliff a list of commonly known numbers, such as Social Security, license plate, telephone number, driver's license, telephone number of best friend, business telephone, etc and asked him to select one so I could check his memory of the numbers backwards. That tested both his recall of the list and also his selection of a memorized number that he should know perfectly. Whatever he picked out I knew his memory had to be fairly intact, otherwise he would not have remembered the list.

Also, repeating a well-known number backwards is normally not difficult, but it does require an intact memory. I again reassured him that my objective appraisal indicated that his memory was normal.

If the testing indicated a real possibility of mental decline there would have been a need of further testing of brain function, either performed by a neurologist or geriatric specialist.

You can use these tests to evaluate your own fears of losing your memory. Although Alzheimer's disease becomes fairly common when we reach our eighties many people live into their nineties and beyond with intact brain functions. Your objective is to live as well as possible based on your actual mental state.

The Signs and Symptoms of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a type of anxiety disorder in which people have a distorted body image. Originally thought to affect women more than men, this condition actually affects both men and women equally. Researchers think that body dysmorphic disorder is associated with a chemical imbalance in the brain that may have a genetic basis.

BDD may drive sufferers to depression and suicide. This article shows you how to recognize the signs and symptoms of BDD to better protect yourself and your loved ones.

People who have BDD should first seek medical and psychiatric help instead of heading straight to a cosmetic surgeon. Some people suffer only mild symptoms of the condition, but others experience paralyzing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Undergoing cosmetic surgery and treatments become a type of addiction for these people.

Some of the signs and symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder include

• excessive grooming


• excessively checking appearance in a mirror


• going to great lengths to hide the perceived imperfection


• frequently comparing the appearance of the perceived defect with the appearance of others


• paralyzing feelings of self-consciousness about the perceived flaw


• constantly seeking assurance from others about how they look 


• getting cosmetic surgery

Cosmetic surgery can worsen body dysmorphic disorder. After one cosmetic procedure, the person may start to focus attention on another body area and become preoccupied trying to fix the new "defect". Some patients with BDD may blame the surgeon for making their appearance worse and may even become violent towards the surgeon.

BDD is a potentially life-threatening condition and should be taken seriously. If you suspect you or a family member may be suffering from BDD, seek treatment from a doctor or mental health professional. Getting cosmetic surgery when you are suffering from BDD is no different from a drug addict taking drugs when he or she is suffering from drug withdrawal symptoms.

Funny Shero Shayari

Shayari is a beautiful way to express our love, care, affection and emotions. Shayari is connected to our heart and our deep emotions. Through Shayri one can say everything in a beautiful way. Expression of love is generally very tough for everyone but shayari makes it really simple, fill your emotions into it and guess what your love accepts you whole heartedly. Not only can the expression of love but pain of a heart break be beautifully moulded into words through shayari. There are many languages to express yourself and show your feelings but the most effective and powerful way is of course the world of shayaris.

Shayari give us inner strength to express our feelings and it gives us words to also. Many times when we are really depressed and a little weary with the way things are going on in our life. Funny shero Shaayri can bring us out of that gloominess and enlighten our mood.

Romantic shayari has a power to take you towards our mate and sad shayari can express your feeling for someone very special when he/she is in need.

These days wit and humor have become an essential part if at all we want to break the monotony of the otherwise monotonous life. Funny shero shayari can act as a fresh breath of air in our daily life. We all crave for moments of joy and laughter and their presence indeed makes life a beautiful experience worth living. Funny shero shayari can bring us these moments.

Funny shero shayari not only help people smile while relieving them of their numerous stresses and strains but actually help individuals recover their health by improving their moods and general outlook towards life. Funny shero shayari is an excellent way of sharing joy and laughter with your loved ones, be it parties or get-togethers or whether you are enjoying a tranquil moment alone in your favorite spot at home.