Nurture Your Soul?Create Peace of Mind

The majority of people believe humans have a soul. There is significant controversy, however, on the soul?s impact or whether as humans we impact the soul?s growth or lack there of. Those who practice spirituality believe we are human beings having a spiritual experience and we are spiritual beings having a human experience. Such movies as: Ghost, Sixth Sense, What The Bleep Do We Know?, City of Angels and others illuminate this belief.

Nurturing the soul is as important as healthy nutrition, exercising and sleep. The soul?s sole purpose is to create spiritual/emotional growth. The sense of well-being and happiness emanates from the soul to the psyche. If the soul is ignored or malnourished the psyche and ultimately the body suffers.

The most effective way to nurture the soul is through spirituality. Spirituality is the God-related science of developing and freeing the God-made innermost being?the core of us??Made in the image of God. Love creates, all else destroys. Love cannot co-exist with other premises simultaneously; therefore, God is only love. The fly in the ointment of human existence verses in spiritual form?as God?is the ego.? The ego is essential to navigate the vicissitudes in physical life. However, the ego is what gets us into trouble. The truth is: All life on earth serves the sole purpose of developing our spirituality to the point of being free of spiritual ignorance, free of selfish or destructive behavioral (ego) patterns, free to return to our eternal home in God. True spirituality leads to freedom in God.

True God-related spirituality is achieved by means of scientifically applying spiritual teachings and spiritual techniques that fosters the ego to vanish in the fire of divine love and ego-oriented spirit?a.k.a. intellect?to be replaced by the Holy Spirit. Such true spiritual teachings can only be affected by a true connection to our innermost self. Because all humankind is God-made, Spirituality is our true nature and spiritual development is the most direct way to solutions of love and peace in all creation. Prayer, Meditation, Gratitude, Spending time in nature?including near fire and water are practices to create spiritual/emotional health.

?Prayer: Researcher and mind/body medicine expert Herbert Benson, M.D. found that regular prayer or the repetition of spiritual phrases such as Shalom, or Hail Mary, triggers relaxation and reduces stress. Make prayer a time of personal conversation with God, state your need or concern and ask for divine intervention. Acknowledge all you have to be grateful for and give thanks for that which you desire. Giving thanks is more effective than asking for what you desire. God knows what you need before you need it and has already sent it to you?therefore giving thanks acknowledges what you haven?t seen yet. Establishing a regular prayerful routine is important.

?Meditation: Researched for centuries, meditation is proven to have physiological benefits, including stress-relief, improved immune and cardiovascular function, relaxation, and decreased pain. Regular meditation practice leads to new insights about life issues (often resulting in the healing of past emotional trauma), heightened creativity, inspiration, greater compassion for others, and a greater connection to one's own inner guidance. There are a plethora of books and classes on meditation practices.

? Gratitude: The state of being grateful; thankfulness. (The American Heritage Dictionary) In the push and pulls of life we seldom realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich. Looking at the glass as half empty albeit is half full assures us, we will live with a sense of lack.

Gratitude is our most direct line to God and the angels. If we take the time, no matter how crazy and troubled we feel, we can find something to be thankful for. The more we seek gratitude, the more reason the angels will give us for gratitude and joy to exist in our lives. --Terry Lynn Taylor

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. --Melody Beattie

?Time in nature: The most visible manifestation of spirit is nature, where we most fully encounter and interact with life's primal energies in the forms of earth, water, fire, and air. Walking/hiking are easy and practical ways of reconnecting with nature and the earth, as are gardening, biking, camping and boating. Spending regular amounts of time outdoors within a natural setting, you enable yourself to better appreciate the rhythms of life, including your own.

Modern living prevents us from a balanced life. Time in nature restores that balance, while also deepening our connection with Spirit. Being near the water is a spiritually healthy experience, due to water's higher concentration of negative ions. Swimming in natural water or soaking in a mineral hot spring provides therapeutic benefits for a variety of ailments.

?Exposure to a campfire or fireplace has health benefits. Leonard Orr discovered that fire cleanses the bio-energy field of negative energies, and is a powerful aid in curing physical disease. Orr recommends spending a few hours each day near fire. Fire is also an important component of the vision quests Native Americans undertake to connect with the Great Spirit and discover their life purpose.

?Air is the closest expression of Spirit. Clean air is essential to health on all levels, and practicing conscious breathing is a potent self-care method for restoring energy and making you more aware of the power of Spirit as it flows through you.

Regular exposure to the four elements creates consciousness of Spirit's loving intelligence to sustain the world, while more deeply recognizing our place within it.

Given busy lives in today?s world there are several techniques to use until one can engage with the four elements. The following techniques relax, revitalize and remove blocked energy.

?Craniosacral Treatment?Relieves blockages caused by stress in the craniosacral system. Discovered by Dr. John Upledger in 1980, this system includes the cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.

?Reiki Chakra Treatment?Japanese spiritual healing technique, energy is channeled from master to student, cleansing the body?s chakras?specific energy modes inside the body. Creates reduced stress and a stronger bridge to your inner being.

?The Sound of Peaceful Healing?a 120-minute sensory journey that uses sound, touch and smell to revive the senses and restore a feeling of calm.

?Massage: Acupressure?based on acupuncture without needles, Deep Tissue, Reflexology, Swedish, Shiatsu, Aquatic Shiatsu,Trigger Point/Myotherapy, Rolfing.

Engaging in one or more of the soul nourishing activities?Prayer, Meditation, Gratitude, Spending time in nature, including near fire and water?daily will create soul/spiritual/ emotional health and you will enjoy a highly enriched and enriching life.

Dorothy M. Neddermeyer specializes in: Mind, Body, and Spirit healing for Individuals, Special Issues and Professional Coaching. As an inspirational leader, Dr. Neddermeyer empowers people to view life's challenges as an opportunity for Personal/Professional Growth and Spiritual Awakening. http://www.drdorothy.net

Depression and Suicide Don't Ignore the Warning Signs

We hear a lot about depression today. I seems everyone is on some medication for depression, ADD, or ADHD, but do we really understand it or know what to do if we sense someone is severely depressed or suicidal?

I have suffered from depression for most of my life. I?m 50 now and just learning how to recognize the symptoms before they take hold and how to deal with them. When I was growing up, depression was not talked about. People feared they would be thought of as being crazy, so they never admitted to feeling this way. They thought people would look at you differently or be afraid to associate with you. They were too embarrassed to discuss their feelings, so they did not seek help. How sad was that? Do you know how different my life could have been had I or someone else realized I suffered from depression and I got help?

Depression was hereditary in my family so it would not have been unusual for me to suffer from it. My uncle tried to commit suicide several times and was institutionalized at one point. My aunt tried to commit suicide. My Dad was told he desperately needed help and my mother tried to commit suicide twice. Once was when she was pregnant with me and the other time was when my brother and I left home within months of each other and she felt she had nothing left to live for. Of course, I did not know all this until years later. Had I known, I may have recognized the symptoms. I would have been able to get help instead of struggling and not knowing why I had no energy, or slept all the time or had such low self-esteem. Medication may have helped. It is not the answer to everything, and in some cases can make things worse, but I would like to have had the option to know if it would have made a difference in my life. It would have made those years so much more bearable and possibly changed the course of my future.

If someone you know is, or might be suffering from depression, please urge them to seek help. You may think that suicide only happens in other families, but my daughter and I came dangerously close to losing her best friend this past week. Why? Because we did not take her talk of suicide seriously or realize just how depressed she was. Especially with children and teens, we tend to write if off as just ?those difficult? teenage years. We may think they are just being moody. Do not take that chance. You do not want to wonder if there was some sign you missed or something you could have done and live with the guilt the rest of your life.

Here are some signs to look for:

 Change in sleeping patterns. Sleeping more than usual or unable to sleep at all.  Lack of interest in anything or taking pleasure in things they once enjoyed.  Irritability. They are very sensitive and get upset at things or comments that normally would not bother them.  Withdrawal. Because they feel different and may not understand what is happening, they withdraw from their friends. They will not leave the house and feel it is easier to avoid their friends that to have them think they are crazy. They do not understand why they may sleep so much or feel so bad. My daughters' friend thought people would think she was just lazy and judge her, so she avoided contact.  Change in eating patterns or physical condition. They may stop having an interest in food, lose weight or vomit due to stress.  Talk of suicide. Do not make the mistake of thinking this is just talk. It may be or it could be a cry for help, but do not take that chance. Get them to a doctor or psychiatrist whether they want to go or not. You may risk making them mad at you or saying they will not forgive you, but the alternative is much worse.

I have experienced all of the above symptoms but like a lot of people, did not recognize them for what they were. I thought of suicide of but never voiced it. I almost followed through on it on a particularly bad day. It was only by the grace of God that a friend stopped by unexpectedly, which she never did, or I might not be here right now.

Many people at one time or another may have had thoughts of suicide. They may have made statements that they would be better off dead, but they were just fleeting thoughts for most, made out of anger or stress. For those that are deeply depressed, they are more than that. I wanted to think I would never really follow through. I could not hurt my family that way. I remember being furious with my Mom when I found out she had tried, yet found myself in the same situation years later. That is why it is so important to never take it lightly. We often do things we could not imagine in a million years doing. Yet, we never know when we will hit rock bottom and feel like we cannot get up. When you are in that place, your thoughts are not rational. You are not thinking of the people you would hurt, you just want out of your pain. After being ?saved by the bell? when my friend stopped by, it hit me what it would have done to my daughter had I succeeded. She would have experienced the same anger I felt at my mother. She may have experienced guild and wonder what she could have done to stop me.

That was a wake up call for me. I had been in counseling before, but it had always left me more depressed than when I started. Focusing on where I went wrong and how my life was nothing like I expected, just left me feeling worse and guiltier than before. Of course, guilt was my middle name. I felt everything was always my fault and I deserved how my life had turned out. I must have been jinxed or being punished for something. It?s amazing the thoughts we have when we are in that frame of mind.

Last February was a particularly difficult time for me. Fortunately, I was now able to recognize the signs of depression and know when I was slipping into one. I knew I needed to seek help. I was hesitant because of my past experiences with psychologists, but I knew I had to try.

I was lucky enough to be referred by my family physician to a wonderful woman. I feel she truly changed and possibly saved my life. I am stronger now than I have ever been. I have learned not to define myself by my physical limitations and that I have a lot to offer. I no longer feel guilty for things I had no control over. She made me realize that the more I focused on what was wrong, the longer my life would stay in that condition. She taught me to let go of the past if I wanted to have a future. I could not change what had happened in my past, but I could change my attitude, accept where I was today and move forward with joy and anticipation.

If you or someone you know has been to counseling and feels it did not help, do not let that stop them from trying again. I found the key; just like in a friendship, is finding someone you connect with and feel comfortable with. Each relationship is different. Help is there if you really want it.

When suicide occurs, the worst part is that the family members are left to suffer with the guilt. They ask themselves if there was something that they could have done that would have made a difference. I have witnessed attempts in my own family and wondered the same thing. Had I done something to make my mother want to take her life? What had I missed? Why did I not look closer to see she was hurting? Once you have experienced this, you are never the same. Never treat a statement of suicide lightly. Do not think it cannot happen to you. You do not want to be left asking ?what was it I did not see? Why did I not try harder to understand??

Life is a gift to be treasured. Each individual has something of value to offer this world. Do not take anything for granted. Live in the moment. Really see the beauty around you and never pass up a chance to tell the people you love how you feel about them. See each day as if for the first time, and live it as if it were your last. Tim McGraw sings in one of his songs, ?I hope you get the chance to live as if you were dying.? If you knew you were, you would want to do all the things you never dared, see all the things you wanted to see, and tell everyone you loved how you felt. Today can be that day. Do it now. Cherish it and never forget how precious life is.

http://www.TheJoyofSoy.com Angela Thompson is the owner of a cleaning company, has a Realtor?s License and has been involved in several home-based businesses. She and her daughter are currently independent distributors for Mia Bella Gourmet Candles. Her desire is to help people realize their potential and fulfill their goals.

Support For Your Depression

Sometimes you are falling down and need to find people to talk to. What is important though, is not to find people who will enable, but instead to find people who will actually be able to help pick you up. So you need to figure out who you have around you who can do that. There are a few good options here. The first, obviously, is a good friend. Someone who you know will be able to listen and give you an opinion that you trust. The best person for this would not be a significant other, because friendships are longer lasting on the whole.

This friend need not be someone local, and depending on your preference local might not be better. Because it is someone that you don't see as often, the temptation to run might not be as high. My first choice for someone to talk with is someone who lives 3000 miles away. It allows me to tell her what is going on without feeling like I need to run to her. When things are really bad, I go to my girlfriend who is a more constant presence in my life right now, and I can get immediate support ? like a hug. She is very understanding that I need to go call a friend a little later on.

The most important thing is to make sure that you have people who you can tell anything to. Without this, you will never find comfort when you are having problems.

You can read more about depression at http://www.curemydepression.com

Paint by Emotion: Edvard Munch's Struggle With Bipolar Disorder

He was a man surrounded by death, and grief ? the blackest sort of emotions and deepest kinds of sadness. When he died in the winter of 1944, he left over 20,000 pieces of his work to the city of Oslo, the place where he was born. Best known for his hauntingly beautiful painting, ?The Scream?, Edvard Munch was a man who likely had many things to scream about in his own life, not the least of which was his suspected bipolar disorder.

Once called ?manic depression? (a term that is now seen as outdated), this brutal psychological condition manifests itself primarily through intense mood changes, severe depression, and swings in energy levels. These changes can disappear as quickly as they come, giving rise to the term ?bipolar?, literally opposite poles on the emotional spectrum. An exact cause for why bipolarism occurs is thus far unknown, and even less was understood about it during Munch?s life. A person suffering from this condition often goes through cycles or periods where they experience abnormally large swings and changes in their moods, energy levels and depression. Some in the medical field feel that traumatic events and excess stress, especially during a patient?s youth can greatly increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder, either at the time of the trauma or in the years following it.

In the first few years of his life after he was born in 1863, Munch watched as both his parents, a sister and a brother all died. As the years went on other siblings and close relatives would pass away, and another sister was diagnosed as being mentally ill. With so much death and sickness circulating through his young mind, it is almost too easy to see how and why this Norwegian artist would go on to create pieces of art that dealt less with somewhat cheery impressionism of the time, and more with capturing the essence of emotions and moods. Fraught by anguish and perhaps a sense of loneliness, Edvard decided to enrol in art school in 1881. With his life in tow Munch began going between Paris and Norway (and later Germany), studying the great artists and art movements of the era.

While not entirely macabre for the most part, in general Munch?s work was far from the flower gardens and ballet dancers that top impressionist artists were painting by the cartful at the time. Instead, Munch wanted to convey more than just a scene; he wanted his paintings to be riddled with emotion, energy, deeper meaning and complexity. Yet even with that in mind his style of art would change several times (a theme that is also noted in other artists such as Picasso) as he dabbled in impressionism, synthetism, and other genres that were popular then. Borrowing techniques here and inventing others there, Edvard would go on to be a pillar in the creation of the German Expressionism movement. In Expressionism, Munch found a way to look beyond the perfectionism of realists and impressionists and starkly put forth emotion on canvas, wood or whichever of the many mediums he chose to work with. Just as Edvard Munch?s work would take on a more optimistic aura in his later years, this gifted artist?s moods and emotions changed sharply throughout his life, giving rise to the suspicion that he was afflicted with bipolar disorder.

Munch is not the only artist who is thought or known to have suffered from this condition; in fact some researchers tend to think that it can bring about deep forms of varied creativity. Famous names from Hans Christian Andersen to Virginia Woolf, Napoleon to Marilyn Monroe are but a few of the stars, icons and history makers who may have battled this psychological condition. Now, just as it was in Munch?s lifetime, no failsafe treatment exists for bipolar disorder. With his memories as inspiration, and his moods as his medium, there may have been little else to do but turn to art in order for Munch to use his internal earthquakes of feeling, energy and depression to help him cope with his own bipolar disorder. Indeed Edvard Munch turned melancholy and mania into timeless art, and gave the world an incredible collection of creative, poignant work.

Jessica Cander is a professional freelance medical writer who contributes to a wide variety of medical web sites, including the Bipolar Disorder web site.

Overcoming Depression with a Child's Heart

?With a child's heart

Go face the worries of the day

With a child's heart

Turn each problem into play

No need to worry no need to fear

Just being alive makes it all so very clear?

Although this is no way is a pro-Jackson article, this is actually an excerpt from a personal Jackson 5 favorite entitled ?With a Child?s Heart?

Sung by a pre-adolescent Michael Jackson, the words of this song made such an impact on me most recently when I played the CD a few days back.

The lyrics of the song reminded me of what the renowned psychologist: Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, once stated in his book- that children are indeed the group of humans who ironically are most gifted in the art of faith and positive thinking.

These are two essentials for overcoming depression, and it is no co-incidence that they are abundant in a child?s heart.

Children are more expert in happiness and faith than adults and indeed the adult who can carry the spirit of a child into middle and old age is truly a genius. Why? Well this is quite simply because such an adult will preserve the happy and carefree spirit that only the young seem to be endowed with and this of course will be vital and necessary for dealing with depression and problems and keeping their effects on us minimized.

The subtlety and wisdom of Jesus Christ is truly remarkable. When it comes to dealing with depression (or dealing with life, period-the good and the bad of it), He suggests that one should have a childlike heart and mind.

In other words, have you ever noticed how a kid believes mom?s kiss actually made the pain of a bicycle fall go away, well that same childlike faith is actually what God requires of us in believing that what He says He?ll do for us will come to pass.

Now, in regards to overcoming depression, it is clear to see that approaching our problems with a childlike yet powerful faith that things will be better would make a huge difference in our situations and circumstances.

This doesn?t mean that no work will be required of us on our part, remember ?faith without works is dead, (James 2:26). However, it is the believing that what we are doing to make things better in addition to trusting what God says about our situations and challenges that would make the difference.

Just like a child will ask a parent for help on how to do something and totally rely on the parent?s instruction to get it done, it is very much the same way that we have to accept and follow God?s advice and help in order to deal with our problems and challenges in life.

A young Jackson ends the song above soulfully stating that ?With a child?s heart, nothing is gonna get me down!? Indeed with the childlike faith in God and His promises and a childlike obedience to do as instructed by a wiser Being, nothing: not depression, not life?s problems can get us down.

Foras Aje is an independent health researcher and founder of Bodyhealthsoul.com For more information on Depression Treatment stop by his website today.

Depression and Essential Depression Treatment

If you are depressed all of the time and don?t know why, then you need to seek medical care and see if you can find a way to get to the bottom of your condition which could be something serious such as depression.

Depression strikes more women than men and is often a series of rapid cycling into mania and the deepest and darkest elements of depression. What makes matters worse is that people don?t realize why they are depressed and because they can?t seem to pin point it then they simply push it aside and accept it enabling the depression to get the upper hand in the depressed individual?s life.

While you may want to understand why you are depressed, it may be more important to recognize that you have a deeper problem such as depression which is causing you to lose valuable time from work while missing out on a great number of life and family events.

Once you are diagnosed for your depression, you will find that the medication for depression will be helpful but not always right off the bat or with immediate gratifying results. Depression will take a while to control.

Taking an active part in your depression treatment is essential in order for you to realize success and you should seek support from a spouse or family members so that you will always be in control of your bipolar disorder or your depression. While it is important to talk to therapist and psychologists, it is also very important to find the right person to confide in that you know and trust. If you don?t have a trusted friend, then maybe you should consider joining a support group which will enable you to talk freely about your depression. While you may not realize it right off the bat, you likely have a larger support group in your home and you need to use your family to help you get your life back on track.

Read everything you can about your depression. Make sure that you do understand the key terms in depression such as rapid cycling, mania and all the other key terms that you certainly will hear a lot in your therapy sessions. Talk openly and honestly to your therapist and make sure that you and your therapist have the same ideas for your depression treatment. Don?t settle for a depression treatment plan that you don?t understand or more importantly, don?t want to follow. There are options and you have several of them when it comes to your own mental health.

Take control of your depression and choose to live a better life with your being in complete control over the disease. You can make your life better starting today.

Depression...Disease or Symptom? If you know someone you care about suffer from depression please take 3 minutes to read this special report now.

Releasing The Emotional Roots Of Anxiety

Those of you who have ever experienced prolonged and unexplained periods of anxiety may have wondered more than once what the cause of it was for you.

When no known cause was apparent and the symptoms became intolerable or made you unable to function you likely may have turned to some form of medication or other modality to lessen its impact on your life.

To make it plain and easy to understand how I conceptualize the root cause of anxiety I will use the analog of a pot of water on a stove top.

Assume here that your awareness is limited strictly to the surface of the water in the pot. In other words you do not know that the pot is on a stove top and that the stove element is turn on to high.

What you see after some time is the turbulence on the surface of the water. Now if you had never experienced this before you might be hard pressed to explain what was going on. Of course you do know however that the water is being heated and that this is responsible for the turbulence.

Now if we go back to the situation with the anxiety. The symptoms of the anxiety which you experience emotionally, mentally and physically represent the turbulence on the surface of the water in the pot as it is being heated.

What does the heat represent in this case?

Well it represents all those uncomfortable feelings, thoughts and memories that you have stored within your mind/body (some call this the unconscious mind) that you are suppressing simply because if you allowed yourself to feel them you might not be able to function.

Unfortunately the pressure exerted on your conscious mind by this submerged material is great enough to make you aware of its presence. This is what you experience as the anxiety i.e. the turbulence on the surface of the water.

You have however sufficiently submerged the root causes of the discomfort (i.e. the memories themselves) and therefore cannot make a conscious link between the anxiety and their cause.

This tactic of trying to suppress uncomfortable memories is engaged because many think that by doing so they will push the offending material away and therefore feel better.

Well, like it or not, this never works. When this material is pushed away it only gets pushed inside and like a beach ball pushed into the shallow end of a swimming pool it will exert an equal and opposite force upward and outward into your conscious mind. The net result is that by trying to keep it submerged it only depletes your vital life energy.

The only way to effectively deal with the anxiety is to release the memory completely and thereby release the internal pressure. Most psychotherapies fail at this process because in doing so they leave the client vulnerable to re-experiencing the full force of the negative experience in what is termed an abreaction.

When this happens the client often feels re-traumatized and may leave therapy.

With a new modality called the Mind Resonance Process(TM) (MRP) the client gains considerable resilience and emotional strength as they are allowed to become aware of the offending material at their own desired pace. They also are able to completely, permanently and quickly release the offending material thereby reclaiming vast amounts of vital life energy.

This process is done over the telephone and is accessible by visiting the web link below.

Dr. Nick Arrizza is trained in Chemical Engineering, Business Management & Leadership, Medicine and Psychiatry. He is an Energy Psychiatrist, Healer, Key Note Speaker,Editor of a New Ezine Called Spirituality And Science (which is requesting high quality article submissions) Author of Esteem for the Self: A Manual for Personal Transformation (available in ebook format on his web site), Stress Management Coach, Peak Performance Coach & Energy Medicine Researcher, Specializes in Life and Executive Performance Coaching, is the Developer of a powerful new tool called the Mind Resonance Process(TM) that helps build physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well being by helping to permanently release negative beliefs, emotions, perceptions and memories. He holds live workshops, international telephone coaching sessions and international teleconference workshops on Physical. Emotional, Mental and Spiritual Well Being.

Web site: http://www.telecoaching4u.com/IntroConsult.htm

Interesting Interview With An Author Who Has Had First Hand Experience With Mental Health Treatment

Today, Norm Goldman, Editor of Bookpleasures.com welcomes as a guest, Sheryl J. Stevens, Author of Operation Soul Recovery (From Default To Purpose).

Good day Sheryl and thank you for agreeing to participate in our interview.

Norm:

Sheryl, could you tell our readers something about yourself and what motivated you to write Operation Soul Recovery (From Default To Purpose)?

Sheryl:

Throughout my life I?ve been faced with mental illness at many different levels, involving my parents and other family members. While never discussed, their quiet desperation kept inside was at times apparent, even though outwardly, they were able to lead honorable, hard-working lives.

The stable nurturing environment of the whole community seemed to overrule anything bad or unpleasant. Consequently, my childhood was one of contentment, until I left that part of my life. Afterwards, I also struggled with anxiety and depression, seeking help from many sources, though failed to find it. There was no choice, other than learning to live with the conflicts, and expand my knowledge of the disorders.

When my youngest daughter was 14, her battle with depression began. It manifested first as bulimia, then escalating to other addictions and destructive behaviours, including numerous suicide attempts.

Over a period of 20 years, she likewise sought help from all that was available?countless in-patient and out-patient treatments, anti-depressants, counselling, 12-step programs, religious experiences, without any lasting results.

During Kelly?s struggle, my desire to understand the baffling power of addiction and mental illness intensified. Pain, in many forms, became the driving force to continue, which led to realizing that my daughter was far from an isolated case in the failure to find effective treatment. In fact, millions are struggling within the hopelessness of the ?systems? with no end in sight.

At one point in the process, I witnessed an extra-ordinary Vision. It was filled with many of my own learning experiences, including a number of parallels to the gentle farm community. I immediately realized, along with wisdom far beyond my awareness that it all clearly came into focus. Amazing, yet basic, it was a phenomenon that I knew for certain could heal the hearts and minds of desperate people everywhere.

Although, the difficulty was putting the picture into words in order that others would understand, I felt compelled to find a way to describe it. I finally succeeded. Thereafter, the Vision became the central motivation to write the book.

Norm:

What challenges or obstacles did you encounter while writing your book?

Sheryl:

Gathering my thoughts is often a challenge in itself, even though writing has always been my best means of expression. In this case the subject matter was at times very emotionally draining, trying to find words that best described the various ideas I felt were important.

The biggest obstacle I faced was fear that the book would be rejected. What I?ve noticed throughout my journey is that most people are afraid to even think ?outside the box?, even though some of the best things in life are beyond all rigid confinements. And this book is definitely outside the box.

Most of it was actually written before September 11th but I allowed the fear of failure to keep me from finishing it until that jolting moment, which became my resolve to complete the book. I realized that I?d lived way too much of my life trying to please people, as though the crumbs of love were better than none at all. But it hadn?t worked well. I knew it was time to face the fear and write straight from the heart.

Norm:

How do you plan to market your book and is there a particular audience you wish to target?

Sheryl:

So far I?ve been playing it by ear, sending press releases through distribution services, as well as using them as promotional material I send personally or email to other potential sources and individuals.

One of my next projects will be emailing a letter along with the latest news release (April 21) to 40+ members of Congress to find out what their response or level of support might be, if any.

Obtaining reviews is another quest. I?ve now received several with 5-star ratings, which is very encouraging. The book is also entered in 3 different categories with Nautilus Book Awards 2005 in New York on June 2.

I recently ordered John Kremer?s book 1001 Ways to Market Your Books. I?m new at this and need all the good advice I can get.

To classify the audience is a bit difficult?perhaps Mental Health professionals, Religious/Spiritual leaders and followers, Non-profit Organizations.

But most of all Dreamers, Visionaries, those who think big, fearless of challenges, and are passionate about changing our troubled world. The question is, where do you find them? I might add that Operation Soul Recovery is also in the process of being established as a non-profit organization.

Norm:

I once asked a relative of mine, who is a Psychiatrist, what in his estimate has been the biggest advancement in the treatment of mental illness? His reply was the invention of the tranquillizer. Would you care to comment?

Sheryl:

Personally, I?ve tried many anti-anxiety and anti-depressants over the years, but found the side effects to be much worse than dealing with the negative feelings without medication. I have also watched my daughter, under doctors? care and prescription go through horrific experiences while on certain medications. However presently she is on 6 different kinds, which altogether appear to be somewhat helpful. Although over time, one or more of them lose their effect, then its back to square one again trying to find balance.

I acknowledge that some people do benefit from certain drug therapies; however there seem to be more who do not, or at least don?t find lasting success. I am most concerned about the extreme cases, for example Andrea Yates who killed her five children, or Christopher Pittman, the 12-year old who killed his grandparents. They were both afflicted with mental disorders, though the crimes they committed were completely out of character for their personalities. Also both of them were under the influence of anti-depressants for quite some time before, and during the incidents.

Who will ever know what part the medications played in these tragedies, and countless others we never hear about? Perhaps because the power of the drug companies (and the rest of the system) will never let it be known?

Another consideration is that Americans are notorious for being an impatient, pill-popping society. We want a quick fix for everything from headaches to depression, not to mention the thousands of other advertisements that promise to make our lives better. So we believe them, and buy them, because we?re also gullible. When it comes to mental and emotional disorders it seems that the ?wonder drugs? in most cases, are simply dealing with the symptoms and not the underlying causes.

Furthermore, if pills really were the magic cure, why is mental illness continually rising to shocking levels, while the use of anti-depressants has tripled in the past decade? Yet until there is a complete transformation in the treatment of mind and spirit disorders, there will be those who actually need them, and those who at least believe they have found relief in them.

Norm:

Do you have any statistics as to the percentage of individuals in the USA who suffer from one kind or another of mental disease?

Sheryl:

According to the National Mental Health Association, almost 20% of Americans admittedly suffer from some form of mental illness. Indeed, mental illnesses are now more common than cancer, diabetes, or heart disease. Due to the hidden nature of these diseases, one can only imagine that to include those who are in denial, the percentage would be considerably higher.

Also the National Center for Workforce Disability confirms that mental illness is fast becoming the leading cause of disabilities. A recent NMHA women?s survey revealed that women found depression to be a greater obstacle to professional success than other barriers such as child- and elder care responsibilities, pregnancy and sexual harassment. Another NMHA survey stated that the U.S. loses $113 Billion annually from untreated and mistreated mental illness. These are merely a few of the grim statistics.

Norm:

What do you feel are the most pronounced shortcomings of the health system in the USA in the treatment of mental illness?

Sheryl:

I think the core of the shortcomings in the system boils down to the lack of money and resources available to obtain adequate treatment.

The vast majority of those suffering from addiction and/or mental illness cannot afford the high cost of psychotherapy, medications, and the more prominent treatment centers that have greater success rates.

If the people in need are fortunate enough to even have insurance, and many do not, the insurance companies are largely unwilling to bear the burden as they do in physical ailments, by refusal to recognize these disorders with the seriousness they deserve.

The next possibility is to meet the criteria for public assistance, which automatically excludes another huge group of people, whose options have suddenly become none. So the remainder, who are in a sense rewarded for owning nothing, are able to reap some benefit at the mercy of the state.

The problem there is that funding for these programs (treatment centers and out-patient therapies) is continually being slashed and weakened by the ignorance of political forces, until these remedial means have significantly lost their effectiveness.

Due to the enormous overload of needy people and the understaffed, underpaid workers in these facilities, the chances of getting the kind of treatment necessary for successful recovery is utterly grim.

Consequently, a great number of those who fall into the latter category remain locked in the system, unable to find the help they need, thus unable to move forward with their lives. Seemingly unaware of the plight of the entire situation, they continue going back to treatment many times over, only too often to reinforce the ever-mounting failure syndrome, believing it is their fault when it is most likely not.

I have spoken with mental health-care counsellors, since writing the book, who are in total agreement with the evaluation of the ?system? as I see it, if not more so. They are the ones who, on a daily basis, are faced with the overwhelming misery of the people, and are very aware of the little time they are able to give each individual. They feel as though their hands are tied, while the burnout period for them also becomes shorter due to the depressing situation.

The whole system, as it is, seems like a waste of everyone?s time and money, along with the proof that 2nd rate health-care or none at all is far more costly than 1st rate. Certainly this is the case in the treatment of mental illness.

Norm:

What has been the reward to you in writing your book?

Sheryl:

The greatest reward in writing the book was being able to create an expression on a subject that has burned in my heart for decades, much like putting together the many pieces of a puzzle.

For so many years, what seemed like millions of thoughts and feelings kept churning around inside, to the point I was unsure they could ever be sorted out.

Even though the book reflects merely highlights of what I feel, it was enough to relieve the pressure of trying to contain the passion. Furthermore it wasn?t the quantity of words on each concept that was important to me, but that many ideas were brought to light. Until at last I could comfortably say ?I?ve done my best?the picture is finished?! However challenging, the reward was immeasurable.

Norm:

Have you used the Internet in your research, and do you intend to use the Internet in promoting your book?

Sheryl:

Yes, I do use the Internet for research, although my computer skills are somewhat limited and I find the overwhelming amount of information to be rather daunting at times.

I often watch Larry King Live on CNN and other talk shows such as Oprah that are relevant to my interests, where I?ve obtained many excellent sources of information from various guests. Most of them have web sites, which I usually refer to afterwards.

I also read a lot of books (or used to that is) and I am an avid people watcher and listener. Learning is everywhere we turn in this day and age. I now spend a great deal of time on the Internet promoting my book in one way or another, always looking for new methods and ideas.

Norm:

Are there any other ideas or thoughts you wish to share with our audience that you have not been covered?

Sheryl:

The book is only the beginning of the reward I hope to see. Its objective is not a self-help book of ideas to be implemented here and there; nor is it meant to be just a story about my daughter, or about me and my beliefs to draw empathy for either one of us; nor is it intended to simply bash the many current attitudes and systems as a citizen?s right of freedom, to end there. Instead it is a straightforward call for attention and action to an enormous problem with a hopeful solution.

I regard the key to healing mental illness as first of all getting back to basics that consists of many factors including reconnection with the inner-child where our finest resources lie. Without this foundation there is nothing solid to build on.

I was blessed in countless ways for which I am most thankful, and chose to share a small portion of them in the book. I also meant to point out that a safe and secure childhood is no guarantee that we will live happily ever after. It didn?t happen to me, but it did remain a constant source of strength

I believe that sometimes God allows us to wander in the wilderness of human suffering in order for a higher purpose to be accomplished. In this case it doesn?t matter who I am, only that ?Any idea constantly held before the mind MUST come into existence.? Yet the Vision cannot manifest into reality by its eyewitness alone, no matter how passionate.

I am well aware of my limitations, likewise strengths. It will take many able, influential, visionaries, lots of prayers and careful organization, and more than volunteers to empower the Plan into existence. Would it be worth it? Absolutely! America needs this Place desperately, ultimately in every locality. My hope and prayer is that this small book will begin to ignite a forest fire that?s unstoppable!

Norm Goldman is the Editor of the Book Reviewing and Author Interviewing Site, http://Bookpleasures.com.

He is also a travel writer, and together with his artist wife, Lily Azerad-Goldman, they meld words with art focusing on romantic and wedding destinations.

To view their travel articles, refer to http://www.sketchandtravel.com. To read Norm`s reviews, click on http://www.bookpleasures.com

Using Exercise to Battle Depression

The last thing most people who suffer from depression want to do is exercise. The dark hole of depression can make even getting out of bed everyday a seemingly impossible task. If you suffer from depression it is imperative that you see your doctor or a therapist first, but don?t be surprised if they prescribe some sort of exercise regimen for you to follow in addition to some of the more normal treatments for depression.

Now as hard as it may seem to get out and start exercising when you are depressed there are some real benefits to be had.

1.Improves your confidence. As you get in better shape you will gain more confidence in yourself and your ability to meet your goals. 2.Increases your self-esteem. Exercise will improve your appearance and your sense of self worth. It will also improve your health and vitality. 3.A distraction. Having a set schedule for your exercise routine, no matter what it is, gives you something to look forward to and can help take your mind off of your problems. 4.Stress relief. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and frustration. 5.Getting out. Exercising allows you to get out and interact with other people, whether at the gym or just greeting people during your nightly walk. 6.Good coping strategy. Exercise is beneficial to anyone who does it. It is a positive way to deal with depression, anxiety or stress because you will benefit in the long run from it.

An important thing to remember is that as hard as it may seem to start exercising when you are depressed is that if you can get started the benefits will far outweigh any negative thoughts you may have about doing it. And once you get going don?t give up. Once you?ve decided to start exercising make sure you don?t over do it. Because nothing will cause you to loose all interest than a sore and broken body. Here are some general guidelines to consider before you start your exercise program.

1.Talk to your doctor or therapist first. They can help guide you and refer you to someone who can help you set up an exercise program that?s right for you. 2.Set simple goals. Exercise should be fun and make you feel good. Don?t approach it like you are training for the Olympics. Start easy and build from there. 3.Go with what you enjoy. If you have worked out in the past and enjoyed what you were doing start with that again. For some people just simply going for a walk is enjoyable for them. 4.Find a workout buddy. Exercising with a friend is great for helping lift your mood. It gives you someone to talk to and enjoy your work-out with. 5.Go outside. Getting out in the fresh air and sun is always a good way to improve your mood. Even if you work-out in a gym, take the time to go for a walks a couple of times a week. 6.Don?t let setbacks get you down. Some days you may not be able to get in your exercise. Don?t let that bother you, it happens to everyone. Keep at it and you will see your growth.

Using exercise as a treatment for depression is a growing trend. But you should always consult your doctor or therapist if you are feeling depressed or exhibit the symptoms of depression. Embarking on an exercise program on your own is not the right thing to do. It should be used in conjunction with other treatments such as medication and therapy. Taken together with these other therapies, exercise can be a great way to help battle your depression.

Andrew Bicknell is a writer and owner of Depression and You.com. Visit his website for more information about depression during menopause and other depression disorders.

6 Essential Facts You Should Know About Bipolar Disorder

Mental health authorities estimate that more than 2 million adults have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder (also called manic-depression), a chemical imbalance in the brain causing extreme mood swings from manic highs to agonizing lows. Although a diagnosis of bipolar disorder can be frightening and confusing, it is a treatable and manageable condition.

If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with bipolar illness, the first step in relieving fear and uncertainty is education. The more you know about the disorder, the less control it will exert over you and others who may be affected.

The National Institute of Mental Health (www.nimh.nih.gov ), The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (www.nami.org ), and The National Mental Health Association (www.nmha.org ) are just a few of the recognized national organizations providing information, facts and support to anyone who may be directly or indirectly affected by bipolar disorder.

Below are some essential facts about bipolar disorder provided by these organizations that may alleviate some of your concerns and questions surrounding a recent diagnosis.

Bipolar disorder affects many people: According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), bipolar disorder affects approximately 2.3 million adults, or 1.2 percent of the population, in any given year.

Bipolar disorder has many potential causes: There does not appear to be one cause for bipolar disorder. Evidence suggests that many components may come into play, all of which affect the chemical balance of certain parts of the brain. Several studies on the occurrence of bipolar disorder in families demonstrate a genetic disposition toward the illness. Other factors may include extremely traumatic life events, chronic illness, alcoholism, and drug abuse.

Bipolar disorder has varied symptoms: The most pronounced symptoms of bipolar disorder are dramatic mood swings consisting of extremely ?high? manic episodes to debilitating episodes of depression and then back again with relatively normal moods in between. Behaviors during a manic episode include heightened feelings of euphoria, extreme energy, decreased need for sleep, extreme irritability and distractibility, and increased aggression. Depressive episodes bring about excessive feelings of despair, hopelessness, worthlessness, guilt, and sometimes thoughts of suicide.

Bipolar disorder affects both sexes in children to adults: Manic depression is not selective in who it touches. Women and men are equally affected, as are children and adolescents (although a diagnosis in children and teens is more difficult to determine). A majority of those diagnosed with bipolar disorder have a least one family member with the illness. And children of parents with the illness are more likely to develop it themselves.

Bipolar disorder has effective treatment modalities: Bipolar disorder is treated with medications, called mood stabilizers, to assist in controlling fluctuation in moods. The important thing to understand about bipolar disorder is that it is a life-long, recurring illness requiring ongoing care. In addition to medication, psychotherapy is also prescribed in the management of the illness. Psychotherapy assists people to understand their illness and to develop coping skills to help deal with life events and stressors that may trigger manic and depressive episodes.

Bipolar disorder has no cure: As of today, there is no known cure for bipolar disorder; however, it is a treatable and manageable illness. With a close relationship with a mental health professional, a proper diagnosis, and vigilant adherence to taking medications and sticking to prescribed treatment plans, most individuals with bipolar illness lead very productive and rewarding lives.

These are just a few of the facts pertaining to bipolar disorder. It is not a simple illness, yet it is manageable and treatable. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, do not hesitate to seek information and help. Any one of the above-mentioned organizations can offer you education, guidance, and support. Obtaining knowledge is one of your first steps in alleviating the uncertainty and anxiety of dealing with such a diagnosis.

Dr. Susan Nickerson, DC PT is a trained disability advocate and health professional. In response to requests by those with bipolar illness who have become unable to continue working, Dr. Nickerson has developed the Bipolar's Guide to Winning Social Security Disability. To learn more about this valuable resource, head to http://www.winbipolardisabilitybenefits.com.

Your Computer Can Cause Chronic Fatigue

Did you know that spending long hours at your computer can put your health at serious risk? Most people does not even consider that possibility, but it does.

Working at a desk is extremely hard on your body, and I would like to share this with you so maybe you can avoid some of the most common health risks. One of the most common one is: Chronic Fatigue.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Tired and troubled? Experiencing severe fatigue that lasts for months and go back over and over?

Feeling tired is common, and depression is a condition that everyone goes through from time to time. However, the chronic fatigue syndrome is not similar to the simple emotional ups and downs that we experience sometimes.

Chronic fatigue syndrome is medically known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, post-viral fatigue syndrome. It targets the central nervous system. People who have this disorder usually complain of severe fatigue that is aggravated even by simple exertion.

The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is not yet known, but some researches show that this might be incurable. Some cases disappear over time and some people use medications to relieve them of this disorder.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is medically defined as a severe chronic fatigue thats lasts six months or over but other medical conditions should have been ruled out before a diagnosis of CFS can be made.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may be precipitated by an illness. It may be a cold, or a stomach upset, or may even begin after major stress.

The symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are headache, muscle pain, inability to concentrate, tenderness in the lymph nodes, and fatigue that will not go away or may recur over the next several months. Patients also suffer from headache, non refreshing sleep, sore throat, myalgia or muscle pain, and body malaise for over a day.

In the past, people call CFS ?yuppie flu? because it usually occurred on well-educated, well-off middle-ages women. Doctors also noticed that this disorder often occurred in people from mostly English speaking countries all over the world.

Women have a two to four times increased risk of getting the chronic fatigue syndrome than men.

The CDC or Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that over 500,000 people in the US have been diagnosed to have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Diagnosis of CHF is difficult because it has similar symptoms as the other illnesses.

The physician will first evaluate your condition and ask questions to rule out other diseases that may have the same symptom.

When everything has been eliminated, it is only then that the physician will come to a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

It is important that patients who are suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome learns how to manage their moods and know what to do whenever the disorder hits. Health providers suggest that people suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome should try to always try to get adequate rest.

Patients should also try to get a regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and trying to pace yourself whenever stress gets too much that you find it difficult to handle.

Patients will also benefit from medications to treat Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. The doctors usually prescribe a lower dose of anti-depressant because it might increase the level of fatigue of the patient or the frequency it occurs. But it also helps to reduce the pain of people with the disorder.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may be mistaken with other illnesses which have the same presentation. These are fibromyalgia syndrome, neurasthenia, and chronic mononucleosis.

Other conditions that may also result in fatigue include thyroid problems especially hypothyroidism, eating disorders, autoimmune diseases, hormonal disorders, infections, narcolepsy, alcohol dependence, substance abuse, drug reactions, psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorders.

It is important to consult with a physician to evaluate the symptoms the patient is having and to make sure that the patient does not have any other organic or systemic diseases that might cause excessive long-standing fatigue.

Some people also find it comforting to seek the help of other people like rehabilitation experts to fully understand the patient's condition. Some also talk to other patients who are undergoing the same condition.

There are other risks as you sit in front of that computer but it would be to much to write about in this article, so if you would like to learn more about other risks such as:

Eye strain
RSI (Repetitive Stress Syndrome)
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Constant Head Aches
Dizziness
Breathing Problems
Difficulty Concentrating

You can learn all about this in the book: ?The Painless PC?

Hege Crowton is establishing herself as an expert copywriter. She is known for doing in-depth research before writing her articles. Many of her articles are posted on http://www.ezinecrow.com and she also does a lot of writing for http://www.CrowSites.com

Copyright 2005 HealthCrow.com

How Is Depression Treated?

More than eleven million people in the United States suffer from depression each year. This medical condition that affects the mind can have lasting effects such as a feeling of hopelessness, lack of ambition and an inability to focus. Depression can affect all age groups and genders, but is more prevalent in women. Consulting a mental help professional such as a psychiatrist is beneficial to obtain proper diagnosis and treatment. This condition can adversely affect school, home life and employment.

Most treatments will involve a combination of drug therapy and natural remedies for a fully balanced physical and emotional state. Medications will likely involve some form of antidepressant drug. The most commonly used types are: tricyclic, Monoamine oxidase inhibitors or MAOI?s, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRI?s. SSRI?s have become the most popular form for treating depression because of the lower risk of side effects. These drugs include names such as Paxil, Prozac and Zoloft.

Therapy is often prescribed with drug treatments to help a person come to terms with issues, symptoms and techniques for dealing with depression. These can be group or individual therapy sessions to talk about issues. Expression therapy such as dance, art or music can help articulate deep feelings and emotions. Relaxation techniques will assist in bringing focus and serenity. Yoga and meditation are ideal forms of this.

Changing lifestyle to promote a better self image and naturally adjust chemicals in the body has also proven helpful. Eating a well balanced diet and adding supplements such as fish oil, Zinc and B vitamins help regulate depression. Exercising several times each week is also valuable. Alternate treatments such as acupuncture and hypnosis may be beneficial to help alleviate symptoms of depression and melds the body, mind and spirit.

It is important to discuss all treatment options with your physician or psychiatrist to decide on the proper combinations. Each person has different levels of depression and a treatment plan should be customized to the individual. If using supplements or radically changing your diet; make sure to inform the doctor so those can be taken into consideration when developing a treatment plan.

Depression does not need to negatively affect a person?s life. With proper treatment, many depressed people live full, happy, successful lives. It is important to take action to help minimize depressive tendencies in order to allow a better sense of well being and peace. Using a combination of drug therapies and natural remedies will bring a balance to mind, body and spirit.

About The Author
Gray Rollins is a featured writer for http://www.depressionso.com. To learn more about depression treatments, visit http://www.depressionso.com/naturalantidepressants/.

Antidepressant Suicides: Antidepressants Can Kill

Some five years back, FDA had warned doctors to be cautious while prescribing antidepressants to children. About two years later, Wyeth, a pharmaceutical company, offered a similar warning to the doctors. These drugs, as researches have found out, may tend children to think about suicides. The number of Antidepressant Suicides among children has been phenomenally high. FDA?s waning was issued mainly to curb the rates of Antidepressant Suicides among children and adolescents.

Antidepressant Pills

For people going though depression, doctors often prescribe some common pills. However, FDA has warned that these drugs may lead to Antidepressant Suicides. Some of the most commonly prescribed pills are Prozac fluoxetine, Zoloft sertraline, Paxil paroxetine, Luvox fluvoxamine, Celexa citalopram, Lexapro escitalopram, Wellbutrin bupropion, Effexor venlafaxine, Serzone nefazodone, Remeron mirtazapine. FDA has appealed to pharmaceutical companies manufacturing all these drugs to issue a renewed suicide warning labels, on all these pills.

Facts

According to the FDA reports, in 2002, doctors wrote about 10 million outpatient subscriptions to adult patients. They prescribed pills, which according to FDA studies, should have had renewed warning labels. Doctors also prescribed same pills for about 8.1 million children between the age group of 12-17 and about 2.7 million prescriptions for children under 11 years of age. Studies have proved that these pills may have more adverse effects on children than on adults. Some of these pills should not be prescribed to children below 18 years of age at all, as per the study of FDA, as they might lead to Antidepressant Suicides.

Warning and Appeal

The FDA was told by the parents that antidepressants were the cause of their children?s death. Although it is not clear whether these deaths were actually Antidepressant Suicides, the FDA still appealed the pharmaceutical companies to issue a renewed warning on the labels of these drugs. Some have welcomed the stand of FDA on antidepressant pills, while others maintain that well-informed doctors and parents are the highest care a child could get.

Research and Findings

While it is not confirmed whether suicides among the children should be labeled as Antidepressant Suicides, researches in the University of Columbia have confirmed that children, who are on antidepressant pills, get suicidal thoughts more often than the kids who are on sugar pills. However, no child who was a part of the research committed suicide. There is indeed a rising trend in what we all call Antidepressant Suicides. However, we can?t put antidepressants to blame. Parents should be more watchful and informed about their child?s hyperactiveness. This alone can prevent Antidepressant Suicides.

Been involved in writing informative articles on mental health and well-being. You can read more mental health artices to understand how to remain mentally healthy.

Depression Among College Students An Essay

Depression among college students, with a focus on Freshmen.

Who is at risk, and what can be done?

Graduation time rolls around, and you already know where you will end up next year for college. Your two best friends will be joining you there, where you will all live in the same apartment complex. You have already put your first payment, and deposit in preparation. Now you wait.

When the time comes around, you pack up and move thousands of miles just to go to college. You haven't heard from either of your friends yet, and you can feel the anticipation welling in your gut. You are so excited, you haven't heard from them all summer. Then you find out they never came. Both decided on going to a different college without you, or telling you. You keep telling yourself you will cope, and make new friends, but you still feel lonely and rejected. Once you are actually in college, things are harder than you expected. You don't have a car, so it is harder to get around buying food, finding a bank, and getting school supplies. Often times you find yourself taking naps, or just sleeping, because you can't focus, or feel overwhelmed. One of the many signs of depression.

Money is tight, and you don't have a job, because you can't find any job openings within walking distance, you are afraid to ride the bus, because it is such a big city, compared to the one you came from. You biggest fear is getting lost, and not being able to make it home.

You often times feel overwhelmed by homework and such. You can never do it quite good enough, and are often times to shy to ask for help, so you sit in silence, confused, and helpless, like a grain of sand on a beach. Not noticed and not much potential.

This is the story of a college freshman. Probably many. That guy who sits next to you in math class, struggling with theorems, or that girl in your chem. class, under pressure to learn her Periodic Table of Elements. Who ever it is, they are there.

Depression effects 76 out of a 100 college students. Mainly freshmen entering a new world so to speak. Often times you won't see it right away or not at all. This is an age group that's tricky, states a psychologist at Davidson College in North Carolina, DeWitt Crosby said, They are adults by law, but they're still dealing with making decisions on their own.

More attention is spent on alcohol consumption, and crimes among students, so that little energy or money is left for the awareness or the treatment of mental health. Often times the only funding is for counselors who will perform ? scattershot therapy. They don't actually treat what is wrong, but try to cover many possibilities of what could be wrong within a short period of time.

USA TODAY states in a recent study 14% of the 701 students who took a survey in the Boston area showed significant symptoms of depression, and over half of them could qualify as having major depression. If treatment of the depression was sought, at least 80% would get better.

The National Survey of Counseling Center Directors reported an 85% increase in severe psychological problems over the past five years. Also 30% reported at least one student suicide on their campus within the last (2001/2002) school year.

A hard part in treating depression is recognizing it. Some major symptoms of depression as told by www.campusblues.com are as follows.

1.Sadness, anxiety, or empty feelings
2?Decreased energy, fatigue, being slowed down
3.Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities
4.?Sleep Disturbances (insomnia, oversleeping, or waking much earlier than usual)
5?Appetite and weight changes (either loss or gain)
6?Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, and worthlessness
7?Thoughts off death or suicide, or suicide attempts
8?Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering
9?Irritability or excessive crying
10 ?Chronic aches and pains not explained by another physical condition

It's normal to have these feelings at one time or another, but five or more, for a two week or longer period is something to pay attention too. Also watch for changes in the way the person functions. The anxiety is normal in college, when you are studying for classes, or preparing to take a test, but when it rules your life, and they way you think and act is a time to seek help and gain control again.

You may visit http://www.TermPaperAdvisor.com and http://www.TermPapersMadeEasy.com for instant access to thousands of term papers. Several thousand free papers are also offered.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function. Different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. They can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. But there is good news: bipolar disorder can be treated, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives.

More than 2 million American adults, or about 1 percent of the population age 18 and older in any given year, have bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder typically develops in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, some people have their first symptoms during childhood, and some develop them late in life. It is often not recognized as an illness, and people may suffer for years before it is properly diagnosed and treated. Like diabetes or heart disease, bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that must be carefully managed throughout a person's life.

Manic-depression distorts moods and thoughts, incites dreadful behaviors, destroys the basis of rational thought, and too often erodes the desire and will to live. It is an illness that is biological in its origins, yet one that feels psychological in the experience of it; an illness that is unique in conferring advantage and pleasure, yet one that brings in its wake almost unendurable suffering and, not infrequently, suicide.

There are many symptoms of bipolar that one should be mindful to look at if they feel they may be suffering from a mental health illness.

To read the rest of this article please visit our website at HelpingDepression.com. Here you will also find helpful articles on mental health disorders that affect millions of people today.

Depression Can Be Treated

One of the most common psychological problems affecting nearly everyone either through personal experience or through a family member is depression. In America over 17 million adults experience a period of clinical depression each year. This illness interferes with everyday normal functioning and often causes problems with work, social and family life. The pain it causes isn't just suffered by the person with the disorder but also by their nearest and dearest. Not only can the life of the depressed person be destroyed so can the lives of those within the family.

Depression causes tremendous emotional pain and disrupts the lives of millions (directly and indirectly). It also has an impact on work productivity and absenteeism and has a negative impact on the economy, costing an estimated $44 billion each year.

Depression affects the social behavior and the sense of physical well being. It is a psychological condition that changes how a person thinks, feels and behaves. Everybody has felt sad at one time or another but that is not depression nor is the tiredness felt through working too hard or the feelings of discouragement felt when faced with serious problems. Once the stress has been adjusted to, these feelings usually pass within a few days or weeks. But these feelings could be depression if they linger, intensify and begin to interfere with work, school or family responsibilities.

Anyone can be affected by depression and once correctly identified, most people diagnosed with depression can be successfully treated. Unfortunately because many symptoms of depression mimic physical illness such as appetite and sleep disturbances depression is not always diagnosed.

For depression to be successfully treated it first has to be correctly diagnosed.

Almost two thirds of depressed people do not get proper treatment. There are many reasons for this one of which is the symptoms are just not recognized as signs of depression and therefore go un-noticed. Another reason is that because depressed people are often tired they are seen as weak or lazy. Social stigma is another reason that depression goes untreated. It is seen as a 'mental' health problem. And sometimes people are so disabled by the illness that they are unable to reach out for help. Sometimes symptoms are mis-diagnosed as physical problems and then other times the individual symptoms are treated rather than the under lying cause.

The fact that so many people either are mis-diagnosed or never seek medical help is really unfortunate as those that do get help and treatment almost 80% with depression make significant improvements in their mood and life adjustment.

There are several types of depression the most serious type being major depression. This is because of the number of symptoms and the severity of those symptoms.

Dysthymic disorder refers to a low level of depression that lasts for at least two years.

The depression caused in response to a major life stress or crisis is known as Adjustment Disorder with Depression.

Bipolar depression includes high and low mood swings and has a variety of other symptoms not present in other depressions.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Depression

Depression Hurts!

I suffered from the classic version of depression . I started with bouts of it when I was seventeen, but it wasn?t until my late thirties or early forties that it got so bad that I had to seek help. Over the years doctors prescribed Zoloft, Prozac, Paxil, Lexapro, and Wellbutrin.

I got a little relief, but the pills made me so tired all I could do was lay around and then I put on weight, which made me more depressed. So I decided to try a natural approach.

Here are the steps to recover from depression - these are the same steps that I have used:

1) I can?t stress this one enough. Drink WATER, WATER, WATER, and more WATER! Drink approximately half your weight in water in ounces each day. (ex: If you weigh 150 pounds you need to drink 75 ounces of water a day). Your water should be bottled or filtered water.

If you are a soda drinker, cut back, better yet, quit drinking that STUFF! If you are a soda drinker, start using soda as a special treat. When I was growing up in the mountains of West Virginia. We only made it to the grocery store a couple times a month, but when we did go we were allowed to get a bottle of coke. What a treat, and that?s the way it should be. It has no nutritional value and only makes you fat.

Do not and I repeat do not drink diet soda! I have done research on the artificial sweeteners that they use and have found information that artificial sweeteners can cause brain tumors. Soda is a tough one for me, because I love Cocoa Cola, so if I do drink a soda I drink regular. If you are a coffee drinker, drink your one cup in the morning to get you going then no more the rest of the day.

2) Use a natural anti-depressant. I have used prescription anti-depressants and as I said before, I did get a little relief from my symptoms but I gained thirty pounds on the prescription drugs, which made me more depressed because of the weight gain. I gained more weight than when I was pregnant. There are a lot of side effects to consider when you take prescription drugs. I do not want to have to worry about the side effects on top of my illness.

Make sure the ingredients are herbs for depression. I've tried a lot and some work, some don't. Unfortunately I have found there is no magic pill. It's pretty much trial and error, as everyone's body chemistry differs. I take them still and my husband says I'm a whole lot nicer to be around and I have a lot more energy. My spurts of anger and mood swings have all but vanished. Something that my husband is very happy to see gone! He'll even remind me to take them, less I forget!!

3) Use good Multi Vitamin Supplements. Don?t buy these at department stores,but instead buy them from a store that specializes in natural vitamin supplements or online from a reputable company. I buy mine from the company in the above link but there are a lot of good online companies. Just make sure they're natural and have been tested.

4) Other vitamins and supplements that you need are a good fish oil supplement that has your Omega Oils. You can also buy a Flax seed oil that has the omega?s in it.

5) Eat a good healthy diet. I will tell you here to start using as many natural and organic products as possible. All of the chemicals that they put in our food are making us sick. Try to buy meat that is organic or has not been injected with hormones and chemicals. We women are already having to deal with our own unbalanced hormones. We do not need the ones that they give to the cows and other animals in our system making things worse.

Try to get vegetables and fruits that are organic. If you can?t afford organic, buy a fruit and vegetable wash that removes the wax and chemicals from the produce. Try to eat the deep colored fruits and vegetables they have more of the good nutrients in them.

6) Exercise. This is a hard one. When you are depressed, the last thing you have is energy to exercise, but you need to exercise to get your energy back. A catch 22. Start out slowly, even if it is only a ten minute walk or ten minutes on your treadmill. Something is better than nothing.

7) If you are a woman and are near menopause, use a Natural Progesterone Cream. I am 44 and use one. There are a lot of god ones out there but make sure it's natural and not synthetic. I have noticed that my mood swings have subsided and no more hot flashes, but it does take about three months of using the cream to get results.

When you suffer from depression, it is a tremendous battle, but it is one worth fighting. My family had to put up with so much during my severe bouts of it. Depression hurts your relationships. I would get mean and say hurtful things, then cry all the time. I would spend weeks in bed at a time. On my good days I work, read, and do research about depression. I hope that my information will help you. It may take some time, but you will get a handle on it and if you treat it with natural products, a healthy diet, pure water, and exercise, you will be able to keep a handle on it.

Remember, if depression hurts you depression hurts everyone around you!

So please seek depression treatment and help

Diana is a Natural Health Consultant, Weight Loss Specialist, Personal Trainer, Mental Skills Training Specialist and author of the Natural Health and Herbal Remedies website. She has gone thru depression, pms, perimenopause, weight loss issues, anxiety attacks, and more but has learned how to control them through natural approaches.

The Invisible Disease: Depression

Introduction

Depression is a serious medical condition. In contrast to the normal emotional experiences of sadness, loss, or passing mood states, clinical depression is persistent and can interfere significantly with an individual's ability to function. There are three main types of depressive disorders: major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, and bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness).

Symptoms and Types of Depression

Symptoms of depression include sad mood, loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed, change in appetite or weight, difficulty sleeping or oversleeping, physical slowing or agitation, energy loss, feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt, difficulty thinking or concentrating, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. A diagnosis of major depressive disorder is made if a person has 5 or more of these symptoms and impairment in usual functioning nearly every day during the same two-week period. Major depression often begins between ages 15 to 30 but also can appear in children. 1 Episodes typically recur.

Some people have a chronic but less severe form of depression, called dysthymic disorder, which is diagnosed when depressed mood persists for at least 2 years (1 year in children) and is accompanied by at least 2 other symptoms of depression. Many people with dysthymia develop major depressive episodes.

Episodes of depression also occur in people with bipolar disorder. In this disorder, depression alternates with mania, which is characterized by abnormally and persistently elevated mood or irritability and symptoms including overly-inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, increased talkativeness, racing thoughts, distractibility, physical agitation, and excessive risk taking. Because bipolar disorder requires different treatment than major depressive disorder or dysthymia, obtaining an accurate diagnosis is extremely important.

Facts About Depression

Major depression is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. and worldwide. 2 Depressive disorders affect an estimated 9.5 percent of adult Americans ages 18 and over in a given year, 3 or about 18.8 million people in 1998. Nearly twice as many women (12 percent) as men (7 percent) are affected by a depressive disorder each year.

Depression can be devastating to family relationships, friendships, and the ability to work or go to school. Many people still believe that the emotional symptoms caused by depression are not real, and that a person should be able to shake off the symptoms. Because of these inaccurate beliefs, people with depression either may not recognize that they have a treatable disorder or may be discouraged from seeking or staying on treatment due to feelings of shame and stigma. Too often, untreated or inadequately treated depression is associated with suicide.

Treatments

Antidepressant medications are widely used, effective treatments for depression. Existing antidepressants influence the functioning of certain chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. The newer medications, such as the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tend to have fewer side effects than the older drugs, which include tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Although both generations of medications are effective in relieving depression, some people will respond to one type of drug, but not another. Other types of antidepressants are now in development.

Certain types of psychotherapy, specifically cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT), have been found helpful for depression. Research indicates that mild to moderate depression often can be treated successfully with either therapy alone; however, severe depression appears more likely to respond to a combination of psychotherapy and medication. 7 More than 80 percent of people with depressive disorders improve when they receive appropriate treatment.

In situations where medication, psychotherapy, and the combination of these interventions prove ineffective, or work too slowly to relieve severe symptoms such as psychosis (e.g., hallucinations, delusional thinking) or suicidality, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be considered. ECT is a highly effective treatment for severe depressive episodes.

The possibility of long-lasting memory problems, although a concern in the past, has been significantly reduced with modern ECT techniques. However, the potential benefits and risks of ECT, and of available alternative interventions, should be carefully reviewed and discussed with individuals considering this treatment and, where appropriate, with family or friends.

One herbal supplement, hypericum or St. John's wort, has been promoted as having antidepressant properties. Results from the first large-scale, controlled study of St. John's wort for major depression, which was funded in part by NIMH, are expected in 2001. Note: There is evidence that St. John's wort can reduce the effectiveness of certain medications. Use of any herbal or natural supplements should always be discussed with your doctor before they are tried.

Research Findings

Brain imaging research is revealing that in depression, neural circuits responsible for moods, thinking, sleep, appetite, and behavior fail to function properly, and that the regulation of critical neurotransmitters is impaired. Genetics research, including studies of twins, indicates that genes play a role in depression. Vulnerability to depression appears to result from the influence of multiple genes acting together with environmental factors.

Other research has shown that stressful life events, particularly in the form of loss such as the death of a close family member, may trigger major depression in susceptible individuals. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the hormonal system that regulates the body's response to stress, is overactive in many people with depression. Research findings suggest that persistent overactivation of this system may lay the groundwork for depression.

Studies of brain chemistry, mechanisms of action of antidepressant medications, and the cognitive distortions and disturbed interpersonal relationships commonly associated with depression, continue to inform the development of new and better treatments.

New Clinical Trials

NIMH is funding two new, large-scale, multi-site clinical trials on treatments for major depression in adults and adolescents. For more information about these studies?the Sequenced Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression (STAR*D) project, and the Treatment of Adolescents with Depression Study (TADS)?and others, visit the Clinical Trials page of the NIMH Web site.

For More Information

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Office of Communications and Public Liaison

Public Inquiries: (301) 443-4513

Media Inquiries: (301) 443-4536

E-mail: nimhinfo@nih.gov

Web site: http://www.nimh.nih.gov

About The Author
Arthur Buchanan
President/CEO
Out of Darkness & Into the Light

43 Oakwood Ave. Suite 1012
Huron Ohio, 44839
www.out-of-darkness.com
www.adhdandme.com
www.biologicalhappiness.com
567-219-0994 (cell)

Don't Lose Sleep Over Insomnia You're Not the Only One and there is a Better Way!

Do you know an estimated 30-50% of the general population is suffering from insomnia? Although insomnia is noticed in all age groups, older adults especially women are more prone for this condition.

Insomnia is not a disease, but it is a symptom. Difficulty in maintaining or initiating sleep or both is termed as insomnia. Most of us have experienced insomnia at least one time or another in our lifetime. Many of us don?t know about the medical and behavioral options available to treat insomnia.

Causes of Insomnia

Causes of Insomnia include psychological problems and physiological conditions. The common psychological problems for insomnia are depression, stress, and anxiety, whereas physiological reasons vary from sleep-wake imbalance, circadian rhythm disorders, to a variety of medical situations.

A pineal gland secretion called melatonin found to be reduced, as you get older. The main function of the melatonin is to help your body regulate your sleep-wake cycles. Low melatonin level also may also lead to insomnia.

Symptoms of insomnia

People suffering from insomnia usually complain of difficulty falling asleep. Mental illness and depression are noticed in the individuals of insomnia. Other symptoms include irritability and impaired social interaction, impaired motor coordination, difficulty in memory, and poor focus and concentration.

Most of us don?t know when to contact our physician for this condition. It is high time to get into your doctor?s clinic if it interferes with your daytime activities such as impaired motor concentration or lasts longer than four weeks.

As we discussed earlier, Insomnia may be a symptom of another psychological or medical problem that requires immediate attention.

Diagnosis of Insomnia

Diagnosis is mainly based on your medical history. The physician will subject you to undergo different tests to rule out physiological illness.

The common tests used to diagnosis insomnia are overnight sleep test (Polysomnogram), a 2-week dairy of your sleep-wake periods, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and Actigraphy.

Treatment of insomnia

If you?re suffering from insomnia of medical illness, your treatment will be focused on your underlying condition.

Alternative therapy for insomnia includes limiting time in bed to regular sleep hours, controlling stimulation (evening exercise or caffeine ingestion), and using relaxation therapy.

For the treatment of insomnia medications directed toward a specific sleep-disrupting reason may also be taken into account. Even you can seek the medical advice for short-term use (2-3 weeks) of sleeping pills for chronic insomnia.

Although sedative-hypnotic drugs find no cure for insomnia, it relieves the symptoms of insomnia for short duration. There are certain drugs used for individuals who wake up after initially falling asleep.

Following your doctor?s advice might help you to relieve from the symptom of insomnia as early as possible. Don?t lose your hope if you have not achieved desired results from a single medication because you will have more than one option for treating this condition. You may be required to provide your doctor feedback after you have followed a treatment regimen.

Prevention

You can prevent the occurrence of insomnia by limiting the naps less than 15 minutes during day time, adopting relaxing activity such as reading or listening to soothing music, and avoiding large meals.

Reducing the use of stimulants including nicotine and caffeine, avoiding strenuous exercise before bedtime and excessive fluid intake.

Prognosis

Prognosis from insomnia solely depends on the type of insomnia you are suffering from. Your prognosis is grave if you are suffering from coexisting medical conditions of chronic pain syndromes and heart failure. Insomnia of jet lag will generally clear up within few days on its own.

Charlotte Alice is a professional author for Free SEO Friendly Directory and webmaster for Xsitepro Sites

To Long Term Care Professionals: How to Dramatically Improve your Residents' Psychiatric Care

Long term care facilities and residents? doctors should consider combining medication treatment with psychological and behavioral approaches, such as strength-embedded psychotherapy, for a range of psychological disorders.

Currently, psychiatrists and primary care providers in long term care are prescribing drugs and more drugs as the only treatment for psychological disorders. But the addition of Strength-Embedded Psychotherapy (SEP) is a targeted way to change behavior in the direction of strengths and improve results for residents.

If a resident develops a frozen shoulder or blows out a knee, the orthopedist would refer him/her to physical therapy, prescribe an NSAID, and, if needed, consider surgery. In mental health, we owe our patients nothing less than the same multimodal approach. Adding psychotherapy to a drug regimen, in this sense, is the mental health equivalent of taking of a multi-modal approach to treatment.

In long term care and elsewhere physicians are comfortable writing prescriptions because they believe drugs will affect the functioning of the brain, thereby, improving symptoms. But so does psychotherapy. In fact, preliminary evidence suggests that some types of psychotherapy work, in part, by changing the physiological dynamics of the disorder. In so doing, psychotherapy, when combined with medication therapy, offers residents the best chance of returning to more normal functioning.

For example, in long term care, a psychiatrist might choose to use a combination drug/psychotherapy approach for a resident with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). S/he might start the resident on a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, while, simultaneously referring the resident to the house psychologist for strength-embedded psychotherapy. If the patient responds early and well to the psychotherapy, the physician may not have to increase the medication, thereby limiting the side effect possibilities. But if the patient does not respond quickly to the psychotherapy or has multiple co-morbid conditions not targeted by it, the physician could then consider increasing the dosage of the drug. This type of combination is a treatment protocol that is comparable to the default model used in the rest of medicine. The problem is that psychiatric professionals in long term care and elsewhere simply neglect it.

One factor is the structure of our mental health system. Insurers don't often offer payment for integrated care that includes combined-treatment approaches and alliances with other providers that are evidence-based. Also, our society tends to be pill-happy. The pharmaceutical industry contributes to that by aggressively promoting its products through direct-to-consumer advertising that creates the impression that their products will bring quick results. Unfortunately, there is no pharmaceutical industry equivalent that promotes psychological and behavioral approaches. And the healthcare industry has yet to embrace disease management models in the treatment of psychiatric disorders that include evidence-based psychosocial treatments.

As a result, residents are mainly prescribed only drugs or several drugs in combination to treat psychiatric disturbances. Such interventions are helpful, but they could be more effective and less risky if psychotherapy were part of the central treatment mix. Psychiatric treatment in long term care and elsewhere is comparable to treating diabetes without addressing diet and exercise or treating an injured joint without prescribing physical therapy.

Similar to the treatment of other chronic illnesses, combining psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy would usually require collaborative treatment between psychologist and psychiatrist or attending physician. Combined treatment is beginning to show better and better results in research studies. In several areas combined therapy is found to produce better results than either treatment alone.

As more results like these continue to emerge, it will become hard for professionals in long term care to ignore. However, there is enough data now to warrant moving this enlightened approach forward. We need to demand that the better treatments be made available to our residents in long term care. As long term care professionals continue to hear about the promising results generated by psychotherapy, they will start demanding that this type of treatment be made widely available to their residents. This will likely require further utilization of the house psychologist to implement and design the psychological treatment plan.

It's time that we as health care and long term care professionals figure out ways to offer strength-embedded psychotherapy to residents who could benefit from this type of targeted behavioral approach.

Dr. Michael Shery is the founder of Long Term Care Specialists in Psychology, a mental health firm specializing in consulting to the long term care industry. Its website, WWW.NursingHomes.MD , provides state-of-the-art mental health treatment, facility staffing and career information to long term care professionals. To get a copy of the special report, ?How to Reduce Residents? Depression with Strength-Embedded Counseling,? click drmike@nursinghomes.md. Put ?Special Report? in the subject field.

Reprint Instructions Box: You may reprint this article only in its entirety and as long as you leave all links in place, don?t modify the content and include the resource box as listed.

Get Rid Of Depression Once And For All

Depression is something that will occur in many people's lives, for various reasons. But the normal occurrence of a plunge in mood due to stressful events in your life, usually doesn't last very long, before a person's natural resilience responds to the environment of friends and family.

Treatment for depression and anxiety may be needed if you experience persistent, multiple symptoms for more than two weeks. These may include a combination of half or more of the following:

* Sleeplessness, insomnia

* Ongoing negative moods for no reason

* Lack of energy or ambition

* Feeling helpless or worthless

* Believing nobody cares

* Hyper states like edginess or nervousness

* Inability to make decisions or concentrate on things

* Physical aches and pains that don't go away

* Suicidal thoughts

Depending on the condition of a depressed person, they may require admission to a depression treatment center, where they can be monitored while receiving psychological counseling and medication therapy.

Depression is an emotional disorder, and nothing to be ashamed of. But often, people who are depressed are suffering from negative thoughts about themselves, and the illness can feed on that.

If you recognize five or more of the above symptoms in someone you love, talk to them about how they feel. If they won't talk to you, go to their family, friends, or even their doctor.

Treatment may be as simple as counseling and medication that can be undertaken while in their own environment, or the doctor may recommend a short stay in a depression treatment facility to get them back on an even keel.

The medications available have redefined the treatment for depression and anxiety, giving patients a break from the emotional state that is weighing them down, while they receive therapy to resolve the issues that caused their illness.

Find out what causes depression and how to deal with it. Sign up for free blog and get daily updated articles and news about depression treatment. Click http://www.depression-treatment-101.com/