How Depression Works
Depression is a mood disorder that changes the way you think, feel, and perceive the world. Also, known as, clinical depression or major depressive disorder, it can lead to persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest along with other emotional and physical symptoms.
More than just a spell of the blues, patients may have trouble with performing normal day to day activities or have negative thoughts of hopelessness, helplessness, and/or despair.
Depression Is Not Phase
It can have enormous depth and staying power and it is certainly not something you can simply “snap out” of and feel gratitude or confidence around. Depression requires long-term treatment and lifestyle changes. But, don’t get discouraged!
Here are five effective ways to manage your depression.
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First, and most important, medication management.
Antidepressant medications are not a cure for depression, however, medication management helps stabilize the imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Neurotransmitters are the chemicals. Antidepressant medications target specific neurotransmitter to relieve the symptoms of depression.
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Second, Therapeutic management!
Therapeutic management involves behavioral therapy in a group or one on one session. Also, behavioral therapy focuses on building coping skills to manage negative thoughts and regain a healthy lifestyle. Behavioral therapy is used as a complimenting treatment to medication management. These two treatment modalities go together like macaroni and cheese or peanut butter and jelly. Together they become a winning combo!
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Third, Healthy diet!
Interestingly enough our gut and brain share a close relationship with one another by connection of the vagus nerve. Therefore, research has shown that an healthy diet, leads to a Happy Gut, which improves sleep, cognition, and mood.
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Fourth, Exercise!
Routine exercise releases endorphins in the brain that can enhance your well being. It can also serve as a positive coping skill to get away from the negative cycle of thoughts that feed depression.
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Lastly, Healthy Sleep Hygiene!
The ability to achieve 6 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep per day is considered Good Sleep Hygiene. Sleep is an important function in our daily lives to allow are body and brain the ability to REST and RESET! The fight of depression can feel like a lonely and arduous experience, however, D’Amore Healthcare is here to help you take your first steps to a healthy mind, body, and spirit!
Dr. Chinyelu Chukwurah, DNP, RN, FNP-BC
D’Amore Healthcare is a dual diagnosis, substance abuse addiction treatment center in Orange County, CA. We provide information and treatment for people dealing with the life-shattering cycle of substance abuse and addiction. If someone needs immediate help, call 24-hours a day at 714.375.1110 or contact us online.
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