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Remedies for Depression
Ever since Lamictal rose to a therapeutic level in my bloodstream, I have almost forgotten what it means to be depressed. One can’t get so enthusiastic about cornering a mania when the alternative seems to be falling into otter hell*. Where you want to stay in mania (unless it dawns on you how stupid you’re being), you want to get out of a depression as soon as you can.
So here’s the other list I promised:
What to Do When You Are Getting DepressedThese are simple ways to help yourself alleviate symptoms while you are waiting for other help, or to try and keep things on an even keel. They may not solve the underlying problem, but they will provide some relief. Post them where you can refer to them when needed. Get help while you stillcan — the longer you wait, the harder it gets. Depression is very dangerous. Medications may take from 4-6 weeks to work. Use cognitive therapy techniques to get you out of negative thought patterns. Remember — depression passes. Focus on living one day at a time. Get emotional support from a family member, friend, or mental health professional. Get involved in a fun activity with someone you enjoy. Cuddle with your mate. Spend some time with your pet. Talk to understanding, non-judgemental people for as long as you need to talk. It needs to be okay to talk about anything and to be emotional. Listen to or help someone else. Use whatever spiritual resources you are comfortable calling on. Get some exercise — whatever you can muster — stroll, walk, run, bike, swim, etc. Get out in the sunlight as much as possible. If you must be inside, sit or work near a window. Use full spectrum lighting indoors. Avoid areas lit with conventional fluorescent lighting. Eliminate sugar, caffeine, and junk food from your diet. Eat three healthy meals a day. Buy yourself something you have been wanting and would enjoy. Read a funny book or light book or watch a funny video. Listen to music that you enjoy. Get dressed, wearing something you enjoy. Take a long, slow, hot bath. This list can be modified to meet your personal need. |
*Yes, I meant OTTER. Think about how otters are. Think about their opposite. Being forced to that would be hell. (Thought: otter hell is the life of a three-toed sloth, then sloth hell must be the life of an otter?)
Posted: February 9th, 2006 under Depression.
Comments: 4 |
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Comment from Maggs
Time: 2/10/2006, 7:06 pm
Good list. I will post it. We all know the signs but sometimes reading on paper is different…
I LOVE otters.
Comment from Ophelia
Time: 2/11/2006, 12:12 am
Thanks Joel! I wrote something about one advice yesterday. Hope your comment!
Comment from BiPOlar Guy
Time: 2/11/2006, 4:31 am
Nother thing that’s worked for me: Avoid alcohol. Hangovers trigger depression.
Time: 2/10/2006, 2:05 am
The lists make so much sense, they’re useful too because it’s sometimes so difficult to remember what makes me feel good and how to enjoy little things. I’m a wallower – once I feel myself sliding down I almost cling to it, that’s the biggest thing I need to combat.