Depression is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. It can be triggered by various factors including events in our lives. We are especially vulnerable when we are tired, overeating, drinking too much alcohol and not getting enough exercise. Spending too much time, money and effort to make the celebration “perfect” can also cause problems, if our expectations of “perfection” are not met. Memory is not necessarily an ally at this season. We may recall past Holidays which we enjoyed more for various reasons, or we may be worrying in anticipation of the bills to come in January. Depression is not caused by weakness, laziness or lack of willpower.
There are a number of factors that can increase apparition of depression:
Some medications (drugs for high blood pressure)
Death or a loss
Genetics
Serious illness
Conflicts
Substance abuse
Other personal problems
If you have no pleasure in what you are doing, feel tired, worthless or guilty or are restless, unable to concentrate or make decisions and not able to sleep, you may be experiencing symptoms of depression. Get help from your physician as soon as possible, for left untreated, depression will become worse. Your physician can prescribe medications which will help.
You can also help your treatment by doing the following:
Set a realistic schedule, and be sure you get enough rest
Avoid drinking too much alcohol; it will make you feel worse and will probably react badly with an antidepressant
Avoid overeating
Exercise; it will make you feel better
Don’t blame yourself for the way you feel
Try to relax but keep your mind in shape
