Anyone with ideas and strategies for depression?

Well you won't believe it but I go out to the horse paddock & pick up shit!!!!! My horse usually comes for a sticky beak in case I have treats so we have a chat, a cry, a cuddle, whatever. Feel much better after that cos I vent & get to work things out logically as I don't have anyone to confuse the issue further by commenting animals are the best therapy

I find i sink in deeper  aftter thinking about the bad experiences inmy life. consequestly itry to spend a few mnutes each moring remembering  good times whe I was laughing.  On the othe hand i find that if i  think about the most awful dsays inmy life, i can say, well, "thhis sure won't be  the worst day of my life. i try to set short ad long term  goals to do things that willmake me happy. With a bit of medication ad a psychologist iit's a mix that works for me anyway.

Above are some excellent examples of pulling oneself out of low mood by engaging in activities that provide either a sense of pleasure or achievement. These two types of activities are the first step fo changing behaviours that can maintain depression. Plus, these activities have the added benefit of distracting us from our thoughts. 

Alysha Casey
Psychologist
www.instituteforhealthyliving.com.au

I find that going for a brisk walk, just noticing without judging the colours and shapes of what I can see (mindfulness) helps.

My clinical psychologist has told me that physical exercise aids in endorphin release (though I don't know how good the data are) but walking helps to maintain my physical fitness.

It is quite easy to learn the Ukulele, try it! Also, I read with the cat on my lap. But sometimes even reading a good book is beyond me and I can only watch TV or a DVD. When I find it too hard/impossible to drag myself out of that awful black hole I have to just ride it out (also not easy). Good luck everyone, we are all battling hard. Kerry.

Hi all,

Can i suggest you have a look at what you are or not eating.  There is research indicating not enough B group vitamins, sluggish bowel, and dehydration can certainly contribute to a change in mood.  For some, me included, there are certainly some foods and drinks that can quickly change a mood for the downer.  Make a diary of foods and drinks you consume, activities you do and people you hang out with and see if there are patterns.  Mind that chemicals in foods can be misleading and hidden and so it is an area to explore with a trained dietitian/nutritionist who can put you on the right track. 

Exercise is important.  Between the fresh air, blood moving with more oxygen to the brain and happy hormones such as oxytosin floating through your body we tend to develop a different perspective of our situation.  Exercising with a friend or buddy is even better as we bond and start to feel better just having a happier person around us.   

These are just a few tips and if you need more specific guidence be sure to contact a professionally trained councelor or more.  

To your health