Depression and Relationships - 5 Signs Your Depression May Be Caused by Your Relationship

Depression is a common malady that afflicts many people at some point or another in their lives. There may be a multitude of factors to cause the symptoms - unresolved past grief, current life challenges, and/or brain chemistry issues. However, there is one factor that is often missed when determining the origins of depression. Emotionally and psychologically abusive relationships can do a tremendous amount of damage to our feelings of self worth and cause feelings of depression and hopelessness. Often, due to the nature of this type of abuse, the victim blames him or herself for the problem, assuming that their abuser is correct and they are inferior, incompetent, or even crazy. Emotional abuse can be difficult to detect especially in its more subtle forms. Here are 5 signs your depression may be caused by an emotionally and psychologically abusive relationship:

1. Your partner puts you down, in public or private. These insults may be as blatant as outright name calling, or they may be more subtle criticisms of the way you do simple things. In any case, the end result is a feeling of inferiority and worthlessness in comparison to your partner.

2. Your partner attempts to control your activities. You may feel obligated to report your activities to your partner, justify your actions, and endure criticism of the way you managed your day. You may even feel pressured to conform to an "acceptable" list of activities your partner approves of.

3. Your partner attempts to limit access to anything that might foster independence, such as work, educational opportunities, and friends and family. Isolation is a very effective tactic for the abuser. Keeping you dependent keeps the abuser in control. In keeping you from friends and family, not only are you under the abuser's thumb, you are also being kept from hearing the more positive, accurate messages about yourself from your loved ones. It may also reduce the opportunity your loved ones might take to criticize your abuser. Your abuser may expressly forbid you to see someone, or be more subtle by appealing to your guilt. "You would choose to see them over me?"

4. Your partner uses sex as a form of control and manipulation. This could take the form of demanding sex from you regardless of your mental state, needs or desires, or it may manifest as a deliberate withholding of sex and intimacy in order to keep you feeling rejected, dependent, and at the mercy of the abuser's agenda.

5. Your partner may imply that you will be punished non-physically for not complying with his or her demands. This tactic may also be punctuated with occasional acts of kindness and generosity designed to throw you off and plant false hope in the future of the relationship and its potential for improvement.

Sign of Severe Depression - Recognize Them Easily

If you think you may be suffering from depression then read on to find out more about the common sign of severe depression and how to get help and deal with depression.

Part 1) Sign of severe depression facts: Depression is now extremely common and more than 20 million Americans currently suffer from it. It's a condition that can affect absolutely anyone rich, poor, young or old. More women suffer from depression than men and it has recently been documented that women are almost twice as likely to show the signs of severe depression than men. Depression is often thought to be a sign weakness and sufferers (especially men) are sometimes too embarrassed to even admit that they have the condition.

Part 2) Spotting the sign of severe depression: The best way to find out if you are depressed is to look at the common symptoms. If you have been suffering from the following sign of severe depression for more than two weeks you should seek advice from a medical professional.

Refusing help from others

Feeling like you don't ever want get out of bed

Not wanting to leave the house

Lack of energy and constant tiredness

No longer making an effort in your appearance

Feeling constantly down and pessimistic

Thoughts of suicide and death

Part 3) The most common causes of the signs of severe depression: Stress at work or at home can often lead to depression and this is one of the most common of all courses. Stress can also lead to anxiety and may in some severe cases affect your physical health. Traumatic events can also cause depression, especially those which occur in childhood. It's quite common for events in childhood to lead to depression during adulthood. Depression can also be passed on genetically. If you think you may be suffering from the condition, find out if it runs in your family.

Part 4) 'What should I do if I'm showing the sign of severe depression': The first and most important thing you need to do is speak to a medical professional. He/she will be able to fully diagnose your condition and offer help and guidance. Next tell your close friends and family. Coping with depression alone will only make it harder to deal with and overcome. There are many things you can also do yourself that will start to make you feel better keep active, take regular exercise, reduce your levels of stress and avoid alcohol and drugs.

Remember... we all have problems from time to time, so don't feel ashamed about being depression. The quicker you seek help the quicker you will start to feel better. Check out the links below for even more information on the sign of severe depression.

The Beck Depression Scale - What You Need to Know

The Beck depression scale is a common diagnostic tool for mental health professionals. They use the scale or inventory to help diagnose individuals and it can be used in a wide variety of settings. For individuals who question whether they are depressed or not, the Beck Depression Inventory can help them learn more.

The scale can be used with anyone as long as they have at least fifth or sixth grade reading level skills. Generally, those who are 13 or older will be able to take the inventory. The scale has been updated several time since its inception in the 1960s.

The BDI, as the scale is also known, features a 21 item self report scale. The questions measure different manifestations of depression, including aspects like social isolation, sadness, pessimism, guilt, and self accusation among other symptoms. The test takes about ten minutes to complete for most people and can give an indication about the presence and severity of a person's illness.

The scores on the inventory can tell a mental health professional about an individual's state of mind and whether the individual is suffering from depression. It's important to remember that the test isn't fool proof and that an individual could manipulate the scores if they didn't answer the questions honestly.

The overall reliability of the scale is a factor to keep in mind: taking the inventory at a different time can produce different results if the symptoms have increased in severity or gotten better since the first test. Experts also caution that the environment that the individual takes the test in can also influence results. Social expectations may influence certain answers if others are present.

The Beck Inventory does not produce a diagnosis, but it can be a tool in understanding whether the illness is present and how severe it is. Individuals should talk to their mental health professionals about the results and what those results might mean for diagnosis and treatment options.

If you are interested in learning more about the Beck Depression Scale, talk to a mental health professional about the inventory and what you can expect when you answer the questions. You should also talk to the professional about any symptoms that you may be having and what treatments may be available to help you.

The Self - Confidence Quiz

How self-confidant are you? Most of us think we are pretty self-confidant, yet we often wonder why we aren't getting more out of life. What stops us from taking risks? What keeps us stuck in dead end jobs, or unhappy relationships. Could we possibly be less confidant than we think? Why not take this quiz and find out?

Ask yourselves these questions, and answer with a yes or a no. Then add them up.

1. Do you feel uncomfortable being around other people?

2. Do you something worry that others are criticizing or judging you.

3. Do you find it very intimating to speak up and assert yourself?

4. Do you get very nervous or fearful whenever it is time for your work evaluation?

5. Do you panic when you have to speak in public?

6. Do you find it stressful to use a public bathroom?

7. Do you worry when you think about inviting a friend over for a social outing?

8. Do you find yourself avoiding social situations because of your discomfort being with other people?

9. Do you feel alone, even when surrounded by friends?

10. Do you suffer with sweaty palms, trembling, chest pains, dizziness, lightheadedness, fear of dying, fear of going crazy, fear of losing control, irritability, headaches, frustration, inability to concentrate, difficulty falling asleep?

11. Do you often worry about the "what ifs" of every situation?

12. Do you wonder if you will ever be able to stop worrying?

13. Do people tell you that you should "chill out" and that you worry too much?

14. Do you feel that if you don't do something perfectly, than others will judge you?

15. Do you find yourselves going over things over and over again?

16. Do you focus on the thought that you may have inadvertently hurt someone or yourself, or done something very wrong?

17. Do you worry about having every sort of disease you see on TV or read in a book or hear over the news?

18. Do you find it hard to make decisions and keep on second-guessing yourself?

19. Do you think that others opinions are better or more valuable than your own?

20. Do you find that even when things go well, you can't really let yourself fully enjoy it and start looking for all the possible negatives in the situation?

If you scored "yes" to 6 or more of these questions, you probably have some issues with anxiety and a lack of confidence. The good news is that anxiety is a habit of thinking and all habits can be changed. The question is how motivated are you to do the work?

Did you enjoy this quiz? Did your answers surprise you? Let me know what you think.

Agitated Depression - The 6 Unique Symptoms

Most people have never heard of agitated depression but it does exist. It reveals itself in a way that is indicative of its name - moods of irritability, short temper and aggravation. Often times the condition presents itself as an anger management issue as the individual will have outbursts of anger and rage.

Often times, the underlying feeling that they have is that they are misunderstood and that no one knows how they are feeling. This type of depression is a hypo-manic depression meaning they exhibit hypo-manic behavior.

Even in cases of other depressions, such as major depressive disorder, there can be levels of irritability, aggravation and agitation. However, when it comes to agitated depression, these moods are enhanced and more pronounced. Moods of irritability and agitation are just a few of the classic symptoms of agitated depression. There are many other symptoms as well and understanding them will make it easier to understand and diagnose. It's important to note that these symptoms also present themselves in cases of manic depressive disorder so sometimes diagnosing can be a bit tricky.

The assumed anger management issues also pose a problem, as professionals may wrongfully diagnose a manic depressive disorder or agitated depression and prescribe antidepressants unnecessarily. This can result in amplifying things whereby the agitation and symptoms of depression actually worsen. This also increases the thoughts and risk of suicide.

When someone has agitated depression it can be quite serious and the characteristics and symptoms can be mild in nature or become quite severe. The severity of the depression and angry outbursts really depend on the individual themselves. This type of depression is more prevalent in middle age to elderly people however it has been diagnosed in younger individuals as well.

There are a variety of symptoms that you should look out for if you suspect someone is suffering with this form of depression. Often times the person will be "antsy" and have a difficult time sitting still or staying in one place for too long. They also have serious, spontaneous mood swings where they will be calm, cool and collected on minute then have an emotional or physical outburst the next. Violent verbal outbursts are also a possibility.

Below you'll see a list of other symptoms that may present themselves as well.

• Tearing or pulling at the clothing



• Intense feelings and thoughts



• Endless thoughts and movement which are essentially without base



• Talking nearly continuously



• Wringing of the hands



• Violent verbal outbursts.

If you, or someone you know, are/is experiencing some or all of these symptoms then you should consider contacting a professional for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. As with many other types of depression, agitated depression can be successfully treated. The treatment plan may include antidepressants, psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or in severe cases admission to a depression treatment facility. Bottom line is that there is hope for anyone suffering with depression. The key is to acknowledge that there may be a problem, seek out support from a professional and embark on a successful treatment plan.

Bipolar Symptoms - Quickly Spot The Symptoms

Bipolar Symptoms are sometimes very difficult to recognise and are often over looked by doctors. If you think you may suffering from bipolar disorder then read on to find out more about common Bipolar Symptoms and what to do if you recognise those symptoms in yourself.

• Types of Bipolar disorder and Bipolar Symptoms: Bipolar disorder is also know as manic depression because is of the manic and depressed states the suffers experience. Three types of bipolar disorder...
  
  
  
  Type 1: This is the most severe form of the disorder, sufferers will experience extreme and extended manic and depressive episodes.
  
  Type 2: Milder and less frequent episodes of mania and depression (women are more likely to suffer from type 2 bipolar as it can sometimes be linked to menstrual cycles and hormonal changes).
  
  Rapid cycling: This can be identified by four or more mood episodes within a 12 month period. Suffers may even experience numerous moods changes in one day.
  


• Common Bipolar Symptoms: You may be suffering from the disorder if you have experienced three of more of the following manic bipolar symptoms for more than two weeks...
  
  
  
  On a high: acting recklessly, spending sprees, getting into arguments, talking quickly, lots of thoughts and ideas, too much to process.
  
  On a low: feelings of helplessness and guilt, inability to concentrate, memory problems, lack of general enthusiasm, a negative/pessimistic outlook, suicidal thoughts or tendencies.
  


• Getting help: If you recognise any of the common Bipolar Symptoms in yourself or someone you know you will need to seek professional help. Once you are diagnosed your doctor will be able to recommend a suitable treatment. Suffers will often be prescribed anti psychotic medication during the periods of mania, and lithium during the depressed period. In some severe cases where medication has not been effective (ECT) Electro Convulsive Therapy may be suggested. Therapy can also produced some excellent results and has helped many suffers deal with and get over bipolar. This disorder can sometimes lead to suicidal tendencies, so it is essential that suffers seek professional help and guidance if they display any number of bipolar symptoms.

Never try to deal with bipolar disorder on your own. If you have experienced any of the common bipolar symptoms get some medical advice asap. If you would like even more information on bipolar and bipolar symptoms click on the links below.

Using a TENS Machine to Fight the Negative Feelings of Depression

First of all, I'm not a doctor or therapist. I just have spent most of my life learning from them, to undo the effects of major depression that I've had from childhood. If you suffer from depression, first talk to your medical professional to see what approach is best for you. That is what I've done, but I add to what I've learned by trying a few other things on my own. Don't do anything to yourself that is potentially self-injurious, it pays to research any new technique or approach thoroughly, just to be safe. Whatever works for me may not work for you, we all have our own ways of responding to different treatments. I just know that not all my recovery has come from what was learned at the doctor's office. Being exceptionally strong-willed, my mission has mainly been to boost self-esteem, and fight those inner feelings of sadness that never go away (effects of depression.) Here are some ways that have helped me live a productive and successful life, despite mental challenges.

Six months ago, it was necessary for me to go for physical therapy for a slipped disk in my back. The therapist hooked me up to a small machine called a TENS unit, for one of my treatments. They put small, non-invasive sticky circles (electrodes) on the part of my body needing therapy and then turned the machine on. It felt really good, sort of like a massage. Depending upon how the therapist adjusted the dials, the machine would make knocking or pinging sensations on my back. There are also knobs to adjust the intensity of each sensation. After researching the TENS unit on the internet, I ordered a small one, about the size of a deck of playing cards.

According to what I read about them, TENS machines are not only good for distracting your body into feeling good sensations rather than pain, but they can make your body produce endorphins, or feel-good chemicals, too. This intrigued me, since having depression, I'll take all the feel-good anything I can get (as long as it is both moral and legal.) So, I set up to test this on myself and see if there was any merit to the theory. After years of taking various anti-depressants, some work more than others but none completely take away depression, in my experience. Not being a scientist or doctor, I read up on everything about the TENS machine. There are rules that come along with the machine, like not putting the electrodes on the head, neck or the heart areas. Make sure to follow all of them thoroughly. People with pacemakers should not use TENS units, because it can interfere with the way they work. As with medicines, ask your doctor before using one.

By placing the electrodes along my spine, and setting the TENS settings to the recommended low frequency (pulse) levels. You want low muscle contraction, and to use the TENS for approximately 20 to 40 minutes. If you set it for higher muscle contractions, your muscles may ache later, so I rely on what the experts say, to use it at low settings. For more detailed information, I found these sites helpful:

http://www.bootsmaternityrentalproducts.co.uk/abouttens.php
http://www.medcareservice.com/Pain-Control-Mechanism-Article.cfm

Using the TENS unit has helped my overall mood, it seems, as after using it, my demeanor is calm and relaxed. Though I don't know if this is due to the machine itself or not, but I believe that using it has helped me. Combined with other treatments, this TENS therapy is assisting me (along with other techniques for reducing depression) in making a more enjoyable life. Go ahead and research TENS units online, and see if this is something suitable for you. In my point of view, it is a viable way to help combat depression.

Depression and Anxiety - Online Counseling

Introduction

Anxiety and depression often go together hand in hand. Sometimes it is difficult to determine whether a person suffers from depression with symptoms of anxiety or anxiety issues that are result in depression. Depression and anxiety online counseling is available to deal with this complex issue and is suitable for people who, as part of their condition, cannot leave their homes or find it very uncomfortable meeting people face to face.

Interactive Counseling

The most common form of depression and anxiety online counseling is by email. The popularity of this form of communication is that emails can be sent at your convenience whenever you have free time to do so. Replies can be read and re-read at any convenient time and neither is there any need to take time off work. Another popular form of depression and anxiety online counseling is through live chat sessions. These sessions can be arranged so they don't clash with any other commitments.

Self Help

Self help depression and anxiety online counseling is usually in the form of media specially written to help a sufferer obtain relief and ultimately receive healing. Media is usually in the form of eBooks, which can be readily downloaded. They are mostly produced by one-time sufferers and provide tried and tested methods of treatment. They can therefore be incredibly helpful.

Benefits

There are several benefits to depression and anxiety online counseling, some of which we have briefly touched on. The first and perhaps the most important is stress reduction. Because sessions can be scheduled whenever convenient the stress involved in a taking time off work and getting to a suitable clinic is eliminated. In addition, email records provide a great way for planning and reviewing progress and identifying areas that perhaps need more attention. Research has shown that waiting times by 25 percent. In addition, more than three in five people do not need to continue treatment past eight sessions. This allows patients to be discharged more quickly with the added advantage of a reduction in the use of drugs.

Limitations

Depression and anxiety online counseling may not be suitable for some sufferers. Counselors and clients have less opportunity to build up relational depth. In addition, counselors are unable to use visual cues to assess the progress and emotional well being of a client. A further factor is that e-therapy, for a lack of better word can be impersonal.

Summary

Depression and anxiety online counseling allows one to schedule treatment at ones convenience. This form of counseling has been proven to be effective in cutting waiting times and faster discharge from treatment. There is also self help media written mostly by former sufferers which also allow effective therapy and treatment.

Depression Tests - How To Diagnose Depression With Depression Tests

Depression is a very vague term, that confuses a lot of people. It's hard to tell whether you suffer from depression or not. However, there are certain depression tests are out there to help diagnose someone suffering from depression, and what kind of treatment is required, based on the type of depression they may suffer from. If you want to learn about the different depression tests potential depression patients undergo, then you should read this article.

The fact is, the quicker you can identify the depression, the quicker you can expect to recover from it. It is important to recognize early warning signs of depression, before it has a chance to fully set in. One of the best ways to determine if you have depression is to undergo different depression tests with the help of a professional.

Typically, when any relationship is created between a patient suffering from depression and a professional therapist, the first part of the relationship is spent on diagnosing the patient. Depression is a generic term that is used to cover a variety of different disorders which cause unhappiness in an individual. This means the doctor needs assessment time for figuring out exactly what the type of depression is, in order to know what to do to effectively treated.

Unless a proper diagnosis is made, relief from depression can be troublesome.

Some of the ways the doctor uses depression tests to make a diagnosis is to first consider the patient's background as well as their symptoms which seem to trigger the depressive episodes. This means the more truthful you are to the professional's questions, the more accurate the results of your depression tests will be.

They also observe the different types of emotional and physical suffering processes of the patient. For example if a symptom of withdrawal occurs in the patient, the doctor looks at this as a signal that the person may be in a state of depression, because of this emotional suffering. Other indicators that doctors use are extended fatigue, low motivation and energy, chronic frustration, disruption of eating habits, and irregular patterns asleep, just to name a few.

Also, there are certain tests used to determine the mental state of the patient. These tests may cover a patient's reaction time, certain word association exercises, as well as examining whether the patient's core beliefs are healthy or not.

In conclusion, these are some of the depression tests that are administered for feedback, to get information on what type of depression, if any, the patient suffers from, as well as what type of treatment is required.

Uncover Depression Signs With Depression Test

One mental disease is depression. No, those afflicted aren't somehow less than others. Crazy or nut case aren't words that can be used to describe you. It simply means that you have a disease that affects the mind and requires treatment to be cured. Those with mental illnesses are head cases is something that is from the past. At the first sign of depression use a depression test that can be found on the Internet. For a basic idea of where you stand, an on line depression test is a great solution. If the results are positive then you can seek further information and even treatment.

How you relate to different events and ideas is one of the main concerns of an on line depression test. It will ask you how you are dealing with those around you. Most of the on line tests have the same basic composition. Their purpose is to help you recognize signs of this disease. It is not written in stone. It is only a guide that will help you take a look at yourself and determine your next step. Every year over 17 million people in the USA suffer from depression. But only a small number, about 1/3, take the step to find help. The depression test allows you to identify depression but only you can ask for help.

If there is trouble with eating and sleeping, the depression test will find it. It will uncover signs such as feeling hopeless or helpless or even worthless. If you have mood swings the test will uncover it. The test will delve into stress. What are some of the things that are going on in your life that could be causing depression? The depression test, like a hammer, is only a tool. Stand back and examine your life with the help of this tool. The final goal is to identify depression signs.

Depression has chemical, emotional and even DNA elements. Stress is also a major factor in depression. There are wide ranges of stress related issues that affect us every day in our lives. The online depression test can only assist you in identifying the prospects in your case. The test can do no more than show you the issue and suggest further action. There are medications like anti-depressants and natural herbs on the market to treat depression. Medicines and herbs are often used in conjunction with group therapy or one on one talk therapy. If you think you or a loved one suffer from depression, use an on line depression test.

Beck Depression Scale

The Beck Depression Scale (BDI) is a scientific depression test to measure the presence and level of depression symptoms used by psychiatrists worldwide. It is meant to use the inventory to help diagnose individuals suffering of different forms of depression. Different settings make an important part of the test. The scale is meant to identify the presence and severity of symptoms and for this reason the Beck Depression Inventory can help professionals to learn more of the case.

The Beck Depression Scale can be used for both adults and adolescents of at least fifth or sixth grade reading level skills and up. It means that also teenagers are able to take the inventory. Since its inception in the 1960s the inventory got further developments and updates.

The BDI, as the scale is also called, consists of 21 items to assess the intensity of depression in clinical and normal patients on a self report scale. The BDI assesses physical and physiological symptoms of depression such as mood, pessimism, sense of failure, self-dissatisfaction, guilt, punishment, self-dislike, self-accusation, suicidal ideas, crying, irritability, social withdrawal, body image, work difficulties, insomnia, fatigue, appetite, weight loss, bodily preoccupation, and loss of libido. Only about ten minutes is enough for the most people to complete the BDI and afterwords a health professional gets an indication about presence of depression with a patient and severity of the disease.

Each of the inventory items corresponds to a specific category of depressive symptom and/or attitude and scores on the BDI indicate personal state of mind to confirm the presence of depression. The BDI has been shown to be valid and reliable, but anyway the tests scores can be manipulated by a testing person if he decides not to give correct answers.

The scale does not provide overall reliability: if one goes through the inventory at a different time it often demonstrates different results all depending on changes in a patients mental state since the previous depression testing. Even the testing environment can be a factor of influence for BDI results. Also social factors and expectations can be influential on the answers of a patient.

The Beck Inventory is not meant to serve as an instrument of diagnosis, it is more intended to assess the presence and severity of depression in psychiatrically diagnosed patients. After testing patients take a talk to their doctors about the test results and further treatment if necessary. That is why it is very important not to use BDI as a diagnostic tool, as depressive symptoms may be part of other primary psychiatric disorders.

Learn more about the Beck Depression Scale and take a talk to your psychologist about BDI procedure and outcomes. The early BDI testing can prevent you from deepening into depression and helps you to find the shortest way back to happy life.

The Relationship Between Fear, Anxiety, And Depression

Ultimately, all our depression and anxiety are born out of some sort of fear or the realization of a fear. Fear, according to the Bible, brings torment. This article explores the various mental, emotional, and spiritual torments that often lead to depression and anxiety.

There is a direct correlation between fear and depression. In fact, you will discover that highly depressed people often have fears that are very real to them and very near to their thinking.

To break it down a bit more, anxiety is the fear of your fears. Depression is often the result of feeling as if you are living your fears. For example, a loved one that is sick does not necessarily bring depression, but there could be a lot of anxiety over his health. If, God forbid, he dies, people often are plunged into depression because they are now living their fears and do not have the wherewithal to handle it well.

1 John 4:18 - There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

From my experience as a counselor and pastor for nearly two decades, I have come to see the tremendous truth of the above Bible verse. Fear brings a torment to the psyche that affects the emotions, mind, and spirit. Let's list a few of these torments.

1. Fear consumes the mind and becomes the only thing a person can see.


2. Fear can destroy and limit your relationships as few relationships can withstand the pressure of being dominated by fear.


3. Fear creates nonexistent problems that trouble your emotions and dictate your actions.


4. Fear prevents positive action.


5. Fear creates an unstable environment that others will studiously avoid leaving you isolated and alone.


6. Fear dominates your emotions.


7. Fear causes you to be reactive instead of active.


8. Fear builds an atmosphere of anxiety in even the most comfortable and normal environments.

Take someone who fears rejection and thus avoids social situations. Since his interaction with people is severely limited, he still can't avoid the feeling he is being rejected by others. His social anxieties, therefore, lead him straight into depression-all because of a fear.

A wife who fears that her husband is either cheating on her or is interested in another woman will become very anxious when she can't physically keep an eye on him. If she believes her fears to be a reality, she may sink into a depressed state believing her marriage is at an end. The truth of his faithfulness is irrelevant to her state of mind in this case. It is all based on her belief of the reality of her fear. Her fear will dominate her thinking and any protestations on his part will usually be seen as verification of her fears, leading to even more depression.

To overcome depression and anxiety, a person's fears must be dealt with adequately. This can be a problem as people fear their own fears. Any type of confrontation with one's own fears is emotionally challenging.

Interestingly, the opposite of fear is love. True love will result in security. The more secure you are, the less you fear. The key to overcoming anxiety and depression is finding a degree of love that brings a sense of security to your life. It won't happen, however, by continuing to hide from your fears. Fear will prevent you from experiencing the love mentioned here. You must, at some point, face those fears.

Depression - Physical Or Emotional Abuse As a Cause of Depression

The world is still a wild and often violent place to live in. On the surface there is the thin gold plating of civilization. However, if you scratch a bit deeper you may be shocked by some of the hidden physical and emotional abuses going on behind closed doors or in broad daylight. Some people may develop a morbid view of life while others overcome these dark experiences. What is the difference between developing depression or getting on with life after traumatic experiences?

Any person can become depressed if they are pushed beyond their current limits of physical and emotional endurance for too long. Physical and emotional abuse harms the normal development of a person and slows it down or puts it on hold. The growth necessary for learning how to function in society and in relationships are negatively influenced. Abuse leads to a damaged mind or a broken soul who cannot seem to function properly.

People do not automatically develop a depressive disorder as a result of physical or emotional abuse. Some people retain a sense of personal control even in the face and aftermath of traumatic life events. Other people, maybe due to a more vivid imagination, struggle to move past shocking or violent experiences and tends to keep replaying the traumatic events over and over in their minds. When faced with new experiences which remind them of previous trauma, they tend to have anxiety attacks or they become indecisive.

Most people who suffer physical or emotional abuse may need some kind of help in overcoming the damage caused to their mind and soul. This may include psychotherapy, life coaching or trauma counseling. Hypnosis, if used in the right way, may also be an option. It may take years of therapy to repair the damage caused by various types of abuse.

Trauma may occur as a result of bad relationships, abusive family members, violent spouses, natural disasters as well as conflicts and wars. Soldiers may develop post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of experiencing too many dangerous situations. The constant alertness that is required in a war zone takes its toll on the nerves, brain and soul of a soldier or civilian. Yet many people never receive the therapy they need to resolve their shocking experiences. This may lead to depression or substance abuse.

Physical and emotional abuse can certainly be a trigger for developing depression and anxiety disorders. The way in which you interpret these traumatic life events, how you choose to react to it and what you learn from it are important factors in the development of depression. Getting treatment for depression and anxiety disorders may help you to lead a meaningful life again.

Coping With Stress, Depression, And Anxiety!

Stress, Depression, and Anxiety: Put It in Its Proper Perspective!

Do you sometimes think there is nothing you can do about your stress, depression and anxiety levels? You have too many bills to pay, too many responsibilities to meet, and simply just too much to accomplish in a day.

You can say that again!!

The other day I had just finished paying the monthly bills (a necessary chore I simply hate to do), I was late for my Yoga class and driving faster than I should. In order to save time, I passed on the shoulder of the road. Only for a short distance... after all, that pick-up truck ahead of me was doing the same thing!

Lo and behold, wouldn't you know it, the police stopped me. Just my luck... the cop didn't understand my pleading, I was late for class, I was a poor retired teacher, it was my first time... they were all true! To make matters worse, the pick-up truck got away.

That did not alleviate the ticket I received and it did not alleviate the stress, depression and anxiety it created. It seems like sometimes you just cannot do anything to control your these level.

Well actually, you have more control than you think you have!

The simple thought that you have control of your life is the essence of stress management. This includes learning and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or tai-chi and exercising. Your body can fight stress, depression and anxiety better when it is fit and you have control over your life. Of course that's always a good thing!

You probably agree, that in order to manage stress, depression, and anxiety you yourself must take charge of your life. You must control your thoughts, your emotions, your environment, and your activities (even if it is driving your car on the shoulder of the road).

You are the only one responsible for controlling the way of dealing with all of these things. In essence, you are responsible for balancing your life toward productivity.

Balancing Your Life

Think how you must balance your life to meet the demands you have: for work, for relationships, for relaxation and for play? Then you must develop the strength to hold up under the challenges of life and the pressures of stress, depression, and anxiety.

On top of it all, you must use management to recognize when the Stress, Depression and Anxiety come into your life and what is causing it. This is not as simple as it may seem!

• Is the cause and is it constantly hitting you in the face?

• Is it constantly producing undesirable thoughts, feelings, and actions that are stressing you out?

• Is it constantly worrying you or causing you conflicts?

• Is it the excuses, habits and attitude you use that helps to identify your various causes?

There are some other important questions you must ask yourself:

• How do you explain these problems? Is it temporary? Is it simple? Is it unexplainable?

• How do you define your situation? Anxiety? Is it part of you work? Is it part of your family? Is it part of your behavior?

• To what do you attribute to you life style? Do other people cause it? Is it caused by outside events? Is it normal and acceptable?

If you recognize and accept the responsibility for your stress, depression, and anxiety, that's the first step and maybe the most important. This begins to control and possibly eliminate your situations! Remember: Particular Thinking Leads To Particular Feelings! As do all others too.

Herbal Remedies For Depression - Quick Tips For Beating Depression Without Taking Drugs

Herbal remedies for depression can sometime be just as effective as using prescribed antidepressants as a treatment. These 4 quick and easy herbal remedies for depression will have you feeling better in no time. Read on to find out more...

• Tip 1: St Johns Wort is an excellent alternative treatment for depression and is sometimes referred to as 'natures Prozac', because it works in a similar way to antidepressants. Just like prescribed medication herbal remedies for depression such as St Johns Wort affects the chemicals in your brain and helps you start feeling happier. This remedy can be found at most alternative therapy stores, and herbal practitioners may also be able to recommend other suitable herbal remedies for depression.
  


• Tip 2: Exercise is a great way to lift your mood. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which give you a natural high. Basically, you releases endorphins because you're exercising, this is sent to you brain, your brain thinks that you're happy and your mood instantly improves. The length of the 'exercise high' will vary from person to person, but the harder you work out, the better you will feel. If you exercise whilst taking herbal remedies for depression you may begin to find the perfect balance and start feeling better even quicker.
  


• Tip 3: Aromatherapy massages with essential oils can help tackle your depression and instantly help to lift your mood. A calming environment and a massage are a great way to help anyone feel better, but it's the oils that can really help depression suffers. If you discuss your condition with your aromatherapist, he/she will be able to recommend and use the right essential oils to help you feel better. If you're taking any kind or medication you must speak to your doctor before you visit an aromatherapist or use any herbal remedies for depression.
  


• Tip 4: Counselling is an extremely effective way to help treat depression. Most counselling services are free or relatively inexpensive and can be found by simply visiting your doctor. He/she will be able to recommend the perfect type of treatment to meet your needs. Alternatively, you may want to consider joining a support group. This will give you a chance to meet and hear the stories or other sufferers who are going through the same thing. This is an excellent way for you to gain more information and to help you understand your depression.

There are many people in the world who suffer from depression, but refuse to treat it with antidepressants. Instead they prefer to use natural and Herbal Remedies For Depression. If you would like some more information on Herbal Remedies For Depression please click on the links below.

Bipolar Quiz - Spot The Signs Early

If you believe that you may be suffering from Bipolar Disorder, then you may want to take a bipolar quiz. All you need to do is read the statements below and decide if they describe the way you are feeling. Read on to take the bipolar quiz.

Step 1) Mood swings: If two or more of the statements below apply to you, then you may be suffering from bipolar disorder. Move onto bipolar quiz 2 & 3 to find out if you are displaying classic bipolar symptoms (if only one statement from the bipolar quiz applies it is unlikely that you have bipolar disorder).

1. You have constant mood swings

2. Your moods swing wildly between feelings of extreme happiness and sadness

3. You feel as though you have no control over your moods

4. Your up moods can sometimes get you into trouble

Step 2) When you are on a high: When you are in the throes of your high (mania) do the following statements apply to your state of mind...

I have lots of energy, more than usual

I don't need much sleep

I feel restless a lot of the time

I loose my appetite

I have increased sexual energy

I find it hard to focus and concentrate on one idea

People sometimes find it hard to keep up with me

I tend to talk more and my voice is louder

I spend money that I don't have

I take more risks and act recklessly

Step 3) When you are on a low: When you are in your depressed state do the following statements describe how you feel?

I feel down and cry more than usual

I stop enjoying the things I usually like to do

I don't sleep well and I'm always tired

I eat more than usual

My libido severely decreases

I'm more forgetful than usual

I get irritated and angry more easily

I feel that life is hopeless and not worth living any more

I don't like myself and have feelings of self hate

I have thoughts of death and suicide

Bipolar quiz results: If the statements from the bipolar quiz steps 2 & 3 apply to the way you feel during your high and low moods, you are displaying some of the most common symptoms associated with bipolar disorder. Make sure that you seek medical advice and get fully diagnosed. This bipolar quiz is not definitive and should only be used for informational purposes. If you would like more information on bipolar and bipolar quizzes then please click on the links below.

Depression and Anxiety: The 300 Club

Named after the 300 Spartan warriors who fought to the last man against massive odds at the battle of Thermopylae, this article is for those similar brave souls who battle daily with depression and anxiety and refuse to give up. This is an assurance that we are not alone, but more than that, can derive hope and faith that things will one day be better, that there is the possibility that we will be well again.

My fundamental premise is that depression and anxiety can be overcome, even against the odds. There are no quick fixes or silver bullets, but I would like to share with you a few ideas that have helped me.

The first is the necessity of having a BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) which I believe is at least as important as being on the correct medication. Anxiety and depression tend to compress our future timelines into the problems of today, and the purpose of the BHAG is to provide a passion that makes getting up in the morning, in fact life itself, worth the effort. It provides a beacon in the future, something beyond our immediate reach, but which we can take daily steps to attain.

An example of a BHAG is taken from the life-story of Victor Frankl, psychiatrist and holocaust survivor. In the Nazi concentration camp he discovered that those who survived day after day all had one thing in common: all had unfinished business, something they still wanted to do in this life. Frankl imagined himself in a comfortable auditorium, lecturing on the psychology of the concentration camp. Let us pray, meditate, journal, until we have a BHAG we are passionate about, something that will help us to go against the odds of our condition.

The second key is medication, which is a double-edged sword: if it is the right combination it should make one feel better able to cope, however all the medications have side-effects. These are listed on the package inserts, or you can find them using an internet search, but you will only know the ones that affect you by taking the medication. First and foremost it is essential that your medication be prescribed by an expert - in other words a psychiatrist. Getting onto the wrong medication could give the double whammy of feeling worse and having unpleasant side-effects. Your psychiatrist will know when a particular medication is not the right one, and will know how to wean you off it.

Make sure that your psychiatrist is working in a systematic manner - for example introducing or removing several drugs at once is not systematic. Another thing to be aware of is drug interaction: once you get to about seven medications in total, interactions can become a serious issue. Seven sounds like a lot, but a person might for instance already be on two medications for epilepsy and two for high blood pressure, so three more for depression and anxiety gets us to seven.

Don't expect too much of the medication; for example in the process of preventing abnormal low moods, it might also put a dampener on normal "high" moods. Think of it as a parachute - it is there to save your life rather than give you a wonderful ride.

Third and last, I mention healthy lifestyle as a value proposition for combating anxiety and depression, especially exercise. While a healthy diet/staying at the right weight will help you maintain a sense of wellbeing and self-worth, there is nothing like regular exercise (for example brisk walking, running, cycling, swimming) to generate those endorphins and other "feel-good" chemicals. If getting out is an issue then try trampolining!

The important thing to remember is to take on each day one hour at a time: often we feel terribly anxious and depressed for the first couple of hours of the day, but generally it gets better as the hours go by!

Being Fired Because of Your Depression

The fact is, unfortunately it happens, and happens a lot. People are being dismissed because of their depression.

This is somewhat of a vicious circle.

While we are a part of a workforce and feeling like we are developing depression or anxiety, we do all we can to hide this fact instead of trying to get some help through all the proper channels. People either ignore their mental health problems or try to self-medicate, which is equally bad.

Then comes the nervous breakdown or a suicide attempt, and poof. Next thing you know you've lost your job, and your last paycheck is in the post.

I've heard plenty of stories like that. This is all connected to how our society regards depression - as some sort of infectious disease, some sort of mental leprosy (fact is, actually leprosy is very difficult to catch), something to be ashamed of.

So the usual scenario of what happens when your employer finds out about your mental health problems is that you're either being left without support and promotion and then quietly pushed out, or you are being dismissed on some sort of inappropriate work conduct grounds.

With the current high unemployment rates situation is somewhat changes as people are desperate enough to feel like cornered rats and to fight back.

I've seen few cases of lawsuit where people were dismissed because they tried to commit suicide or admitted that they were depressed.

One of them was for a person working in the bank who attempted to commit suicide because of his mood disorder. The bank dismissed him, and here is interesting tidbit why, they regarded him as disabled (this is what the court said), where his mental problem wasn't an actual disability. But because in the eyes of society he was disabled, he is suing them for dismissing him on disability grounds.

The other case is more straightforward. The man in Ohio nearly committed suicide, but managed to persuade himself to ask his colleagues for help and was driven to the emergency room. While there his wife received a call saying that her husband was fired. Now they are suing the employer, trying to receive compensation. What strikes me as ironic is that he was working for a non-profit organization which is supposed to help people!

Truth be told, not all the employers are like that. Some will give you time off work to get help and start a course of antidepressants, but most do not understand the nature of depression.

This is why we need better laws and better publicity for this kind of very common mental health problem.

I would love to hear your stories and thoughts on this subject, so please share!

Bipolar Test - Are You Bipolar?

If your think that you may suffer from Bipolar Disorder, the first thing you should do is take a Bipolar test. Bipolar Disorder is sometimes misdiagnosed as depression, so by taking this Bipolar test, you should be able to work out if you are showing classic bipolar symptoms. Read on to take the Bipolar test...

Part a) Is it bipolar or depression?

1. Do you feel that you need less sleep than usual?

2. Are you more talkative than usual and feeling like you have to keep talking?

3. Does it feel as though you are having too many thoughts and ideas to process at once?

4. Are you easily distracted?

5. Have you been going on spending sprees and spending money that you don't have?

6. Do you suffer from mood swings, extreme highs and terrible lows?

If you have answered yes to more than two of the bipolar test questions above, please move on to bipolar test b & c (if not, it is unlikely that you suffer from bipolar disorder).

Part b) When you are on a high (mania):

1. Are you more hyper than usual?

2. Do you find yourself getting into trouble, fights or arguments?

3. Do you feel elevated and increased self confidence?

4. Does your level of self esteem drastically increase?

5. Do you find that you talk more quickly?

6. Are thoughts and ideas constantly racing through your mind?

7. Do you have more energy than usual?

8. Do you have lots of goals, new ideas and ambitions?

Now move onto bipolar test part c...

Part c) When you are on a low (depressed):

1. Do you feel as though you have little of no energy?

2. Do you find that you loose in things you customarily enjoy?

3. Do you have feelings of guilt?

4. Do you have feelings of worthlessness?

5. Do you have difficulty with your short term memory and find it hard to make decisions?

6. Are you feeling tired, have a lack of energy and fatigue?

7. Are you persistently sad and anxious?

8. Do you feel irritable and constantly restless?

Bipolar test results: If you have answered the majority of the questions in bipolar test b & c as yes, there may be a chance that you suffer from Bipolar Disorder. Be sure to seek help from a medical professional to discuss your situation and symptoms. For even more information on where to go from here click on the links below.

Cornell Depression Scale

Depression or the state or having mood disorder is highly increasing due to the problematic and complex world that we have right now. Some people with weak self esteem or rigid personality find difficulty on making adjustments and blending out to the world. Depression is a form of disease that also needs diagnosis because its level and effects to a particular subject vary. In the medical world, several psychogeriatric depression rating scales are being made as basis to asses the extent of depression. Some of these are the GDS that stands for Geriatric Depression Scale and the Cornell Depression Scale or CSDD.

Before the Geriatric Depression Scale and the Cornell Depression Scale are confirmed reliable they first undergo a testing or what we formally called validation study. Through this, the theories within these two depression scales will be tested on actual subjects. The validation study involves one hundred forty five depressed patients above sixty five years of age are tested through interview. Out of the interview conducted, doctors deduced that seventy three of the subjects are depressed only and thirty three are depressed and demented.

Analyzing and summarizing all the facts gathered, the Geriatric Depression Scale had a perfect correlation but Cornell Depression Scale or CSDD has a better scale with sensitivity and specificity of ninety three percent and ninety seven percent. On the end it was held that Cornell scale for depression and dementia is the valid and specific screening tool to access depression in a demented population. With the help of the CSDD, doctors and psychiatrist today find it easy to access patients undergoing severe depression or depression and dementia. The scale aids easy understanding of the patient's state or condition thus giving psychologist doctors clue on the needed treatment and therapy of the patient.

This rating scale on depression is very significant because it discovered the true state of the depression patient, and every state needs special and different degree of attention and treatment. Obviously, the patients undergoing lower or average depression needs lower attention and medication compared to the once under serious stage of dementia. Aside from the Cornell Depression Scale or CSDD, some other screening tools and depression therapies are being studied because of the growing problem on depression. We want to get the best therapy that that could cure and uplift the person's original personality and immediately minimize the cases of mood disorders and make every person flexible and adjustable to the varying situation in our world.

How Depression Can Threaten Your Marriage

In my work through the years as a counselor, I've talked with many depressed individuals. I've also had personal experience with depression myself and know firsthand how debilitating it can be.

Nearly everyone at some point in their life will be affected by depression--either their own or someone else's, such as a spouse, parent, sibling, child, or friend. Just in the U.S. alone, depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million adults in any given year.

Statistics show that only twenty percent of those who experience depression will receive an appropriate treatment plan. Many depressed individuals will be too embarrassed to seek help and will suffer in silence, sometimes for years.

The effects of depression can negatively impact every aspect of a person's life--marriage, home life, work, and friendships. And the burden of living with a depressed spouse can take a heavy toll on the quality of a marriage.

Untreated depression poses a very real threat to a marriage. Recent research indicates that when one spouse suffers from depression, the likelihood is increased that both spouses will have an unhappy marriage.

This is because mental health and unhappy marriages are closely entwined. The harmful effects of depression are not limited to the depressed spouse but affect the partner, also

The depressed spouse will experience less happiness, satisfaction, and contentment in the marriage. At the same time, the partner will struggle with handling the increased isolation and social withdrawal of the depressed spouse, the loss of emotional intimacy (and often sexual intimacy as well), and the prevalent negativity in the relationship.

When one spouse is depressed, the depression colors everything in the relationship. The depressed spouse sees the world through a darkened lens that limits his or her perspective. Any negative events are interpreted even more negatively, neutral events are also interpreted negatively, and the positive happenings are often overlooked.

It's as though depressed individuals have blinders on that keep them from seeing any positive, hopeful opportunities right in front of them. Even if they did see them, they wouldn't have the energy to follow through.

The depressed spouse often loses interest in activities that used to bring pleasure and may experience fatigue and listlessness. There can be loss of sleep or sleeping too much; eating too much or too little; or problems focusing and concentrating.

Feelings of love and sexual desire may become dulled or absent when an individual is depressed. The biggest danger when this happens is that the depressed spouse may erroneously conclude that this means he (or she) is no longer in love with the mate.

Many depressed individuals report that they feel detached from what is happening, as though they are watching a movie. There can be a profound feeling of separation and isolation from others and a desire to avoid social contact. There can be feelings of sadness, hopelessness, dejection, and resignation. Or there can be feelings of irritation, agitation, anger, or emotional numbness.

Another danger to the marriage is that the partner of a depressed spouse can become depressed from the depressive atmosphere and energy in the relationship. Depression can be viewed as contagious when it creeps into a partner's outlook, attitudes, moods, conversation, behaviors, and reactions. When this happens, both spouses may feel they are helplessly sinking lower and lower into despair.

Blame and shame are involved in depression and can cause additional problems. If a spouse doesn't understand that the partner is depressed and not just lazy or uncooperative, she (or he) may blame the partner for things he can't help at the time. This stirs up feelings of anger and resentment for the spouse.

The depressed spouse may be ashamed to admit that he (or she) can't handle the depression herself and thus refuse to see a physician. This feeling of shame reflects the belief of numerous people about depression. They may feel that they should be able to just "snap out of it," which is what family and friends may tell them, also.

In one research study, fifty-four percent of people surveyed believed that depression is a personal weakness. In reality, depression has nothing to do with personal weakness or will power or character.

A depressive disorder is an illness that involves the body, mood, and thoughts. It's not just a case of the "blues" that a person can "get over." Thus, common misunderstandings about depression can add to the problem.

It's vital for both spouses to have a thorough understanding of depression--what it is, what it isn't, what to expect, and what treatment options are recommended. It's also important to recognize that before marital problems can be effectively treated, the depression needs to be treated first. That means that the depressed spouse needs to see a physician or mental health professional for a depression assessment and treatment recommendations.

What can a spouse do when the depressed partner refuses to seek help? This is a common situation and there's no one answer that fits all situations. It's important to get the depressed partner to the doctor or mental health professional, even if the spouse has to schedule the appointment, take off from work, and accompany the partner to the appointment.

Sometimes the parents or siblings of a resistant depressed spouse can be enlisted to encourage him (or her) to take action and seek treatment. At other times, a close friend or minister can help to convince a depressed spouse to consult with his physician or see a therapist.

Another strategy that a concerned partner can sometimes use is to send a confidential letter to the depressed spouse's doctor, detailing the concerns and depressive symptoms observed. This only works when the depressed spouse has to see his (or her) physician for some other reason, such as a required annual physical, to get a prescription for medication, or on-going monitoring of some condition. The physician can't respond to the partner's letter due to confidentiality, but at least the information has been conveyed.

If all else fails, the partner can consult with a therapist herself (or himself) to get individualized recommendations on how to handle the situation. Together, they can create an appropriate plan of action while the therapist provides emotional support to the partner.

What Causes Depression, Stress and Anxiety?

Depression, stress and anxiety causes are numerous, possibly more numerous than at any other time in the past. The mood disorders are sometimes described as modern illnesses. There have always been some cases of psychological disorders, but the widespread incidence of the mood disorders is a relatively new phenomena.

Understanding the causes of the disorders has been a goal of modern science. While some aspects of brain function are not completely understood, there are some things that we do know. Here are the known and suspected causes.

Illness

Heart disease, thyroid disorders, cancer, stroke and Alzheimer's are among the illnesses that can lead to depression and other mood disorders. It is easy to understand why a chronic illness would cause a person to become depressed.

Drugs

Medications used to treat heart disease; high blood pressure and high cholesterol are among the drugs that can contribute to either a depressed state or a state of anxiety. Prescription and over-the-counter sleeping pills are depressants, as are tranquilizers and alcohol.

Although not always thought of as a drug, caffeine is one of the common stress and anxiety causes. Anyone suffering from nervousness or excessive anxiousness should limit their intake of caffeine or cut it out completely.

Recreational drugs can also cause mood disorders, because of the effects they have on brain chemicals, also known as neurotransmitters. Cigarette smoke contains nicotine and other chemicals that affect neurotransmitter function.

Finally, anti-depressant and anti-anxiety drugs can sometimes cause increased depression and/or anxiety. New warnings are required on some packaging to call attention to those risks.

Life Changes

Losing a job, getting divorced, money problems and loss of a loved one can cause a person to become depressed. Sometimes, the depressive mood resolves after a while, sometimes not.

Moving, changing jobs, pressure at work and even happy things like taking a vacation, getting married or having a baby are among the stress and anxiety causes. In some cases, it is an accumulation of small irritations that lead to anxiety disorders, irrational fears and feelings of being out of control. The irritation may come from toxins in the environment.

Exposure to Toxins

We live in a pretty toxic environment. There is pollution in the air and water. Toxins are accidentally a purposely deposited in foodstuff. Cosmetics, personal care products, household cleansers, bug spray, weed killer, air fresheners and dozens of other items in your home contain toxins.

The safety of each of those products has been determined by assuming a person would only be exposed to one. You may be exposed to hundreds of different toxins every day.

Artificial fragrances are among the most irritating and they are known to contribute to depression and nervousness. Many of the chemicals in our environment are toxic to the central nervous system, the mood control center.

Nutritional Deficiencies and Imbalances

Nutritional deficiencies and imbalances are depression, stress and anxiety causes. In every nutritional deficiency, mood changes and disorders are among the symptoms. Fatigue is another symptom and is often a major complaint among depressed and stressed out individuals.

Nutritional deficiencies in developed countries were believed to be rare until doctors starting doing more testing. Today, vitamin D deficiencies are a common problem and that is just one example.

Soil depletion caused by factory farming has lead to nutrient depletion. It is harder to get all of the nutrients you need every day from the foods that you eat, because fruits and vegetables simply are not as nutritious as they once were.

Many of the foods you eat may be over-processed or over-cooked. Cooking reduces the nutritional value of most foods. In processing, many nutrients are removed. For example, processed grains used in white flour and similar products contain none of the wholesome bran and very little of the essential fiber.

Depending on your food tastes, you may not be getting enough of certain nutrients that are essential for normal brain function. You'll learn more about those nutrients in my next article. The depression, stress and anxiety causes can be addressed naturally and safely. You can be happy without being medicated.

Grad School Burnout - Mild Or Severe Depression, Anxiety and Stress Symptoms in Graduate Students

Education that is "a way of life" may create vulnerability

Grad school is a long haul educational enterprise. Many Doctoral programs last 5 to 7 years, on top of the five to six years typically required to get the BA and a Masters degrees which precede it. Students who aspire to graduate degrees usually have a history of dedicated scholarship which extends back into high school or even elementary school. For many Grad students education has literally been "a way of life"... sometimes the only way of life that is well known or familiar.

Linda Curci of the Caltech Counseling Center suggests that:

"Burnout is a process that happens gradually over time. It creeps up on a person through an accumulation of random minor negative thoughts, sporadic lost hopes, and a series of small disappointments in oneself. Burnout is a painful process that includes emotional exhaustion, a loss of pleasure in interpersonal relationships, and a diminished sense of self worth. Burnout is the result of trying too hard for too long in a situation where the odds are against meeting one's expectations. People who burn out are intelligent, dedicated people who have high expectations for themselves."

Grad school can be an emotional and psychological "trial by fire" and burnout tends to happen when you've been pushing too hard for too long and

The warning signs of burnout are:

• Loss of interest in or questioning the meaning of your studies and research.


• Chronic fatigue - exhaustion, a sense of being physically run down and emotionally flat


• Anger at those making demands


• Cynicism, negativity, and irritability


• A sense of being besieged


• Feelings of helplessness

From the point of view of a psychologist however, there is a bit more to be seen in some of the typical symptoms.

Perfectionism - As Curci suggests, one common area of difficulty lies in the impossibility of meeting expectations and all too often these exaggerated expectations are inner demands rather than outer ones.

Perfectionism, can create an inability to start or finish major tasks. Perfectionists are their own worst critics. Nothing is ever good enough and this constant self-criticism leads to paralysis or avoidance which sabotages progress.

Perfectionism is always a defense. Individuals with perfectionistic expectations hope, (wish), need, to protect themselves from all failure or criticism. This criticism which is imagined to be emanating from others is usually coming from within. This can create a vicious circle of fear-driven effort which no amount of external evidence of success ever seems to correct... if only because the possibility of failure cannot ever be reduced to zero.

Suffering in silence - Grad students are individuals who have accepted to put themselves under the yoke of a program of training. They have often given up or put aside valid needs and desires in the name of their studies. They have left countries, communities, families, and personal relationships to follow their studies and often set aside personal interests and pleasures to fulfill program requirements.

The pain and anger caused by these losses is real but because the demands have been undertaken "voluntarily," individuals often feel they have no right to complain... or to grieve. These strong and relevant feelings, when unacknowledged can eventually insist on being experienced psychologically and emerge as depression, or as anger and cynicism towards a program which has been responsible for so much pain.

Fear of graduation? Grad students, as noted above, are often individuals who have dedicated themselves for most of their young adult life to a particular academic world. As the end of a program of study comes into sight questions may arise about how to live in the real world. A whole different set of competencies may be felt, frighteningly, to be lacking.

Supervisory strain - While Grad school programs are often well organized to support academic development, supervisors vary in their ability to be helpful with the more personal challenges of their students. In fact if the interpersonal relationship is not optimum the supervisory relationship may even be an additional stressor.

Ill-Health and Computer crashes... The psyche's hardware and software solutions to stress - Even when the strain of grad school is not extreme enough to create a full-scale burnout, it may manifest itself in chronic or minor health problems, particularly those which are significantly related to stress such as headaches, migraines, stomach problems, asthma, sleep difficulties...and if it's not you getting sick, maybe it will be your computer...

Strategically timed computer crashes can be caused by inattention and neglect as the over-stressed psyche looks for ways to create time out.

Cumulative strains - Even if you have been sailing through Grad school for the most part without excessive perfectionism or personal sacrifices, the long term stress of grad school may interact cumulatively with other stressful events such as unavoidable major losses or personal setbacks and funding crises to throw even the most balanced student over the edge into depression or burn-out

Leading a whole human life - The world needs the passion and enthusiasm of those individuals who are willing to push forward into the highest levels of knowledge in their domains, to broaden and deepen what we think and know. It is a loss to us all if students burn out or drop out in despair after such significant investments in their studies.

But the excessive and exclusive focus on their values as scholars may lead Grad students to neglect other aspects of their humanity. Often what is most needed is compassionate and encouraging human contact and reassurance that they are valuable and valued in the world as individuals outside of their studies.

Some general notes on depression

Common signs and symptoms of depression include:

• a persistent sad or "empty" mood


• loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed


• loss of appetite or weight loss


• sleep problems


• fatigue, despite adequate sleep


• feelings of pessimism, guilt, worthlessness, helplessness


• indecisiveness, difficulty concentrating


• psychomotor slowing or agitation


• thoughts of wanting to escape, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts

At its extreme end depression can become so severe that it can create suicidal feelings or thoughts. If you experience suicidal thoughts or feelings, it is very important to:

• Make taking care of yourself your top priority.


• Talk about these thoughts with someone. Don't suffer in silence.


• Contact your institution's counseling center for an assessment or referral to community or other mental health services.

If these symptoms seem all too familiar, you might like to take an on-line depression screening test or contact your counseling center or a mental health professional for an assessment.

References:

Linda Curci, (Caltech Counseling Center) http://www.counseling.caltech.edu/InfoandResources/StressBurnout