The news is filled with advertisements for products that supposedly counteract depression. If one particular drug doesn't work then the remedy is to add another medication or increase the dosage of another. Does the statement, "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting difference results" apply here? Are there any home remedies for depression? Let's look at three things you can do anywhere to combat sadness.
1. What you eat and drink
Research has now demonstrated that there are foods and drink which can cause your mood to take a plunge. This is due to knowledge about the biochemical effects of what you put in your mouth. If someone handed you a cup of poison would you drink it? No, of course not. Then neither should you choose to eat things which can negatively affect your health and mood. Eating sugar to excess is one of these things. When you put sugar into your body insulin is injected into your blood. This zaps your blood sugar level which can result in you feeling depressed and irritable. Alcohol does the same thing.
2. Who you hang around with
People who are sad and morose, irritable and angry or always complaining about someone or something are no fun to be with. In fact, they can pull you down with them. Are you with these types of people the most, or are you with upbeat and happy people? If you are stuck with people who continually cause you emotional distress, do something about it. That means you either tell them to cut it out or don't hang around them. If you work in a negative situation do something to make a change. If the problem is friends, get new ones. If the negative people are family members go talk to a professional who will assist you in examining strategies to change or cope with the situation.
3. What's in your mind?
Did you know that research demonstrates that "glass half-full" folks are happier and more enjoyable to be with than "glass half-empty" people? Pay attention to your thoughts. Instead of seeing problems, force yourself to see positive possibilities. Instead of watching the news, watch something entertaining or go for a walk. Put on happy and upbeat music. When you focus on what is wrong in your life, bring to mind all the things for which you are grateful.
Summary
It's true that life is filled with tremendous stress in the 21st century. It is also true that science knows much more about strategies you can use to assist you in managing your day-to-day life. These three home remedies for depression may – or may not – be of value to you. But they're worth trying before drugging yourself.
Leave a Reply