Depression - Illness or Symptom?

Is Depression the illness or is it a symptom of something more? That is the question that I have recently begun to ponder.

If one is compliant with medication schedules; eating a healthy diet; increasing physical activity; and participating in therapy or support groups, yet finding no relief from depression symptoms, then is depression what you should be treating or should one look for more underlying causes?

The symptoms of depression mimic that of sleep deprivation. Depression also often co–exists with other serious medical illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, hiv/aids, diabetes, and Parkinson's disease. Studies have shown that people who have depression in addition to another serious medical illness tend to have more severe symptoms of both depression and the medical illness, more difficulty adapting to their medical condition, and more medical costs than those who do not have co–existing depression.

What, then, is the right approach?

SAD - Seasonal Affective Disorder

If gray days make you feel gray but you are happy when skies are blue, you may be extra sensitive to levels of natural light. Serotonin, a feel good chemical in the brain, can be lowered by seasonal changes in the amount of daylight. If your symptoms are severe, you may have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Women are affected by SAD 400% more than men. A light box used in combination with an antidepressant can be a highly effective treatment. Light therapy mimics outdoor light and causes a biochemical change in the brain that lifts the mood and relieves SAD symptoms. If you don't want to invest in the expense of of light box, then be sure to get outside when the sky clears. A little fresh air in the returning sunlight may be just the boost you need.

Survive the Hour - Survive the Day

Do you feel beyond blue? Sad? Sore? Hopeless? Is the prospect of getting through the day beyond you? That's okay. Focus on getting through the next hour first. Journaling is an excellent way to get some perspective and let off some pressure. You don't need a fancy journal or a special place to write. An old notebook and a lapdesk in bed will do. Write about a fond memory you have. Think about a place you would like to visit. Share a favorite Bible verse and why it means something to you. Don't worry about spelling or grammar. This is for you.

Does journaling seem too intimidating? That's okay. Start smaller. Make a list instead. Make a list of ten things you are grateful for. Make a list of ten people who have impacted your life in a positive manner. Make a "bucket list" of ten things you want to do before you kick the bucket. You might be surprised. Thinking about positive experiences and people and dreams may help chase the blues away. If not for the day, at least for the moment. :)

Living in the Moment

If you suffer from depression and are experiencing suicidal ideation, REACH OUT. Don't let pride or confusion get in the way of receiving help. Your friends and loved ones probably do not even realize the mental pressure that you are suffering.

Life is worth living. If you are not sure that you can last an hour, focus on surviving the minutes. As you successfully endure and survive each moment, pat yourself on the back. You can make it.

While profound depression can require long term intervention of therapy and medication, there are some quick fixes to depression as well. Take a walk; hug a child; take a vitamin; sing a song; help someone; say a prayer; call a friend. Good nutrition is an excellent way to stave off depression symptoms. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains is a good start.

Singulair - Is your allergy medication part of the problem?

Singulair, manufactured by Merck, is used for the treatment of asthma and allergies. The FDA has just announced an investigation into a possible link between the drug and suicide risks. Reports of mental health side effects include mood changes, suicidal behavior and suicide.