Depression- Part 3

Ok! Now that we know, what do we do about this nasty old depression thing which threatens to choke off our enjoyment of the blessings of the feminine gender? Here are a couple of ideas:

1. Get as much exercise as possible. The endorphins that are the result of the aerobic heart rate are a wonderful antidote to those dark feelings, especially ones that are the result of PMS.

2. Food! Sometimes giving into our craving for chips and chocolate isn’t the smartest strategy for fighting the doldrums. Try cutting back on salt, fatty foods, caffeine and alcohol. If you can toss in some high complex carbs like oatmeal and grains, this can help.

3. Supplements are your friends! Try increasing Vitamin B-6, calcium, magnesium, Vitamin E (this even comes in handy drop form so you don’t have to swallow a nasty pill), and tryptophan to ease the blues.

4. Other stuff…herbal remedies are good. Try primrose oil, chamomile, and chaste tree berry. Yoga and meditation might help too.

An amazing helper when life gets us down is our friends. Pick up the phone, walk out your door, and grab a cup o joe with someone who you trust and love. The dark is particularly scary when you are sitting inside alone. Remember that it is darkest before the dawn and spring is around the corner.

Try a Google search for some inspirational support. There are many online groups to hook into. There may also be a church counselor or therapist that can help you dig out of the mud. If the crummy blues sticks around too long, go see your doctor. Either your family doctor or OB-Gyn is a great resource. They may suggest a psychologist or other professional. Sometimes we need a bit of help that comes from pharmaceuticals so don’t be afraid to press for a solution that comes from the people who specialize in biochemical imbalances.

Just remember that you are not unique. Just turn on your television and you will hear the advertisers addressing this villain called depression. Focus on the solution. It can be found.

So my message is really to take action, my wonderful girlfriends and don’t let those dark thoughts and feelings sit on your shoulders for too long. Our lives can be happier and more fulfilling so let’s get going!!

- Beverly Tobocman

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