ESCAPING DEPRESSION - by Joyce Ikhile

Depression is always likened to sadness,yea, somewhat true but not totally true. Though it has much dose of sadness,but not only a fleeting of sadness. It is better we know that not all those that are sad are depressed.Depression infiltrate every aspect of life,and comes with a severe low mood that goes on for weeks,months even years with some people. This "illness", yes, I call it illness affects millions worldwide with it's complex and pervasive nature.It is purely a mental health condition that breeds anxiety, emptiness, worthlessness and pain (emotional pain).It crushes appetite and play with your weight,going as far as interrupting your sleep,reduces energy and toy with your memory, this is when the thought of suicide and death play a villain in one's mind.Recognizing that depression is a medical condition is vital. It influences brain chemistry, hormones, and overall functioning. Depression don't just set in,there are triggers that boost this incessant illness.Triggers can vary widely from person to person. It can be gotten from unforgettable and unforeseen life events,loss of partners,loved ones,loss of jobs,chronic health issues, relationship, financial instability and other factors.Not everyone that can bear,when life throw swords at them, to some it pierce deeper while to some they nurture the injury and move ahead. Reacting to life's challenges are normal, therefore we tend to react to it in different ways, everyone's experience with depression is unique, and it’s vital to find what works best for you. Escaping from it, it a great step to healing,to engage in the healing process is to: Foster strong social connection , build a support system around you,reach out to friends,family,as the popular saying goes "no man is an island" , isolation can exacerbate feelings of depression. Share your feelings to people especially to those who cares to hear, this can provide comfort and insight. Joining network and host of events can go a long way in combating loliness and being around people who you trust and care for you can foster a sense of belonging.Seek help, While self-help strategies are essential, seeking professional assistance is often necessary for managingdepression effectively. While self-help strategies are essential, seeking professional assistance is often necessary for managing depression effectively. Seeking counsel,can create a safe place as well.Make lifestyle that will be beneficial , healthy lifestyles can help,aside from exercise,like jogging,walking and dancing which helps in aiding depression,there are some foods according to research that can help improve mood,foods like:Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts are a good source of mood improvement.An author was said mindfulness helps a great deal. Practice mindfulness ,this can reduce overwhelming feelings associated with depression.Wipe out negative thoughts from your memory , replace negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones, say affirmative words to yourself and keep a gratitude journal,see good in each day. Do not let depression distorts your thinking pattern.Engage in activities, engage in activities that will bring joy to you especially the ones you enjoy doing before depression set in. All you derive pleasure in doing do try them course learn new thing,this will help you shift focus away from negative thinking.Set goals and make self care your priority , set goals that will redefine your purpose,pen down your goals and as you achieve them,mark and celebrate the goal. Treat yourself with self-care,go out,meet people,relax and enjoy the very best of each day.Understand that healing is a process, it will come but will take time,it requires patience,by taking steps,you can pave the way to a more purposeful and fulfilling life filled with joy.

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