Is it depression or self pity? Self help ideas for mild depression

Depression and self pity can be misunderstood to be synonyms but they differ significantly. A person suffering from depression may need medical and therapeutic help, whereas self pity is more a state of being sympathetic and drawn towards you and apparently does not require any medical aid. It is more of a deliberately acquired or created state with negligible contribution of external factors. Depression is backed by many symptoms like loss of interest in activities which you normally enjoy, disturbed sleep and appetite, negative emotions like “death”, poor concentration and continuous fatigue. These symptoms may be accompanied by others like headache, chest pain, etc.

It is incorrect to consider depression as an unusual occurrence. Many people suffer from depression without acknowledging it. There are different categories of depression. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), an American Psychiatric Association, the three main types are Major Depressive Disorder, Dysthymic Disorder and Manic Depression. According to Psychology Information Online, in mild depression (or dysthymic disorder) the depressed feelings are present almost every day for at least two years. If depressed feelings go away, the trouble may be a period of normal sadness.

Get positive: There are several self help tools which can rescue people suffering from mild depression. Just that it has to be realized that you are not alone suffering from such a disorder. The basic guideline is to make the sufferer realize the positive aspects of life and forgo the negative ones. Your thoughts have to be affirmative. Think of the positivism in everything which comes across in life. Another way of dealing with it is to think of the pain and negativism in someone else’s life. Psychologists are of the view that about 72% of our thoughts are negative and self-critical. If you are unable to do it alone, take the help of others. Choose the company of people who love you and can provide positivism to your life. You friends and relatives can help on a prolonged basis. They are the people who maximally engage in your life.

Readjust lifestyle: Lifestyle changes are essentially needed to combat depression. Good habits go a long way in accomplishing the best in your life, even after recovery. Take proper food, although you may be low on hunger due to depression. Opt for small but frequent healthy meals (preferably with complex carbohydrates). Maintain a balanced sleep regime as a relaxed mind supposedly is healthy and more productive than a tensed one. Experts advise about 7 to 9 hours of sleep a day.

Books, music and laughter: Keep the company of good and creative books which deal with the positive and healthy aspects of living. Many good books are available on the subject and getting one handy is an encouraging idea. Get hold of some of the comedy series or watch a comic show to give your lungs the blow they very much need. Laughter is said to be the best medicine (and without any side effects). Music is another very helpful aid. It can revitalize and energize you to assist you overcome your depression. Keep away from alcohol and smoking. Alcohol is supposed to be a depressant and can interrupt sound medication (if you are using any). Alcohol and tobacco can make you unhealthier.

There are varied ways to assist you in overcoming mild depression. At stages, medication may complement to enhance the working of self help tools. Experts can advise optimally. You can potentially overcome depression with a positive outlook and sustained efforts.

Alia Haley is a blogger who only trusts natural products and therapies when it comes to health and beauty. She believes that organic products work best for a healthy and clear skin.  Currently she is planning to write on silent birth and mental disorders.

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