An alarming number of adults are reported to experience anxiety disorders in the U.S. alone, and many of them are also diagnosed with depression. While depression sounds like something minor and can be dismissed, it’s an actual condition that has serious implications to the health and well-being of the affected person. Here are six things that can cause it, and what you can do to remedy the condition.
Inadequate Sleep
As virtuous as it may feel, pulling all-nighters to finish up on school homework or work projects is not a very smart decision, health-wise. Not only does this prevent your body and mind from healing itself, but it can also cause a myriad of conditions to develop, one of which is depression. Usually, people with depression report having trouble falling or staying asleep. However, oversleeping can also indicate a depressive tendency. Being mindful of your sleep schedule is a simple but effective way to control the problem.
Negative Mentality
Having the wrong attitude towards life and day-to-day events that unfold can also trigger a state of depression. The more you allow your negative thoughts and feelings to dwell and consume you, the worse the condition becomes. As a result, you end up achieving less and failing to take advantage of opportunities, and the vicious cycle continues on until you hit rock bottom. To begin correcting this problem, stop telling yourself that you can’t do it.
Stress
Stress is normal, but prolonged exposure to high levels of stress can definitely cause damage to your body and mind. Chronic stress causes a surge in hormones, like cortisol, and a consequent drop in serotonin and other chemicals in the brain, according to WebMD. Certain stress techniques, like yoga and breathing exercises, have been found to improve the body’s ability to cope with stress, which ultimately lowers the risk of depression.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Being glued to your couch or computer desk for hours on end is a fun way to spend your weekends. Some people, however, take it too far and are sedentary every waking hour. Staying active may be able to help prevent and manage depression. This is because exercising stimulates a release of endorphins in the body, which is a chemical that triggers a feel-good sensation and numbs your mind of any pain. Of course, too much activity can also induce stress, and so maintaining a balanced exercise program with rest intervals is essential.
Lack of Sunlight
Sunlight or lack thereof can affect your daily mood. Sunlight aids in regulation of brain chemicals, particularly serotonin and melatonin. People who do not go outside during daylight or lives in an area where sunlight is often blocked by clouds may suffer from clinical depression.
Self-esteem Issues
People who lack confidence often feel more anxious and depressed about themselves or certain situations. If you have low self-esteem, consider where it is stemming from and make an effort to fix it. For example, if you are worried about certain physical aspects like acne scars or breast size. If you don’t feel confident in group settings, consider seeing a counselor. Being able to feel confident and positive can go a long way in beating depressions.
If you or someone you know is feeling depressed, don’t just discard it as a bad day. Use the tips above to remedy the condition before it worsens. Be sure to work with medical professionals to help you find the best solution for your individual needs.
