Depression is much more than just feeling down. It’s a debilitating and horrible place to be. It can be a very dark and lonely place with feelings of hopelessness and thoughts of not wanting to continue. Too many people suffer in silence.

While nearly all of us will feel sad, moody, or down at times, people who are depressed have these feelings more intensely and for longer periods of time, sometimes even years. People who are depressed find it hard to function on a day to day basis. It’s as if the enjoyment has been sucked out of their life, something as simple as getting out of bed can become a major struggle.

Depression is one of the most prevalent mental illnesses we have today, it has been estimated that one in four people will experience depression at some stage in their life.

Stress, anxiety and depression whether we like it or not are part of our lives. It is a sign of strength to get help if you need it. Don’t be afraid to talk to your loved ones about these issues, be there for each other, and get help if needed. Don’t let yourself or someone you love become a statistic.

There is always someone available 24 hours a day, if family, friends, colleagues or your wellness consultant are not available please call Beyond Blue (see link below) or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

We all deserve a rich an meaningful life.
Deb

http://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/national-help-lines-and-websites

Following on from last week’s perspective of stress is anxiety.

Anxiety is about having feelings of stress after the event has passed. This constant feeling of being stressed, even though we are no longer in that situation can lead to feelings of apprehension, uneasiness and of being overwhelmed. This stress is often worse when you’re placed in a similar situation or have the fear of being placed in that situation again.

An example is you have a nasty situation as work with a colleague or your boss. You continually worry over the situation, until you become anxious when you have to interact with that person, or even think of having to deal with them.

Ongoing feelings of stress are classed as anxiety. The feeling can be a daily occurrence or one that pops up for no apparent reason. When anxiety interferes with daily activities you may have an anxiety disorder such as panic attacks, generalised anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder or even PTSD.

Anxiety is a reaction to a stressful situation.

If you suffer from anxiety, please seek help. Learning some simple techniques or undergoing a few sessions of hypnotherapy early on can work wonders.

Be the positive change in your life.
Deb