Besides taking medications, how do you deal with depression/anxiety?

Answer 1

I too suffered a bout of anxiety and depression, and i can recommend to you what worked for me.
1. Talking to a health professional and/ or people you trust on a regular basis, about all issues, It dosn't matter how small or big the issue. Sometimes just saying whats on your mind and getting it out is enough for the issue to be minimised!

2. I swear by Exercise. And i understand if this may not be your thing atm, it wasn't mine either. When I was suffering anxiety & depression I started daily walking, then eventually joined the gym. I hate missing a gym session now, because the way it makes me feel. During and well after a session I feel motivated and in control in all areas of life, comfortable and confident in my own skin and healthy. Exercise produces and activates bodily endorphines - that can be described as happy

3. Food & drink also plays a role in how you feel. Eating a balance diet plentiful of fruit, vege, salad, and lean protein. I have always enjoyed an alcoholic bevie and coffee - however try to restrict your consumption of these. I did so by having them as treats, only on weekend & when socialising. Alcohol is a depressant, and Coffee is a stimulator that can provoke symptoms of anxiety.

Over time as these rules became a part of my LIFESTYLE
not just RULES, my focus shifted from internal worries
to feelinggood and healthy and confident. Therefore I became open to opportunities such as more family & friends social gatherings, relationships & dating, change and progress in job, study etc.
Its been 2 years and I feel great and in control of my life, I wish you all the best and feel confident you will feel the same if you embrace these techniques.
All the best!

Answer 2

Depends... depression and anxiety are complicated issues, and it may well be a chemical imbalance that would benefit from medication. If a person has Bipolar disorder they will definitely benefit from medication, and this cannot be cured by behavior changes or therapy alone. There are a few things you can do for both depression and anxiety, and those would be diet and excercise. Eliminate sugar, and eat regular balance meals and drink plenty of water. Other than that... do not isolate yourself socially. Spend time with friends and family. Get some counseling. Is the depression brought on by a specific event? How often? What triggers it? Anything? How long does it last? Is it followed by episodes of anxiety or other high mood? It's a really difficult question to answer without more information. But one thing is for sure... depression and anxiety should be taken seriously!

Answer 3

The idea that they are confidential is valid. You can choose not to let them see the records and they can choose to deny you enlistment. When you join you usually sign a release of information form that allows the Army to get your medical records if necessary. For depression with meds, you would need a waiver and there is usually a one year wait after getting off of the medication. In some cases, it may be nonwaivable (especially if your records said you was suicidal). Hide it at your own risk. You probably won't get caught if you get a job that doesn't require a clearance but if you need a Top Secret or even a Secret then they will probably find it and discharge you for fraudulent enlistment.

Answer 4

I try to keep a positive approach to lifes little challenges. I've found that exercise also really helps with depression/anxiety. When I get out of my house atleast once a day, I try to treat myself for doing a good thing--a latte or something.

Answer 5

The best way to deal with these is to see a therapist. It doesnt make you crazy, it makes you responsible and brave. You will want to look for someone with credintials like a licensed psychologist, LPC, or LMSW. All of these people are highly trained, and can help you with your depression/anxiety.

Answer 6

Gestalt therapy groups, somatic experiencing, individual therapy, using positive coping skills (good self-talk, etc), EMDR, herbal remedies, massage, exercise, healthy diet, sticking to a routine/schedule, support groups, having fun, finding a creative outlet, spending time with happy people, writing a gratitude list, prayer and meditation....

Hope some of these help.

Answer 7

I have read some litterature about panic attacks. But they allways seem to have a more scientific approach and that is nothing I need in my struggle to survive those horrible panic attacks. This is a "hand on" and very practical book. I felt it was written to me. I am sure that you are going to feel the same.

Joe Barry writes exactly how I think. The examples are perfectly described. And the method is genius. I recommend this book and thanks Joe Barry for writing it. It changes your life

Answer 8

i had a bout with anxiety and depression and i find the best way to deal with it is by talking to someone about whats on your mind.take things into perspective and slow them down. deal with one thing at a time and as slow as you think you need to.hence, one day at a time, or one hour or one minute

Answer 9

talk therapy. studies have shown that talk therapy can change brain chemical levels the same way medication can. therefore, combining the two is the best bet. also, meditation is a great way to help anxiety.

Answer 10

talk therapy as well as exercise relay works well espousal something like biking or walking. anything that is repetitive helps calm a person down and relieves the depression. Meditation and volunteer work also works well...and of course take your melds!!