Sunday, March 4, 2007

Curing Depression,... Finding Happiness

If you're depressed you've got to do something to cure it. Severe depression will likely require that you get some help from me or a psychiatrist (in the office). That is, if the depression is interfering in your life in a major way. Symptoms would likely include isolation, sadness, hopelessness and helplessness, pessimism, no enjoyment, no motivation, low energy, thinking at times that life is not worth living (thinking of doing something about that), staying in bed, crying spells. Sounds pretty bad, huh? It is. Even if you're just not happy, do something about it. Life is about being happy, after all. Exercise, socialize, practice positive and optimistic thinking, play, laugh, relax (more on managing stress later), develop a hobby, spend time in a loving relationship. Find your happiness. Easier said than done, you might say. And you'd be right, except it is worth it and it is possible. It requires breaking some old thinking and behavioral habits, and developing new ones. You may have to push yourself to get it done. But do it!
Some of you know about our recent vacation to Costa Rica. We learned a lot about this small ecologically-minded Central American country. In additon to a lot of beauty, they haven't had an army for many years. The money they would use to support armed forces they put towards education. CR has one of the highest literacy rates in the world! They also push the concept of Pura Vida (Pure Life). You're taught from a young age that life should be good. Let's develop that expectation for ourselves and our children. Pura Vida!

1 comment:

Michael Freels said...

Very interesting. Something for me to think about. Thanks!