HOW TO DEAL WITH STRESS AND DEPRESSION

Stress is an unfortunate result of today's hectic lifestyle and many people suffer from it, but when it leads to depression, the situation can be more serious. Here are some tips on how to deal with stress and depression.

Tip #1. Try to be organised. Write lists daily of what you need to achieve and if possible put a timescale by each item. If you attack your daily tasks in a methodical way, you won't get so stressed out.

Tip #2. If you feel the stress building up and threatening to overwhelm you, take a minute to take some deep breaths, preferably sitting down. Breathe in deeply and out slowly. Repeat until you feel better.

Tip #3. Don't skip lunch. Take time to rest, relax and recharge your batteries with a healthy meal or snack.

Tip #4. One of the most effective ways how to deal with stress and depression is to take some exercise. Outdoors is best as you get the benefit of fresh air but in a gym or in your own home will do. Physical exertion releases endorphins in the brain which bring on a feeling of well-being. After twenty minutes, you'll feel as if you could take on anything or anyone.

Tip #5. Relax after work with a nice glass of wine but be very careful if you are taking any medication. If you can't or don't drink alcohol, herbal tea is a great relaxant.

Tip #6. At the end of the day, have a warm relaxing bath complete with soft music and scented candles. If you have difficulty sleeping, this will help tremendously. You might want to have a hot milky drink too.

Tip #7. If you aren't sleeping or you feel that your depression has gone beyond what you would reasonably expect from a stressed lifestyle, see your doctor. He may discover that you have an underlying medical condition which is causing your stress and depression and he may well prescribe anti-depressants or sleeping tablets.

Tip #8. If you know that there is a specific cause for your depression such as relationship problems or bereavement, then you need to talk to someone. You could try talking to a friend just to get it off your chest, but you should consider seeing a professional counsellor who will be able to get your problems into perspective.

Hopefully some of all of these tips how to deal with stress and depression will help you but don't be afraid to see a medical professional or counsellor.