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By Sintilia Miecevole
There seem to be so many people who are depressed that we
really should take a look at the causes of depression in the
first place. The factors that contribute to depression are
well-known, and well-researched, but what causes it is not
quite understood. New studies have uncovered some of the
factors that contribute to the probability of people
developing
depression.
Stress
Stress takes the first place prize. It's true that any
stressful environment or situation can lead to depression. It
can be anything such as social stress, getting a job,
relationship difficulties, worrying about money, staying up
late, lifestyle out of control, pressures of school and
getting
good grades. Other events that could cause depression are:
death, change of job, moving from one place to another; even
the fear of the unknown can cause depression. The list is
endless. While these events cannot be avoided, we must come up
with an effective stress coping mechanism to be able to thrive
even in stressful situations because they are never going to
go
away. Stressful situations just keep changing.
Drinking and Drugs
People who take drugs and alcohol are more prone to
depression.
When these substances are used at a young age, they can effect
a
a person's brain in negative ways. These substances help make
the person feel good temporarily, but in most cases, people
become addicted.
Drugs release dopamine in the pleasure center of the brain.
For
example: delicious food boosts dopamine release by about 50
percent. Sex, on the other hand, doubles this number. However,
drugs can increase dopamine release anywhere from four to ten
times. This unnatural high almost certainly leads to
depression
after the high goes away. This substance is the surest way to
fry brain circuitry.
Drugs make a person depressed more than it makes him happy.
This effect will spiral downward until the person doing drugs
will want more and more of the substance to break the cycle of
depression that follows each high and so the addiction is
born.
Not Enough sleep
Studies show that up to 40 percent of adults do not get the
proper amount of sleep per day and among students, up to 71
percent complain of sleep disorders and lack of sleep.
Sleep is essential to a person's health. During sleep, the
body
repairs itself and reorganizes thought. Lack of sleep
contributes to a lack of coherence in brain waves. This
scenario often leads to depression. Sleeping during the day
and
staying up late also interferes with the body's natural
rhythms.
This can lead to a sense of depression.
Here are few ways on how to prevent depression.
Sleep is a vital part of preventing depression. Balance your
life with enough rest and exercise everyday. Most people
require seven to eight hours of sleep per day.
Keep some regularity in your life. Orgaize your activities so
they can come at expected and regular times. If your weekly,
daily or monthly routine is set then your body has time to get
used to the activities. This will lead to a reduced chance for
depression to set in.
Don't push yourself beyond your limits. Keep stress in check
and try to avoid stressors if you can. If this can't be done,
then try to deal with the stressors in a manner that minimizes
the damage it causes.
Sunlight and exercise can help the brain to function a higher
level. Make time to enjoy the sunlight and try to stay active
in the daylight when possible.
Keep away from alcohol and drugs. They may seem attractive,
but
all they really do is cause havoc in a person's life.
Make at least one warm meal daily a priority. Good eating
habits and good health are important when keeping away from
depression.
Have fun every day. Nothing takes the load off of depression
like some good old fun time. Social activities such as
chatting, joining a support group sports, and other hobbies
can
do wonders towards healing a stressed out and busy mind.
Depression can be avoided and treated and it can be fun doing
so. Follow the above mentioned tips for a brighter and happier
disposition each day. You will look and feel better for it!
About The Author: Sintilia Miecevole, Administrator of
www.depressiongla.com provides comprehensive
information
or resources from depression, cause of depression, help and
information to treatment and more. Be sure to visit
www.depressiongla.com for further information.
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