Untreated depression is indeed dangerous. Depression
can create all kinds of havoc on your whole being by throwing the stress
response system out of whack. Some of the common areas impacted include: the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis,
diabetes and cancer. Stress can impact
normal immune function which then excerbates anxiety, stress and /or
depression. Difficult relationships, parenting and work issues all contribute to
this situation.
This
blog contains what I suggest as a way to become healthy and remain that
way. These are ways to get and maintain
a healthy lifestyle and wellbeing:
- Get a yearly physical exam. Depression and anxiety can be related to thyroid and other issues
- Exercise: it relieves stress, raises endorphin levels. It’s even better if you get outside in natural light to exercise!
• Journaling:
research shows it increases hopefulness,
releases
stress, and calms the brain.
• Regular
Sleep: essential to mood stability and a healthy
immune system.
• A
good social or family support system increases longevity and raises immune
system function
• Professional
Therapy: coming for a session BEFORE
symptoms are out of hand with regular checkups
Now
maybe you are thinking, well, if I could MAKE myself do all of these things,
I’d be fine! What you may not realize is that a mental health provider is
trained, licensed and qualified to be a resource to help you do these
things. A therapist can be your encourager, your supporter, and your guide in
prioritizing and planning your best, healthiest life.
Therapy
helps uncover the roadblocks to your success that exist outside of your
awareness. Together we can gently uncover and examine self-defeating beliefs
without shame or judgment. When “the truth sets you free,” you are then able to
move forward and possibly see new levels of well being.
