Tag Archives: Stategies for effectively dealing with anxiety & depression

Posted on by

The following is a partial list for people interested in ways they can effectively deal with everyday anxiety and depression.  I would be interested in hearing from others as to how they deal with anxiety and depression.  I would in turn be open to publishing them on this blog for others to read.  Well here goes my beginning list:

1. Exercise– Regular exercise brings down anxiety & depression.  It reduces skeletal tension, improves concentration, improves digestion, aids weight loss, decreases cholesterol levels & increases self esteem.  Have a specific group of exercises, no matter how brief, and stick to it.  Making exercise part of your daily routine increases your chances of success.

2. Relaxation strategies– There are many relaxation strategies that can take you into a deep level of meditation, ie yoga, tai chi, meditation, mini breaks.  Remember to breath through your diaphragm and not through your lungs. Also when unwanted thoughts enter your mind, don’t fight them.  Allow them to come in and merely go back to focusing on your breathing.

3. Proper nutrition– What you eat affects how you feel.  Eating breakfast regularly is important. Avoid red meats. Focus on eating more fish, fruits and vegetables.  Be aware of what you crave the most and eat it sparingly and not after 8:00 pm in the evening.  Join a support group if need be, such as Weight Watchers.   Talk to your doctor about possibly taking  omega 3 fatty acids that are in fish, Vitamin B’s, Vitamin C and Calcium.

4. Proper medications– Can be a great supplement to other strategies. Partnering up with your doctor, bring someone with you, write down questions before hand, know that medication takes 4-6 weeks to kick in.

5. Enhancing self esteem– This means respecting, accepting and believing in yourself.   It means doing something everyday, no matter how small, that reinforces your worth.

6. Having a mission /purpose in life – What is your purpose in life?  What are you to accomplish before you die?  Having a mission or purpose in life can go a long way of sustaining you during the rough times.  Volunteer or give of yourself to others in need, no matter how small it may be.

Remember: “It is never too late to be what you might have been.” – George Eliot