Yes, I know I talk about Depression a lot. We should just turn the commentary section into the “Dan Whining” column. But it’s a legitimate issue, and a lot of people suffer from it. I’ve been struggling with it for years, and I’ve found some ways to stave off the icy waves of misery.
For one, exercise can be really helpful. I’ve had plenty of therapists and psychiatrists tell me that, while anti-depressants can be hard to work with and ineffective at times, exercise is a great way to regulate your body. It produces all sorts of chemicals like endorphins that will balance your moods and make you feel better.
Work up a good sweat with a twenty to thirty minute workout. Not only will this help with the chemical part of depression, but it’s good for getting rid of acne, burns off some of that extra weight, and gives you a nice body. Good self-esteem can be as good as an anti-depressant any day.
Pets are another way to alleviate the blues. Playing with dogs or cuddling with cats gives you that warm fuzzy feeling inside, and it’s no coincidence that people with pets tend to live longer and have lower rates of suicide.
Of course, Southwest Minnesota State University doesn’t allow pets on campus, but you can always visit a friend with one, or go somewhere in town. The BlueGreen flower shop also serves as a cat adoption center, so paying them a visit might be a good idea if you’re having a rough day.
Humans are pets too! Not really, but being around people has a similar effect. Large cities tend to have lower suicide rates because there are so many people. You say hi to the guy who gives you your coffee in the morning, pass people on the street, chat with the taxi driver.
Luckily, while SMSU isn’t crazy about pets, it does provide a great community for support. If you live in the dorms, there are always people around. So go play board games, watch a movie, or cook with them.
Then there’s food. It’s unclear if there are any foods that directly treat depression, but having a balanced diet can surely make you feel more stable. Lots of fruits and veggies, and protein. Fish is good, too, which is why people take fish oil pills for depression.
Sugar, on the other hand, might give you highs and lows, which isn’t preferable when you’re already low. So say no to that gallon of ice cream with your chick flick. That also ties in with the weight and acne issues.
Lastly, if your own convictions aren’t enough (and they rarely are), professional help is always a good idea. Although it can be pricey, therapy and anti-depressants together can do a lot.
One of the places for therapy in Marshall is Western Mental Health Center. But if money is too much of an issue, the school counselor is always an option.
One last tip. Just smile. You can actually trick your brain into being happy by smiling, because your body recognizes the gesture and starts releasing the appropriate happy chemicals. Just smile!
