Introduction
Depression is the most frequently diagnosed mental illness. It is a disorder that is accompanied by a depressed mood, lack of drive and a downright joylessness or numbness. It is estimated that 10 to 25% of the population experience such a depressive phase once in their life.
This should at best be recognised by the patient himself, otherwise by relatives, friends or a treating doctor. The cause of depression has not yet been fully clarified, although there are various theses on the subject. Basically, the disease causes a lack of neuronal messenger substances in the brain, which depresses the mood of the affected person and makes him or her feel unstable.
Most depressions have a trigger. It does not have to be a tragic event, sometimes small irritations are enough to make the mood change. Often stress is also the cause – whether at work, in a relationship or through unfulfilled expectations.
If this emotional state of stress lasts for a long time, depression can gradually develop. It is important to note that depression is in most cases a progressive process that should be interrupted as soon as possible. A very pronounced form is not only difficult to cure, but in many patients it returns after some time, placing additional stress on them and restricting their lives.
Ideally the development should be prevented. There are many different ways to relieve the own psyche and reduce emotional stress. Everyone can thus prevent depression.
Conduct
Probably the biggest role in preventing depression is played by one’s own behaviour. It determines the structure of the day, how we deal with work and leisure, stress and relaxation. The wrong way of dealing with various stress situations leads to a multitude of events which can lead to depression.
Situations that cause emotional stress cannot always be prevented or avoided. The creation of possibilities with which such situations can be overcome is a priority in dealing with them. Personal hobbies or activities that are enjoyable should be pursued regularly in order to experience something positive in everyday life and to reward oneself for the work done.
After successes (even if they are small, they should be recognized as such) this can also be done through other individual ways. Recognizing personal strengths is also an important point in balancing negative aspects of life. People suffering from depression often lose the ability to recognise positive achievements as such and only see their own weaknesses and deficits.
Healthy people should also be aware of these in order to be able to work on them. Regenerative relaxation phases should be planned into the daily routine. Relaxation and regeneration are important for the psyche and have a direct effect on dealing with stressful life events and on the current mood. Of course, sufficient and restful sleep is therefore a simple means to prevent depression. This could also be interesting for you: How can you overcome depression?
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