Posts Tagged ‘Low Self Esteem’

Dealing with one of the many depression disorders can often bring forth another task which is hard to cope with. That extra issue just happens to be a weight problem, and can either be a loss or gain of weight. In the majority of people the issue is weight gain, but there are still those who deal with unexplained weight loss during this time.

No matter which of the two scenarios you’re personally dealing with, the first step recommended is to speak to your physician about your depression as well as any weight issues.
Here are some ideas on how to best approach this situation.

* Get help for the depression. Putting priority on depression treatment will make dealing with weight issues more successful in the long-run.

* Set small goals. Any task is difficult when you suffer from depression. Adjust your goals by making them smaller and they will become more achievable.

* Increase your physical activity. Many people have a difficult time getting themselves to exercise. For the depressed person, the task can be monumental. However, exercise and general activity helps alleviate depression and minimizing weight gain. However, it’s better to take things slow and manageable rather than quitting too soon out of frustration.

* Eat nutritiously. Your body can be your friend during tough times if it’s treated right. Eating colorful, nutritious foods will give the body what it needs to help fight the depression and prevent improper eating habits.

* Work on your self-esteem. As a rule, people with depressive disorders have either feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem. By working on these issues, it becomes easier to handle the necessary tasks of proper nutrition and exercise required to avoid weight issues in the first place.

* Ask your physician if your medication could be the culprit in your weight issues. Some antidepressants are known for causing weight gain.

While there are still many unknown elements about the relationship of weight issues and mental health, it’s evident that any connection is an important public health issue.

This is one of those topics that people give close attention. It is actually empowering. When you know the causes of an illness, you are more self-aware. The power is in your hands at that point to be proactive.

Depression is an illness that mostly results from an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters. The ones affected are associated with neural pathways that control mood.

There isn’t just one cause for depression. In fact, finding a cause can be rather complex in its nature. Many of the causes that scientists and doctors have come up with are still being tested. Start with this list and follow up with your doctor for more in-depth information.

1. Heredity – Like other conditions such as alcoholism, you are at a greater risk if someone in your family also has the condition. Those with family members suffering from depression or who have succumbed to a depressive symptom (suicide) are more likely to develop depression according to the experts. They have not identified which types of depression that includes as yet.
2. Illness – There seems to be a correlation between illness and depression. This refers to prolonged illness like cancer, HIV/AIDS, diabetes and heart disease. If you already have been exhibiting symptoms of depression before these illnesses your risk is greater.
3. Personality type – People who exhibit low self-esteem, poor body image, inability to handle stress, feelings of isolation and negative thinking are more likely to become depressed.
4. Nutritional deficiencies – What you eat is important. When your diet lacks vitamins and minerals instrumental in brain health, depression could become a reality in your future.
5. Medications – Some medications may have side effects that can lead you to depression. If you’ve ever read the list on the bottle, prolonged use of some can increase depressive symptoms.

Are you concerned that something in your life may be a cause for depression? You won’t know for sure unless you see a professional.