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;void(0)) As we approach the Winter months we have to be aware of the fact that it is also the flu season. We need to make sure that we dress right, eat right, and take all necessary precautions to avoid coming into contact with those elements that would cause us major illness. This year we have to be very careful that we avoid the notorious Bird flu epidemic. At the same time we have to be aware of the fact that the shorter periods of daylight and our tendency to be less active also may make some of us more likely to isolate and set the tone for mild to major forms of depression. Most forms of depression come in the form of lack of interest in people; things or activities; loss of initiative; feelings of inferiority; and feelings of unworthiness and hopelessness. Although the shorter periods of daylight are not direct causes of depression it can be one of many factors that can activate the dis-ease in some people. We all have happy days and unhappy days. When our days do not go well we tend to get discouraged, dejected or disillusioned. For people who suffer with chronic depression, tension and anxiety are expressed in the form of dejection, somatic (or physical) disturbance and repetitive complaints of feeling inferior and worthless. Guilt plays a prominent role in the depressive episodes. There are generally three precipitating factors that bring on mild or reactive depression in some people: 1.) loss of love or emotional support; (2.) personal or economic stressors; (3.) new responsibilities. The onset may be sudden or it may be gradual. During the period of incubation, we find many familiar products of rising tension and anxiety. There are complaints of of headaches and backaches, of diffuse aches and pains in the legs, of chronic fatigue and poor sleep. There may be changes in appetite; in gastrointestinal functioning; and sexual disturbances. Often there are angry outbursts, periods of bitter sulking, gloomy daydreams and even nightmares. Suicidal fantasies are nearly always a part of the depressive picture. Many of these symptoms are very subtle and hard to detect. Often people start taking myriad pills to alleviate some of the physiological symptoms. Others may turn to mood altering drugs in a frantic search for pleasure. As discussed in the previous columns on psychosomatics, some of these physiological maladies may in fact be genuine, however, it is important that we be aware of psychological factors that may be at work in this process. Next month we will begin to explore some of the ways that you can help your friend or loved one if you suspect that they may be suffering with mild depression. We will also discuss one of many self-help “brief therapy” solutions if you think that you may have one or more symptoms of depression.  Newsletter Directory The Aton Project - Home Page Tony VanSluytman info Tony VanSluytman - the Author | Return Home | The BOOK DOCTOR | The BANYON NETWORK | The Banyon Buzz Newsletters | The Aton Project Newsletters | Contact Us | |
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