Feeling like you are stuck in a rut or that your life is going nowhere is another part of stressful illnesses and this feeling can trigger depression. Doing the same routines day after day is not good for us, and while we need some security, too much can cause problems. Get out of your comfort zone and try something new. Start a course, a fitness program, try a new sport, learn to play a musical instrument, take an active vacation, or take up a new hobby. New experiences add to the pleasure you get from life and keep your spark alive.
Avoid treatments for stress, anxiety, and depression that don’t work, especially diets, nutritional supplements, and antidepressant medications. The foods you eat or don’t eat can’t cause or cure stress, depression, or anxiety. Medications are used to treat chemical imbalances, and as of yet, there is no scientific evidence anywhere that chemical imbalances cause stress, depression, or anxiety. One of the main causes of all of them lies in faulty mindsets and these can be addressed very effectively and will bring you more relief than food, supplements or drugs.
When you are experiencing a stressful, depressive, or anxious episode, you may feel that it is somehow your fault. By blaming yourself in this way, feelings of guilt arise and you feel even worse. But you are not to blame in any way, you did not suddenly decide to suffer from stress, depression or anxiety and I know you would get rid of them right now if you could! Stress, depression, and anxiety all have specific causes that are certainly not your fault. Never blame yourself and focus on treating the causes.
Burnout is a growing problem in our society. As if a full day of work wasn’t enough, many people return home and have to do even more work managing the family home, preparing meals, time for the kids, and a host of other attention-grabbing activities and people. So make “me time” a priority. Have at least a 20 minute break away from your work station where you can relax in peace. At home, schedule periods each day so you can rest and relax. These moments are very important for mental and physical health and will help relieve stress, depression and anxiety.
It has been said many times: what you focus on becomes your reality. It’s true and in life, little things can make a big difference. If you continually focus on problems, on the little things that annoy you, on the irritating habits that your loved ones have, and on all the inconveniences that we all experience in daily life, you will be unhappy. Instead, focus on the little things that make life worth living but that many of us take for granted: a sunrise, a smile, an act of kindness, a sky full of stars, a hug from your children, a kiss from your lover or support from your friends and family. We all have many wonderful things that we can focus on every day instead of looking forward to them without consideration and the more you focus on these little things, the happier you will feel.
Each of the above techniques will help you reduce stress and also improve your overall health. Use them every day and you will feel the stress melt away quickly.
