10 Bad Habits That Can Cause Depression
Dr. Stephen Ilardi, author of "The Depression Cure," has identified several things that can make depression worse.
Depression is a serious medical condition and should be treated by a doctor or licensed therapist.
Trap 1: Being a Couch Potato
For an "antidepressant dose" of exercise, try at least 40 minutes of brisk walking or other aerobic activity three times a week.
Trap 2: Not Eating "Brain Food"
Trap 3: Avoiding Sunlight
During the short, cold, cloudy days of winter, an artificial light box can substitute effectively for missing sunlight. In fact, 30 minutes in front of a bright light box each day can help drive away the winter blues.
Trap 4: Not Getting Enough Vitamin D
Trap 5: Having Poor Sleep Habits
Use the bed only for sleep and sex - not for watching TV, reading, or using a laptop. Turn in for bed and get up at the same time each day. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants after midday. Finally, turn off all overhead lights
Trap 6: Avoiding Friends and Family
Trap 7: Mulling Things Over
How can you avoid rumination? Redirect attention away from your thoughts and toward interaction with others, or shift your focus to an absorbing activity. Alternatively, spend 10 minutes writing down the troubling thoughts, as a prelude to walking away from them.
Trap 8: Running with the Wrong Crowd
Trap 9: Eating Sugar and Simple Carbs
In contrast, colorful fruits and veggies are chockablock with natural antioxidants. Eating them can protect the body's omega-3s, providing yet another nice antidepressant boost.
Trap 10: Failing to Get Help
Dr. Stephen Ilardi, is author of "The Depression Cure,"