by George Ferrell

Created on: March 19, 2009

While depression is thought of as a psychological symptom, it also has other aspects, such as the tendency to be inactive and isolated from everyday life and family and friends.

When psychological problems occur, depression can cause withdrawal and inactivity that can add on to the severity of the condition.

And, individuals who are prescribed mental health medications sometimes believe taking the medication solves the problem. While medications may regulate symptoms, there could much more that can be helpful in regaining mental health and a healthy lifestyle.

Finding ways to be more active in everyday life could include walking, exercising, church or youth groups, attending sporting events, going to hear public speakers, nature walks and spending time with family.

Also, many individuals with mental health dilemmas, are often isolated from their families and friends. One possibility might be calling friends, each parent, brother, sister, uncle, aunt and other relative, once a week for a 10 minute conversation that could bring back old memories and provide contact with persons who could remember former days.

Trying to expand life into some areas that are interesting can be a rewarding experience, reading, church, sports, flower gardening, travel and art are just a few areas that might help develop a more enjoyable lifestyle. The idea would be to use activity as therapy to ease anxiety and allow for an outlet or "expression" in life.

At times when it is an economic necessity, individuals may need to improve their work status or expand their horizons for work opportunities including both basic labor and in any skilled areas. If employment is not gainful, then individuals can look to activities that are not expensive and within a basic budget.

Activity, finding an outlet, and family and friends can be the support system that individuals might design largely on their own to stay active and overcome depression.

Staying active and working to relate to the world around them could be two potential areas to work on beyond psychotherapy, medication and counseling.

Trying to relate to the world in a creative, thoughtful way can lead to insights and a better overall view of life. Depression can be part lifestyle, and finding ways to have a more positive outlook can really help.

Keep the glass half full, don't complain about your problems, think about the good points in life and the good side of people in the world you live in.

"There go I for the grace of thee," sums up the idea that individuals have to be responsible in their everyday life and remember the world is full of people that have many differences.

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