Quote:
Originally Posted by Puppet Guy
I have to weigh in on this:
Exercise is absolutely essential for depressives - mainly because of the effect on serotinin levels, also because the repetition of exercise and the mental focus required simply takes you (temporarily, at least) away from the trigger issues. In a strange way, not dwelling on your problems can help you solve them. My own bouts are less severe when I have my regular gym time, and I'm a wreck without them. Social activities don't help me, but that's because I'm a hermit by nature.
I don't agree with this. The severity of my depression is pretty mild and I'm on a small dose (40 mls/day), but each time I've tried to get off my meds it's been disastrous. Exercise combined with medication is (I think) the most effective treatment.
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Puppet Guy, I'm in a very similar situation as you are. I am on a very low dose, but if I miss it can make me have a terrible day. I find exercise is very essential, whether it's a work-out or just doing something physical like construction. Hang in there!
As for the neigh-sayers. My uncle committed suicide, my other uncle is in a mental home, my brother-in law is in a mental home, my Dad has depression and I suffer from it too. So mental illness is very real, it's a serious problem that requires professional and medical help. IMO, everyone is different and requires different therapies. It's not something that simply can be cured overnight.