Stress and Depression

Studies show that higher levels of cortisol increase risk for depression. Chronic increased stress or high cortisol levels can be very harmful to a person in many different ways. It is not just a mental health concern, although for a long time most in the mental health field have known this. Increased stress levels, especially over long periods of time, impact a person’s physiology and can also increase the negative aspects of physiological aging such as memory and other intellectual difficulties.

What are ways to decrease the negative impact of stress?

Physical Activity
1. Running
2. Swimming
3. Biking
4. Walking
5. Gardening
6. Dancing
Nutrition
1. Avoid Processed Foods
2. Avoid Tea, Coffee, and Energy Drinks (Caffeine)
3. Avoid Alcohol
4. Avoid the Simple Sugars and Starches (chips, cakes and ice cream)
5. Eat Leafy Green Vegetables (Complex Carbohydrates)
6. Eat Fruits and High Fiber Foods (Complex Carbohydrates)
7. Increase Vitamin C
8. Be Sure You Are Getting The Correct Amount of Magnesium and Vitamin D in Your Diet
9. Be Sure You Are Getting The Correct Amount of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
10. Be Sure You Are Getting The Correct Amount of Water
11. Healthy Comfort Foods
  - Dark Chocolate
  - Oatmeal
  Herbal Supplements and Teas
  - Chamomile
  - Mint
  - Barley tea
  - Passion flower
  - Valerian root
Rest
Pay Attention to Your Thoughts and Feelings
Develop Appropriate Supports
Use Adequate Boundaries With People Who Increase Stress In Your Environment
Consider Other Natural Solutions That Have Been Successful Throughout History
1. Essential Oils
2. Massage
3. Prayer
4. Wise Counsel
5. Journaling
6. Soothing Music
7. Light Exposure/Sun Exposure
8. Walking Barefoot In The Grass