Recommendations for Depression

Depression is a medical illness often characterized by feelings of overwhelming sadness, loss of interest in activities that once brought joy and trouble concentrating, sleeping and eating. According to the Mayo Clinic, "depression is one of the most common health conditions in the world" and can be linked to hormonal imbalances, genetics and environmental factors. Here are some recommendations to help depression sufferers take back their lives.

Proper Nutrition

• What you eat plays an important role in how you feel. Bananas, cilantro, eggs, green leafy vegetables and foods rich in complex carbohydrates, such as apples and brown rice, and omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and nuts, help produce and regulate minerals and amino acids essential for proper brain function. Some foods to avoid include those that contain a lot of sugar or artificial sweeteners and fish that contain a lot of mercury.

Staying Active

• According to the Mayo Clinic, activity and exercise reduce the symptoms of depression. Even light activity such as gardening, walking or swimming can be beneficial. Keeping a journal, scaling back obligations, getting enough sleep, meditating and socializing with other people are all important for controlling depression. Getting enough sunlight is also helpful, as it aids with circadian rhythms.

Drugs and Therapy

• Therapy and medication are often required for depression treatment, and it is important that sufferers regularly attend therapy sessions and take their medication as directed by their doctor. Learning about depression and working with doctors to determine what triggers symptoms and recognize warning signs can help sufferers feel more empowered and motivated. Alcohol and illegal drugs should be avoided because they can make depression worse.