When we think of fibromyalgia syndrome, we think pain and fatigue, which are two of the most recognized symptoms. However, people suffering with it will tell you that the disease doesn't just stop there. there are dozens and dozens of seemingly unrelated symptoms including sleep disorders; irritable bowel syndrome; sensitivity to bright lights, changes in temperature, medication intolerance, food allergies, cognitive difficulties, anxiety, and perhaps most dangerous of all the symptoms. depression. Fibromyalgia depression left untreated has been known to lead a sufferer down a path of self-destruction, resulting in suicide in severe cases. A Depression Self-test can be used to determine the severity of symptoms.

Some researchers theorize that depression in fibromyalgia sufferers is the result of abnormalities in the sufferer's brain chemistry. others are studying the sympathetic nervous system. but whatever the cause, depression affects every aspect of a fibromyalgia sufferer's life seems to intensify the body's response to pain, as seen on MRI's and in clinical tests.

The Depression Self-test below, when shared with your physician, can also help to determine the level and type of treatment needed to provide relief of your depression symptoms. Medication with anti-depressants is the usual treatment prescribed by doctors treating depression. which may be helpful to patients who can tolerate the Selective Serotonin Re-Uptake Inhibitors(SSRI's) and tricyclic drugs that are commonly prescribed. but drugs are not enough for many people, especially those with major or clinical depression which occurs in about 3 out of every 10 fibromyalgia patients. Understanding and supportive family and friends, as well as support groups, can be crucial for an individual dealing with depression, especially when the symptoms are severe.

Are You Suffering With Fibromyalgia? Take This Depression Self-Test

Not every fibromyalgia sufferer will experience the same symptoms of depression, but you may recognize some of the symptoms on the Depression Self-test. Be honest. Have you been experiencing any of these?

• A sense of worthlessness or despair
• Decreased energy level
• Change in weight, loss or gain
• Loss of interest / enjoyment of favorite activities
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt or agitation
• Persistent sadness or anxious mood
• Uncontrollable tearfulness
• Suicidal thoughts, or attempted suicide

If you answered yes to the question about your experiences on the Depression Self-test, and you are not currently under treatment by your physician. you need to meet with him or her and discuss how you've been feeling. Treatment options with SSRI's and tricyclic medications can have some undesirable side-effects and aren't for everyone. there is a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals which may work for you. ask you doctor about it. it's called 5-HTP(5-Hydroxytryptophan). (The FDA has an advisory out regarding anti-depressants and their side-effects. therefore, be sure to have your physician monitor you when beginning treatment or changing dosages.)

Now, you probably noticed that the list of symptoms on the Depression Self-test are broad in scope. You may not have all of them, but having fibromyalgia, you probably have at least one or two. Severe or clinical depression symptoms would also include symptoms that last for weeks at a time. Chronic depression (dysthymia) is an ongoing condition although the symptoms and feelings of the sufferer, may fluctuate. if you're unsure about your fibromyalgia depression symptoms, keep a written diary of symptoms from the Depression Self-test, and add anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or negative. Remember. there is also a link between your depression and the intensity of your pain and other fibromyalgia symptoms.

It is important that you openly discuss your condition and your notes from the Depression Self-test, with your doctor. However, as a fibromyalgia survivor myself, I can tell you that medications alone won't do the trick. Fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disease which means that your own immune system is attacking and damaging your body at the cellular level. You can fight back by rebuilding your body faster than your disease can tear it down. I have discovered a safe, natural nutrition program that can help you overcome fibromyalgia symptoms and the depression that comes with it. for more information on the natural treatment of fibromyalgia, contact me now by clicking on one of the links below.

http://www.overcomefibro.com/fibro-depression-self-test.html

Take This Depression Self-Test What Fibromyalgia Sufferers Need to Know

1. Is depression a mental illness?

Depression is a serious, but treatable, mental problem, not a personal weakness. It is very common, affecting 10 percent of the U.S. population at anytime. All of us can relate to having the blues. Clinical depression, also called major depressive disorder , is a more serious medical illness that needs professional diagnosis and treatment.

2. do children get depression?

Children are subject to the same factors that cause depression in adults. These factors are changes in physical health, life events, heredity, environment and chemical disturbances in the brain. one amazing statistic is that it is estimated that 2.5 percent of children in the U.S. suffer from depression .

Children who are depressed experience changes in their behavior that are disruptive to their normal lifestyles, thus causing trouble with relationships with friends, schoolwork, special interests, and family life. This may be misdiagnosed by ADD and OPED.

3. can lack of sleep cause depression?

No. Lack of sleep alone cannot cause depression, but it can definitely make the depression worse. The ongoing inability to sleep also is an important clue that someone may be depressed.

4. are there any alternatives to the traditional treatments for depression?

The definition of alternative methods is any treatment or technique that has not been scientifically documented or identified as safe or effective for a specific condition. Alternative therapy comes in many varieties. Included are everything from diet , exercise, mental conditioning and lifestyle changes. some of these have been effective for treating depression.

Examples of alternative therapies include acupuncture, guided imagery, chiropractic, yoga, hypnosis, biofeedback, aromatherapy, relaxation, herbal remedies, light therapy, massage and many others.

5. How can you determine if an illness is causing depression or depression is causing an illness?

Illnesses that can lead to depression are major and chronic, there often is long-term pain or a sudden change of your way of life i.e. being able to take care of yourself. Depression causes illness in a different way. It can weaken the immune system limiting your bodies ability to fight against colds, flu and infection. This may cause an illness to last longer and intensify its symptoms.

6. I've heard lots of warnings about drug interactions with certain depression medicines. what are they?

MAOIs, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, are effective antidepressant medicines that have been used for years. normally prescribed for people with severe depression, MAOIs improve mood by increasing the number of chemicals in the brain that pass messages between brain cells. MAOIs have been proven to work just as well as other antidepressant drugs, but they have more possible food and drug interactions.

Medicines to avoid when taking MAOIs include Prozac and Paxil and certain pain medicines including Demerol. There also are some cough medicines and blood pressure medicines that must not be taken.

Foods to avoid when taking MAOIs include aged cheeses and meats, avocado, pickled or smoked foods like sauerkraut or meat, and foods that include yeast extracts like beer and wine.

7. Why are women more likely to get depression?

Women develop depression twice as often as men. one reason may be the various changes in hormone levels that women experience. Depression is common premenstrual syndrome (PMS), during pregnancy and menopause, after giving birth, suffering a miscarriage, or having a hysterectomy. These are all times when women experience huge fluctuations in hormones.

8. do most people with depression commit suicide?

Most people who suffer from depression do not attempt suicide. according to the National Mental Health Association, 30 percent to 70 percent of suicide victims have suffered from some form of depression. These very strong statistics point to how very important it is to seek professional treatment for yourself or someone you love if you suspect depression. Depression is very serious. It is something that should be closely monitored. It is typical for a person suffering from depression to think he is feeling better to think he is cured. This can lead to very serious consequences.

9. will someone who has had depression get it again?

Having experienced depression does put a person at greater risk for future episodes, but not everyone who has recovered from depression will experience it again. Sometimes depression is triggered by a major life event or illness or a combination of things particular to a certain place and time. Getting the proper treatment for the correct amount of time is crucial. Don't listen to your head it is your worst enemy.

10. How long does depression last?

Various types of depressive disorders can last for years. A major depressive episode is a set of symptoms that last for more than two weeks and may last for months. Seasonal depression, or SAD, usually extends throughout the winter months and continues to improve during spring and summer. This form of depression is helped with light therapy in which I will go into in depth in the up coming series.

Bipolar disorder is characterized as ups (periods of mania) and downs (periods of extreme depression). although these phases may change rapidly or slowly, bipolar depression may last until an effective treatment is found. what that means in a nutshell is everyone I know suffering with Bipolar disorder is on medication for the rest of their life trying to cope with this disease.

This means always monitoring the results of the combination of medications you are taking because you build up an immunity to them. This means taking a new medication suggested by your doctor. A doctor once explained it to me if you had diabetes or a heart condition would you take your medication everyday?-- yes Well you are in the same boat. You are suffering from a chemical imbalance and you need to take your medication or you may slip into a depression that me or medical science can not bring you back from. we would lose you and you would lose any concept with reality.

Depression - The 10 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Depression

Many people who are diagnosed with diabetes are overwhelmed with an onslaught of new information, medications, doctor visits and a feeling of helplessness. Diabetes can be frightening, particularly for anyone who is not familiar with the disease. We read about complications and insulin and medication and feel hopeless.

Many diabetics experience a period of denial when first diagnosed with diabetes. they refuse to believe there is anything wrong with them. While they remain in denial, the condition worsens. This can often lead to depression. Depression and diabetes often go hand in hand. According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes have a greater risk for developing depression than other individuals.

The stress of management of diabetes can take a toll on an individual. There are new medications to take, blood sugar must be monitored frequently and a record kept for your doctor. There are frequent doctor visits and there may be several different medication combinations needed before your blood sugar is kept under control.

On top of that, people who have diabetes are often faced with sudden lifestyle changes. Foods that they once enjoyed are now taboo. An exercise regime is often recommended, which can be good for depression, but people with depression often have little energy to begin an exercise regime. As the depression continues, people often lose interest in monitoring their blood sugar levels and may even skip their medication.

Symptoms of depression include a loss of pleasure in every day activities you used to enjoy as well as a change in appetite. you may have trouble concentrating and have trouble sleeping. or you may even sleep too much. Many people suffer from depression, but for a diabetic, it can be life threatening. Depression and diabetes is a dangerous combination.

People who are diagnosed with diabetes can empower themselves by learning as much about the disease as possible from the beginning. This can alleviate the feeling of helplessness that often accompanies the diagnoses. ask your physician questions. Do research. find out how you can help manage you disease.

If you feel you are suffering from some of the signs of depression, ask your doctor to recommend a therapist who is familiar in dealing with people with chronic illness. Therapy can be crucial for a diabetic patient who feels isolated because of all of the extra work involved in treating their illness. Do not be afraid to discuss your illness with family and friends. Diabetes is a nothing to be ashamed of, it is a disease that affects millions of people.

If at all possible, join a support group for others who also have diabetes. here you can not only find kindred spirits who are experiencing some of the same fears as yourself, but you can also learn new information.

Any time someone is diagnosed with an illness puts them at risk for depression. Their world has changed and no longer feels safe. Worse of all, they feel out of control. if you are diagnosed with diabetes, take back the control and learn how to manage your disease. By empowering yourself, you will not only be able to effectively manage your diabetes, you will eliminate the depression.

Depression And Diabetes

About 21 million people suffer from depression. Depression affects the way one feels about themselves. It involves the body, mood and thoughts. if a person is depressed it can affect the way they sleep and eat. Having depression is not the same as feeling blue temporarily. Despite of what some people think it is not a sign of weakness either. if a person with depression doesn't get any treatment then it can last for weeks, months or even years. Treatment can help most people overcome depression.

There are different types of depression. the three most common types are major depression, dysthymia and bipolar disorder. Major depression is a combination of symptoms. Having major depression will affect your everyday life such as working, sleeping and eating. Dysthymia is a less severe form of depression. It involve long-term chromic symptoms, however they are not disabling like major depression. It will keep them from feeling good. People with dysthymia can suffer from an episode of major depression.

Bipolar disorder is sometimes called manic-depressive disorder. Bipolar is characterized by cycling mood changes. Severe highs are called mania or manic. And lows are depression. Sometimes the cycle changes are dramatic and rapid. Most of the time the cycle is gradual. When in the depression cycle, a person can get most symptoms of major depression. When they cycle to mania, they will often have lots of energy, be very talkative and overactive. Mania can affect judgment and social behavior. this may cause serious problems and lead to embarrassment. if the mania is untreated it can worsen to a psychotic state.

Depression can be inherited. It often runs in families. the question is, is it inherited genetically or learned behavior. Depression can occur in somebody who has no family. Bipolar studies have shown that families, whose members of each generation develop bipolar, that those with illness have a different genetic makeup than those who do not become ill with the disorder. Whether the depression disorder is inherited or not, depression is associated with the changes in the brain structure and or brain function.

Women have been known to experience depression more often that men. for women many hormonal factors contribute to the higher rate of depression. Especially during menstrual cycle changes, pregnancy, post partum and menopause. Also environmental stress factors such as single parenthood, caring for children and aging parents.

Men are less likely to develop depression, however men are more likely to deny that they are depressed and unfortunately doctors are less likely to suspect it. the rate of suicide is higher in men, but more women attempt suicide. the rate of suicide increases in men around the age of 70 and peaks after the age of 85. Depression in men may often be masked by the use of alcohol or drugs. They may work extremely long hours. if a man realizes he is in depression he is more unlikely to seek help for treatment.

Some symptoms of depression are sad, anxious, feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, pessimism, loss of interest in pleasurable hobbies, fatigue, hard time concentrating, insomnia or oversleeping, weight gain or loss, thoughts of suicide and persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, like headaches, chronic pain, and digestive disorders.

Here are some examples of mania; excessive happiness, unusual irritability, lack of need for sleep, increased talking, racing thoughts, increased sexual desire, a big increase in energy, poor judgment and inappropriate behavior.

Depression - It Can Affect Everyone

In order to discuss whether or not to use herbs for teen depression, we must first look at what teen Depression looks like. we must also consider the possible causes for depression. Finally, we will discuss treatments of teen Depression. A few suggestions that may help you and your teen will be provided.

Symptoms of Teen Depression

Teens are characteristically moody so teen Depression can be missed. Grades may drop, and there may be evidence that their performance in school is deteriorating. they may not have the same enthusiasm or motivation like before. they are restless and express anger and rage. changes in their appetite or sleeping patterns, either too little or too much could indicate Depression. Substance Abuse and/or suicidal thoughts or attempts may occur. If you suspect you're teen may be depressed get them help as soon as possible.

Causes of Teen Depression

Life events such as death of a friend or loved one, breaking up with someone, and failure may all trigger symptoms of Depression in teens. Losing a job and chronic illnesses can also trigger Depression. other traumatic events such as abuse of all kinds and being in a serious accident may also cause Depression in teens.

Treatments for Teen Depression

Treatments for teens who are depressed may include Psychotherapy or talk therapy. Medications such as antidepressants might be prescribed. while on this medication your teen should be monitored as some of the antidepressants may cause your teen to have suicidal thoughts and some may actually attempt it. your support is essential to your teen's recovery.

Herbs for teen Depression are most definitely an option for treatment. many herbs are used as seasonings and others can be blended into supplements. other herbs like Chamomile can be brewed into teas and others such as Dandelion Root can be used in salads as well. as with any change to a health plan you should consult with your child's doctor to determine if herbs are acceptable in treating your teen's depression and if there are any conflicts with prescriptions they may be taking. A high quality will have had the interactions of the ingredients studied.

The metabolic paths of the ingredients should have been tested. The ingredients should be made at pharmaceutical grade to ensure potency, efficacy, and the ingredients of the supplements that are on the label are what is actually in your supplement.

Conclusion with Helpful Hints

Get help for your teen is imperative. Make sure all appointments are kept and if medicine is prescribed be sure your teen is actually taking it. Provide them a healthy diet and help them to get enough sleep. your teen should be encouraged to keep a journal and allow them to share it or not. it could reveal patterns of behavior or through the writing your teen may discover new things about themselves. consider having a no suicide contract with your teen that is both verbal and written. If your teen is talking about committing suicide, first call 911 and then call their therapist, you need to tell someone. above all else, let your teen know how much you love them. have confidence in yourself and if you need it get help.

Herbs for Teen Depression: Are Herbs for Teen Depression an Option

Depression is a state of mind wherein you are unable to stop the negative emotions from flooding your system. It reflects in the words you use, your actions, and your demeanor. You can have mild depression or it could get severe to crippling kind of depression. People who have never been severely depressed will have little to no patience with those who do. This is what complicates this condition.

Depression can begin from a simple case of broken relationship, or it could be caused by a death of a loved one, rejection, anxiety, shame - in fact, depression is caused by anything that is negatively felt and uncontrolled. It can skyrocket in its development or just gradually grow. sometimes, even the closest of kin and friends can miss out on the signs if you are not looking closely at changes in the person.

The depression treatment can be equally varied, depending on the state of mind, and the kind of depression. for example, a new mother is likely to feel the baby blues, known as postpartum depression which is a clinical condition that lasts for about a month or so. A parent feeling the empty nest syndrome is also considered depressed, and the depression treatment would likely be to get involved in activities that would take the parent's mind of the children leaving home.

The cure for depression is non-existent in the sense that there is not medicine or drug you can take to suddenly remove the feeling of depression. The drugs can only attack some of the symptoms of depression. other cure for depression might require consultation with a psychiatrist to assist the person in talking about his feelings.

The only way to effectively deal with depression is to attack the reason for the depression. Otherwise, it will just keep re-occurring and ending up as a chronic condition.

According to optimists, the term bad day is subjective at best. Moments will only turn awry if one chooses to succumb to bad vibrations, more specifically, depression and its equally damaging cousin, anxiety. Depression is a gripping emotional state that blocks other emotions, save anxiety and stress. It comes in different forms, varying in degree as well as the means for it to be extracted from one's system.

Unipolar depression, otherwise known as major depression, is one of the more prevalent forms of the emotional state. It start off as a simple disappointment with the general displacement. Gradually, its magnitude increases. This progressive is worsening is caused by a chemical imbalance, triggered by lingering in too much negativity. Certain sicknesses manifest due to this imbalance, which are quite similar to the placebo effect. The inclination towards vices also goes higher.

Dysthymia is unipolar depression's milder cousin. However, milder as it is, it is nearly just as damaging. It may not cause diseases or major chemical imbalances, but its effects are long term, if left unresolved. This type of depression is stemmed by general dissatisfaction. Some of its effects are personality disorders, irritability, the lack of concentration and the promulgation of fears. If the afflicted is faced with a worse situation, unipolar depression can arise.

There is two sides to the coin in every situation, as the old adage goes. Bipolar depression is parallel to this precept. One who is clinically bipolar can experience extreme joy and sadness for a certain duration. It may seem like a product of impulsiveness at first, but it's more serious. The sporadic shifts in mood are caused by the rush of enzymes thrust to the brain. The most effective cure is a visit to the psychiatrist.

There are other types of depression, but these three are the most common. If you experience the mentioned symptoms, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with your shrink.

Depression Hurts - Get a Better Understanding

I'm not a famous actress like Patty Duke (Anna Marie in they Call me Anna) or Carrie Fisher (in The Best Awful); or a gifted psychiatrist like Dr. Kay Redfield Jamison (in An Unquiet Mind); or a flamboyant, young journalist like Lizzie Simon (in Detour: my Bipolar Road Trip in 4-D); or a notorious newswoman like Jane Pauley (in Skywriting: a Life out of the Blue). I'm simply a Web developer for the state of Texas, in my late 50s, and have been diagnosed as bipolar since 1980. However, I have known secretly of my condition since I was seven years old.

I've actually dealt with the bipolar condition all my life. I say dealt with and condition rather than suffered from and disorder because the former presents a sense of being in control; whereas, the latter conveys the image of a helpless victim. Actually, the brilliant psychologist (therapist) whom I see, Dr. William J. Dubin of Austin, Texas, prefers to call it the bipolar trait. his belief is being bipolar merely means a different organization of the mind having its advantages and disadvantages. Again, the emphasis is on self-control of one's thought processes and on insightful encouragement rather than on illness or disease.

With that being said, I shall refer to this condition throughout these pages interchangeably as the bipolar characteristic, bipolar disorder (BPD, not to be confused with Borderline Personality Disorder), the bipolar trait or the bipolar experience. In years past, it was referred to as manic depression because that terminology more adequately depicts the polarity of the condition. that is why Dr. Kay Redfeld Jamison, psychologist and staff member at Johns Hopkins University, and author of An Unquiet Mind, among other texts, prefers to reference the condition as manic depression. it is a disorder in the degree to which one's relationship with oneself is disruptive; when one can dispassionately experience manic depression, one knows there are tremendously positive elements few people are able to achieve.

There have been untold numbers of books written about this disorder that affects one percent of the population, or about two million people. Much research has been done, yet actually very little progress has been made in determining its exact causes and in finding solutions. there is no real cure; the condition is generally life-long and chronic. many believe it gets worse as one grows older. there is no iron-clad medical test that can be performed to determine whether one has bipolar disorder. The diagnosis generally is based on demonstrated symptoms, all of which can be revealed readily by reading the materials resulting from a Google search on the Internet.

Numerous studies have tried to identify a genetic predisposition to BPD. However, in many cases, one identical twin will have it and the other does not. Environmental factors such as one's upbringing, experiences in school and interpersonal relationships greatly influence the manifestation of this condition. Brain mapping experiments reveal bipolar persons appear to have small pools of water in their brains (An Unquiet Mind by Dr. Kay Redfeld Jamison).

It is widely accepted that a significant contributing factor revolves around three neurotransmitter activities in the brain: serotonin, acetylcholine and dopamine. Additionally, levels of the hormones cortisol and adrenaline play a key role in the anxiety component of the condition. From my own experiences, I believe the disruptive nature of the bipolar existence is based upon energy imbalance. Either the serotonin-neurotransmitter process is intensified to a biochemical excess, which creates the manic, scattered energy; or it is impeded to an abnormal level which creates the depressive, half-of-my-mind-is-dead disillusionment.

This energy imbalance manifests in what I experience as a right-and-left-brain conflict. Our left brain tends to be logical, meticulous, organized and responsible. Our right brain facilitates creativity, spontaneity and playfulness. I experience depression when I feel as though my creative right brain has not received enough stimulation, or when the serotonin activity has decreased so much I couldn't be creative no matter how hard I try. Conversely, I experience mania when it seems as though my right brain, under the influence of excessive serotonin release rates, takes over in wildly imaginative creativity and activity that can become delusional and psychotic.

Another significant aspect of life as a bipolar individual is hyperthymia, meaning too much emotion, or moods that are too intense. Good things are experienced as intensely energizing boosts to one's morale, beyond what the situation calls for; and likewise, disappointments are registered as major letdowns leading to futility, despair and utter hopelessness.

Perhaps this memoir will provide insights for others who may be struggling to come to grips with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder - manic-depression. I unequivocally state Jimi Hendrix was correct when he sang, Manic-depression's a frustrating mess. As one who has dealt with this frustration, and who has spent thousands of dollars in therapy trying to untangle the mess, my intent is to expose bipolor emotions and experiences. I hope to provide fresh insights and rays of hope to professionals trying to get a better handle on the condition for treating their patients, as well as to those dealing with the condition, be they newcomers to the diagnosis or old hands at it.

The first several chapters of this book are about growing up bipolar. this series of chronological vignettes helps readers develop insights into the roots of the bipolar existence as I have experienced it. it is not meant to be an all-inclusive narrative, but rather a summary of pertinent events and scenarios to enlighten the reader about the bipolar roller coaster. it will illustrate key components leading up to my eventual diagnosis of 296.44 Bipolar I Disorder, Most recent Episode Manic, Severe with Psychotic Features.

In particular, I hope mothers will be able to recognize and understand their bipolar children. it also provides assistive insights for friends, family and coworkers who interact with bipolar individuals.

The remaining few chapters explore methods of dealing with the bipolar condition from a cognitive approach as gleaned from intensive psychotherapy and hypnotherapy with a gifted and compassionate psychotherapist. Medications also are discussed. I consider myself an expert on the subject because I have tried my entire life to understand it and ultimately to view the bipolar condition as a gift from which I can offer understanding to others, rather than to view it as a cross to bear.

Introduction to Soaring & Crashing - My Bipolar Adventures

There are just so many diseases out there. Many people are already worried that because of their constant interactions with so many people they will become at risk to many types of communicable and infectious diseases. Many of these diseases can be acquired by merely shaking hands with another person, talking, etc. You can only do so much in order to keep healthy. One way of doing this is to boost the performance of the immune system by taking vitamins and supplements designed to keep the system in great form. Another way to combat diseases is to keep yourself clean particularly your hands. this way you'll avoid getting illnesses as well as passing it on to anybody.

The reason why this is being discussed is because of the type of disease that's going to be tackled in length in this article, Mononucleosis. Mononucleosis is an infectious disease that can be commonly contracted by teenagers and young adults. it is caused by a virus known as Epstein - Barr virus that is very vicious. it is very restless that is why it can easily jump from one host to another. in fact, Epstein - Barr virus on Mononucleosis can be fatal to people who are younger than 15 years old and people who are older than 25 years old at the time of infection.

Mononucleosis is also what is called as glandular fever and infectious mononucleosis. it can contracted by way of intense kissing, through saliva when you use other people's drinking glass, eating utensils, towels, etc. sometimes, the virus just stays in your throat and stays dormant for a period of time. During relapse, it will become active and the symptoms will now start to manifest.

Symptoms
In order to help you recognize Mono early on, here are some of the most common as well as the rare symptoms of Mono.

Common:
Swollen groin, armpit and neck glands
Extreme feeling of fatigue
Low to high fever
Sore throat that is similar to tonsillitis

Other symptoms (sometimes rare to others)
Enlarged tonsils
Headache
Muscle pain
Skin rash
No appetite
Abdominal and stomach pains
And when checked by doctors, enlarged liver and spleen

Treatment
As already mentioned, Mononucleosis is a disease that is caused by the Epstein - Barr virus. that is why it cannot be treated by taking antibiotics. there also other conventional way of treating Mono but what they do is just to relieve the symptoms of Mono like the aches and pains but not the actual disease.

There are now books out there that discuss natural ways, means and methods of fighting mono. it is also very essential to have adequate rest and sleep when treating mono. Supplements, vitamins and pure water therapy are also very helpful with this type of infection. there are also homeopathy treatments that are proven to be very effective in treating mono.

Relapse
Unfortunately, there are people who can have mono several times during their lifetime. that is why these patients can suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome as well. Experts say that stress brings about mono relapse and we all know that stress has become a part of our lives in this day and age. The ultimate thing to do is to strengthen your immune system in order to do a better job of protecting your body from the attack of Epstein-Barr virus. once you have been diagnosed with mono you have to be very aware and careful about your health. Regular exercise, right and balanced diet are your primary source of protection against any infectious disease.

Ultimately, Mononucleosis can be prevented by making sure you are living and practising a healthy lifestyle. Remember that mono cannot be treated with conventional antibiotics because it is caused by a virus and not by bacteria. When you are already experiencing some of the symptoms mentioned above go and see your doctor immediately for proper diagnosis. If you can't prevent it from entering your system then preventing it from getting worse is the next best thing.

Symptoms Of Mono, Relapse And Treatment

Firstly, are you really depressed? Here are some simple little tests to help decide:

1. (a)Do you get relief from talking a lot about your problems? Or (b)have you become uncommunicative and say very little about anything at all?

2. (a)Do you get relief and perk up when friends visit? Or (b) would you rather your friends stayed away?

3. (a)Do you attribute your depression to the ill-will, hostility or incompetence of others with whom you are currently involved in your work or personal life? Or(b) do you blame yourself almost entirely and think badly of yourself?

If you answered yes to the second part (the bs) of these 3 questions then you might have very serious depression and should go see your doctor as soon as possible. If you said yes to the first part of these 3 questions or felt that neither part applied to you then you may have what used to be called neurotic depression and have a high chance of being helped by the methods in this program right now.

This even simpler test can give you a clues as to whether or not you need help to deal with depression:

1. have you been feeling sad or depressed virtually all of each day for at least 2 weeks? 2. have you lost interest in the things that once interested you and in fact have lost interest in just about everything?

If you answered yes to both of these questions then although the self help program may have a high chance of helping you, it is nevertheless very possible you suffer a major depressive illness and should consider seeing a mental health professional for further assessment.

For a more comprehensive but still brief free test for depression you could go here:
depressioncured.blogspot.com

2. Reactive depression. I call it bad luck depression. If you are sacked from your job especially when you have a big credit card or other debts and obligations, if you are going through divorce or your business has failed, or if your house has just burned down or your superannuation funds have collapsed, you failed your exams, or you've lost a court case, or your children have been in trouble with the police or school - then you can expect to be depressed How serious is reactive depression? Once the life crisis passes we usually make a recovery and become our old selves. nevertheless it can be severe enough to lead to suicide and if the stress goes on too long the depression sometimes becomes endogenous and hard to shift. we become chronically depressed and negativistic, can't shake ourselves out of it and treatment becomes necessary. Recognising the depression and following this program could help a lot. If you've been daydreaming about suicide as a way to end the suffering and the dilemmas in your life then you must go and see a mental health consultant.

There are 2 special kinds of reactive depression that need to be mentioned, and because they are special, and severe, the DSM1V puts them in a category of their own, even though at a common-sense level they are forms of reactive depression - because they result from meeting unfortunate and unhappy circumstances. These are bereavement with consequent grief, and posttraumatic stress disorder. the grief of bereavement can be very long lasting and sometimes needs medical intervention. the support of family and friends is important. Face to face counselling is strongly recommended. the support of a religious or positive life philosophy also helps many people deal with their grief. Don't go it alone. With regard to posttraumatic stress syndrome, face to face intervention is needed. If you have flash backs to the time of a horrifying or life threatening event, avoid associated places and situations and have a fearful pessimistic view of your own future then it is likely you have posttraumatic stress disorder. Once again, you must not go it alone but rather consult your doctor or mental health professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist as soon as possible. the bottom line to genuine posttraumatic stress disorder is that it needs medical intervention and long term monitoring.

Clinical Depression This term really means that you are not just naturally down because of the mortgage payments, the bill from the vet and the bad report card your child brought home but that you do indeed have depression to the extent that it can be considered an illness because it is a source of suffering and interfering with your productivity and enjoyment of life. However, if you find you cheer up when agreeable company calls, that you seem to get relief by talking a lot about your problems, and perhaps can identify people in your life who you think (rightly or wrongly) are committed to making you miserable or undermining you then your depression is unlikely to be the most serious type.

Some sufferers of depression are described as cyclothymic, bipolar, or manic-depressive. the term cyclothymic is likely to be used for the less serious forms of mood swing. the term manic-depressive is used for the more serious cases which at the poles of depression and hypomania or mania are serious enough to be considered psychosis. the time lapse between these poles can vary very widely from person to person and there can be periods of normality in between. in the early stages of the manic phase the patient simply feels good, buoyant, energised and can be genuinely very productive. as the condition proceeds though the patient experiences a head like a can of worms and cannot focus attention. Grandiosity is sometimes a feature of the hypomanic phase with the patient adopting an air of supreme confidence, social boldness and careless spending. This can make the person seem charismatic to others who seek to feed off that confidence and aura of success.

The No-Win Dilemma Face a firing squad, or be hung? sometimes life puts us in a situation of having to choose between alternatives none of which offer us escape from unpleasantness. One of my case histories resulted from a situation in which a very pleasant well liked man committed suicide. he had been carer for his disabled wife. none of their friends had ever guessed he was so depressed and filled with psychological pain he would even consider suicide. One can only speculate on his thinking. he might have felt himself to be trapped with no honourable way out. in suiciding, his wife was still left to find care plus having to cope with the psychological misery of totally unjustifiable self recriminations. when we get into a very anxious and depressed negativistic state we not only catatastrophise (a neologism used by American psychiatrist Albert Ellis) but our thinking and creativity becomes grossly restricted. we can't see the obvious and we become prone to fixed pie thinking. A parable to explain what I mean: two sisters argued over an orange:

The sisters finally decided to end the argument by cutting it in half, each accepting just half of what she really wanted. Only then did they discover that one of them only wanted the juice for a drink and the other only wanted the skin to grate for a cake. It is no accident that Fritz Perls, an American psychiatrist famous for training psychotherapists made a training film entitled the Philosophy of the Obvious. when we are depressed or anxious not only does our vision and creativity become very restricted i.e. we get tunnel vision, but easy tasks look too hard to face up to - we suffer lowered ego strength. in situations like this it very important to get professional help. A psychologist can help you by boosting your ego strength which can put an end to procrastination enabling you to find the strength to do what has to be done, and help you with problem solving strategies.

The Curved Ball Shattering news from the doctor, or from a knock on the door: everything I've said about dealing with the no-win dilemma applies here. Don't go it alone

Existential Neurosis I used to call this ageing intellectual depression but in reality one doesn't need to be either ageing or an intellectual to suffer this kind of depression. Only a few text books mention this kind of neurosis as it does not fit squarely with official diagnostic syndromes. It was described by S. R. Maddi in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, 1967, vol. 72. It involves in essence (a) a sense of meaninglessness and an inability to believe in the truth or value in anything one is doing or can imagine doing - a sense of the pointlessness of everything, (b) apathy interspersed with depression. Sufferers may see themselves as being nothing more than realists and support the view with virtually irrefutable logic. the approach I take in helping to deal with this debilitating and life draining condition is essentially the same as that taken by the famous irascible psychiatrist Albert Ellis in dealing with guilt: Basically, we are either going to continue living or we aren't and if we are then we might as well go about trying to get some satisfaction out of it. There are constructive things one can do instead of beating oneself up or bemoaning the essential futility of everything and all existence. even if intellectually you sees life as an exercise in futility this is of no comfort to someone else who might be suffering in some way, and could benefit from your talents, time and efforts. another famous existentialist American psychiatrist, Victor Frankl (Man's Search for Meaning) learned in Auschwitz the vital, life saving importance of helping people to find at least one thing in life that is worth staying alive for.

Advanced age has always been associated with depression and the connection might often be largely biochemical. Every age has it upside and downside. the youth suicide statistics suggest that although we like to remember our youth as our halcyon days in fact, being young comes with its own particular problems as well as benefits. And this is just as true for our older years when we get to enjoy the benefits that were out of range in youth. at every age we have a choice as to where we focus our minds. we can revel in the benefits we enjoy, or wallow in the problems and the gloomy side of things.

What causes depression? Brain chemistry and genetic predisposition have already been mentioned as an explanation at the physiological level. at the psychological level depression is caused by: (a) Loss: the loss or expected loss of something valued, or similarly a feeling of having missed out on something valuable at sometime in the past; or, (b) Lack of positive reinforcing feedback i.e. having gone too long without experiencing the pleasure of success - everything I try turns to muck I'm a born loser, or, (c) Stress in not being able to cope with environmental pressures. Knowing the above provides the clues as to how best deal with depression.

An atavistic theory of depression: according to this theory depression is a natural survival mechanism to ensure we don't expend precious energy on futile or dangerous activity. If the landscape is covered with snow, there are no fruits or berries around and game animals are hard to find, or if this is the season of too many flesh eating dinosaurs in our vicinity, then maybe the wisest thing we could do is huddle together around a campfire in the back of our cave and in between sleeping enjoy grouching about our rotten luck and how nothing these days is as good as it used to be Depression according to this scenario is a sort of energy saving hibernation. Of course there are other, more scientific theories including learned helplessness a concept explained by famed Harvard psychologist Martin Seligman who found dogs could learn to accept helplessness even in the face of pain and would do nothing to help themselves even when the opportunity was available to them. But sometimes depression, especially the more serious forms, may have physiological issues as their primary cause.

What can you do about depression? Well, the simplest starting point, especially if you think you have a serious form of depression is to go see your doctor. you can also try to help yourself. For detailed guidance on this you can get my self help course (link below). Basically, start by trying to identify the source of your depression. It might stem from an unhappy situation at home, finances or from events in the past that have left you with a sense of outrage or of having missed out on something due to you. To help you look for the source of depression you can keep a diary and note down what was going on when your bout of depression started, i.e. look for triggering events and circumstances.

Tackle any tasks that you have not attended to due to procrastination. If you've identified problems or tasks hanging over your head get started on dealing with them.

You can also make a conscious effort to do the things one tends not to do when depressed - pay attention to personal grooming and the tidiness of your home and office.

Make an effort, despite perhaps not feeling like it, to socialise, catch up with people you haven't seen in a while. And providing that you discuss it with your doctor you could try naturopathic preparations. http://www.depressioncured.blogspot.com

Depression - How To Identify It In Yourself And The Beginning Of Self-Help

I'm not a famous actress like Patty Duke (Anna Marie in They Call Me Anna) or Carrie Fisher (in The best Awful); or a gifted psychiatrist like Dr. Kay Redfield Jamison (in an Unquiet Mind); or a flamboyant, young journalist like Lizzie Simon (in Detour: My Bipolar Road Trip in 4-D); or a notorious newswoman like Jane Pauley (in Skywriting: A Life Out of the Blue). I'm simply a Web developer for the state of Texas, in my late 50s, and have been diagnosed as bipolar since 1980. However, I have known secretly of my condition since I was seven years old.

I've actually dealt with the bipolar condition all my life. I say dealt with and condition rather than suffered from and disorder because the former presents a sense of being in control; whereas, the latter conveys the image of a helpless victim. Actually, the brilliant psychologist (therapist) whom I see, Dr. William J. Dubin of Austin, Texas, prefers to call it the bipolar trait. his belief is being bipolar merely means a different organization of the mind having its advantages and disadvantages. Again, the emphasis is on self-control of one's thought processes and on insightful encouragement rather than on illness or disease.

With that being said, I shall refer to this condition throughout these pages interchangeably as the bipolar characteristic, bipolar disorder (BPD, not to be confused with Borderline Personality Disorder), the bipolar trait or the bipolar experience. in years past, it was referred to as manic depression because that terminology more adequately depicts the polarity of the condition. That is why Dr. Kay Redfeld Jamison, psychologist and staff member at Johns Hopkins University, and author of an Unquiet Mind, among other texts, prefers to reference the condition as manic depression. it is a disorder in the degree to which one's relationship with oneself is disruptive; when one can dispassionately experience manic depression, one knows there are tremendously positive elements few people are able to achieve.

There have been untold numbers of books written about this disorder that affects one percent of the population, or about two million people. Much research has been done, yet actually very little progress has been made in determining its exact causes and in finding solutions. there is no real cure; the condition is generally life-long and chronic. many believe it gets worse as one grows older. there is no iron-clad medical test that can be performed to determine whether one has bipolar disorder. The diagnosis generally is based on demonstrated symptoms, all of which can be revealed readily by reading the materials resulting from a Google search on the Internet.

Numerous studies have tried to identify a genetic predisposition to BPD. However, in many cases, one identical twin will have it and the other does not. Environmental factors such as one's upbringing, experiences in school and interpersonal relationships greatly influence the manifestation of this condition. Brain mapping experiments reveal bipolar persons appear to have small pools of water in their brains (An Unquiet Mind by Dr. Kay Redfeld Jamison).

It is widely accepted that a significant contributing factor revolves around three neurotransmitter activities in the brain: serotonin, acetylcholine and dopamine. Additionally, levels of the hormones cortisol and adrenaline play a key role in the anxiety component of the condition. From my own experiences, I believe the disruptive nature of the bipolar existence is based upon energy imbalance. Either the serotonin-neurotransmitter process is intensified to a biochemical excess, which creates the manic, scattered energy; or it is impeded to an abnormal level which creates the depressive, half-of-my-mind-is-dead disillusionment.

This energy imbalance manifests in what I experience as a right-and-left-brain conflict. Our left brain tends to be logical, meticulous, organized and responsible. Our right brain facilitates creativity, spontaneity and playfulness. I experience depression when I feel as though my creative right brain has not received enough stimulation, or when the serotonin activity has decreased so much I couldn't be creative no matter how hard I try. Conversely, I experience mania when it seems as though my right brain, under the influence of excessive serotonin release rates, takes over in wildly imaginative creativity and activity that can become delusional and psychotic.

Another significant aspect of life as a bipolar individual is hyperthymia, meaning too much emotion, or moods that are too intense. good things are experienced as intensely energizing boosts to one's morale, beyond what the situation calls for; and likewise, disappointments are registered as major letdowns leading to futility, despair and utter hopelessness.

Perhaps this memoir will provide insights for others who may be struggling to come to grips with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder - manic-depression. I unequivocally state Jimi Hendrix was correct when he sang, Manic-depression's a frustrating mess. As one who has dealt with this frustration, and who has spent thousands of dollars in therapy trying to untangle the mess, my intent is to expose bipolor emotions and experiences. I hope to provide fresh insights and rays of hope to professionals trying to get a better handle on the condition for treating their patients, as well as to those dealing with the condition, be they newcomers to the diagnosis or old hands at it.

The first several chapters of this book are about growing up bipolar. This series of chronological vignettes helps readers develop insights into the roots of the bipolar existence as I have experienced it. it is not meant to be an all-inclusive narrative, but rather a summary of pertinent events and scenarios to enlighten the reader about the bipolar roller coaster. it will illustrate key components leading up to my eventual diagnosis of 296.44 Bipolar I Disorder, Most recent Episode Manic, Severe with Psychotic Features.

In particular, I hope mothers will be able to recognize and understand their bipolar children. it also provides assistive insights for friends, family and coworkers who interact with bipolar individuals.

The remaining few chapters explore methods of dealing with the bipolar condition from a cognitive approach as gleaned from intensive psychotherapy and hypnotherapy with a gifted and compassionate psychotherapist. Medications also are discussed. I consider myself an expert on the subject because I have tried my entire life to understand it and ultimately to view the bipolar condition as a gift from which I can offer understanding to others, rather than to view it as a cross to bear.

Introduction to Soaring & Crashing - My Bipolar Adventures