In this section  Spirit: Introduction  Spirit: Stay Active  Spirit: Nurture Your Spirit  Spirit: Keep Your Sense of Humour  Spirit: Build Solid Friendships  Spirit: Treat Depression  Spirit: Keep Your Perspective - Contemplating Past, Present and Future  Spirit: Help in setting your goals  Print the Healthy Brain worksheet  Back to main Healthy Brain page

Depression, and its close relative anxiety, rob life of pleasure and peace of mind. The benefits of overcoming anxiety and depression will impact you over the long term, as well as providing relief from suffering in the present.

When you are anxious and depressed, your world shrinks and you withdraw into yourself. Long-term depression and chronic stress can have a lasting negative impact on brain health and memory, and may increase your risk of developing dementia.

• A handout that explains the symptoms and treatment options for depression can be found at www.healthservices.gov.bc.ca/gpac/pdf/depression_pg.pdf

Alternative treatments such as acupuncture, and some spiritual and naturopathic remedies, have also been effective for some people. If you are concerned about depression, discuss your situation with your physician.

<< Previous Page | Next Page >>