Do you ever wonder where depression comes from? Often, it can be from a traumatic experience, such as the loss of a loved one, or unexpected changes in your life. However, what if there are other things in your life that could cause you to have depression? Here are some possibilities:
- Where you live: Do you live in the city or do you live in the country? Where you live could affect your mental health. City-dwellers are more likely to experience mental illness, especially depression, according to Scientific American. The reasons are complex, but research has also shown that spending time in nature is better for your mental health.
According to a 2015 British study, smokers are more likely to experience anxiety and depression than non-smokers.
- Putting yourself second: You shouldn’t ignore your needs. Yes it is important to put others first, but doing it too often can adversely affect your mental health. You should make time to take care of yourself. There is nothing wrong with saying “No”. Saying yes to every request, especially if it is not beneficial to you, can leave you depressed.
- Smoking: According to a 2015 British study, smokers are more likely to experience anxiety and depression than non-smokers. Additionally, the study suggested that the withdrawal smokers feel when they cannot have a cigarette, leads to anxiety. An alternative would be to find a passion that is stimulating and can give you a feeling of satisfaction, such as when smoking cigarettes.
Try not to sit for long periods of time if you can help it.
- Sitting too much: Activity is important in order to maintain not only your physical, but your mental health as well. Research has shown that exercise can boost your mood. Additionally, too much inactivity can be linked to experiencing symptoms of depression, according to research.
- What you eat: Yes your diet could be causing your depression. Research suggests that if you have a poor diet, eating foods high in sugar and fat, it could lead to depression symptoms. “Nutrition can play a key role in the onset as well as severity and duration of depression.” according to a 2008 study published in the Indian Journal of Psychology. Depression can also lead to changes in appetite, however, practicing a healthy diet may be able to help prevent symptoms of depression.
Are you or a loved one living with depression? Contact Segal Institute at 1-877-SEGAL-88 to see if you may qualify for a clinical research study OR visit http://studies.segaltrials.com/request-a-prescreen/
Source: HuffingtonPost PhotoCred: HealthyJoints & MentallyHealthy
