Sto dando una mano. ( I'm lending you a helping hand)

Week 1: Depression:

Hi , my names Ruby. I'm a girl from Britain, who everyone thinks I'm fine, but underneath a mask lies a lot of depression and other mental illnesses. Depression plays a huge role in mine and many other people's life, but believe it or not you can conquer it. I'm still trying to conquer mine but it's getting there. If you have got depression or know someone with depression, this will hopefully help. ⚠️Warning this is a very sensitive topic⚠️ P.s. I'm not a psychiatrist pro, just a helpful person . 

Depression definition: 

1. feelings of severe despondency and dejection."self-doubt creeps in and that swiftly turns to depression"

2. a mental condition characterised by feelings of severe despondency and dejection, typically also with feelings of inadequacy and guilt, often accompanied by lack of energy and disturbance of appetite and sleep.

plural noun: depressions"she was referred by a psychiatrist treating her for depression 

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The effects that depression has : 

Mentally:

.  Feeling sad and lonely 

. Insomnia 

. Trouble with making decisions and remembering 

. Preoccupation with death (self harm) 

Physically: 

.  Risk of heart attack 

. Feelings of clinginess 

. Eating fluctuations 

. Constricted blood vessels 

. Increased pain sensitivity 

. Fatigue 

. Lower interest in Sex 

. Weakened immune system 

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Depression is normally caused from either , trauma, bullying, low self esteem, smoking, and alcohol. If left unnoticed it can lead to self harm, alcohol and drug over dose, and suicide. Ways to deal with depression is to : 

. Look for support from people who make you feel safe and cared for. The person you talk to doesn't have to be able to fix you; they just need to be a good listener—someone who'll listen attentively and compassionately without being distracted or judging you.

. Make face-time a priority. Phone calls, social media, and texting are great ways to stay in touch, but they don't replace good old-fashioned in-person quality time. The simple act of talking to someone face to face about how you feel can play a big role in relieving depression and keeping it away.

. Try to keep up with social activities even if you don't feel like it. Often when you're depressed, it feels more comfortable to retreat into your shell, but being around other people will make you feel less depressed.

. Find ways to support others. It's nice to receive support, but research shows you get an even bigger mood boost from providing support yourself. So find ways—both big and small—to help others: , be a listening ear for a friend, do something nice for somebody.

. Care for a pet. While nothing can replace the human connection, and help you feel less isolated. Caring for a pet can also get you outside of yourself and give you a sense of being needed—both powerful antidotes to depression.

. Join a support group for depression. Being with others dealing with depression can go a long way in reducing your sense of isolation. You can also encourage each other, give and receive advice on how to cope, and share your experiences.

If you are struggling on how to keep connected with people here are some tips: 

1.Talk to one person about your feelings

2.Help someone else by volunteering

3.Have lunch or coffee with a friend

4.Ask a loved one to check in with you regularly

5.Accompany someone to the movies, a concert, or a small get-together

6.Call or email an old friend

7.Go for a walk with a workout buddy

8.Schedule a weekly dinner date

9.Meet new people by taking a class or joining a club

10.Confide in a clergy member, teacher, or sports coach

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Doing things you used to or still love is an amazing thing to help with your mood. Personally, listening to music in a calm and quiet place helps me and many other people. Looking through old photos with happy memories attached to them helps. Baking , cooking and much more helps as well. Do the things you love and that makes  you happy and relieved , but dont do anything you know that will harm yourself or any others. 

. Dancing

. Singing

. Baking

. Cooking 

. Art

. Going for a walk

. Exploring 

. Play an instrument 

. Learn a new language

. Socialise with old or new friends 

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A couple of other major things to do if you or another are suffering for, depression is to:

. Get a daily dose of us light or fresh air for about 1-2 hours 

. Keep a healthy diet

. Get Walking 

. Challenge negative thoughts 

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There are many people who will help you. Friends, Family, Doctors, Nurses, Psychiatrists and many others. It is also a huge help to yourself and other people around you to get professional help. Just remember to stay strong and that it will get better. I hope to you next week with a different topic. Goodbye, thank you so much, Ruby xx 💙