ABSTRACT
Depression is more common in women than in men. Anxiety is sometimes an aspect of depression. Depression is more of a "state" or a "mood" disorder, and is only very occasionally severe enough to be considered a mental illness. The symptoms of depression tend to fall into four main groupings: emotions or feelings; physical symptoms; thought patterns; and behavioural symptoms. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, Guidelines on depression recommend self-help first, with counselling as the next intervention, with possibly some anti-depressant medication as well in slightly more severe cases. The most important ingredient towards getting better is hope. Any activity that promotes endurance, flexibility, or strengthening is a natural anti-depressant. Exercise, and in particular aerobic exercise, improves circulation, brings increased blood flow and oxygen to the brain, releases endorphins, boosts serotonin, and counteracts stress. Sleep irregularities are among the early warning signs of anxiety and depression. A good night's sleep can really help towards curing depression.
