A Prescription for Depression

However common we know depression to be, it should not be taken lightly or ignored. Although statistics show that women suffer from depression more than men, it does not suggest that a man's depression is any less significant; just as the fact that the condition being common does not detract from its importance.

The onset of depression can be caused or aggravated by sleep deprivation, an unbalanced diet and a lack of exercise. This we know. However, sometimes the tweaking of these agitations doesn't seem to be enough.

Once, during my own bout with depression, I decided that I would be proactive in shedding it. I picked up the book The Bombshell Manuel of Style by Laren Stover and decided to reinvent myself. The plan was to do this for about a month, or until I got out of it - whichever came first. My logic was that if I start focusing on sculpting aspects of myself with great concentration, then I won't have any mental energy left to wallow in self pity.

I did all of the things that the book said a "bombshell" would do. I got dressed up just to sit around the house; I stopped wearing stockings to work (and sometimes tossed my bras too); I wore stilettos just to go to the grocery store; played romantic music; took bubble baths while sipping wine by candle light; and treated my life as if it were all one big movie. Cut!

Before I knew it, some transformation took place and I started seeing my world differently. Others noticed my changes too. To this day, I have no inkling about what made me so blue in the first place.

Another tool that can be used to polish up your attitude in those gloomy times is the Hodaoa-Anibo language. Just as I used the "Bombshell" book to dig me out of my funk, the language can be used as a similar tool, though it is superior because of its academic and creative value. A person could historically establish themselves in using the language which is a far cry from turning heads in the produce section.

If treated as a necessity rather than a pass-time, the language can greatly reduce the affects of depression and possibly alleviate a bout altogether. What is necessary to put into practice while using the language as a weapon, is a "self-centered focus." This does not require you to be insensitive to the needs or feelings of others, but rather, hypersensitive to your own needs. Shedding the shroud of depression should be a number one priority - but it can't be if you're always placing yourself last on your priorities.

The language is founded on positive energy and creativity, reflected by the vocabulary. This type of foundation supports your wavering steps towards a renewed spirit and assists in positive thought processes. Besides, how good will you feel knowing you have another language in your repertoire?

Just as many tools, the language does have its limitations. It is not a drug, therefore when used for depression, you should not expect to see instant results. It should be viewed like Tai Chi: a slower exercise that takes a bit of effort and a lot of concentration. It should not be expected to treat chemical imbalances not should it be used as a substitute for professional help if therapy or counseling is needed.

We all find ourselves some shade of blue at one time or another, and this is the time we need to look out for our own mental well-being. Before we start self-medicating with unnecessary drugs or alcohol, consider getting more rest, eating better, exercising your body, and learning a little Hodaoa-Anibo. It just might brighten your up.