From Despair and Depression to Hope and Happiness

Depression affects millions of people. Some seek treatment in medical ways, some seek treatment in natural ways.

I have suffered from depression for several years. It has been an on-going cycle, and something that I assumed was just how my life was meant to be.
I tried various counselors and anti-depressants like Prozac and Lexapro. For years, this has been my routine. In and out of therapy, off and on medicines.

This year I reached bottom. I knew I needed more. I searched for a new counselor first. Finding one that "spoke" to me was key. I found a wonderful woman that I can relate to, and someone that I feel comfortable with. I believe this is one thing that I didn't have with other counselors, so I feel that I wasn't getting anywhere with others.

I also started on new medications. Treating chemical imbalances in the brain sometimes take a little "research and development" on various combinations of the medicines available.

After a few months in therapy, and being on new meds I felt like I was making progress. I was still fighting internal thoughts, but I felt like I was still making a little progress, albeit slow.

My counselor suggested that I read "The Secret" by Rhonda Byrne.

I read it within one week. On my next therapy appointment, I felt amazing! My counselor said that she had not seen me like that before.
For the first time in my life, I am able to say that I do love myself. I have a brand new outlook on life. I am learning to stop and appreciate what I have.

While no two patients are the same, there are some key factors that can help everyone fighting depression or other mental illness.

Therapy is very beneficial. Sometimes you need to let it out. A therapist is trained to recognize things that you may not see yourself. I would recommend finding someone that you can relate to. If you are not comfortable, or feel that you have a hit a brick wall with your therapist, that person is not right for you.
You should feel comfortable and at ease for therapy to most efficient.

Some people do need medication for chemical imbalances. There is nothing wrong with needing to take medicine for depression or other mental illnesses. If you believe there is a stigma to taking medicine for these issues, please think of it in another light. Diabetics need to take insulin, heart patients need medicine, when you have an infection you need medicine.

A chemical imbalance does not mean that you are crazy - you just need medicine like a diabetic does.

If you are absolutely against taking medicine, then my next recommendation is to read the Secret.
I have a brand new outlook on life. I am able to stop and enjoy what I have. I am happy, I am content.
These are all things that I was missing in my life before. I now feel there is a purpose.

If you suffer from depression, please get some help. If you do nothing else, at least try to read the book, "The Secret".
The answers are there, inside you. You can do it!