Mood Disorder Survival Techniques

Stuff happens. And I'll be the first to admit it. Sure I'm a healthcare professional, but that doesn't make me any more exempt. One day I'm walking carefree down life's pathway, the next I'm dealing with panic, anxiety, depression and a dreaded mood disorder that rocked my world for nearly six months.

I know I'm not alone, either. According to the website www.healthyupdates.com there are 2.5 Americans dealing with bipolar disorder, scores more are clinically depressed and most of us, I would venture, will admit to running ourselves on empty. Often.

If you are finding your mood less than what it could be, I hope you will take the time to review these healthy survival techniques I keep in my back pocket. I've used them as tools for my healing and continue to use them to help me move toward a brighter shore.

1.) Ask for what you need.

Troubled times call for drastic measures. Be sure to reach out for support. During my time of crisis, I set up a support structure to cover all my bases. This included a complete medical staff; a doctor to give me a full physical, a psychiatrist to administer medication and a therapist to keep a weekly pulse on my life. All these have been key to my road back to health and are well worth your consideration.

2.) Build a support system of friends and family.

Communication with your friends and family are key to overcoming any adversity. During my cycle with depression, I wanted to cut myself off from most of my friends and family. These were symptoms talking. Be sure to recognize the value of those closest to you. Aim to communicate to them that you are not yourself and ask for a helping hand to lift you up and get tasks accomplished.

3.) Explore alternative methods of healing.

My background in natural health led me to explore many natural avenues to healing. It is well worth your time to explore the myriad of techniques. Massage, acupuncture and supplementation can all be beneficial. I chose the ones that I thought would work best for me, then consulted with my physician to decide the safest road forward.

4.) Be grateful.

According to the book The Happiness Makeover it's important to find ways to be grateful every day. Finding gratitude for our gifts and those things we bring to the world can give us something to strive for. I knew once I got better, I could get back to my writing and this was what kept me getting out of bed each morning. What is your legacy? Aim each day to explore your gifts.

5.) Find a way to smile and laugh every day.

Find something every day that makes you laugh. It's necessary for survival. For me, working to keep a smile on my face goes a long way to contributing to my healing. According to the website www.holisticonline.com laughter every day stimulates the immune system, decreases stress and relaxes muscle tension.

Even if you aren't suffering from a mood disorder, I do hope you will find these survival techniques help relax your body, find more joy in your days and prevent any of life's stressors from getting the better of you.