Food for Thought

[Guest guest]

Depression is a disorder marked by sadness, low energy, impaired concentration,

and feelings of dejection. Some people believe that depression is normal. Hectic

daily activities and the conflict between family and career cause constant

stress. Yet depression and anxiety as a response to stress are not normal. They

can be signs of illness, which may worsen and result in physical symptoms or an

inability to function.

 

Life was much simpler for the last two generations. Father worked; mother

stayed home. This is no longer the model. Some now view families as an

“endangered species.” There are more single mothers working than ever before.

There is greater stress and competition for well-paying jobs. The result: long

hours at work, away from the family. Children are raised with limited

supervision. Thus we see more children with emotional problems derived from a

lack of knowledge as to who they are and what their role is in today’s society.

Similarly, adults suffer from the loss of nurturing that family time should

provide.

Until recently, mental health was not discussed openly. However, there is a

growing awareness that choosing therapy can be helpful, even necessary, to cope

with today’s life. Psychiatric help is often sought for the entire family.

Today, being healthy means not only having a sound body, but also a sound mind

and spirit.

People exercise their bodies daily, yet they neglect to “exercise” their

feelings and emotions. Young men are taught to hide and deny emotions. Women are

reluctant to seek help in coping with their depression, anxiety, or distressed

relationship. The same fitness fanatic who exercises daily, eats right and has

two physicals a year will neglect the mind until a crisis is reached. Emotional

problems don’t just happen, but are cumulative and they can be avoided at times

with the same “daily fitness” and “annual physical” approach we use when caring

for our bodies.

The Chinese say “the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

Just like it’s better to maintain a healthy heart than recover from a heart

attack, dealing with emotional issues is easier before the chaos of a crisis

breaks. Think about “exercising your emotions” and give your mental health

professional a call.

 

 

 

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