Stress and Depression

Depression and stress have close links. Studies show that too much stress leading to depression. Even positive events that are stressful like new job or getting married may contribute to depression.  The effects of stress increase the release of cortisol hormones, which reduce serotonin and other neurotransmitters like dopamine, contributing to depression. Depression and stress can affect your mental as well as physical health

How Stress Related to Depression

Research studies prove that stress related to depression. People who are under stress often neglect to follow a healthy lifestyle. They may indulge in unhealthy habits like smoking, drinking alcohol and they often refrain from doing regular exercise. Chronic stress leading to depression, which causes various symptoms like exhaustion, lack of energy, disturbed sleep patterns, irritability, trembling hands, feeling of guilt and worthlessness, headache, increased heart beat, loss of appetite, loss of sex drive and muscle pain. As stress related to depression closely, treating both the conditions can help you get relief quickly. Studies show that stress affects the innate ability of the brain to keep itself healthy. Consequently, an important part in the brain called hippocampus shrinks, affecting your memory function. Many researchers found out that high work stress increases the risk of developing depression significantly. Heightened stress leading to depression puts you at the risk of developing anxious or negative thoughts overtime.

Importance of Treating Depression and Stress

Effects of Stress and depression range from mild to serious, including sweating, back pain, upset stomach,  high blood pressure, blood clots, cardiovascular disease, erection problems, skin problems and respiratory conditions. You can also experience the effects of stress and depression on your emotional health. Stress can also arise during pregnancy and a natural treatment for postnatal depression can be an option. You may feel frustrated, tired and find it hard to focus on tasks. Stress and depression can affect your personality, personal and professional life and overall health.

Some lifestyle chances can help reduce the stress levels and the risk of depression.

• Exercise- Doing some type of exercise like walking, swimming or playing tennis for 30 minutes at least 5 days a week can help elevate your mood. It stimulates hormones and neurotransmitters like endorphins, which help you get rid of stress and depression.

• Relationship- Sense of isolation is a common symptom of depression and stress. You can avoid this by talking freely with your spouse or other family members and friends.

• Yoga and Meditation- Yoga and meditation can help you get deep relaxation and get relieve from the symptoms of stress and depression. They revitalize your body and mind and help promote your emotional and physical health.

• Diet- Diet plays a vital role in alleviating the symptoms of depression and stress. Something like olive leaf extract depression remedy can also be just as beneficial. Ensure that your diet is loaded with vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.  It is also advisable to avoid drinking too much. Alcohol is a mood suppressor that will exacerbate stress and depression.

• Sleep- Good sleep helps restore your body and brain and recharge you to remain energetic the next day. Make sure that you get at least seven hours of restful sleep. You can try some relaxation techniques like taking a warm bath before bed to promote good sleep.