Let's talk life: How can I fight this depression?

Yvonnie Bailey- Davidson, Gleaner Writer

Dear Counsellor:

Season's greetings. I usually read your articles and find them helpful. I have a problem and I hope that you can help me.

I find that I am moody and sometimes depressed. At Christmas time, I get depressed. I cannot do without medication.

- Marcia

Dear Marcia:

Depression is a chronic disease just like diabetes mellitus, and many people need to take medication to overcome it. Some people realise that they get depressed at specific times of the year.

Depression at Christmas is a common thing and individuals need to deal with this issue. Christmas is that time of year when friends and family get together and have a great time.

For some people, they have relatives abroad or relatives have died and they miss them. They may feel lonely and unhappy and become tearful and depressed. Financial stress and high expectations can cause problems.

Try and identify the stressors that bring on the episodes of depression. Sometimes there are no stressors, yet an episode of depression occurs. Take your medication and seek counselling to deal with the mood swings.

Cognitive-behaviour therapy, along with medication, provides good treatment. You will need to look at your thought patterns and identify the triggers of moodiness.

Depressed people usually have negative thinking patterns, which inevitably affects their behaviour. Reframing your thinking and having a more positive attitude will help you to cope.

What should I know before marriage?

Dear Counsellor:

I planning to get married in 2011 and I would like you to discuss some relevant considerations.

- Elaine

Dear Elaine:

Relationships require commitment and perseverance, as well as a spirit of forgiveness. You need to realise that humans are subject to errors, mistakes and problems.

A couple needs to make serious commitments to each other and should be prepared to stick with each other through thick or thin. As the vows say, for rich or poor, for sickness or health, any die can play, and you will have to play the hand that was dealt to you.

Some key issues are money, sex, parenting, work and household chores. In premarital or pre-engagement counselling, you will have to discuss these issues and more. Relationships require work, persistence and stick-to-itiveness. You have to be prepared for good times and bad times. You can't give up too easily. You need to be prepared for the full journey. Spirituality is important, and you need to put God in charge of the relationship.

Email questions and comments for Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson to yvonniebd@hotmail.com or call her at 978-8602.