Please, is there any help for depression other than mind-numbing medication? I'm pregnant, but the depression has been with me before this.
In Reply to: Depression posted by No self-esteem on August 12, 1998 at 02:26:03:
Yes, there is.
You need supplementation with all the "B" vitamins.
The B's are your cushion against "body" depression. When body
depression occurs, it quickly takes the brain, and thus the
mind right along with it. Since the B's have "braindrained"
you are especially vulnerable to emotional depression.
I will go out on a limb here and say that the tension of pregnancy
are probably draining you of B's faster than normal and so
you are more susceptable to depression than before. Do some
skilled relaxation to reduce your stress load as well.
Yours,
Greg
In Reply to: Depression posted by No self-esteem on August 12, 1998 at 02:26:03:
Dear Friend,
I too suffer from depression. I know that Walt will have far better suggestions than I do.
I was offered medications for depression but they only made me feel WORSE. I won't take them anymore. I believe that if I tackle the CAUSE of the depression this is better. You will have to make the decision for yourself what to do.
I have found these things helpful for me:
1. Watch the sugar. I think that a healthy whole foods diet can help with depression by keeping the blood sugar balanced. I am no doctor, but it just helped me.
2. Exercise. If you can do some light exercise this can help with depression
3. Keep a journal. This helps me often with my bad moods. I write about how I feel and sometimes this helps me get a handle on how I feel.
4. Get out of the HOUSE. If I can do something I enjoy or that gets me out of the house this helps.
5. Meditation. This is helping me alot. I just find that I am having less negative thoughts about myself that often lead to depression. It took awhile for this to happen but it is helping me. Maybe it can help you too. I love the Brainsync tapes. They help me feel better.
6. Music. I have several CDs of healing music that help improve my mood. Steven Halpern is wonderful.
I suppose if you can find the REASON for the depression this will help you find a way to alleviate it. I think one of the MAJOR causes of my depression is Candida. I think I have had it a long time. I am working with a Naturopath to clear it up and the Leaky Gut Syndrome.
I truly sympathize with you and hope you find something that works. There are herbs that can help perk up your mood. I have heard of the Bach Flower Remedies. I know you must be careful when you are pregnant but maybe a good Naturopath can help you.
I still think the meditation is helping me feel calmer.
Wish you the best,
love and peace,
pamela
In Reply to: Re: Depression: Cure posted by Greg on August 12, 1998 at 02:32:04:
Dear Greg,
Thank you so much for responding so quickly. I have been reading this board since March. This is a wonderful place. I'm currently on prenatal vitamins, but often I have to force myself to eat. I have been trying meditation but haven't felt much effect yet. It makes me cry; but everything does. What do you do relax?
Skilled relaxation is mentioned so often here, but no one ever really explains how to do it.
Thanks you for making my evening a little less lonely. It's too easy to shut yourself away from others when your depressed.
In Reply to: Re: Depression posted by Pamela J on August 12, 1998 at 02:41:43:
Thank you Pamela,
I forgot to mention that I'm hypoglycemic.
The old expression goes "Music soothes the savage beast". I, too, listen to music. It has always been my solace in times of deep distress. I've never tried journals. It's often hard to put on paper what the heart is thinking. Did you ever have to do "free writing" in school? You just write anything that you want, it doesn't have to make sense. Well, my free writing often said "My mind is blank". Sometimes I feel that way, that there's nothind there, just an intense sadness without a cause.
I know that the mind is a great healer. I crave knowledge so that I can understand what is happening in my body. Thank you for your suggestions and understanding.
In Reply to: Re: Depression: Cure posted by No Self-Esteem on August 12, 1998 at 02:46:01:
The skilled relaxation workbook that Walt Stoll recommended to me, which is outstanding, is titled "The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook and can be found at Barnes & Noble. Also, "Mind As Healer, Mind As Slayer", by Pelletier. I'm working my way through both of these at Walt's suggestion, and after just two weeks I know it's making a difference. My best to you!
In Reply to: Depression posted by No self-esteem on August 12, 1998 at 02:26:03:
Dear No Self Esteem,
I would recommend reading "Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom" by Dr. Christiane Northrup first of all. I have suffered from depression for many years, and this is really a remarkable tool to get you on the path towards feeling better about yourself. It really presents a fresh way of looking at things, and much of her advice has given me the sight to see the things that are wrong in my life, and the courage to change them. I HIGHLY recommend it knowing that you are pregnant. She is truly a holistic physician, taking into consideration all aspects of health: diet, exercise, emotions, hormones, spirituality, environment, personal circumstances, etc. The list goes on and on. Let us know how you do. And of course, Walt's ubiquitous advice on this web site is one of the best things you could have stumbled upon. Keep up the search. I know how it feels to want to turn yourself off from the world--you must be careful not to let that happen. Turn around NOW. The beauty around you means nothing until you see the beauty within you. "Happiness is difficult to find in yourself, and impossible to find in anyone else." Namaste' Sarah
In Reply to: Re: Depression: Cure posted by No Self-Esteem on August 12, 1998 at 02:46:01:
It's a little different for everyone, but basically get as
comfortable as possible. Then progressively relax each part
of your body, starting with your feet, and working your way
up.
A theta level tape or CD is good, and you will probably need
a pair of headphones for max effect.
I do not know how far along you are in your pregnancy, so
this method may cause more discomfort than comfort. You can
make a pretty good relaxation "pit" out of towels and blankets.
Bolster up knees, back, arms so that everything is supported
and nothing is hitting a hard surface. The idea is to stay
awake, but being so comfortable may lull you to sleep
instead. Do your best to stay awake!
Now relax each part of your body. By the time you are finished,
you will be in theta, completely relaxed, almost nodding.
Patches of time may disappear. This is OK and normal. The
tension will run completely out of your body, mostly undeteted
by you. When you shift back into beta ("normal") consciousness,
you will feel refreshed, as if a large load has been lifted.
Before, during and after, be very aware what thoughts run
through your head, and what you say to yourself. While in
a relaxed state, what you say to yourself is much more likely
to manifest than at any other time, so be as positive as
possible, and say good things to and about yourself.
Greg
(Rooting for you!)
In Reply to: Re: Depression: Cure posted by No Self-Esteem on August 12, 1998 at 02:46:01:
I found this site that explains exactly how to meditate. It's how I got started and really works for me.
www.alternative-medicine.net/meditation/
Peggy
In Reply to: Re: Skilled Relaxation, How To Do It posted by Greg on August 13, 1998 at 00:02:29:
Help me out here...what is a theta level tape/CD?
In Reply to: Depression posted by No self-esteem on August 12, 1998 at 02:26:03:
Dear No,
There are several references you need to be reassured that there ARE alternatives for you. If you read everything on this BB's archives, you would BE reassured. However, even with heavy selection, there are probably 1000 articles archived.
Take a look at Gary Null, PhD's new book: "Nutrition & the Mind". Also take a look at the most recent edition of "Brain Allergies" by William Philpott, MD. THEN, if that makes sense to you, you would benefit from reading a copy of MY book (link on this page).
Once you begin to see the light, if you still have questions, write again.
Walt
In Reply to: Re: Depression posted by Pamela J on August 12, 1998 at 02:41:43:
Thanks, Pam!
Good Stuff! With my 'puter crashed, help like this is invaluable (EVEN WHEN IT IS NOT.).
NAMASTE` Walt
In Reply to: Re: Depression posted by sarah on August 12, 1998 at 19:46:34:
Thanks, Sarah,
Christiane is a good fiend of mine. If every doc was like her, there would be no need for me to have this website!
Walt
Hi. I have hypertension, tightness in my chest, and dizzyness even when sitting. I'm on axid for heartburn and zestril for hbp. I was treated for yeast last year. The doctor says it's anxiety attacks. I'm seeing a counselor who is working with me to reduce stress (tapes and breathing). I started massage last week. It made me sick. I'm so tired and have difficulty concentrating. My councelor would like me to see a chiropractor/kinesoilogist. I'm getting progressively worse. I've recently bought mag. aspartate that provides 65 mg elemental mag. I'm taking 7 per day right now. I started reading your book last night, and plan to order "Brain Allergies" on Monday. Please help, what is your opinion of my symptoms? Am I on the right track?
In Reply to: symptoms posted by anonymous on August 22, 1998 at 12:52:38:
Dear Anonymous,
My book is a good place to start and "Brain Allergies" MIGHT be right up your alley.
However, to understand what you will eventually need you need to absorb "Mind as Healer, Mind as Slayer" by Dr Pelletier. Get his most recent edition. While you are finding it, absorb my book & THEN concentrate on the Mood, Mind, Memory & Behavior chapter.
To see how this is ALL connected, you need the MAH, MAS insights.
THEN, write again with any more questions.
The fact that massage made you "sick" is a good sign. Those symptoms would be temporary and prove that a series would give you significant relief for longer than most people. You need to do the total-body, deep, therapeutic massage at least 3 times a week for several weeks. This is probably the quickest way for you to get temporary relief. Tell your masseur about your symptoms. S/he may be able to help you through the detox.
Walt
In Reply to: Re: symptoms posted by Walt Stoll on August 23, 1998 at 09:26:43:
Hi Walt and anonymous,
It is important to drink LOTS of purified water after massage to flush the toxins out of one's body. A therapeutic massage is equivalent of a very long and strenuous workout. You need the hydration.
Another way to help get rid of toxins is a hot salt bath. Fill the tub with hot water (as hot as you can stand) to which you have added one whole box of pickling or canning salt (usually 2-3 pound box ( found in grocery store). Make sure it is NOT iodized. Soak 30-40 minutes. You will feel completely relaxed and "rubbery" when you get out, so the best time is before going to bed. This opens your pores and makes you SWEAT, another way to help the detox.
I don't know if there are any reasons one should not do this, ecxcept diabetic neuropathy. Walt, what are your thoughts? I don't want to recommend anything which is not beneficial.. This was recommended by a naturopath and massage therapists in this area.
Good luck, anonymous and read MAH MAS , the sooner the better. I would buy the book, if you can afford it. It is one you will keep referencing for years.
Namaste` Linda
In Reply to: Re: symptoms posted by Linda Hynds on August 24, 1998 at 23:02:15:
Thanks, Linda.
I agree. I have not mentioned since I figured that any masseur would tell his/her patients this before they leave.
I have found that even 1/2 cup of epsom salts and 1/2 cup of baking soda will do wonders in a tub soak. Those with diabetes need to avoid the heat but the luke warm soak would be OK.
Walt
Dear Walt:
I left a message to you in response to LAYERS(down below on that lengthy thread) that does not show up when viewing the general board but does show up as a followup when viewing your individual message back to me.
In essense, I think as the layers peel back I'm looking at candida. I say that because symptoms that are increasing are brain fog and anxiety. I've changednothing re: diet or anything else since I began relaxation 3.5 months ago. I can only attribute so much to kundalini or that realm.
I read Nutrition and the Mind yesterday and all your info in it on candida. Plus I've read many of the other authorities on candida over the years, taken and retaken the questionnaires, resorted to whole foods diet slanted toward type O blood type(for well over 1.5 years now) and have tried a variety of alternative treatments: MSM, colostrum, olive leaf, Rife frequency generator. Used only muscle testing and Dr. Reams urine/saliva testing though haven't used Reams for awhile.
Also, plan on doing elimination diet vis a vis Robert.
Why is my candida so stubborn to all of above when others have had success? Am I left with nystatin?(If so, I have concerns about it...efficacy, immune system issues I've read about) Is there something you can do vs. take for candida intestinally and systemically such as guided imagery? I'm fiercely independent about wanting to do this on my own. It seems the mind is powerful enough to heal that too.
Have you ever treated successfully with something natural and based on the questionnaire only? My answers are quite diagnostic.
I think its time to move on this now that the skilled relaxation is in place. But I'm gun shy and a dollar short on spinning my wheels again on this issue. Appreciate your feedback...I know you get tired of dealing with candida questions. I hope this can be useful to the rest of the BB. I can tell from my writing I'm distressed about this issue.
Gratefully,
Sam
In Reply to: layers and how to proceed posted by sam on August 23, 1998 at 13:55:59:
Walt:
I am totally at wits end. I'm not sure how much you should make of my last post and my emphasis on candida. And I am really sorry to keep harrassing you and this BB and its members.
However, since I began skilled relaxation over 3 months ago the anxiety symptoms (and blood sugar or brain fog) has progressively worsened. Doesn't matter if I'm in the comfort of home or not. If not, it gets to panic.
There have been no changes in diet (Blood Type O -no grains but brown rice, no starches, no sugars for well over a year), or in exercise. These are not constant symptoms but they cycle. I did notice in meditation this am the throbbing/pulsing heat in sacral area though I don't know how it explains similar though not as bad symptoms last evening. Slept okay.
Unless this process is releasing more toxins somehow(from candida or other parasite) into my system, I have no other explanation than spiritual. I want to keep meditating and probably need to but wonder to what depths this is taking me. I got Sannella's book on Kundalini Experience yesterday and the closest I come symptom wise is the heat in sacral, sometimes cold extremities and increase in panic/anxiety. Almost unbearable. I'm sure the anxiety can be attributable to some of the health complications I might have. Not really sure, though. Might invest in health coaching...Feel lost. And more importantly trying to get on with life seems more challenging by day.
Need a tree to lean on for a moment. Thanks very, very much.
Sam
In Reply to: layers and how to proceed posted by sam on August 23, 1998 at 13:55:59:
Hi Sam,
Like you, I think I have candida overgrowth. I have vague dizziness that is with me throughout the day. It seems to beat in time to my pulse and is localized in the forehead area. It worsens with theta tapes. It reaches a point where the buzzing forces me to remove the headphones. I also have stomach bloating after eating, and incredible heartburn. Panic attacks occur daily, sometimes 2 or 3 times a day. I have repeated yeast infections, and have used nystatin. I'm using garlic now, but yeast is persistant. I'm getting trager massage 2X per week. I don't know if this will help start candida kill, or if medication is the only way.
Anxiously awaiting Dr. Stoll's reply to your question!
Hue
In Reply to: similar symptoms....same questions posted by Hue Lee on August 23, 1998 at 16:12:35:
Hue:
No offense, but hearing your similar symptoms I was almost relieved. Otherwise I would think I was going crazy.
So, I take it nystatin did not work for you? If not, then what? Tell me more(privately) about trager massage.
Thanks.
Sam
In Reply to: emphasis on anxiety posted by sam on August 23, 1998 at 15:20:52:
Dear Sam,
I am trying to answer all of your questions but may be missing some of them since they overlap from note to note.
I will be patient with you if you can be patient with me.
Meditation cannot take you to "depths" but will take you to "heights". You CAN experience what you have been as you ascend the side of the cliff down which you have fallen before. This IS temporary.
To get you through your present experience faster, I would recommend Rolfing. ALL Rolfers have the necessary background & training to help people though your expereince since Rolfing brings people through it by its very process.
If you do not know about Rolfing, I would suggest you read "Bodies, Health & Consciousness: by Rosie Speigel (who teaches at the Rolfing Institute). Call (800) 938-0942 for a copy AND, when you are ready to do it, call the Rolfing Institute for the closest Certified Rolfer to where you live: (800) 447-0150.
Namaste` Walt