Depression and Poor Diet and Fitness
Do you ever wonder why it seems there are more depressed people around you? Does it seem like every month another person confides that they are taking anti-depressants? It isn’t your imagination that depression is increasing.
The increase in depression may be related to the decrease in healthy lifestyles. As time goes on, people are becoming more focused on careers and relaxation and are avoiding physical activity. The fastest activity people get seem to do these days is clicking their mouse to play online video games. That, combined with snacking on convenience foods, is leading to increased rates in depression among all age groups.
The cycle is rather vicious because many people lack the coping skills or support network to change their lifestyle. They turn to doctors and quick fixes and start taking medication. Anti-depressants are a valuable tool in the fight out of depression, but they should not be used in isolation. Improving diet by increasing whole foods and decreasing processed foods along with increasing whole body activity are both important components in the fight against depression.