I posted the video below on my facebook page last week, but it’s just so good I have to share again (plus, FB is doing strange buggy things so that not everyone can see what I post).
This wonderful clip was created by Matthew Johnstone, in collaboration with WHO, to mark World Mental Health Day back in October.
Although the official ‘day’ has been and gone, I think it’s important to be reminded of how mental health conditions such as depression affect us all.
I highly recommend taking 4 minutes out of your day to watch this – I found it beautiful, simple and honest.
This morning I read an article (several years old now, but still relevant) from The Lancet about the global burden of disease associated with conditions such as depression and addiction. It discussed the connection between mental and physical health, and how each has been shown to affect the other significantly.
I could not agree more. My own experience, both personally and in clinic, has demonstrated this to me and my patients countless time.
So, my friends, if you too have a black dog that’s hanging around more than you’d like, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
I’ve written a couple of times about simple strategies to improve mood when you’re feeling flat or having a black dog day.
For me, no sugar, more movement, good sleep and a shoulder to cry on are the best healers. For you, it might be different.
If you are looking for advice or support to improve how you’re feeling, come and have a chat to me at Uclinic in Sydney or HealthWise in Brisbane.
____
Post-script: just realised I didn’t say anything about medication! For the record, I’m not anti antidepressants. But I don’t prescribe, so it’s not my go-to therapeutic intervention. Plus, I’ve seen great results with diet, herbs, lifestyle and behaviour therapy… I do, however, work with people taking medication to manage moods; and diet / lifestyle / herbs can combine very well with this treatment.