Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Three Steps To Help Improve Irratibility

One of the most peculiar aspects I encountered in my depression was the habitual irritability I felt, especially in the mornings. Before I learned to deal effectively with this trend, I regularly dreaded each new day. It seemed okay when I was alone--there was nobody to get on my nerves and I could ease slowly in to a familiar routine. But on the days my girlfriend wasn't working, everything she did seemed to cause me anguish. It took me a while, too long, to recognize that it wasn't her actions, but my own instability that was bringing this about.

Irritability is a mysterious, yet common companion to depression. Many sufferers go so far as to identify this feeling as the most troublesome symptom they experience. Unlike other symptoms, which are often experienced only internally, irritability is visible to everyone, and can often cause serious difficulty within relationships. So what can be done? So far, nobody has a proven cure for this phenomena, but many have developed techniques to help make the effects a bit more manageable. Personally, I developed and implemented a three step process, that when practiced regularly, helped me get my mornings back.


1. Pray/Give Thanks


Regardless of your feelings toward spirituality or a higher power, I think you will agree that every new day is a gift from somewhere. On the moment you awake, take 3-5 minutes and give thanks for everything in your life. You'll find it's very difficult to remain surly and quick of temper when you're giving thanks. It will transform your mood and help you get off on the right foot.

2. Move

There is no question, considering extensive research, that the body and mind are interconnected. Any type of exercise during the first hour of your day will expend the energy currently being misused by the mind. It can be as simple as a short walk or a long stretch. Any type of movement will send signals to the brain that will improve your mood.

3. Write

More and more doctors and therapists have begun to acknowledge the power of the pen as a way to treat the symptoms of a mood disorder. Writing is a release of energy, a way to help you organize your thoughts and chronicle the conditions that seem to make your symptoms better or worse. This information is an invaluable tool you can refer to whenever you need help recognizing and managing your mood.

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