Tuesday, October 4, 2011

You Can't Have Too Many: Tips For Making New Friends

In my last blog I talked about the importance of staying in touch with friends and loved ones. But many people who are depressed feel lonely and even feel they have no, or few friends. It's a catch 22 situation: social contact can help you cope with depression; but depression can prevent social contact.
So, working on the theory that you can never have too many friends and acquaintances, I came across this blog that lists some intersting ways in which you can expand your circle of acquaintances who'll maybe some day become friends.
Here's the link: http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/1Xq203/friendship.about.com/od/Meeting-New-Friends/tp/Make-New-Friends-During-Your-Daily-Routine.htm

And don't forget - freindship is a two way street. Try to be a friend in need when your friends need you. You'll both benefit.

Saturday, October 1, 2011

Boost Your Relationship!


One of the greatest ways to ameliorate depression is by working positively to create strong relationships around you. The support of underestanding friends and family mean a great deal to someone experiencing depression, but good relationships don't just happen by accident. They require work, love and care.
Sadly, when someone is in the throes of depression, they can seem self-centred and selfish; concerned only about their dark thoughts and sad feelings and unable to emphathise or be happy for those around them.
A good antidote for this is to make a point of being supportive to your loved ones when the depression is held at bay; they'll be more tolerant then if the 'black dog' rebounds into your life. It's fair to say, though, that good relationships, sharing pleasant activities, and always having something to look forward to, or even just someone who'll go for coffee with you and listen even when you're not good company, are good ways to fight depression.
Here's a linbk to an article with some interesting tips on how to keep your most primary relationship - husband, wife, partner - fresh and happy. These include such modern advice as cutting down on social networking addictions and being supportive of your partner's hopes and dreams, to age old remedies such as enjoying intimacy and spending quality time together.
Here's the link to the article, which is titled Ten Secrets of Super Happy Couples:
http://lifestyle.ca.msn.com/love-sex-relationships/10-secrets-of-super-happy-couples-7?cp-documentid=30755185&page=1