Health

6 Myths About Depression

January 28, 2019

Depression – and mental health illnesses in general – have a lot of stigma surrounding them still. As the years go on, mental health is slowly being talked about more and more. However, there is still a long way to go because there are many widespread and “accepted” myths that surround depression.

Depression means you’re suicidal

There is a very common misconception that having depression automatically means that the person suffering must be suicidal. However, you should understand that some depressed people can experience suicidal thoughts, but not all do. It is very much possible that a person can be depressed without being actively suicidal. This also doesn’t mean their depression is any less authentic than a depressed and suicidal person’s case.

Antidepressants are a cure for depression

As much as we wish that there was a definitive cure for depression, that sad reality is that there is none. Antidepressants are not a cure. Antidepressants are one of the many treatment tools used to fight depression. Also, different antidepressants work for different people.

Therapists can’t help truly depressed people

This myth is sort of along the same phrase as the one above. It’s a sweeping generalization that is incorrect. It probably developed and stayed around because of a lasting mistrust of “shrinks” back when psychology was a more underdeveloped field. The truth is that therapists can be more effective in treating someone’s depression than medicine alone. In fact, therapy is the most effective treatment for depression! While it is important to realize that a lot of depressed people don’t have reliable access to therapists (mostly due to costs associated with therapy), it is also important to note that there are many avenues where people can get affordable help from a licensed therapist. One of the leaders in making mental health help more affordable and accessible is BetterHelp.

Depression is the same as a “bad day”

Here’s the thing: we all have our bad days. We all don’t have depression. Depression is not just a bad day. Depression is considered a psychological, social, and biological (read: physical!) disorder. People with depression struggle for weeks, months, and years. Dealing with the occasional bad day is not even on the same playing field as dealing with depression.

Talking about depression makes it worse

Having an open dialogue about depression and mental health issues does the opposite of “making it worse.” Talking about depression alleviates the stigma surrounding the disorder. It makes the people suffering from depression feel more open and willing to share their experiences to those who will listen – this in itself can prove quite cathartic. The more the world talks about depression, the more people can learn about the disorder.

Children can’t be depressed

There isn’t a minimum age to be diagnosed with depression. However, even though most of the classic symptoms don’t surface until around age 12, that just shows that children can be diagnosed with depression. In fact, more kids than ever before are being diagnosed with depression; this can prove a good thing because they can start treatments much earlier and recover sooner.

There are many myths and stigma that surround depression. This is not an inclusive list, but it should be enough to show that depression is a very real, legitimate, and serious disorder that disrupts millions of lives. Busting a lot of these myths should lead to an even more open dialogue about depression and mental health in general.

Health

4 Ways To Get Help For Depression

January 28, 2019

Depression is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In just America alone, depression affects hundreds of thousands of people. Unfortunately, many people with depression do not know how to get help for their depression. Here are some starting points for getting help for your depression.

Ask for support from friends and family

Asking for help from friends and family can be hardest thing anyone with depression can do. There is still a lot of stigma surrounding depression and mental health issues in general, so “coming out” to your family about your mental health can be terrifying. But just because it’s daunting doesn’t mean you should avoid doing it by default! A lot of people find that when they ask for help from their families and friends, they often get much more acceptance and support than they originally thought. This is important because when you suffer from depression you want to have as solid a support system as possible.

Seek advice from those who have overcome their depression

This is usually a form of peer support. It can work very well, especially when you know that the person you’re seeking advice from has struggled the same as you have. They know where you’re coming from and how to help you take those first important steps towards managing your depression. Keep in mind that these people are like you – they are still a work in progress. Don’t compare yourself to them because they seem to have things under control now; it likely took a lot of mental and even physical work to get there. Everyone’s journey is different, and once you accept that, these people can prove an invaluable source of information for you (again, without comparing yourself to them).

Seek advice from a mental health professional

This is the most solid advice you will find anywhere. A mental health professional can be very instrumental in helping you manage and treat your depression. Mental health professionals are trained, often studying mental health for years. While not all mental health professionals are considered “therapists,” they can all be a significant resource for you. Nowadays, mental health professionals are more available that they have been in the past – you can even talk to a counselor or mental health professional online! This is beneficial for people who don’t have reliable access to mental health care. There are plenty of professionals who can help you out at https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/.

Sign up for therapy sessions

Seeing a licensed therapist can be scary. Reasonably so, because it is both a monetary investment (in yourself and your wellbeing) and a time commitment. Seeing a therapist is a big leap to take when seeking help for your depression. Just like seeking out a mental health professional, talking to a therapist can turn your current life around for the better.

There’s no doubt that depression can be debilitating. It can make you feel as though all your suffering is simply in your head. It can also make it near impossible to reach out for help. However, keep in mind that there are plenty of avenues, including the ones discussed here, for you to get the help that you want and need!

Hobbies

Why Getting the Right Bird Food is So Important

January 23, 2019

Picture a warm spring afternoon in the garden, the sun is shining and the birds are singing, but what can you feed them to encourage them to keep coming back? Feeding birds can be extremely rewarding and somewhat therapeutic, but feeding them the right food is important for the birds visiting your garden.

Instead of reaching for the nearest loaf of bread, which could do the little birds more harm than good, there are plenty of other bird food options out there. In fact, garden birds can have different preferences on where and what they eat. Discover why getting the right bird food is so important, and what types of food you should be feeding your flying visitors.

Seasonality

Seasonality is very important when it comes to feeding wild birds, and what food you put out should change from month to month.

Spring and summer

During spring and summer, birds require foods that are high in protein as they are most likely moulting. Baby birds and fledglings will also need supporting with the correct bird foo during these months.

Birds perfectly time their breeding season due to more natural food sources during these months. However, it’s important to note that if the weather is unusually wet or dry, natural sources may become more and more sparse. For example, insects might hide away during wet weather, and dry weather could cause earthworms to stay underground.

To support your garden birds with the right food during these months, dried mealworms and the ever-popular sunflower hearts are a good place to start. Avoid any suet-based products or homemade fat balls during these months. They could go off in the warm weather and do more harm than good. Good hygiene is also very important in warm weather.

Autumn and winter

In Autumn and winter, it’s important to put out food and water regularly for your garden birds. If the weather is severe, such as snow or icy conditions, feeding your birds twice daily is recommended.

During this time of year, birds require foods high in energy and fat to maintain their fat reserves, and ultimately keep them warm during the cold winter months. Feeding your garden birds the wrong foods at this time of year could be harmful.

In Autumn, you could start with peanuts and black oil sunflower seeds as they are packed with energy and nutrition for the birds in your garden. Similarly to the spring and summer months, sunflower seeds are also appropriate due to their high energy content, as are Niger seeds. Whatever you decide to feed the birds in your garden, seasonality should play a big part in the bird food you choose.

Natural food shortages

If natural sources of food are sparse for the birds, often due to extreme weather conditions, it’s important to make sure the food you are putting out is suitable for their chicks, too. When natural food shortages occur, birds might take some of your garden bird food back to their nests to feed the babies.

Avoid putting out dry hard foods such as peanuts or fat balls during these extreme conditions, as they could be a choking hazard for young chicks. It sounds so simple, but ensuring the food you put out is small enough for all birds could go a long way.

Food

Costa Rica- A Foodie’s Haven

January 21, 2019

Foodie tours have become quite popular in Costa Rica. This exceptionally beautiful country has a lot to offer foodies. Costa Rica overflows with cacao farms, exotic tropical fruits, and coffee plantations, while its coastlines are rife with fish.

The country’s predilection for homemade food, organic, and homegrown ingredients guarantees that your taste buds will certainly not be disappointed. The food tours in Costa Rica will add an in-depth experience to what’s already going to be an unforgettable trip.

Manuel Antonio

The Pacific coastal town offers more than wildlife and beaches. It also has an organic spice plantation open to visitors. While there, you can stay at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort. The resort has an outdoor coffee station and stellar culinary program. One notable pastime is a tortilla-making class where after making the snack from queso fresco, corn flour, and sour cream, you’ll get to wash it down with a glass of agua dulce.

Villa Vanilla, a 27-acre organic spice plantation, offers tours around the farm. Visitors will appreciate the art of peeling cinnamon bark and chopping turmeric. After a hike through the trees all the way to a hilltop viewpoint, guests are treated to chili-spiked brownies.

Arenal Region

In addition to its volcano views and hot springs, the Arenal region is also famous for its fruit plantations, more so, the Finca Corsicana, which is the largest fair trade and organic pineapple plantation in the world. Visitors touring the fields can learn about the fruit growing process and taste the juicy produce.

Veggie lovers get to enjoy organic dishes at the Tabacon Resort and Spa. The hideout sits in the shadow of Arenal volcano. The exclusive gala dinners are served in a gazebo with culinary indulgences such as the mouth-watering St. Peter fish fillet or tofu teriyaki. Guests can also enjoy some reviving treats such as green tea exfoliations, coffee, coconut, ginger, and chocolate wraps.

Papagayo Peninsula

Popularly known for its fishing villages and white sandy beaches, Papagayo is excellent for snorkeling, surfing, and diving. This coastal town is home to the Café Britt-an ideal stop for gourmet lovers. Guests can enjoy the flavor variations of coffee through tastings.

Dining at Caracol restaurant is an attraction. The signature Chef’s Table Experience offers patrons fine feasts under a pergola surrounded by an organic garden. Delicacies include a side-by-side tasting of Costa Rican and American beef or local sashimi-style tuna.

 Another delight is the Chocolate Beach Factory that offers chocolate-making classes. Participants get to grind, cook, and roast cacao beans till they become delicious confections.

San Jose

The capital city of Costa Rica is the country’s culinary center. A visit to the market is a great way to familiarize yourself with the nation’s remarkable bounty of vegetables and fruits. The Mercado Central, founded in 1880, bustles with over 200 vendors selling fish, meat, and produce.

While there, you can enjoy Casado in Soda Cristal. This savory dish comprises rice and beans and is served with seafood, meat, or chicken with a salad, plantains, and tortillas. If you fancy dining out in an elegant restaurant, try out the Grano de Oro. It’s a popular eatery for gourmands.

Around The World, Food Gadgets

Gardens Across the World

January 3, 2019

Buildings across the world have the wow factor, don’t they? How many times have you marveled at them when you’re on holiday? However, have you done the same when taking in their gardens? Perhaps not. Cultural differences are rife throughout the world and it’s amazing to see how we change our outdoor space depending on our beliefs and global location. Here, we look at how different societies tend to their gardens.

United Kingdom

In the UK, we appreciate the importance of our garden, especially when looking at buying a property. Research claims we will fork out up to £11,500 more on a home with a garden. For some, a garden is more valuable than an extra bedroom, meaning that even those of us who aren’t exactly green fingered love a bit of outdoor space to call our own. We pine for that perfect lawn, shed and relaxation area with a sun lounger.

A garden in the UK measures 15 metres long on average and is home to 10 different varieties of flowers. The most popular garden plants include tulips, rose lavender and bluebells, all of which add colour to a vibrant space. Throw in a greenhouse, birdbath and washing line and you have the UK’s perfect garden. Unfortunately, though, we normally only spend 12 hours each month in our garden due to the nation’s temperamental weather and our busy lifestyles.

Italy

In Italy, there is a much greater focus on symmetry and traditional spaces are home to few flowers. You will mainly find evergreen plants that have been manicured into geometric hedges or topiaries. One thing the Italians are very fond of is covering their stone walls with foliage vines or climbing roses.  The garden space is seen as an extension of the home’s entertainment area, so you are likely to find art work cladded throughout, including sculptures of gods and goddesses. On the patio, a lemon tree that has been potted in a stone urn is one of the nation’s favourites.

While the UK uses the likes of a bird bath or pond for a water feature, homes in Italy prefer the cooling effects of bubbling fountains, pools or cascades. Don’t be surprised to see water shoot out of hidden pipes if you’re walking along a garden path — this was a common feature in old Italy.

India

Moving away from the European garden scene, cultural references are even more prominent. Like so many other locations, India is known for its cultural diversity and this is evident in their colourful gardens. Thanks to the tropical weather India encounters, its garden plants can thrive and that is why so many homes will be filled to the brim with flowering plants.

The Tulsi, Queen of Herbs, is something that you’ll be likely to see throughout the country. It is thought of as the holiest and most cherished of the many healing and health-giving herbs that will be found in Hindu homes. Because of its holy status, it is planted in special pots and has earned a very special place in the country’s homes.

Roses are another likely part of an Indian garden. This is because they are said to bring happiness to your life — and they have the bonus of not requiring a lot of care. With cultural references throughout horticulture, money plants are also considered a lucky plant and there will be likely spots with them if you are to observe an Indian garden.

United States

 You will often find multilevel gardens stateside. Plastic decking is commonly used in spaces that are on a slope in order to provide a flat surface area to host those elusive barbecues, or to overlook your garden.  

The American garden is usually bigger than Europe’s efforts. Studies have shown that Americans are now growing more food in their gardens than ever before, meaning patches to ‘grow your own vegetables’ are becoming increasingly popular. In 2009, the White House even planted its first vegetable since the Second World War and, by 2013, it was reported that a third of the American public were growing their own food in the backyards.

Australia

It’s the dream for many Brits to start a life Down Under. But, how do their gardens compare? While it hugely depends on where you live — the Outback will differ immensely — we will focus on the suburban areas of Australia since more than 80% of the nation’s population lives in cities or bigger towns. Thanks to the enviable climate on offer, many Australians place outdoor living as a top priority. Lawns are becoming less important, with studies showing that a third of outdoor renovation projects are either reducing this space or removing it entirely. Decks, pergolas, terraces and verandahs are springing up in their place and almost half of the projects are incorporating a barbecue area into their plans.

When looking at plants, homeowners in Australia are keen to stick with floral displays that are native to Australia, or those that are drought-tolerant. For the lucky ones, an outdoor pool is a luxurious addition to the outdoor space, so you can cool down with a splash about.

South Africa

South Africans are another nation of outdoor lovers. Be it their own space or elsewhere, they are known to feel at home in open space. Ideas that are often noticeable in South African gardens are increasingly becoming more noticeable across the globe. South Africans often have a shaded area to hide away from the glaring sunshine. This could include shade-loving shrubs and perennials that have a walkway passing through, which adds to the serenity. They are also very fond of the wildlife. Whether it’s inviting our flying friends in for a drink of freshwater or providing nectar-loving birds with plants that delight them, they set up features to help entice the wildlife into the garden — similarly to how we do in Britain.

Many South African gardens are home to society garlic. It’s a worthy addition to herb gardens and the flowers bloom even under duress.

No matter where in the world you are, it’s clear that the garden is an important part of your home. While some use it for luxury, others believe certain plants can bring good fortune on the family.

Sources

https://www.housebeautiful.com/uk/garden/news/a1864/average-british-garden-features/
http://homeguides.sfgate.com/elements-traditional-italian-garden-71411.html
10 Most common plants in Indian homes
https://inhabitat.com/studies-show-that-americans-are-growing-more-of-their-own-food-than-ever-before/
https://www.gardentech.com/blog/gardening-and-healthy-living/an-american-timeline-home-gardening-in-the-us
https://www.houzz.com.au/ideabooks/95080902/list/in-my-backyard-the-ways-australians-are-reworking-the-outdoors/
https://www.gardenista.com/posts/11-garden-ideas-to-steal-from-south-africa/