Depression is the opposite of a state of gratitude – it is a feeling of despondency that can be caused by inactivity, sickness (your own or that of a loved one), any factor that sends the equilibrium of the mind into negative territory or even hormones. In other words, depression is what optimism isn’t. Depression first strangles and then, if not reversed, goes on to overwhelmingly murder positive thought. It sends the positive thoughts and attitude process sinking fast, and places the depressed person in a zombie-like stupor. A depressed person slows down at work, becomes counter-productive, ignores or avoids his friends and relations, does not enjoy family life and remains in a condition of continuing dissatisfaction. That was the mental position – a depressed person is hampered on the physical front too because negative thinking releases harmful chemicals into the body. Additionally, a depressed person suffers from fatigue and keeps imagining that he is affected by various illnesses.
Depression has to be recognized and treated as quickly as possible. The first thing that a depressed man may do is to reach out for anti-depressant pills, which give a temporary relief from depression. However, depression normally stems out of a negative thought process and the best way to fight it is a positive mental attitude. Yes, a depressed person needs to start thinking positively to ward off depression, and one of the greatest factors that can usher in positive thought is the feeling of gratitude.
Gratitude, or thankfulness, is an appreciation of a benefit received. Expressing gratitude makes one feel good and also tanks him up with positive vibes, and he begins to feel upbeat and full of encouraging energy. The body will be energized and actually healthier. The big question, however, is what to be grateful for and to whom to express our thanks. Well, the answer to that question lies inside any one of us. If we take a look at our own lives, we will find innumerable instances that we can be grateful for. For instance:
We can thank the lord for giving us a good night’s rest, for a great sunny day and for the birds chirping in our backyard. If we have a good and caring spouse, we must thank him/her for being our partner for life. Thank life for not leaving you alone, high and dry! If we are healthy, we can thank nature for giving us a robust body constitution; if we are unwell, we can thank the doctors for bringing us out of our condition.
These were just a few instances – however, you will find many more reasons to feel grateful towards Nature and towards your family/friends once you start meditating on your life. So, go right ahead and do that, and when you discover the little things that add that sparkle to your existence, humbly express your gratitude to them.
The gratitude you express will promote positive thinking, which in turn will drive away the darkness that depression has exploded into your mind. Gratitude will drive away the fears planted by depression and sprinkle your mind with good cheer, and once you are cheerful, the world will be wonderful. Forever.
To Do: 1) Make a list of 10 things that you are thankful for “right now”. 2) Put up a sign reminding you to make another list every day. 3) Add to your list during the day every time you start having any negative thought. 4) Save your lists in a scrapbook. 5) Read your scrapbook if you are having trouble remembering anything you are thankful for.
