Both men and women face many responsibilities and challenges, and while most people manage to cope, some end up dealing with depression. According to the World Health Organization, depression is a mental illness characterized by persistent sadness, a lack of interest in activities, low self-esteem, poor sleep, low energy, and difficulties in concentration and appetite. It affects around 121 million people worldwide. Fortunately, depression can be treated.
Common treatments for depression include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. It’s important to note that a healthcare professional should diagnose depression and determine the best course of treatment.
Often, antidepressants like Xanax are prescribed, and many people buy them online. However, research suggests that meditation can also be an effective treatment for depression.
Meditation, particularly mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), helps people focus on the present moment instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. There are various forms of meditation, including Yoga and Buddhist meditation. For those who struggle to find quiet time or are too busy, there are audio techniques that allow for meditation through music while traveling or working.
One of the reasons meditation works well for treating depression is that it stimulates the production of positive brain chemicals, such as endorphins, which are also released during activities like exercise and intimacy. This helps reduce feelings of sadness or guilt.
Additionally, meditation promotes relaxation and happiness and helps break down negative emotional patterns such as anxiety, cravings, anger, and self-doubt. Through meditation, individuals can become more rested, less anxious, happier, more focused, and more at peace. They can also develop better connections with others. More importantly, regular meditation can slow the aging process and improve overall health and well-being.