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WHO Wants Us to Talk About Depression

The World Health Organization (WHO) marks April 7th as World Health Day. This year’s theme is “Depression: Let’s talk.”

At Eat, Heal, Travel, we’re always eager to talk about the positive benefits of eating right and staying active to improve both physical and mental health. We also understand that depression can take a toll on your entire life. It can be associated with poor nutrition, unhealthy lifestyle choices, addiction, stress, traumatic events, and an array of other burdens in life. Signs of depression may include fatigue, loss of interest in things, general feelings of guilt or worry, sleep issues, hopelessness, and unexplained pain.

Another sign of depression could be overeating. Whether you’re responding to a stressful situation, or there is a deeper medical cause for your depression, food is sometimes inappropriately used as a coping mechanism. While wonderfully delicious and comforting, food is not designed as a cure for our problems and concerns. Unfortunately, when feeling down, many turn to junk foods, salty snacks, and sugary treats that deplete energy and cause inflammation in the body. Healthy foods, on the other hand, are a resource for energy. The right foods can revitalize your body. A few nutritious, anti-inflammatory foods we enjoy include walnuts, pineapple, dark leafy greens, tomatoes, or salmon.

With the right tools, healing is possible during depression. Experts suggest a combination of professional therapy combined with support and self-care. Support of others is a key to remembering that you don’t have to go through life alone. There is power in numbers — friends, counselors, or family members could help you see things in a different light. As for self-care, a combination of good nutrition, physical activity, and sleep can do wonders.
We’ve also heard countless stories of how travel can help improve your mood. Taking a break from it all, even if just for a day, can alleviate stress. The simple act of removing yourself from daily external stressors could change your life. Take a trip to the ocean, smell the salty air and feel your body float on the water. If the beach is too far, go on a hike and enjoy the sweet sound of birds singing in the tall trees. If time allows, go somewhere you’ve never been, such as traveling to another country. Travel far and learn about a new culture. The world is filled with people and places to soothe the soul.

We hope these tips inspire you to eat well, live long, and travel beyond your usual borders! Our blog isn’t meant as medical advice. We recommend consulting a physician regarding serious feelings of depression, as your condition may benefit from treatment, medication, or counseling. If you have any unique tips for helping others battle depression through medicinal foods or travel, be sure to talk with us via Twitter or Facebook.