Depression is not the same for everyone, so there is no one solution. We have found that depression can be caused by anything from hormones to neurotransmitters to nutrition to illness. That is why it is so important to take an individualized, balanced approach to wellness and fighting your depression.   Some of these resources may work for you, some may not.   The important thing is that you do what works and tailor a plan that is right for you.

Immediate Help
Are You Depressed?
Nutrition
Exercise
  Counseling
Addictions
Affordable Medical Care
Support System
  Medicines
Animal Companions
Hormones
Famous Faces
 
DISCLAIMER
The materials listed in this section are designed to assist you in finding out more about depression. However, they should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, counseling or other health-related services. We are not able to monitor this web site for crisis messages or make referrals.

Addictions

Alcoholism
Alcohol can have a devastating affect on your health and relationships.  Alcohol is also a depressant, and even the slightest amount can create negative feelings and thoughts. 

Startling Statistics on Alcohol use:

Alcohol use is involved in:

  • One-half of all murders, accidental deaths, and suicides
  • One-third of all drowning, boating and aviation deaths
  • One-half of all crimes
  • Almost half of all fatal automobile accidents

To find out more about the affects of alcohol, visit http://www.stopyouraddiction.com/html/alcoholism.html

Other Resources:

Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc.
1600 Corporate Landing Parkway
Virginia Beach, VA 23454–5617
Phone: (757) 563–1600
Fax: (757) 563–1655
Email: WSO@al-anon.org
Internet address: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org

Makes referrals to local Al-Anon groups, which are support groups for spouses and other significant adults in an alcoholic person’s life. Also makes referrals to Alateen groups, which offer support to children of alcoholics. Free informational materials and locations of Al-Anon or Alateen meetings worldwide can be obtained by calling the toll-free number (888) 425–2666 from the United States or Canada, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. (e.s.t.).

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) World Services, Inc.
475 Riverside Drive, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10115
Phone: (212) 870–3400
Fax: (212) 870–3003
Email: via AA’s Web site
Internet address: http://www.aa.org

Makes referrals to local AA groups and provides informational materials on the AA program. Many cities and towns also have a local AA office listed in the telephone book. All communication should be directed to AA’s mailing address: AA World Services, Inc., Grand Central Station, P.O. Box 459, New York, NY 10163.

National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (NCADD)
20 Exchange Place, Suite 2902
New York, NY 10005
Phone: (212) 269–7797
Fax: (212) 269–7510
Email: national@ncadd.org
HOPE LINE: (800) NCA–CALL (24-hour Affiliate referral)
Internet address: http://www.ncadd.org

Offers educational materials and information on alcoholism. Provides phone numbers of local NCADD Affiliates (who can provide information on local treatment resources) via the above toll-free, 24-hour HOPE LINE.

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
5635 Fishers Lane, MSC 9304
Bethesda, MD 20892-9304
Phone: (301) 443–3860
Fax: (301) 480–1726
Email: niaaaweb-r@exchange.nih.gov
Internet address: http://www.niaaa.nih.gov

Makes available free informational materials on all aspects of alcoholism, including the effects of drinking during pregnancy, alcohol use and the elderly, and help for cutting down on drinking.

Smoking
There is mixed information out there about smoking and depression.  Psychology Today reports that people might want to think twice about quitting smoking during a major depressive episode. Read more...  

Other studies show that smoking can cause depression. Read more here:

Whatever the case, smoking is not a healthy living choice.  If you don’t smoke, don’t start.  If you do decide to quit smoking, make sure you have support in place to help you in your decision.  Visit this link for the latest news, and links to the American Cancer Society, American Heart Assosiation and more with information on how to quit:

Overeating
Overeating can be a sign that something else is going on in your life.  It can be emotional, mental, or physical. To find out more, read articles, or find out how to get help visit Eating Disorder Referral and Information Page at:

Drug Addictions
Drug addictions can wreak havoc on your personal, professional and emotional life. There are many different types of addictions these days, from over the counter drugs to street drugs. Visit the below sites for more information:

Provides immediate help and assistance for drug and alcohol addictions: