Life does not stop or even slow down because I am depressed, stressed out or unemployed. I still get to be a mom, a wife and do all the things I have to do no matter how I feel.  Suzanne- mom of 4

Life has changed for many people in the last few years since our nation declared itself in “recession” a couple of years ago.  Unemployment statistics do not tell the whole story of the recession, but the figures are alarming enough.

Although economic shifts always affect the American family, this downturn, both because of its depth and the disproportionate number of men being laid off, is adjusting roles and relationships at home perhaps more than at anytime since the Great Depression. It is recalibrating who earns the income, who picks up the kids at school, and who makes the weekly trip to the dump. (How the recession is reshaping the American family By Stephanie Hanes, Correspondent of The Christian Science Monitor / June 14, 2009)

Many of the moms I work with find themselves in search of  spiritual nourishment to help them deal with their circumstances. They’re looking for some kind of support and encouragement that will supply the motivation they need to keep plugging away. While dealing with depression, aggravated by the challenges of a sluggish economy, it may seem much more difficult to parent at times when our children test every ounce of our patience.

Here are some ideas to help yourself deal with low-to-moderate depression:

1. Reach out: Have lunch or coffee with a friend. Make sure you don’t isolate yourself even when it feels easier to stay in bed or watch TV all day. I know that calling a friend and connecting with someone who cares about me ALWAYS makes me feel a little better.

2. Go for a walk with a workout buddy: Not only does it help your “feel good” juice on your brain but it also encourages you to connect and avoid the dangers of isolation.

3. Eat healthy foods: Resist the temptation to indulge on junk food: Remember garbage in: garbage out

Most important: make sure to ask for professional help if your feelings get to be more than you can handle. You deserve to feel better and to get support. You are NOT alone!!