Depressed? Get Some Fresh Air

Is the recession getting you down?  Are you in a tizzy over job losses? Finances? Family?  Maybe it’s all of the above. If you are like most people, then you might be tempted to stop living your own life and turn on the TV to live vicariously through the adventures of others.

According to a recent report from the University of Maryland, unhappy people are likely to watch anywhere from 20-40% more television than happy people. Typically this leads to other forms of sedentary stress release like snacking and couch potato behavior. In the short term it might seem to be a welcome relief from life’s harsh realities but in the medium to long term, it can take a serious toll on your health.

Depression is best overcome by participating in uplifting activities associated with a happy lifestyle. Go for a walk in the park or somewhere else that you can inhale some fresh air.  Socialize with your friends over a home-cooked dinner. Sweat it out at a high energy dance or exercise class. Or, if you must stay on the couch then try to replace watching TV with a good comedy book or magazine.

“Happy” activities are most likely to life your mood even in the smallest way.  So, turn off the tube…it’s time to kick that recession depression.