30 Nov 2014
This video has been very powerful for some of my patients and their families. Its worth watching.
01 Dec 2014
The first thing to do if you suspect that you may be depressed is to speak to a mental health care practitioner or a medical practitioner in order to make a diagnosis and exclude other medical conditions. Depression can be managed with or without medication. Either route you take it will really make a difference if you make some changes in your day-to-day routine. Ive used this wellness wheel to look at different aspects where simple changes can be made. Intellectual Educate yourself about depression, read websites, books. I always say you can’t try to ‘beat’ depression without fully understanding […]
04 Dec 2014
I got this great picture from this blog and I thought it was fitting for my post today. Be kind to yourself is something I frequently say to my patients as a parting comment. I know it’s been a tough year for many people, and I thought as the year quietens down, its worth reflecting on things which can be done to improve your mental health. First, let’s think how you would be kind to someone else? You would be polite, caring, genuine, friendly, and tolerant of any weaknesses in your interaction with them. Imagine if you could do all […]
04 Dec 2014
There are a few ways to find help for treatment of depression. In the private sector, initially I would advise approaching a general practitioner who can confirm the diagnosis and start treatment if necessary. Alternatively, make an appointment with a psychologist in your area and discuss your concerns with him/her. If your depression is complicated and not responding well to treatment, I would recommend that you see a psychiatrist for a more intense assessment. In the public sector there are local mental health clinics in all districts ( definitely in Gauteng). Go to your local clinic and ask to see […]
26 Dec 2014
I would like to wish all my readers who celebrate Christmas a very Happy Christmas. I hope the new year brings everyone peacefulness and contentedness. I have been quiet on the blog lately since I have been recharging my batteries (and mind !). Im very aware that this time of year is hard for many. It is tough to face reminders of what isn’t, what could have been and remembering family and friends who are no longer with us. Plus, often people have more time on their hands, aren’t in their ordinary routines, and use substances to ‘celebrate’ this time […]
29 Dec 2014
I can only really comment on what I think about when deciding to start a patient on these medications, based on my experience and studies. This is not medical advice, more my opinion on the thought process behind the science. I have made it quite simple so if you have specific questions you can comment below/email me or ask your treating doctor. I try and match up my patients with the medication I’m prescribing. This helps them stay on the medication if they experience minimal side effects and benefit from the meds. This is not always an easy thing to […]