Diet for depression

[Maggie]

I'm not depressed, but my friend is. Since she's been this way, she's gained a lot of weight. Is there a way for her to eat better that won't just lead to weight loss but that will help with her depression as well? She knows that she's feeling blue, but she doesn't want to go on anti-depressants. Any of your ideas would be great. Thank you!

[kellykatt]

I'm sorry to hear that Maggie. Your friend may feel better if she cut out any junk food, processed foods, takeout, etc. If she eats a healthy diet of whole foods and whole grains that are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, she might find that she has more energy and just feels better overall. A poor diet can contribute to feeling sluggish and blue. Likewise, exercise is very important. Exercise actually makes us feel better and can help to release endorphins, which have been linked to feelings of happiness.

That said, while you can lead a horse to water, you can't make them drink. In other words, if your friend doesn't seem interested in helping themselves or doesn't seem to be getting better, maybe consider talking to others about this problem and getting them additional professional help. Clinical depression can be very serious.

[ffviifan]

If your friend is really depressed, like clinically depressed, I don't think changing her diet is going to be enough for her to get over the blues. It's not that it can't help, but I don't think it's going to make a positive difference fast enough, so it could end up being something she only does for a little bit before she just goes back to eating like she always has. In this case, you might want to encourage her to seek professional help.

[bonniekins]

I have to agree that if you are worried about your friend being depressed enough that you're wondering if there is a diet for it, you should probably encourage her to talk to her doctor or encourage her to see a professional who may be able to help her work through her problems.

[Maggie]

I'm sorry to hear that Maggie. Your friend may feel better if she cut out any junk food, processed foods, takeout, etc. If she eats a healthy diet of whole foods and whole grains that are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, she might find that she has more energy and just feels better overall. A poor diet can contribute to feeling sluggish and blue. Likewise, exercise is very important. Exercise actually makes us feel better and can help to release endorphins, which have been linked to feelings of happiness.

That said, while you can lead a horse to water, you can't make them drink. In other words, if your friend doesn't seem interested in helping themselves or doesn't seem to be getting better, maybe consider talking to others about this problem and getting them additional professional help. Clinical depression can be very serious.

Thanks for your advice KellyKatt. I am keeping a close eye on her and I think she's really just got a mild case of the blues. That said, she has been exercising more and that has seemed to give her a bit of a boost. It's amazing how much a little activity can go a long way :)