I use a variety of techniques to treat the daytime effects of sleep deprivation and reset my circadian rhythm. This blog discusses the 'Light Therapy', also known as 'Phototherapy' that I use every morning.
Month: May 2016
Master of Misery
Delving into the deep, dark dungeon, depression creeps in, clinging tightly. You are not alone; I am with you now I will hold you tight and won't let go.
Treating Sleep Deprivation Part 1: Caffeine
Living with the daily consequences of a sleep disorder is harsh; the sleep disorder causes chronic sleep deprivation as well as a host of cognitive, and physical ailments. I have two choices; give up and die - which sometimes in my dark place, I find myself wanting to. Or, tackle it face on to give me a fighting chance
When Depression Starts to Lift
One of the beautiful aspects of this recovery is being able to see properly again; to see a flower appearing out of the darkness and appreciate its depth of colour, pumps the zest through my arteries.
Depression Steals My Zest For Life
I describe depression in combination with darkness a lot and often liken this to living on the edge of death. It's not because I always sit without the lights on or want to die. It's because that's how an episode of depression leaves me feeling inside. My zest for life has gone to visit Great Auntie Anne.
The Blackbird
This is a poem I wrote as a young soldier serving in the British Army. It's not quite on the theme of mental health, but it represents the emotional impact that training had only me.
Our Relationship With Gadgets
Gadgets can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, our gadgets, gear and social media can bring us much closer together and make the world a smaller place. Our family and friend relationships benefit from this, which can have a positive effect on our mental health.
The Relationship with our Pets
When I am struggling with depression, I have found one of the most therapeutic relationships I can have, is the one with my cat. Our pets are instinctual creatures and care for us unconditionally.
Your Relationship with Your Partner
The relationship you have with your partner is important for mental wellbeing. Excellent relationships can enhance mental wellbeing, but poor relationships may lead to stress, anxiety and depression. It is often a difficult subject to raise, but one worth considering for the benefit of both partners. Three simple things that can improve the quality of relationship with your partner are:
The Relationship You Have with Yourself
When it comes to mental wellbeing, different types of relationships are important. Probably the most important relationship is the one that you have with yourself. When mental health is poor, this is usually the first relationship to suffer and may be the hardest to fix. Things that you can do to help improve your relationship with yourself include:
