Long work hours, depression, and weight gain.

dgibson2016
dgibson2016 Posts: 1 Member
in Motivation and Support
I definitely work long work hours and my work involves helping people psychologically recover from terrible trauma. I recently had to take time of work because I developed depression. I gained 45 pounds due to my depression. Today was the first time I went to the gym in a while. I guess I'm looking for support on how to continue to work out through days I may feel blue or any foods that help with curing depression? Even just other people who have dealt with what I'm dealing with and have overcome it would be supportive and motivational.

Replies

  • veggrrrl
    veggrrrl Posts: 41 Member
    Did going to the gym and moving around help you feel better at all?

    I'm also very depressed because of my job situation. I've gained about 35 lbs since starting (I've been at my job for 6 years).

    Starting to exercise and eating well has changed my mood significantly thus far. I hope I keep it up. I've been looking forward to workouts because I can feel myself getting stronger and healthier. Plus, it helps blow off some steam.

    I guess I'm saying, the more you go, the better you'll start to feel. You just need to remember that. Feel free to friend me if you need a cheerleader!
  • nm212
    nm212 Posts: 570 Member
    I don't know if there is a cure for depression in regards to food, BUT I do know that ever since I started eating more fresh fruit , instead of other junk, I have been feeling so much more clear headed and happy. I've been vegetarian now for a few months and I feel better than ever. I'm not saying you have to do that, but maybe just incorporate more healthful foods. Alot of dairy and meat have hormones and antibiotics pumped into them....so when we ingest it, it must have an impact, right? Just my own opinion but regardless, I say fresh fruit is key!! Have some watermelon or papaya!! I swear it will make you feel like a kid again lol not to mention the extra energy and nourishment/hydration!
  • indy87colts
    indy87colts Posts: 38 Member
    edited March 2017
    Agreed.... I lack motivation thinking about going to the gym but I force myself to go and so glad I do go. Sore muscles is now something I look forward to and keep me going. I also think pre-workout powders really help me. They give me the jolt of energy and focus that I need and really help me concentrate on my workouts and extra energy to work harder.

    Need any help or motivation, feel free to add me and would be glad to chat.
  • nm212
    nm212 Posts: 570 Member
    Spinning and yoga classes are my go to. Yoga helped me immensely with depression when I first started years ago.... If you can, I would suggest trying it! Do exercise that you enjoy and it won't feel so dreadful!
  • rdevol
    rdevol Posts: 278 Member
    Do you have time to take a walk at lunch? Even if you could squeeze out 10 or 15 minutes, I think it would help clear your head, make you feel better, and get some exercise in at the same time. I've dealt with similar issues and really struggle to find the time and motivation to work out, but I know that if I can get in the groove, it will definitely help me feel better. Good luck and feel free to add me if you'd like. :)
  • rsclause
    rsclause Posts: 3,103 Member
    I don't know about depression but my overall health and wellbeing was declining. My weight, blood pressure and cholesterol were all creeping up and I was having a terrible time with insomnia. I run a small business and the lack of sleep was causing stress. I started eating healthier foods, smaller portions and exercising all at the same time. I now feel great, cholesterol, blood pressure are normal. I lost 50 pounds and cured insomnia and snoring. I now like to wake early (4:30) and have exercise time for me. I do some gym stuff at times but have really grown to love running. Losing weight is great but the exercise is what really reset my internal clock and gave me a jumpstart.
  • Lizzy622
    Lizzy622 Posts: 3,705 Member
    Getting some sunshine and outdoor time helps even 10 or 15 minutes.
  • MsMaeFlowers
    MsMaeFlowers Posts: 261 Member
    I dont have depression, but I do struggle a lot with anxiety, and maybe what helps me will help you.

    I know everyone is different, but I definitely find my mood improves with exercise. If I'm feeling down, or upset, or even angry, I jump on the treadmill at home for 30-60 mins and it seems to burn off my emotions. Classes at the gym are also great if you have that option. I go to a women's only gym and the classes are amazing. Everyone is friendly and helpful and I'm addicted to going.

    Proper food will help too. I find eating something healthy that doesn't make me feel bloated or gross helps me feel good too.

    I would plan to do your exercising either right before, or right after work. I hate early mornings but I love going right after work, it's like stress relief after your long annoying day. Especially if you do a high intensity class or workout, you just leave feeling great and not caring about what might have happened at work that day.

    Make sure you get outside too when it's sunny. Take a short walk and enjoy some nature.
  • SammiG01
    SammiG01 Posts: 105 Member
    dgibson2016 wrote: »
    I definitely work long work hours and my work involves helping people psychologically recover from terrible trauma. I recently had to take time of work because I developed depression. I gained 45 pounds due to my depression. Today was the first time I went to the gym in a while. I guess I'm looking for support on how to continue to work out through days I may feel blue or any foods that help with curing depression? Even just other people who have dealt with what I'm dealing with and have overcome it would be supportive and motivational.

    Does your workplace offer assessment and support for vicarious trauma? Workers in fields like yours are very susceptible and it can result in PTSD. I can relate to your situation.
  • rdevol
    rdevol Posts: 278 Member
    Sorry for the delayed response, but yes to what dgibson2016 says. I was thinking the same thing. Your kind of work has to take a toll on you mentally. You need to take care of your physical AND mental well-being.
  • LearningToFly13
    LearningToFly13 Posts: 329 Member
    dgibson2016 wrote: »
    I definitely work long work hours and my work involves helping people psychologically recover from terrible trauma. I recently had to take time of work because I developed depression. I gained 45 pounds due to my depression. Today was the first time I went to the gym in a while. I guess I'm looking for support on how to continue to work out through days I may feel blue or any foods that help with curing depression? Even just other people who have dealt with what I'm dealing with and have overcome it would be supportive and motivational.

    I have suffered depression and I know what works for me... exercise daily...even just going on long walks. Exercise is the best tool against mood disorders and depression. Stay away from alcohol and any other false highs that lead to the lowest of lows (processed sugar can be included in this) Plenty of fresh fruit and veggies. Surround yourself with positive people. Keep a diary/journal so you can work through your feelings each day. Get plenty of sleep and take one day at a time. It's hard when you're depressed to see the bigger picture and you sometimes can't imagine ever feeling better or happy again. But you can and you will. Xx
  • LearningToFly13
    LearningToFly13 Posts: 329 Member
    nm212 wrote: »
    Spinning and yoga classes are my go to. Yoga helped me immensely with depression when I first started years ago.... If you can, I would suggest trying it! Do exercise that you enjoy and it won't feel so dreadful!

    This too. Yoga and meditation are a great tool for stress relief and depression.
  • MichelleWithMoxie
    MichelleWithMoxie Posts: 1,817 Member
    getting in an exercise and eating routine does wonders for depression and anxiety, for me anyway. I think if you stick with it and stay consistent it should help.

    Having said that, none of us are your doc, so take all of this with a grain of salt of course.
  • Leenizi129
    Leenizi129 Posts: 133 Member
    Everyone gets the blues, So I would suggest Rhodiola rosea and some vitamin d3 make sure you have Drs ok. Look.sounds like you help.alot of people, therefore make time for you. I give you permission ☺️ do something special for you.
  • bobshuckleberry
    bobshuckleberry Posts: 281 Member
    I have chronic depression and anxiety, luckily it is controlled most of the time now. But before it was, I did gain a lot of weight, I was always tired and I felt like I could not do anything about it. Eating right and exercise does help. Try not to eat a lot of processed foods, enjoy fresh stuff when it is in. Get outside as much as you can. It will really help. Get into a sleep routine, go to bed and rise in the morning at the same times every day. Read things that are positive, like inspiring quotes. Find something beautiful to take a picture of every day. Smile a lot, especially at others.
    Yoga and meditation are great, also aromatherapy can bring up your spirits.
  • clpringle81
    clpringle81 Posts: 2 Member
    In response to DGibson2016, I have dealt with depression after a car accident & sudden death of my brother. I empathize with you. I am happy to help in any way I can. It's important to have a support system, as you well know. Feel free to send me a personal message. I am living proof that this too shall pass. I'm no longer on anti-depressants, have lost weight, & feeling better. You can absolutely change your life. It will take time though. I pray that your depression resolves very soon. God bless you.
  • EllaLeahB
    EllaLeahB Posts: 310 Member
    I'm sorry you are battling with depression. It's very difficult to go through. Please feel free to add me if you ever want to chitchat or want to talk about anything or just a fitness pal. All my best to you
  • GemstoneofHeart
    GemstoneofHeart Posts: 865 Member
    First I want to say thank you for the work you do. We need more people like you who are helping others. I am sorry that depression has taken such a toll on you. I hope that exercising, eating well, and losing weight help with it-for a lot of people it does! Have you tried to find a depression support group in your area? They can be really helpful and can help keep you on the right path! Mfp is great too but there's nothing like in-person interaction with others in the same boat!
  • JeromeBarry1
    JeromeBarry1 Posts: 10,179 Member
    ditto @GemstoneofHeart . It's entirely likely that your work promotes your depression. Your physical exercise is an excellent counter to it and I advocate that you treat your workout as the most important life-saving act you do.
  • aruzek09
    aruzek09 Posts: 8 Member
    I agree that helping others is rewarding but also one of the most stressful, it is also very depressing because the line of hurting people out there is endless. I suggest just getting up at work and walking outside as often as you can. Even if it is snowing, raining, or hot and humid. It really helps to just feel a breeze or sun or cold. As to foods, try a glass of fresh water with lemon. It really helps to just feel alive and fresh. get to the gym,, but I think it's the little things that often help the most.
  • Wakeup2014
    Wakeup2014 Posts: 22 Member
    Hi girl! Kudos to you for doing a very tough job. I'm sure you are changing lives! What helps me most with depression is having plans in the future to look forward to (a party, dinner, trip etc), music (maybe a new playlist on your iPad?) and also being outside even walking. Big hugs xoxoxxo
  • Lavelle1980
    Lavelle1980 Posts: 367 Member
    I personally have not went through depression, but I have family and friends that has and was there as a support. Some of the things that I have advised and helped as well are the following:

    1. Taking a simple walk daily - This has helped redirecting their focus and begin the oxygenated blood flow to their brain, causing their depression to decrease. Try committing to a min. of 30 mins a day.
    2. Foods - A raw vegan fruit foods (80% of the day) does miracle wonders with the mood, energy levels and motivations. I can't really go in to the scientific details of how this works, although you can research it, however, trust me on this. It works!
    3. Self Help Books - My go to book for depression is "Awaken the Giant Within - by Tony Robbins" If you never heard of him, I recommend watching some youtube vids on him, type his name and either "motivation" or "depression". It's my number 1 recommended book for EVERYTHING.
    4. This last one was recommend by a psychologist and that is, consider changing your job or the field you're in. Your life and your health is important, and YOU are the one that invest into yourself. If you're investment is a defecit in your life and your job is draining the life force out of you, then consider changing fields.

    I hope this helps,

    Please feel free to add me for additional support.

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