In a study conducted by the University of Chicago, there seems to be a common thread amongst ‘happy’ people – not watching television.
What’s that have to do with Parkinson’s disease? Plenty.
As a PD patient, you know that you’re already susceptible to depression. Sitting on the couch and channel surfing isn’t going to help you out. Sometimes when we’re depressed, we are heavily focusing on how we feel. In other words, we’re focusing on ourselves. The best way to combat that is to get up and do something, especially for another person.
In the study done by the university, it also stated that happy people spend a large portion of their time socializing with other people, going to church, reading and more. 45,000 Americans responded to this lengthy study, concluding that out of 8-10 activities that happy people are involved in (such as those listed above), TV was the only activity showing a negative response.
In some cases, that may be easy to see why – news reports are depressing, many of the shows offered on prime time TV include broken relationships, immoral subject matter, violence, crude comedy, etc. I don’t know of many shows aired currently where you can walk away and feel better.
For people who struggle with chronic illness, television can add to their depression, depending upon their channel choice. Couple that with today’s unemployment rate in a family who is already struggling, and depression can escalate.
So, how to you battle this darkness if you’re a PD patient? First, if you’re doctor doesn’t have you on an anti-depressant currently, make a point of discussing it at your next appointment. If you’re faring well in terms of emotional stability, you may be an exception. Depression isn’t something to be ashamed of and PD can cause extra stress, anxiety, anxiousness and more. A low dose of anti-depressant may help you cope more easily with all the other side effects of PD.
Whether you choose to go with a prescription or not, get off the couch. Grab a cane, a walker, whatever it takes to get you moving around the house or community. Get someone to walk with you or take you for a walk. There is so much beauty to behold, even if it’s on a busy street – find a smile on someone’s face.
Cant’ hold a book in your hands? Have someone read to you or get an audio book. There are hundreds of popular titles out today.
There are several different software programs and equipment add-ons for computers now that enable the disabled. Check into them for yourself or for your loved one. These are beneficial for the patient who can no longer type but can still hold a conversation. It enables face to face from anywhere in the world. Support groups are also now accessible this way.
If you are physically able, volunteer at a preschool. They could always use help and what better lift-me-up than to play with toddlers?
Volunteer at the library, for a youth sports team, for tutoring, by reading to an elderly patient in a nursing home. The possibilities are endless. The main idea is, do something. Don’t just sit there. If you are struggling with depression, planting yourself in front of another episode of ‘As the World Turns’ will only enable your world to shut down.
