Avoiding depression

"Behaviors strongly associated with depression -- reduced physical activity and human contact, overconsumption of processed food, seeking endless distraction -- are the very behaviors that more and more people now can do, are even forced to do by the nature of their sedentary, indoor jobs." Dr. Andrew Weil

As caregivers for dementia, there is danger that we are existing in fertile ground for depression.  I don't know about you, but I have reduced physical activity (even with my discipline of daily exercise), decreased human contact (except with the person with dementia), and I sometimes out of exhaustion rely on processed foods (although not very often).  It is very challenging to do this task without feeling overwhelmed and/or depressed.  Dr. Weil says in a November 7 & 14, 2011, Newsweek article that we humans thrive in natural environments and social groups.  Two of the things which are harder to enjoy as caregivers for dementia.  He goes on to say that we are suffering from nature deficit; while experiencing information surfeit.  He recommends as a remedy setting limits for how much time we spend on the internet and with email.  Good suggestion.