Preventing Depression in Children

Young people seem to be experiencing depression more now than ever before. I found an article explaining eight reasons why this is the case. Most of these reasons are due to our prosperous, industrialized and fast moving society. We think technology and our comfortable lifestyles are good but they have come at a huge price to our health and the health of our children.

The first reason listed is a lack of play. Do you see children playing in your streets and parks anymore? When I was growing up, we were playing outside most of the time, when the weather allowed. We didn't have a lot of toys so we used our imaginations to play. It is SO imperative that your children are outside playing as much as possible using their large muscles to run, jump, climb, etc. besides the benefits of being in the sunshine and fresh air.

C-Sections are also another factor. Way too many c-sections are given today. Yes, there are times when they must be given but if at all possible, don't have a c-section. Natural births are, by far, the healthiest for baby and mother. Recovering from a natural birth is much quicker for the mother and the least amount of drugs you can put into your body, the better since ALL drugs are toxic to the human body.

Sugar. The more we find out about sugar, the more we find that most diseases are from eating sugar. Sugar robs your body of important nutrients, allows cancer to proliferate and beats down your immune system. Do all you can to prevent your children from eating sugar. There are so many alternative healthy foods. I properly prepare all types of nuts and sunflower seeds for snacks. Popcorn popped in coconut oil and fruit are all great snacks for your children. Train your children to snack on nutritious food, instead of junk food which results in junk health.

Antibiotics is another reason for so much depression in children. My boys never had antibiotics growing up. My daughters received a little bit for ear infections until I learned that ear infections clear up just as quickly with antibiotics as they do without, yet those ear infections cured without antibiotics don't come back. I found this to be true. Dr. Marshall believes all infections can be cured without drugs, except a tooth infection which needs to be fixed. I have cured bladder infections, sinus infections, breast infections, and ear infections all without drugs. Drugs should only be used in emergency situations.

Television is robbing our children of mental health also. It prevents them from playing, using their imaginations,  and relating with others. It is damaging to their developing brains and eyes. Some education experts believe that a child should not watch television until they are five or six years old.  Then it should only be for an hour a day. It is addicting. Little children will be happily playing until they get in front of a television. Then they don't move at all!

How many times have I written about the devastation of divorce on children? Many times. God hates divorce and commands we be covenant keepers for many reasons and one of those reasons is for the sake of the children. I have seen the devastation divorce is upon even grown children. The value of a husband and wife staying united as one for all of their days can never be overestimated. Stay married, even if it isn't easy, because in the long run, it will be better for many.

Toxins are another cause of depression. I have written often about the need for eating organic food, cleaning with non-toxic cleaners, and having your windows open as much as possible. We weren't created to live in a toxic environment, yet we all live in one. Do what you can to rid your family's life of toxins and then leave the rest in the Lord's hands.

Stress is the final cause of depression. Children are so stressed out today, especially if they are in the public schools with all of the competition and bullying. I never studied for the SAT. I didn't even have much homework in high school. We were allowed to be children and have a lot of play time. Most of today's children don't have this privilege. Do what you can to give your children a stress-free lifestyle.

Finally, the very most important thing this article left out is to preach the Gospel to your children early and often so they know clearly who they are in Christ and their precious value to the kingdom of God.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, 
so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
Romans 15:13 

***Remember, I'm NOT a doctor. I'm just a homemaker who loves to research 

natural cures and have found many that have worked for my family and me. Information I have given is for educational and informational purposes only and to motivate you to make your own health care and dietary decisions based upon your own research and in partnership with your health care provider. Any statements or claims about the possible health benefits conferred by any foods or supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Nothing you read here should be relied upon to determine dietary changes, a medical diagnosis or course of treatment.

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