SAD

I am newly married and should be happy but I'm not. In fact, I hate my life. My husband is the only one that works and I dont. I sell some things on ebay but I want something else. With the economy the way it is, I cannot find a job. I feel really empty and I dont really feel passionate about anything. Help! Can you recommend something that will help and please dont just say meds.

Hi hopeful2009,

Have you considered volunteering? You can do that in addition to looking for work, and you are usually only asked to do a few hours a week (more if you want.) You could even just do it in your own neighborhood, perhaps mowing an elderly neighbor's grass or something.

Also, moving your body around will get your feel good chemicals flowing. You don't have to do much to start, but it would be good if you did it as consistently as possible. Maybe walk once around the block several times a day? I sit at the computer all day, so getting up for frequent stretches or mini-walks improves my energy and my mood.

I think the key to any change is to start slowly. Someone who is trying to eat better might do well to increase water intake for a month, then fruits, then veggies, etc. It doesn't feel so overwhelming that way.

Definitely exercise, whether it's walking around the beaches or joining a club- it's the best thing you can do.

Volunteering is a really good idea. I always wanted to volunteer to walk the dogs at the animal shelter, maybe that would help.