When Happiness Feels Out of Reach

Unfortunately, happiness won't be within easy reach for many people. Experiencing trauma or prolonged abuse can condition the brain to produce less of the hormones and neurotransmitters that create feelings of happiness. Conditions that we identify as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Major Depression, or Bi-Polar Disorder are all examples of how happiness has fallen out of easy reach for someone.

Such conditions are legitimate disorders that need professional, medical treatment. I hope I have never said anything that belittled the challenges that come with mood disorders. Depression-- true, clinical depression-- cannot be turned off as if some on/off switch controls our moods. That idea implies people volunteer for depression. Few people would remain depressed if they did have such an on/off switch. Do keep that in mind when dealing with someone who admits to having a mood disorder.

The ideas I have shared on this blog can bring moments of happiness to help combat the fog of depression in someone's life. But even so, emotional disorders run deep and are complex. The ideas I've shared here can help; However, these ideas are probably more effective on someone who already has a predisposition for happiness as opposed to someone who is battling with clinical depression.

So, what does one do when happiness feels out of reach?

Get professional help. And don't be ashamed. Don't expect to simply shake off depression or anxiety that was born out of abuse or trauma. Others may suggest you can do this-- but it's not fair to expect this out of yourself or anyone else who is seriously dealing with clinical depression or PTSD.

Happiness may feel out of reach now, but you can possibly get a grasp on it with the right kind of help.

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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

DocuShare: Happy

I recently ran across a documentary entitled Happy-- which coincides with the main theme of this blog perfectly.

As for me, I watched this excellent film via Netflix instant streaming. However, the homepage for the documentary provides a way to rent the film in case you don't have any other means of access. They also offer the DVD for purchase as well, if you're so inclined.

This documentary explores the many facets of happiness through examining people from various walks of life along with interviewing researchers about their findings concerning happiness. The film goes in depth as the producers go searching for the necessary ingredients to live happy.

Anyone seeking to increase his or her happiness needs to watch this film.

Happy challenges the common notions we generally have about the basic requirements for a life filled with happiness. The idea of what success is and the true impact that money has on happiness is also explored in an insightful way during this film. Phenomena such as the Hedonic treadmill, the impact of gratitude, genetic disposition, adversity and trauma, societal bonds and living conditions are all taken into account as the requirements for happiness are closely investigated. How do these elements truly impact our happiness? The answers to these questions are very important to consider because a lifetime of groping for happiness in the wrong places can lead to a very miserable life!

This film uncovers the fact that research repeatedly demonstrates that experiences such as "flow", having a sense of purpose, a sense of social connectedness, physical activity, and being true to one's self are needful for maintaining long term happiness. These ingredients seem to transcend the more common notions we hold for happiness such as possessing vast sums of money, having the appearance of success, material possessions, or having a problem free life.

And during the film, one of the scientists suggested that happiness may very well be a skill that we all can learn and hone.

And . . . that's why you should watch the film Happy. Find out what it takes to learn the skill of happiness. Discover in your own time what works for you and create your own plan for happiness. Watch this film and get a better sense of what you need for your life to be completely and truly happy.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.