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ASK MOE MOM

This month's Ask MOE MOM question is not a particular question, but rather a compilation of questions myself and others have received over the past few months. The topic is not an easy one for many to discuss freely, but seems to be on the minds of many of the Hanson.netters: Depression/Suicidal Thoughts.

At one time or another, most of us experience feelings of sadness or depression. For most, these feelings last only a short time and disappear rather quickly. For some, it lasts much longer and manifests itself in many ways: lack of sleep or too much sleeping, overwhelming sadness, withdrawing from loved ones, fatigue, irritability, mood swings, inability to function normally, and suicidal thoughts. There are many other signs and symptoms, but those are the most common.

Does any of this sound familiar to you or a loved one? Several of you have reached this way looking for help. That is the first critical step-TALK TO SOMEONE! Although there are many different causes of depression, the best way back is to reach out to a person you trust: a parent, school counselor, professional therapist, doctor or friend. Also consult your doctor; many symptoms of depression are actually caused by real medical conditions that CAN be treated! If you feel like you can't talk to someone you know, there are many wonderful hotlines available-both by phone and on the Internet.

Recovery can sometimes be very slow, please be patient with yourself. Try to find small simple reasons everyday to find some "happiness"-even something as small as a cold glass of water-yes, water can be quite an amazing thing when you stop to realize how much goes into getting it to us! The point is to look for small victories, however you have to find them.

Some things you can do to aid recovery are talking with people live, not by the Internet. Personal interaction is key to suppressing overwhelming sadness. Also, you can interact with a pet or volunteer at a senior center. Sometimes putting yourself in the position to think about another's welfare helps build your own feelings of self worth. Consider the practice of your own faith-spirituality can play a big factor in depression recovery. Read to children-their smiles and laughter make the very best medicine! Follow your doctor's advice and treatments and stay in contact with him/her if things don't improve!

If you feel as if you are beyond depression and are considering ending your life at any time, I URGE you to GET HELP IMMEDIATELY! Suicide is not the answer, but rather a way to make things very ugly and much worse. You are worth more than all that is precious on this earth! Remember, life is a difficult journey-not a run to an end. Take your life and treat it like the precious gift it is-for you NEVER always know who else your life has touched!

If you would like to discuss this or any other topic, please email MOE MOM at any time! I will do whatever I can to help.

ALSO, Please check out this important article by Hansonhost - Winter Blues Got You Down?

FROM MOE MOM'S KITCHEN

With Easter on the way, I thought I would share my priceless recipe for the most delicious DEVILED EGGS you have ever had! A great way to use all those extra hard cooked eggs!

Halve peeled hard cooked eggs and put yolks into a bowl. Mash with a fork to break yolk up into small pieces. Add the following to taste:
Mayo (add about ˝-1 cup depending on amount of eggs)
Mustard (I like Dijon-about 2-4 Tablespoons)
Worcheshire Sauce (about 5-10 dashes)
Sugar (about 1-3 teaspoons)
Salt & pepper (to taste)
Sweet pickle juice (about 1-3 Tablespoons)

Mix well with a spoon and taste. Final result should be a fine mixture of sweet and sour-adjust Mayo, sugar, and salt to taste)

Spoon egg mixture into egg whites. Sprinkle paprika on top to make them pretty.

Serve on a platter and be prepared to have NONE left!


DON'T FORGET THE SUMMER SPECTACULAR FEATURES NEXT MONTH!