Q: I'm struggling with several business-related problems. What can I do about contextual depression?

A: Some believe that one of the reasons for temporary or short bouts of depression may be to allow the body-mind to conserve energy in times of stress. The truth is that most people who are depressed don't "feel" like being very active.

You define your depression as "contextual," which suggests that you are linking it with the business-related problems you mentioned. It will be important to evaluate the event(s) and take steps to resolve or manage the outcomes as effectively as possible.

Dr. Candace Pert, author of Your Body is Your Subconscious Mind, has made some suggestions for dealing with contextual depression. These include:

• Exercise
• Meditation
• Appropriate nutritional products
• Exploration of stress-reducing techniques with your healthcare professional

Along with that, evaluate your habitual mindset. Is it positive, hopeful and empowering, or is it negative, hopeless, and helpless? Learning more about emotions and feelings and about techniques for developing a positive mindset may be helpful.