There is a children’s song in our church called “Smiles”. I am not sure if this is a song that most people know but it is one of my favorite. The song goes If you chance to meet a frown, do not let it stay. Quickly turn it upside down and smile that frown away. It is one of my favorite songs because it is gives us useful advice for fighting depression and also because I have a really good frown.
When I was a kid one of my teachers loved to sing this song because she said I had the best frown. She loved to sing it because my frown made her laugh. So my frown brought her joy!
The other reason I love this song is because it gives me a reminder of one simple way to fight depression. When depression comes to visit I find every part of my body turning down especially my mouth. Everything about me turns sad. But when I remember this song and try even a fake smile I feel a smidgen better. Is that because I am tricking myself or could there be something more?
“Dr. Isha Gupta a neurologist from IGEA Brain and Spine explains, a smile spurs a chemical reaction in the brain, releasing certain hormones including dopamine and serotonin. “Dopamine increases our feelings of happiness. Serotonin release is associated with reduced stress. Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression and aggression,” says Dr. Gupta.” quoted from NBC News.
I am not making it up, turning my frown upside down helps me to feel better. Dr. Gupta has shown that smiling can help change the way you feel. I can fight against depression just by smiling. Honestly, I will take any small step forward when depression comes to visit. (Just don’t be concerned if you see me smiling like the Joker!)
I am NOT saying that we should just pretend everything is okay and put on a happy face. We must be honest with ourselves and others when depression comes to visit. I am sharing this to give you one more tool in your arsenal when depression comes to visit. If you are anything like me you need every tool you can get to fight off depression.
Join with me in smiling – increase your dopamine and feel better today. If all else fails I will send you a picture of my frown. Guaranteed to make you smile!
