It has been statistically proven that sunshine or sunlight can physically improve the symptoms of depression in people AND that white noise such as crashing waves of the ocean can help anxiety-ridden people relax and get better sleep.

Put those two things together, and you have the makings of a great drug-free depression treatment! That's why I MUST visit the beach every year. Even with the kids underfoot, it completely helps me recharge and rejuvenate my spirit.

Remember that while we are all working hard to pay our mortgages, raise our kids, and hopefully make a difference in our lives and the lives of others -- it is very important to take time out to relax our constantly moving minds and bodies. Relaxation is essential to the mind and is key to helping you combat the frustrating symptoms of depression.

So while I love the Caribbean beaches and the people there, the economy is basically dictating that I stay on U.S. soil. So I wanted to share with you this list of the top U.S. beaches -- so that you can make a plan for a quick or summer-long getaway.


1. Ocracoke Island, N.C.

2. Aladesi Island State Park, Dunedin/Clearwater, Fla.

3. Cooper's Beach, Southampton, N.Y.

4. Hanalei Bay, Kauai, Hawaii

5. Coast Guard Beach, Cape Cod, Mass.

6. Hamoa Beach, Maui, Hawaii

7. Main Beach, East Hampton, N.Y.

8. Coronado Beach, San Diego

9. Lighthouse Point Park, Daytona Beach, Fla.

10. Siesta Beach, Sarasota, Fla.

*source ABC News

---

Lisa Angelettie MSW, "GirlShrink" is a psychotherapist, author, and online advice authority. Her site GirlShrink.com is the #1 "Advice & Counseling" site on the web. Please visit us for more discussion on this topic in the depression forum to talk about it further. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for topics in the news, new articles, website & book reviews, and other useful depression resources. Subscribe below.