Depression can be described as a mental state of despondency and sadness, usually accompanied by low energy and loss of enjoyment in life. Depression can be a temporary situation, such as the type that occurs during PMS or a long-term clinical condition that requires professional intervention. Regardless of the type of feelings you’re having, take comfort in knowing that you’re not alone and help is available.
If you’re not sure what you’re suffering from, there is help with depression online. Numerous online resources offer guides to help you determine whether or not you have depression and how best to deal with your condition.
There are several ways of coping with depression. In fact, there are things you can start doing today to begin healing.
Physical Activity
When you’re depressed, physical activity may be one of the last things on your mind. However, making daily exercising a priority can aid in your recovery and help you maintain a positive attitude. When you exercise, your brain releases endorphins, also known as feel-good chemicals and natural painkillers. Exercise also decreases fatigue, a common side-effect of depression.
Hobbies
If you have an activity you’ve always loved doing, keep at it. Spending time in a creative way can change your mindset, giving you pleasant things to think about while seeing a project progress in a fun way.
Time With Family and Friends
Enjoying social outings may be difficult when you’re feeling down, but spending time with your family or friends will keep your thoughts where they should be—on others. It’s easy to dwell on negative feelings when you’re alone, so fill your time with the ones you love as much as possible.
Watch What You Eat
Depression sometimes manifests itself through your eating habits. Putting the right “fuel” into your body can go a long way towards helping you feel better. Keep an eye on your caffeine intake so that you don’t end up feeling jittery and anxious. Also, put that bag of candy down. Too much sugar can create a temporary emotional roller-coaster of ups and downs, and adding on the pounds now won’t make you feel better in the long run. Limit your salt intake and don’t eat too much fatty food.
You can still enjoy eating. Just do so sensibly. Eating right will help your current mood and curb potential weight gain.
Take Pleasure in Small Things
What makes you smile? Go to the park and watch kids play. Visit a nature center and enjoy the beautiful flowers. Listen to your favorite uplifting music. Or, just sit outside in the sun and watch your grass grow. In other words, take a few deep breaths and relax.
Visit a Therapist
Talking to a professional can be the right answer for many people suffering from depression. An experienced therapist can help you change your negative thinking, teach you relaxation techniques and how to understand and deal with your depression triggers. A therapist will give you the skills you need to better cope with your condition.
Medication
Some people need the additional help medication can offer. Medication may relieve some of your symptoms and many times is only needed on a temporary basis. Don’t self-medicate, though. Get the advice of a medical professional.
Keep in mind that some anti-depressants come with side effects; one in particular is loss of sex-drive. Make sure that your partner is aware of this so that the two of you can work together to maintain a healthy sex life. Allowing yourself to remain close to your partner can give you positive feelings that combat depression.
Give Yourself the Gift of Time
Above all, be patient with your depression. It won’t disappear overnight, but employing a variety of the strategies discussed will help over time. Remember that your depression isn’t your fault, and know that you have a lot of control over where your thoughts take you.
You can find much help with depression online, from symptom trackers to coping advice. Take advantage of all the positive resources you can find and get on the road to good mental health.
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