5 Tips For Dealing With Depression
You didn't want to admit it to yourself. Whenever you were about to face the fact that you had something going on, you focused on something else instead.
You can't keep going on like this, though. You know there's a problem, and you have to confront it. The longer you let it go on, the longer you'll feel this way. Plus, how you're feeling and thinking has only gotten worse because you keep brushing it off like it's nothing. You're not really sure what you can do, if anything.
Don't worry. We're here to help you navigate this difficult time in your life. Here are 5 tips for dealing with depression.
1. Fuel Your Body Properly
Self-care may be one of the lowest items on your list, but try to move that back to the top of your list again. If you're not caring for yourself and your basic human needs, you won't have enough energy to do anything else. Try to ensure you're fueling your body properly so it can function to the best of its ability. This means eating healthy and balanced meals during the day, not skipping meals, and not binging on items high in sugars, fats, and carbohydrates. Also, try to strive to drink enough water throughout the day. On average, humans need 64 ounces per day.
2. Prioritize Your Sleep
Taking care of yourself also includes your sleep. Try to aim for at least eight hours of sleep each night. Depression can negatively impact your sleep schedule. Try to go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning to avoid staying up too late or needing to sleep during the day.
3. Move Your Body
When you're dealing with depression, laying in bed all day may seem like the ideal day to you. This is one of the worst things you can do for yourself, no matter if you're struggling with depression or not. Although it may be easier said than done, try to get up and move your body. Exercise is proven to reduce stress and anxiety. It's also a natural mood booster. Exercise doesn't mean you have to spend hours in the gym, either. You can move your body in ways that work best for you. Here are just a few of the many different ways that you can move your body:
● Attend a workout class with a friend
● Hike
● Go for a bike ride
● Meditation
● Walk on a treadmill
● Yoga
4. Get Outside
Getting outside could go hand in hand with moving your body. You could cross off two tips at one time by going for a walk outside. Exposing yourself to sunlight is another great way to naturally improve your mood. The sunlight can help boost the serotonin levels in your body, which act in a similar way to how moving your body and exercise provide. You don't have to always be active when you're outside, either. Sit outside with a cup of coffee or during one of your meals. You can also open up your windows and doors and let some sunlight into your home.
5. Seek Additional Support
Depression is a common and serious mental health disorder. It's not something to be taken lightly or dismissed as if nothing is wrong. The longer you go on without seeking the help you need and deserve, the worse your signs and symptoms can get. While there are things you can do on your own end to help reduce or minimize some of the signs and symptoms you may be experiencing, it's always recommended to seek proper support and treatment through a licensed and trained mental health professional. Reach out to us today to set up a consultation for depression therapy.