Depression comes in many different forms and in many different degrees, but 6.7% of people can’t simply stop their lives for it.
This mental illness creates a limited perspective, and be confined to negative thoughts, that is difficult to break out of or see past.
If you are struggling with depression, these suggestions will help you carry on with your daily life, because life doesn’t stop for anybody.
#1. Do the things you love.
When the fall semester resumed, I really saw a decline in how much I take care of my well-being.
Sometimes, we get so absorbed with school or work that if an activity doesn’t help us advance in either, we may ask, “What’s the point?”
However, it’s just as important to have fun as it is to work hard, so even if you don’t feel like doing anything, make the effort to do something you know you’ll enjoy.
This could include taking a relaxing bath, watching your favorite movie, reading your favorite book, walking a pet, or calling a friend or family member.
I actually have a list of these fun activities for days when I start feeling blue, so make one of your own and start enjoying them yourself.
#2. Practice self-care.
This may be the most difficult thing to do when dealing with depression, but it also helps the most in the recovery process.
Try to get about eight hours of sleep, any more or any less will be detrimental to your mood and make you feel sluggish.
Exercise, preferably outdoors, every day, such as a 10-minute walk around the block is beneficial, and sunlight is a natural mood booster.
Take a multivitamin every day with a balanced diet. Vitamin deficiencies can lead to or worsen depression and the effects it may have on you.
#3. Surround yourself with positivity.
Being depressed can make it difficult to find the positives in anything, so surrounding yourself with positivity may make it a little easier.
If you shut yourself in your room and draw the blinds, the chances of getting better are slim.
Positive family members, friends, or significant others can really help your depression, so turn to them for help with anything.
People are social creatures, so just talking to someone who is close to you even for a little bit can help you feel less lonely and isolated.
Try to observe and distinguish their optimistic views on things in life, and maybe you can emulate it and apply it to your own life.
#4. Seek professional help from a therapist.
If you feel that you’re not getting any better from trying any of the above suggestions, the best thing you can do is to go to counseling or therapy.
There is a stigma and misconceptions associated with seeing therapists, such as the fact that it’s only associated with “crazy” people, but people see therapists for a variety of valid reasons (I do!).
A therapist or counselor can help give you the tools you need to lead a more positive lifestyle and help you manage if not absolve your depression.
If you feel that you’re too busy to go into a counseling session or cannot financially afford it, consider seeking affordable and convenient online therapy services for more help.
Featured Image: Bigstock
Reflect & Refresh 