Everything feels more challenging when you’re dealing with depression. Going to work, socializing with friends, or even just getting out of bed can feel like a struggle. But there are some things you can do to cope with your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Here are eight tips for living with depression. One of the most important things you can do to help yourself with depression—other than medication and therapy—is to develop strong social support. For some, this may mean forging stronger ties with friends or family. Knowing you can count on supportive loved ones to help can go a long way toward improving your depression. For others, a depression support group can be key.
Depression drains your energy, hope, and drive, making it difficult to take the steps that will help you to feel better. Sometimes, just thinking about the things you should do to feel better, like exercising or spending time with friends, can seem exhausting or impossible to put into action. The key is to start small and build from there. You may not have much energy, but by drawing on all your reserves, you should have enough to take a walk around the block or pick up the phone to call a loved one, for example. Taking the first step is always the hardest. And it can substantially boost your mood and energy for several hours—long enough to put a second recovery step into action, such as preparing a mood-boosting meal or arranging to meet an old friend. Getting support plays an essential role in overcoming depression.
Depression puts a negative spin on everything, including the way you see yourself and your expectations for the future. Diurnal Mood Variation or “Morning Depression”. Your fatigue will improve if you stick with it. Improve Your Eating Habits Research continues to find clear links between diet and mental health. As you cross-examine your negative thoughts, you may be surprised at how quickly they crumble. Photo: Unsplash, Laura Marques. SAD can make you feel like a completely different person to who you are in the summer: hopeless, sad, tense, or stressed, with no interest in friends or activities you normally love. Yes Yes, anonymously No. Suicide Prevention Lifeline.