Anyone who battles depression knows it’s like one powerful vacuum that just sucks all the energy, hope, and will out of you. That’s why taking the first few steps in managing depression is probably the hardest in the process.
If only this condition has a flip switch, we won’t be talking about this right now. Unfortunately, it doesn’t. It may be hard, but managing your depression is something worth the struggle.
That’s why we teamed up with our friends at Brain Wellness Spa to help you get back on your feet and keep the symptoms of your depression at bay. No pressure here! You can start small and at your own pace so you won’t have to bear the burden of accomplishing such a daunting task right away.
Just keep these tips and pieces of advice in mind to guide you in brushing off those clouds of depression. We hope that after doing these, you’ll emerge feeling more hopeful, healthier, and happier.
- Keep Connected
Support systems play a big role in overcoming depression. Although most of the time, reaching out to friends, or even family, can be very difficult. When you’re depressed, you tend to do things all on your own and isolate yourself from everyone close to you.
This is not your fault, though, because this is what depression exactly wants you to feel.
If you try to stay connected with the important people in your life, even though it’s tough, you’ll notice a big difference in your mood and mindset. Keep in mind that reaching out is not, in any way, a manifestation of weakness. It only means that you’ll move mountains to overcome depression.
If you feel that you don’t have anyone else to talk to, talking to a stranger or acquaintance to develop new connections is really not that bad of an option.
- Do What You Love (Or Used To)
Overcoming depression entails numerous ways to manage your stress levels better. Doing the things that make you feel good is only one of them. These fun activities that you enjoy can be your former hobbies, household chores like washing the dishes or doing laundry (yes, we know people who actually enjoy these chores), or outdoor activities like running or riding a bike.
As long as it will make you genuinely happy, spend more time doing it. Although your depression won’t really fade that immediately, you’ll notice that you’re more upbeat and energetic than ever.
- Sweat It Out
Even for people who don’t suffer from depression, just getting out of bed seems to be an impossible task. Let alone working out for an hour in the gym. So we won’t blame you if the desire to just lie down is strong. Sometimes, it just can’t be helped.
We also firmly believe in what small steps can make. Ideally, half an hour of exercise every day will be as effective as medication for relieving the symptoms of depression.
You don’t have to sweat out the full thirty minutes, though. You can start small with manageable exercises. Like a 10-minute walk or jog around your area until you can commit to a regular exercise. Once you get your groove, you’ll notice an improvement in your mood.
- Mind The Diet
There are certain foods that directly affect your mood and the way you feel. Caffeine, alcohol, trans fats, and foods that are rich in preservatives are only some that you should avoid or at least reduce your intake of.
Eat these instead:
- Food that are rich in B Vitamins like citrus fruits, beans, and eggs
- Seafoods that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, herring, anchovies, sardines, and tuna and other
It’s also important to minimize your intake of sugar and carbs like baked goods, snacks, and other comfort foods. In addition, You should eat something healthy every 3-4 hours and never skip a meal to fight your depression.
- Get Some Sun
Believe it or not, sunlight can boost your serotonin levels that are responsible for your mood. As much as possible, get out there and expose yourself to the sun for good 15 minutes every day. Just don’t forget to apply sunscreen first so you don’t have to worry about your skin.
Aside from these steps, seeking depression treatment in Perth is also one of the things that we highly recommend. Medical experts like our friends from Brain Wellness Spa will help you get a better understanding of your condition and provide the necessary steps in ultimately overcoming your depression.