Depression feels like a thick, dense fog has descended on you. It’s like walking through quicksand, when all you want to do is stop and give up. The simplest things become full of effort, and every happy thought turns negative. It’s not just feeling sad or feeling low. It’s more like feeling nothing, and it’s a very real, and dangerous health condition. It can emerge from substance addiction or just low self-worth.
The stigma around depression and anxiety is slowly lifting, and help is more readily available. There isn’t always an easy fix for these mental health issues. However, there are a variety of small steps you can take to ease the symptoms. That’s what we’ll focus on today. It’s all about taking it one day at a time, and keeping the demon at bay.
Find a support system
The most effective way to deal with depression is simply talking about it. Keeping your thoughts inside is what feeds the spiral of darkness and depression. The thoughts quickly become negative and damaging. Instead, let them out, and talk about the issues. A parent, friend, or psychological expert are the best option here. Find someone you trust, and pick up the phone. Even if it’s the hardest thing in the world, you’ll immediately feel better.
Take small steps
Depression is a health condition, but that doesn’t mean you can fight it like a cold. it doesn’t just disappear with a dose of medicine and a few days in bed. Depression is a long-term problem, requiring small, daily steps. Each one will take you away from the fog, but it’s not easy to outrun it completely. A small step could simply be taking a walk outside or picking up the phone. And don’t forget to reward yourself when you do.
Get moving
One proven way to fight depression is exercise and movement. Getting outside also helps, as you breath in the fresh air, and refresh your mind. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins in the brain, which gives you a feel-good boost. A simple ten minute walk will suffice, we’re not asking you to run a marathon! Put some loud music on, and get moving.
Eat well
Sometimes, a good diet is all it takes to lift your mood. Often, depression drains your energy to the point where you can’t even imagine getting out of bed. A healthy, balanced, diet will counteract those feelings of lethargy, and give you a boost. Avoid sugars and carbs where possible. These foods boost your energy, but they come with a big crash, and that will have a serious effect. Eat plenty of fruit, vegetables, and proteins, and stick to a regular food pattern.
Alternative therapies
If the techniques above aren’t working out for you, there are other options out there. Everything from yoga and meditation to ketamine treatments are now helping those with depression. Acupuncture and aromatherapy is another useful technique.
Challenge negativity
Last of all, challenge the negative thoughts. It might take all your energy to fight off the negativity, but always look for a way to flip those thoughts. Ask yourself if you’d think those thoughts about other people, and then stop being so hard on yourself. Master this thought process, and you’ll find yourself on the road to recovery.
