Are you feeling helpless and hopeless? Do you feel so energy-less that it seems impossible to leave the bed? Have you lost interest in the things that once brought you joy? Then, there’s a high chance you’re suffering from depression.
So, what exactly is depression?
Depression is a mood disorder resulting in persistent sadness and loss of interest. It’s also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression and affects how you function and think. Yes, that means your day-to-day activities will be affected.
And if you have been struggling lately, you surely might’ve heard the phrases, “It’s all in your head” and “just snap out of it” at least once. We know that it’s not easy dealing with it and it sure isn’t something you can snap out of. However, there are certain things that you can do to cope with it.
Depression drains all your energy so it’s not easy to jump up and start doing stuff to improve your mental health. So taking small steps will take you a long way.
Talking to someone is a perfect step for starters. There might be someone you love and trust, right? Look, that person need not provide solutions. Let’s reserve that responsibility for a therapist.
The only desirable quality that this confidant should possess is good listening skills. But make sure that it’s someone you trust, someone you know who would be happy to lend a sympathetic ear. Before you open up, it would be better
if you asked them if they’re okay with you venting to them. You never know what someone is going through and if they’re prepared to listen to someone else’s woes. So it’s very important to take their consent.
Various studies have proven that exercise has positive effects on people suffering from depression. No need to hit the gym or dive into some hardcore workouts yet. You can start out small.
How about taking a few minutes walks every day? The point is you have to be physically active. Why? Regular exercise releases feel-good endorphins that will have a positive effect on your mental health.
Journalling or doing any creative thing might prove helpful. It helps you know your emotions better and allows you to analyze your own thoughts. In other words, it helps you know yourself better.
Try it and let us know. And while you’re at it, try reducing the intake of sugar. The food we eat affects our moods. And studies have shown that excessive sugar may make mood disorders worse. We’re not suggesting you cut sugar off entirely; just cut down its intake.
Now, people with depression behave in different ways. Some might sleep a lot and some find it hard to catch a few hours' sleep. Whatever the case is it’s important to get enough sleep and be well-rested.
And if you’re having trouble falling asleep consult your physician. This brings us to the next point. While the above said steps are helpful, nothing beats professional help. Consult a good therapist and they can come up with a treatment plan that best suits your needs.
But note that finding the right therapist might take some time, which makes it very important to be open with your therapist.
It takes a lot of energy as well as courage to admit you need help given how mental health issues are frowned upon and neglected in our society. But it’s important to know that you’re not alone in this. Pat yourself on the back for every positive step you take.
You deserve that. It would be a lie to say that you wouldn’t face any hurdles. Of course, it’s hard and you might find it difficult or sometimes fail to stick to your plans. But don’t lose hope. There’s always a tomorrow for you to pick up where you left.
And don’t forget that you’re a warrior.