5 ways to fight depression

If you feel depressed, it's best to do something about it — depression doesn't just go away on its own. In addition to getting help from a doctor or therapist, here are 5 things you can do to feel better.1. Exercise. Take a 15- to 30-minute brisk walk every day — or dance, jog, or bike if you prefer. People who are depressed may not feel much like being active. But make yourself do it anyway (ask a friend to exercise with you if you need to be motivated). Once you get in the exercise habit, it won't take long to notice a difference in your mood.In addition to getting aerobic exercise, some yoga poses can help relieve feelings of depression. Try downward-facing dog or legs-up-the-wall pose (you can find these poses on yoga websites). Two other aspects of yoga — breathing exercises and meditation — can also help people with depression feel better.2. Nurture yourself with good nutrition. Depression can affect appetite. One person may not feel like eating at all, but another might overeat. If depression has affected your eating, you'll need to be extra mindful of getting the right nourishment. Proper nutrition can influence a person's mood and energy. So eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and get regular meals (even if you don't feel hungry, try to eat something light, like a piece of fruit, to keep you going).3. Identify troubles, but don't dwell on them. Try to identify any situations that have contributed to your depression. When you know what's got you feeling blue and why, talk about it with a caring friend. Talking is a way to release the feelings and to receive some understanding. If there's no one to tell, pouring your heart out to a journal works just as well.Once you air out these thoughts and feelings, turn your attention to something positive. Take action to solve problems. Ask for help if you need it. Feeling connected to friends and family can help relieve depression. (It may also help them feel there's something they can do instead of just watching you hurt.)4. Express yourself. With depression, a person's creativity and sense of fun may seem blocked. By exercising your imagination (painting, drawing, doodling, sewing, writing, dancing, composing music, etc.) you not only get those creative juices flowing, you also loosen up some positive emotions. Take time to play with a friend or a pet, or do something fun for yourself. Find something to laugh about — a funny movie, perhaps. Laughter helps lighten your mood.5. Look on the bright side. Depression affects a person's thoughts, making everything seem dismal, negative, and hopeless. If depression has you noticing only the negative, make an effort to notice the good things in life. Try to notice one thing, then try to think of one more. Consider your strengths, gifts, or blessings. Most of all, don't forget to be patient with yourself. Depression takes time to heal.

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Replies

  • Dear Matha ,
    Thank you for this great topic
    everybody get depression some times because of life pressure and become desperate
    so the point you explain up here is effected by help the person to try again and look at the bright side of life.
    have a nice day
  • Hi dear Akula,
    You know the things are the best for you that you like to do and give you a lot of energy and happy feeling dear.
    Have a nice day,
    Mahta
  • hi mahta,

    You are correct when I read it I felt -did I write this -because when I feel depression I do all these things. I found that make myself busy help me to overcome depression.
    When I feel too sad or moodswing I used to listen music or do internet surfing.

    I was in a state of depreesion for 2 years I cried then think what to do .I overcome it step by step with the help of my friends . Thanks to them a lot who are still encouraging and helping me.

    Akula
  • Hi dear Mahta...
    Well-done dear...The info you have presented here is so useful and practical ...
    I do agree with exercising...It does really help you not only get out of your depression ,but helps to fit and feel no pain physically ...I love hiking ..It helps me practice silence and think and not to think at the same time...It really helps me release my tension or depression ...Also some kinds of musics or more simply and naturally,songs of the birds or the melody of water while passing is so consoling ....Even listening to the wind when it blows can help you get relaxed...
    You said about breathing exercises ...Well-done again...Brava...yeah ,breathing correctly and deeply is so helpful ...Recently I have noticed its drastic effect in my life when i breathe more deeply ,thanks to one of my friends here ...
    You know every individual should see what helps him/her the most according to his/her own interests ...One may get relaxed talking with a friend;another may feel better being alone and so on...Even in different conditions one may find something more relaxing at a time but not in another condition ...It is relative ...But ,i think these practical methods work for all ...
    Thanks a lot for your helpful info...
    Have a happy time:)
  • Yes you're right faridahmad.
    Thanks,
    Mahta
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