Roughly 20 million adults suffer from depression every year. 25 percent of young adults will experience it before the age of 24.
For something that's so prevalent, it's misunderstood and stigmatized by so many. It's seen as a weakness and/or something to be ashamed of when this couldn't be further from the truth. I've personally struggled with it - and still sometimes do - and these ten tips have helped me with my recovery. This is by no means a comprehensive list, nor is it a cure for depression. It's simply what has helped me on a day-to-day basis.
1. Exercise
This doesn't necessarily mean getting up and going to the gym - that part's totally up to you. Just get up and get your blood going. Exercising releases endorphins, which are your bodies natural "happy" hormones.
2. Socialize
This one's kind of hard, especially since all you probably want to do is wallow in bed all day. Believe me - I've been there. Call over a friend or two. You don't have to do something, but it's always better to have company instead of sitting alone. It'll keep you from feeling lonely and spiraling more into negative thoughts.
3. Eat and Drink
Remember to take care of yourself! Self-care is incredibly important, and eating right and staying hydrated will give you energy and help you feel better. Personally, I find eating something light (like fruits or vegetables) is better than eating pizza or a heaping bowl of mac 'n' cheese. It makes me feel healthier and more able and willing to keep myself active.
4. Meditate
I know, I know. This one's a very hippie-ish tip but it really works! Find a dark or dimly-lit room to sit in and start out by taking a few deep breaths. As you keep going, push out any other thoughts and just focus on your breathing. If you find it hard to clear your mind, imagine your thoughts as tangible objects trying to get through a bubble and as one comes in, picture it bouncing off the bubble (I swear I'm not on drugs).
5. Listen to Upbeat Music
As tempting as it may sound to lie face-down and listen to "Whiskey Lullaby" on repeat, don't. Seriously. That's going to do nothing more than exacerbate your sadness. It's not going to get you out of your funk or make you feel better at all. Instead, listen to something upbeat and happy. Have you ever tried to be sad while listening to "Shut Up and Dance"? It's pretty damn hard, I'll tell you that much.
6. Watch a Happy Movie
Kind of the same idea as listening to the upbeat music. If you absolutely must cry, watch a cute Pixar or Disney movie. It'll get the tears out but you'll get a happy, feel-good ending.
7. Take a Bath
Taking a hot bath relaxes your muscles, making you more relaxed. It also opens your capillaries, increasing oxygen to your body. Add in bubbles or bath salts that are nice and pleasing. Light some candles. Play some music. Just remember to relax.
Quick tip: there is a definite correlation between rosemary and anti-depressive effects. You don't necessarily have to eat it - just the scent of it can make you feel better.
8. Open the Windows
Obviously this won't help much if it's dark and gloomy outside. If the sun's out, though, pull open the curtains and crack a window. You'll get vitamin D and fresh air, which will both improve your mood.
9. Journal
These negative thoughts are toxic. Get rid of them by writing them down and getting them out of your system. This journal is private, so don't censor yourself. Don't think that you're being "too dramatic" or anything. Just get everything on paper and once it's there, don't revisit it. Write it all down, close your notebook, and don't read any previous entries.
It also helps to write down 5 good things that happened that day, 5 things you like about yourself, and 5 things you want to accomplish.
10. Talk About It
Talk to someone. I promise you that you are not alone. If you don't want to talk to someone in your personal life, talk to a stranger online. It's not as sketchy as it sounds. A site that I find very useful is http://www.blahtherapy.com. You can go on there and either vent or listen. The best part is that it's 100 percent anonymous.
While these tips are good for a short-term fix, there's nothing wrong with seeking professional help. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please call 1(800)273-8255 or visit http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
