Before we begin, this is an article on tips on how to fight depression. It is not a magic wand, nor is it expert medical advice. If you suspect you have depression, you may need to consider contacting a professional. Now, let us examine where this medical condition comes from, what it is, and how to fight it.
What Is It?
Depression is a medical condition in which a person is in a low mood and not eager to act. It is not the same as being lazy or sad, depression is much more complex than that. Sometimes, it can be cured and other times only managed.
There are different forms of depression, including major depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder.
Depressed people can feel fatigued, experience mood swings, lack the motivation to do basic everyday tasks, including eating and maintaining personal hygiene. Depression may, but doesn’t have to, lead to suicide. Some forms of depression make the person unable to feel happiness and joy even in their favorite places and activities.
It is very difficult to pinpoint what causes depression. Sometimes it’s genetic, and other times it is an accompanying disorder to another condition. It can also occur as a result of hormonal imbalance or as a side-effect of certain types of medication. Finally, there’s seasonal depression, the thing that happens only during a certain season, like spring or winter.
How to Deal with It
There are a few things you can do to give yourself a chance against depression.
First of all, exercise. Regular exercise not only gives you a rhythm and takes care of your health, but it also fills your body with endorphins, meaning that it boosts your mood and motivation for other activities.
If you don’t have the energy for a full workout, start with something simple, like taking a walk in the morning. This ties in perfectly to another thing you can do – spend time outdoors and let the sun see you.
It is a good idea to go outside even if the weather is not optimal for a bit of fresh air.
Socialize. Spend time with friends and family, take a yoga class, or find a hobby you can enjoy with other people. This doesn’t mean that you should go to parties every day or every week if you are the type of person who enjoys peace and quiet. You can also have a small book or movie club. It is important that you don’t isolate yourself.
You should try to fight negative thinking. This means trying to objectively analyze what is happening, instead of overthinking, hating yourself, putting generalizing labels on things and people, and dealing with the idea that you should or should not do something.
Finally, and we can’t stress this enough, consider seeking professional help. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but common sense. Therapists and counselors are equipped to help you with your problems and give you advice on how to proceed with your journey.