How to Break Free from Depression
If you feel deep sadness, a sense of hopelessness or a loss of interest in things that you used to enjoy, you might be experiencing depression. If so, you’re not alone. About 23 million adults in the U.S. have depression, according to the National Institutes of Mental Health. Luckily, there are things that you can do starting today to help decrease your depression, according to Healthline, so you can begin to feel better.
What Causes Depression?
It’s important to know that you did not cause yourself to be depressed. Depression isn’t anyone’s fault.
However, some things can make you more at risk for depression including:
- Genetics – Depression occurs more often in some families than in others.
- Your temperament – Your level of sensitivity to things, how quickly you get upset compared to others and how easily you can settle back down can make you more susceptible to depression.
- Your experiences – Difficult or stressful circumstances early in life can make you more vulnerable to depression.
How to Help Yourself
Here’s a list of actions that you can take now:
- Talk to a caring, trusted person like a friend, family member or therapist. Having someone listen to you can help you feel less alone and more hopeful.
- Get involved in activities you like (or used to enjoy), even if you don’t really feel like it.
- Cut back on social media. Comparing yourself to other people you see online is not helpful.
- Exercise – or just be active. Physical activity can help boost your mood so take a walk in the park or around your neighborhood.
- Make healthy eating choices. Avoid junk food, high-carb foods and sugary snacks as they can make a depressed mood last longer.
- Try to keep a regular sleep schedule.
Being depressed doesn’t mean you’re a weak person, but learning strategies to interrupt or overcome depression does make you strong! If you need more help, talk to your doctor. They may have other great suggestions or even recommend a medication to help ease your symptoms.
