It will be World Health Day on Saturday, 7 April. This year, the focus is on depression. If you suffer from depression, you could be taking medication to help you cope.
However, as important as medication is, there are other ways to help you cope. You need to use these alternatives while you’re on medication so that you don’t feel like your world is collapsing around you when you stop taking anti-depressants. When find natural ways to help you deal with the pressures of life, you can reduce your dependence on your anti-depressants together with your doctor over time.
5 ways you naturally win your fight against depression
1. Start a routine
During depression, one day melts into the next and you never get to feel like you’re on top of things. However, to feel in control, you need to have structure. So, sit down with a piece of paper and write down the amount of time you realistically need for everything you plan to do that day and stick to your routine. If anyone tries to derail you, ask them to set up a meeting the next day or to send you an email that you can address on another day when you have added it to your routine.
2. Set realistic goals
If you’re running around trying to do too many things , you’ll feel like you’re not getting anywhere. But, when you have a routine, also try to set yourself reasonable goals. You can even set them daily, weekly or monthly. Once you start achieving them, you’ll start to feel more in control.
3. Exercise
Several studies have shown how regular exercise helps regulate depression. It helps to rewire the brain to think more positively.
4. Eat healthy
You have to watch what you eat as it will help you feel in control. Whether you’re eating the wrong foods or overeating, getting back on track won’t only give you a sense of achievement, but eating right can make you feel better. So, try to include folic acid and Omega 3 to your diet or take supplements.
5. Sleep
Try to aim for at least seven hours of sleep every night. Avoid phones and TV at least an hour before going to bed and create a bedtime routine that will help you relax. You can also drink a cup of hot chocolate or cold milk in summer, take a relaxing hot bath, meditate or pray and read a good book. These activities can help you de-stress and prepare the body and mind for a relaxing night’s sleep.
Depression affects people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries
It causes mental anguish and impacts on people’s ability to carry out even the simplest everyday tasks, with sometimes devastating consequences for relationships with family and friends and the ability to earn a living. At worst, depression can lead to suicide, now the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year olds. Yet, depression can be prevented and treated. A better understanding of what depression is, and how it can be prevented and treated, will help reduce the stigma associated with the condition, and lead to more people seeking help.
Share this article with anyone suffering from depression.
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