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.

Depression makes you cynical and is deeply self-damaging. Depressed people only hurt themselves more.

Ways to overcome Depression:

1. Exercise regularly

Exercising regularly is one of the best things you can do for your mental health. According to me exercise can help in the treatment and prevention of depression in several key ways:

• It increases your body temperature, which can have a calming effect on the central nervous system.
• It releases chemicals like endorphins, which can boost mood.
• It reduces immune system chemicals that may worsen depression.

2. Get plenty of sleep

Getting plenty of high-quality sleep is necessary for both mental and physical health. According to the National Sleep Foundation, people with insomnia have a tenfold risk of developing depression compared to those who sleep well.

To get better sleep, you can:

• not look at any screens for two hours before bed (including your phone!)
• meditate before bed
• have a comfortable mattress

3. Stay away from toxic people

We’ve all met that person who just makes us feel bad about ourselves. Sometimes they’re an outright bully, and other times they subtly put us down to make themselves feel better. They may even be someone who takes advantage of us. Regardless of the specific situation, toxic people should be avoided at all costs. They can lower our self-esteem.

To avoid toxic people, you should:

• Stay away from anyone who makes you feel worse about yourself.
• Cut people out of your life who take advantage of you.
• Know the signs. If someone spreads rumors or talks badly about someone as soon as they leave the room, they’re likely to do the same for you.

4. 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.

To prevent depression with your diet, you should:

• Eat balanced meals with lean protein, and lots of fruits and vegetables.
• Reduce high-sugar and high-fat foods.

5. Try to notice good things

 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.

Conclusion:

Depression can make you feel like you’re living in a black hole that you’ll never escape. Fortunately, that’s not true, and you can learn how to stop being sad. One day, you’ll make it out and find that your life has a lot of greatness to offer you.

Keep in mind that although the above suggestions can be effective, depression that perseveres should be investigated further, and seeing a doctor to talk about any symptoms and get medical advice is a step in the right direction.

Sources:

https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/depression-tips.html

https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/fifteen-simple-ways-overcome-depression-and-sadness.html