It is important that you take control of your depression. You may already be doing this with therapy and medication, but don’t forget about what you can do on your own every day.
- Stop your bad sleep habits. This is the most simple, but also can be one of the most important when taking control of your depression. Insomniacs are more likely to be diagnosed with depression. Getting a good night’s sleep helps to reset your body for the next, gives you more energy, and strengthens your immune system.
- Turn off all electronics and hour before bedtime
- Create a calm and relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom
- Practice conscious breathing after you lay down
- Go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day/night
- Get at least 8 hours of sleep and no more than 10 hours
- Stop standing still. Physical activity not only helps your body be physically fit, but also helps keep you mentally fit. Your body releases endorphins during exercise, which can boost your mood.
- Start small, just a daily walk will help
- Find an exercise you enjoy
- Being active with the kids can not only be fun, but help your kids create healthy habits
- Search youtube for free fitness videos for all age groups and abilities
- Stop staying inside. Getting outside can not only boost your mood because of sunshine and fresh air, but Vitamin D can come from sunshine and lack of Vitamin D plays an important role in regulating your mood.
- Take a daily 20 minute stroll outside
- Find a hobby outdoors that you like, such as gardening
- Go visit a local park. Even sitting outside on a park bench will be beneficial.
- Stop focusing on the negative. This can put you in a dark hole that is hard to climb out of.
- Surround yourself with friends and family who focus on the positive
- Start a gratitude journal
- Practice mind shift. Instead of focusing on what you can’t do or what you don’t have, think of what you do have and what you can do.
Getting proper sleep, adding physical activity to your day, taking time to get outside, and practicing focusing on the positives and not the negatives, will help you take control over your depression.