Dealing with depression.

There are several things that a person can do in order to overcome a depression, beyond the medications. Here we offer some tips that we think can help you.

• Helpguide.org advices the following:
  • Cultivate supportive relationships.
    • Turn to trusted friends and family members.
    • Try to keep up with social activities even if you don't feel like it.
    • Join a support group for depression.
  • Take care of yourself:
    • Spend some time in nature.
    • List what you like about yourself.
    • Read a good book.
    • Watch a funny movie or TV show.
    • Take a long, hot bath.
    • Listen to music.
    • Take care of a few small tasks.
    • Play with a pet.
    • Write in your journal.
    • Do something spontaneous.
    • Aim for 8 hours of sleep.
    • Expose yourself to a little sunlight every day.
    • Practice relaxation techniques.
    • Go easy on yourself.
  • Get regular exercise.
  • Eat a healthy, mood-boosting diet.
    • Don't neglect breakfast.
    • Don't skip meals.
    • Minimize sugar and refined carbs.
    • Focus on complex carbohydrates.
    • Boost your B vitamins.
    • Practice mindful eating.
  • Challenge negative thinking.
    • Think outside yourself.
    • Keep a "negative thought log".
    • Replace negatives with positives.
    • Socialize with positive people.
  • Raise your emotional intelligence.
  • Know when to get additional help.
• Other tips are:
  • Start a gratitude journal.
  • Do something different.
  • Start a new project.
  • Avoid drugs and alcohol.
  • Set small goals with rewards for attaining those goals.

By Patricia Rivero.