Dealing with Depression – The First Easy Steps

I know first hand just how difficult the mundane tasks of every day life become when you’re feeling depressed. If you don’t have anything to get up for, like a job or class, then things become even worse still. In this case, and any other type of depression, you need to really try to make yourself live as normal a life as possible.

1. Get up, get showered, get dressed. Don’t be tempted to stay in bed until mid-afternoon, it really won’t do you any favours. Get up at a good early time (no later than 9.30am), or if you work, make sure you’re up early enough to not have to rush. Have a nice shower to wake you up – it works wonders! Then get dressed in clothes suitable to go out it (no more slobbing around in PJs or tracksuits all day).

2. Go outside. The sunshine is proven to help raise people’s mood, and so you should aim to spend at least half an hour in the great outdoors every day. Even in winter or the rain, the fresh air and gentle exercise will make you feel less down, and happier about the day. Try to do a selection of different things while you’re out. Walk to the shops, or just for a nice walk (why not get a dog? or take your camera with you?), go for a cycle ride, visit that outdoor swimming pool, sit in the sun in your garden, go for a picnic…. there’s loads of possibilities. Also, when you’re in the house (and weather permitting), make sure you’ve always got all the curtains and blinds open, as well as the windows. The sun and fresh air will have an effect here too, and the cooling breeze will help combating the lethargy that comes from being in a warm room all day. 

3. Talk to someone. Anyone! Ring up your mum, or an old friend. Or get on MSN or facebook and see who’s around. You don’t need to talk about your depression, or anything serious like that – just anything will do! People suffering from depression tend to cut themselves off from their friends and isolate themselves, but social interaction, in any form, can really help you. Relive some old anecdotes with friends, or make an effort to contact that person who you lost touch with a few years ago. What about your aunt, or a cousin? When was the last time you spoke to them?