In recent times, mental health has become a topic that people are more aware of. The growth and evolution of people’s minds have caused them to be self-aware and understand their mental state or state of mind. As mental health is very important, there are different terms and types of mental health issues. These issues include Anxiety, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and many more.
One of the pervasive mental health issues is Depression. In fact, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, in a given year, Major depressive disorder affects about 7.1% of the U.S population of age 18 and older.
So, for a matter this serious, it is hard to get over it. There are different methods to get rid of Depression, such as antidepressants and other mental health-related medications. In addition, there are also other methods like therapy and the likes. At the same time, certain habits a person can build will help ease the symptoms of Depression and even end up getting rid of Depression. In this article, you will learn about ten different ways you can get rid of Depression.
Habits to pick up to get rid of Depression and its symptoms
Depression is a very disruptive and disturbing mental illness. Depression and its symptoms often make the affected person feel like they are falling into a void. It is a severe mental health problem that needs fast attention to be solved quickly. The deeper a person falls into Depression, the harder it is to come out. So, if you are looking to drag yourself out of this void, here are some habits that will help you do that.
- Eating Healthy Foods
Many studies conducted by scholars and scientists have shown a connection between your diet and mental health. Research has shown that one factor that increases a person’s risk of Depression is the heavy consumption of processed food. This doesn’t mean you should dump fast food because healthy eating can be hard sometimes. However, you can consume these foods in moderation. Add fresh fruits, protein, and fresh vegetables to your dinner.
- Incorporating the use of Herbs
Natural herbs has gained popularity in recent times as there has been more research showing the potential benefit of the compound regarding mental health and Depression. You can also try various strains and forms of CBD flower which has different effects. CBT acts as a natural antidepressant and making a habit of taking it in any form will help you feel better.
- Try out Journaling
Often, we can’t understand our emotions because we can’t name or place them. Journaling has been proven to help solve this. Putting your thoughts and feelings down on paper, also known as expressive writing, can help you feel better. As you can do it on your terms, you can write about your feelings or answer a specific prompt that resonates with you.
- Practice Gratitude
With Depression, dwelling on the negative seems more appealing and easier to do. However, it’s this cycle that leads you deeper into that void. So, try to acknowledge the things you are thankful for. It might be hard, but only practice can help you move out of the void.
- Treat Yourself
Self-care is an important part of getting yourself out of the void of Depression. Build a habit of doing things that make you happy, no matter how small. It might be taking a bath or hot shower, getting a relaxing massage, enjoying a 15 minutes break from reading your favorite book or something. No matter how small, do something that gives you peace.
- Improve Your Sleep Routine
Sleep is a lot more important than a lot of us acknowledge. Your sleep routine and your mood are very related. Sleep disturbances are common in over 80% of people with major depressive disorder. So, make an effort to make a better sleep routine where you try to log out of the world before sleep. Make your mind associate your bed with relaxation instead of Stress.
- Beat Procrastination
Procrastination is a common attribute with Depression as you will always be tired and experience difficulty with concentrating. Try to set deadlines to manage your time well and establish short-term goals so you can get the important things done first. This will make you feel achieved and motivated.
- Get stronger relationships
The people around you as a depressed person also affect your life and mood. It is a great habit to surround yourself with people that will help you improve your Depression. You can forge stronger ties with your family and friends as knowing they are there can help. Also, a depression support group can help you achieve this too.
- Avoid Stress
Stress is a major trigger of Depression. Long-term Stress makes you feel more depressed and down. So, try to avoid Stress, whether long or short term, so you’ll get rid of the depressive symptoms as quickly as you can.
- Creating a Wellness Toolbox
A wellness toolbox is a routine that involves you writing down a set of tools that soothe you when you are feeling weighed down by the symptoms of Depression. You have to consider only the things that help you feel at your best and do them whenever you feel down.
Conclusion
Depressive episodes can be overwhelming for anyone going through it. Depression isn’t something anyone should spend so long dwelling in. That is why this article has listed a couple of habits to pick up so that you can pick yourself out of this void. Depression can be hard, but you should never forget that someone out there loves you and is rooting for you.