Depression is a common disorder that affects people of all ages. It can affect every part of your life, from how you think and feel to your relationships with others.
There are many ways to treat depression, from medication to healthy lifestyle changes. But it's important to follow your treatment plan.
1. Exercise
Although there are many different ways to treat depression, exercise is one of the most effective and least expensive treatments. It can help alleviate symptoms of depression and prevent relapses.
It also has positive physical effects, such as boosting your mood, reducing the risk of suicide and improving your overall health. It can be as simple as going for a walk or getting a quick workout in.
Research has shown that even small doses of activity can significantly reduce your risk for depression. Studies show that even 15 minutes of exercise a day can lower your risk by 26%, as opposed to spending a similar amount of time watching television.
The benefits of exercising may be due to the release of endorphins in your body. These are hormones that act as analgesics (reducing the perception of pain) and sedatives (helping you relax).
2. Talk to Someone
Depression is a hard thing to talk about, but it’s important to tell someone about your situation. It can help you feel less isolated and bring in a new perspective.
It’s also a good idea to share your thoughts with a family member or friend who is more knowledgeable about depression than you are. This can prevent misunderstandings and keep everyone safe.
Encourage your loved one to get help if they want it. This can include asking their doctor to check for depression and suggest a medical visit, or helping them find a mental health professional.
You can also offer to do something for your loved one, such as go on a walk or see a movie together. This can make them feel better and give them something to look forward to. Exercise is especially helpful, as it can improve mood and reduce depression symptoms.
3. Take a Medication
Many people with depression find that they can feel better when taking a medication. These medications work by increasing the availability of chemical messengers called neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants are one of the most common types of medication for depression. They can help reduce symptoms of depression, including feelings of sadness, irritability and fatigue.
There are many different types of antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and tricyclic antidepressants.
Choosing the right drug for you can be complicated. But with persistence, you and your doctor can get a medicine that helps.
Remember to take your medication exactly as prescribed. Taking too much or skipping doses can cause side effects or withdrawal. It’s best to start with a low dose and increase it slowly.
4. Attend a Support Group
Support groups can be very helpful, but they should not replace psychotherapy or medication. Instead, they are meant to be an auxiliary treatment option for depression sufferers.
They also provide the opportunity to meet with other people who are going through similar experiences and coping mechanisms. This can help alleviate some of the isolation that many people with depression experience.
The best groups will encourage participants to seek out solutions to their issues, rather than just talk about them. This is important to avoid unhelpful coping strategies that can make symptoms worse.
Groups should be led by experienced facilitators who can provide support and guidance. They should also allow for members to participate in the discussions as they see fit.
A good support group will leave participants with a tool, skill, connection, or new perspective that helps them tackle their issues and move towards their health goals. It should also give participants a chance to listen and learn from others’ experiences and insights, so they can offer those same things back in return.
