Depression affects millions of Americans annually. They lose interest in events in their lives, feel lost and overwhelming sadness. The current virus is causing many who previously enjoyed life to question their existence and purpose. The good news is there are ways to deal with it and regain control over your life.
The Negative Impact of Depression
Depression can lead to alcohol or substance abuse as a way to cover your emotions. Performing normal functions such as work, socializing and even getting out of bed can become difficult. Having a few drinks or taking medications can improve your feelings. However, it’s only temporary and, in the end, you will have to deal with your feelings. Unfortunately, abusing alcohol or taking pills can become a bad habit that increases over time. This can cause a new problem of addiction.
Unmasking the Problem
The only way to eliminate or reduce your depression is to find out the cause. For some it’s the loss of a loved one or a job. For others, it’s a bad relationship or other events earlier in their lives. Finding out the cause will help you to find solutions to heal yourself.
Therapy
Having someone unbiased to talk to will allow you to open up and discuss events in your life to dig deeper inside and search your feelings. A therapist can help you unlock emotions and help you to deal with them. A therapist will help you to make changes that will have a positive impact on your behavior and thoughts.
Improve Sleep Patterns
Many people who live with depression don’t get the proper amount of sleep due to negative thoughts occupying their minds. Refraining from caffeine after 8:00 PM, unplugging electronics at least an hour before you plan to go to bed and taking a hot, relaxing bath are a few ways to ease into a relaxed state prior to going to sleep. When you sleep, your body begins the process of repairing itself and this includes the brain. Without enough rest, you awake feeling tired and that feeling sticks with you for the rest of the day.
Socialize with Positive Thinkers
It’s too easy to think negative thoughts. One way to avoid focusing on the doom and gloom is to surround yourself with people who view the glass as half full instead of half empty. It will teach you to view life from a positive perspective and, as such, give you more energy. In between social engagements, read a self-help book to keep you moving in a positive direction.
Avoid Procrastination
Putting things off until the last possible moment can cause an enormous outpouring of emotions like guilt and stress. This can lead to sadness and then depression. Create a schedule and follow it to avoid missing deadlines and to utilize your time wisely. Practicing time management will give you good feelings about all of the things you have been able to accomplish.
A Clutter-Free Environment
Chaos breeds chaos and a messy home or work space can enhance feelings of depression. Looking around at the mess in front of you can also make you feel overwhelmed. The good news is that you can eliminate the clutter. Don’t look at your entire home and its condition. Instead, take one room at a time. Before you know it, you’ll turn your home into a place that brings comfort and good feelings.
Find Something You Enjoy
Keeping depression at bay is made easier when you have something to look forward to. Taking up a hobby will fill the void and, in time, prevent you from collecting negative thoughts. Painting, crafts, exercising and sports are a few suggested choices.
Over 17 million people experience depression. If you are depressed, you can make changes to your lifestyle that will offer positive results.
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