We can even deny it to ourselves all we want but we all go through depression from time to time. Life changes like aging, divorce, an empty nest or moving can bring on a bout of the blues. And while chronic acute depression is a serious mental health disorder, occasional doldrums do happen to everyone.
Of course, snapping out of it isn’t necessarily as quick or as easy as you’d like. But you can either choose to hang streamers and balloons and have a good old fashioned pity party, or you can take proactive steps to make yourself feel better sooner rather than later.
Regrets.
I’ve had a few. Looking back on a failed love affair or a good job gone bad can dredge up regrets. But instead of asking yourself “What was I thinking?” ask yourself, “What was I learning?” Every life experience, good or especially bad, has the power to teach us something positive and uplifting. Take the time to figure out what you learned.
Get out of yourself.
One of the easiest things to do when you’re blue is to dwell on your sadness, and maybe even wallow in it a bit. But when you take that energy and focus it outward by gatherings with friends, trying volunteer opportunities or taking a class you take yourself away from your sadness, and quite suddenly, your attitude begins to improve.
Exercise?
Are you kidding? Nope. Not kidding. Exercise is PROVEN to increase endorphins, those little feel-good hormones secreted within the brain and nervous system that act like a totally natural pick-me-up for your body. So, get up and get out! Take a dance class, go walking, go running, skating, swimming, biking, heck, even pole dancing and you’ll see just how much your mood improves.
Talk to someone.
We all know it helps to vent. Countless hours spent on the phone with your best friend in junior high did actually serve a purpose. Find someone you can talk to and trust like a girlfriend, boyfriend, family member or a counselor. Call anyone who’ll listen and talk things through. You’ll feel better when you do.
Keep going.
Life is hard sometimes and things happen but learn to keep pushing and moving forward. Life can be hard, but you will be okay. Do things that make you happy and that make you feel good so that you can have a smile on your face and push through your hard days.
This is a fantastic read! It’s refreshing to see an article that acknowledges that everyone deals with depression at some point. The actionable steps mentioned, like exercise and talking to someone, are invaluable and backed by science.
Oh sure, just ‘keep going’ and everything will be fine. Because we all know that life’s problems can be solved by sheer willpower alone. Why didn’t I think of that sooner? This advice is as useful as a chocolate teapot.
While I appreciate the intent, it’s important to remember that not everyone’s experience with depression is the same. Some people need professional help and medication. Simplifying it to exercise and positive thinking could be misleading.
Ah, yes, because talking to someone or taking a dance class will magically solve depression. If only it were that simple. This article severely underestimates the complexity and gravity of mental health issues. A bit more depth and less trivialization, please.
An intriguing article! The focus on proactive steps for combatting occasional depression is well-founded. Exercise, engagement, and reflection are indeed vital tools. However, the nuanced spectrum of mental health should not be overlooked; professional guidance remains crucial for chronic cases.