The end of the pandemic may be in sight, but as the smoke clears our Mental Health is at an all time high. Here are a few tips that will help you cope with depression.
We’re still learning how to cope with depression.
The best tips to beat the blues:
Do you feel like hiding under the duvet, crying, and isolating yourself? Here are the best tips for coping with these difficult moments and fighting the blues.
1) Create a soft and warm atmosphere in your living space
Feeling good at home is essential. You can light candles all over the place, put up a few strings of lights and buy some plants to bring greenery into your home. Finally, you can snuggle up in a thick blanket and enjoy comfort food. If you live alone, why not invite a friend to spend a cozy evening at your place?
2) Getting ready in the morning
Push yourself to dress as if you were going out, even if you stayed at home. It is essential for getting into a productive and efficient frame of mind, which positively impacts morale. One good mood tip is to wear bright and warm-colored clothes!
3) Go for a walk
Going for a walk oxygenates the brain. It stimulates blood circulation and activates the legs and abdominal muscles. Try to go out at least once a day, even if it’s only for 20 minutes. For example, get out in the sun at lunchtime to replenish vitamin D and clear your head. Vitamin D influences serotonin, which is good for morale. You can also take it as a dietary supplement to help you with the symptoms of depression.
4) List your plans
If you are feeling a little low, why not take the opportunity to think about short or medium-term projects? During a walk at lunchtime, let the projects come to you and give yourself the right not to limit them.
5) Sorting and tidying
Have you ever noticed that an untidy room influences your well-being? Living in a messy space can clutter your mind. Cleaning your space will help you to see things more clearly. Moreover, at the same time, it makes you feel better at home.
6) Switch off social networks
As soon as you wake up, take a shower, go for a breath of fresh air. Next, make sure you turn off your phone notifications and disconnect from social networks. Comparing your day to people on social media can be a real hindrance to your happiness. Finally, turn off your screens at night as the blue light emitted by your smartphone disrupts melatonin production.
7) Anticipate chores
Depression makes you put off chores until the last minute. As a result, you feel drained of energy. Nevertheless, try to organize yourself to do the tasks as the week progresses.
8) Listen to music
Some music gives us instant energy and reduces blood pressure. It is ideal for giving yourself a boost. Don’t hesitate to prepare a playlist of dynamic songs that put you in a good mood.
9) Sleep is essential!
Lack of sleep makes you more vulnerable to anxiety and stress. In addition, it affects your mood and disrupts your concentration. To sleep well, you can adopt some good habits; avoid rich meals, coffee, and tea for up to 6 hours before going to sleep. Also, keep your sleep schedule as regular as possible.
10) Cultivate your good mood
How can you add some positivity to your life? Before you go to sleep, reflect on your day and find three enjoyable moments. You don’t have to look far. Did you receive a compliment today? Was the sun shining? Did you have lunch with a friend? Three possibilities to look on the bright side of life. Falling asleep on a positive note gives another dimension to your awakening.
Try these steps… Remember we have to do the work.
Latrina C, Self-Care Pusher/Mental Health Professional.
