It’s okay to wallow in your feelings a little bit. Trying to suppress them or not to feel them is actually unhealthy, and it can worsen your mental health in the long run. [2] X Research source Remember that just because you’re feeling bad today doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll feel bad tomorrow.
When you’re feeling depressed, it’s natural to want to isolate yourself from others. However, this can actually make you feel worse,[5] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source so it’s important to fight those feelings.
Try to do something that you enjoy at least once a day.
If you don’t have any art supplies, that’s okay! Grab a pencil and a sheet of paper and try drawing something.
Keep your journal in a private place that no one else can access. That way, you can write about whatever you want.
If you have a pet, take them with you on a walk so you can both get some exercise. If you’re at work or school, try to spend your lunch break outdoors.
This doesn’t have to be some huge epiphany. It could be as small as getting a fun coffee yesterday or seeing a cute dog on your way home.
You might also find it helpful to meditate.
If you’re feeling super unmotivated, call a friend to come over and exercise with you. It’s harder to back out of getting active when there’s someone else counting on you.
It can be tough to make yourself meals when you’re feeling depressed. Go for easy-to-prepare foods like hard boiled eggs, sandwiches, and pasta so you can still eat something when you have low energy.
If your schedule allows for it, try to sleep at night and stay awake during the day. Taking multiple naps when the sun is out can throw off your biological clock, making it harder to sleep.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t always have to take medication in order to treat depression. You and your therapist can figure out what’s right for you,[18] X Research source but you may be able to make lifestyle changes and use talk therapy to improve your mental health. [19] X Research source
