Depression is one of the most common mental health concerns in the country. It can seriously impact your life, causing you to no longer enjoy your favorite activities and to struggle through every day. Overcoming depression is not easy and often requires taking steps like participating in inpatient depression treatment programs.
If you’re battling this mental health concern, our team at Promises offers some healthy coping mechanisms that can make a difference in your daily life. With a bit of guidance, you can start feeling more like yourself again. Learn more about depression and your options by calling us at 888.483.7451.
Understanding Depression
Depression is a mental health condition that negatively impacts your moods and thoughts. It causes an overwhelming and pervasive feeling of sadness and hopelessness, making it very difficult to get through every day and putting you at risk of self-harm.
The most common symptoms of depression include:
- Feelings of hopelessness and sadness
- Fatigue
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Changes in appetite
- Loss of pleasure in favorite activities
- Irritation
- Concentration problems
- Memory problems
Depression can occur as a result of many factors. An imbalance of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin can cause it, while a stressful life event can trigger it if you have a predisposition. If you have close relatives with depression, you also have a higher chance of developing the illness.
Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Tips for Overcoming Depression
If you’re struggling through your days, we offer some healthy coping mechanisms that can make a difference.
Communicate With Loved Ones
Depression often leads people to isolate and stew in their own thoughts. This doesn’t help you feel better; on the contrary, it often worsens your mood. It’s vital that you take time to stay in touch with loved ones and speak about what you’re going through. If possible, meet a friend for a coffee at a place you love.
Get Fresh Air
Going outside can do a world of good. Take a walk around your block or go to a park. Being outside gives you a chance to get fresh air and some sun, which is important for your physical and mental well-being. It also gives you an opportunity to see other people and perhaps to engage with them.
Set Attainable Goals
Depression makes everything feel more difficult. You might struggle to just get out of bed. If you give yourself large to-do lists, the sense of being overwhelmed can paralyze you. Instead, give yourself small tasks that you can handle. Instead of trying to clean your whole house, for example, you can focus on making the bed.
Celebrate Small Successes
When you manage to complete a task or do something challenging, celebrate your accomplishment. It doesn’t matter how insignificant you may think your success is. By acknowledging that you completed something that you set out for yourself, you’re combating the feelings of despair that depression causes.
Listen to Music
Find some upbeat songs you like and listen to them. Music is known for its mood-boosting qualities. Try to stay away from music that reminds you of sad events, however, since that might only worsen what you’re feeling.
Get Help Overcoming Depression at Promises Today
Battling depression takes a lot of strength and courage and, sometimes, some professional guidance. If you’re having a lot of trouble managing your low moods or have had thoughts of self-harm, it’s vital that you get help from professionals. With the right team helping you, it’s possible to find your happiness once more.
At Promises, we offer residential and outpatient programs to guide you through the process of healing. Call 888.483.7451 to speak with the team at Promises or reach out via our online contact form.