This post is all about what to do when you feel low and depressed.
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Why do we feel down and depressed for no reason? Why do we feel sad when we want to feel happy? In this blog post, you will learn what to do when you feel low and depressed. Explore practical steps, backed by experts and authoritative sources, to uplift your mood and work towards improving your mental well-being.
What To Do When You Feel Low And Depressed
1. Seek Professional Help
Reach Out to a Psychologist, Doctor, or Counselor
When facing depression, it’s important to seek professional guidance from licensed psychologists, doctors, or counsellors.
It can be scary and confronting but taking that first step will do wonders for your healing journey. Everyone has to start somewhere, speaking to a mental health professional is one of the best steps you can make towards feeling better today.
I remember my first time in a psychologist’s office, I was confused and overwhelmed. However, the psychologist put me at ease straight away and the next year of seeing her was one of my best years yet. It was because I gained valuable knowledge and practical advise to not only help me with my mental health struggles at that time but for many years to come. I still implement daily what I learnt during therapy years ago and I wouldn’t be the same without it.
These experts have extensive training and experience in addressing mental health concerns, and their tailored treatment plans can make a significant difference in your recovery.
2. Embrace the Sunshine
Harness the Power of Sunlight
Numerous studies conducted by leading medical institutions have shown that exposure to natural sunlight can boost serotonin levels, which are often depleted in depression.
Spend time outdoors and soak in the healing benefits of sunlight under the guidance of healthcare professionals.
Lack of light can throw off your circadian rhythm. This can cause your brain to produce too much of the sleep hormone melatonin and to release less serotonin, the feel-good brain chemical that affects mood. The result of this chemical imbalance? You feel low and lethargic.
Harvard Medical School
3. Practice Daily Happiness
One Happy Thing a Day
I love the idea that doing just one thing a day that brings you joy can fight off depression. It is a doable action. You don’t have to spend hours a day meditating or checking off an extensive to do list to improve mood. Just focusing one simple thing a day can point you in the right direction towards healing from depression.
For me, one thing I can do each day that brings me joy is sitting outside in the sunshine with a cup of tea. Another way I get a dose of happiness is a quick walk around the block.
Experts in the field of positive psychology emphasise the importance of incorporating daily doses of happiness into your routine.
People who experience a greater number of happy moments are more prone to exercise and to not smoke. Positive emotion builds unconscious motivation, or the natural desire for positive, healthful lifestyle changes associated with physiologic benefits and longevity.
OXFORD Academic
Engaging in simple activities that bring you joy, recommended by specialists in mental health, can be instrumental in managing depression.
4. Holistic Self-Care
Nurturing Your Mind and Body
Holistic self-care practices, as endorsed by mental health professionals, include meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises. These techniques can reduce stress and promote emotional well-being.
My gym has a great Pilates class that I love to attend. I don’t have to be great at Pilates but just the act of attending and going through the exercises nurtures my mind and lifts my mood.
Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.
Albert Einstein
5. Connect with a Supportive Community
Building a Support Network
Mental health organisations and experts emphasise the role of a strong support network in recovery.
We shouldn’t do life alone. It can be tough as we get older in our 30’s and beyond to make new connections or friends. However, if we put the effort in even when it seems uncomfortable we will reap great rewards. These rewards include having someone to have your back during hard times, a friend to be there when your not well or just someone to download to after a hard day.
Friends are the family you choose.
Jennifer Aniston
You can also connect with online mental health communities, follow authoritative blogs, and connect with well-respected influencers who share evidence-based insights.
6. Empower Yourself with Knowledge
Educate Yourself on Mental Health
Empowering yourself with knowledge about mental health is an important step. Even just a quick 5 minute read of your favourite blog, a quick video on mental health or speaking to a mental health professional will help you learn valuable steps towards depression recovery.
Remember to get your information from reputable sources, such as renowned mental health institutions and expert-authored publications. Stay informed about the latest developments in mental health care through credible resources.
Final Thoughts
Remember that overcoming depression is a journey, and it’s perfectly acceptable to take one step at a time.
Your mental health is of utmost importance, and there is hope for brighter days ahead.
This post was about what to do when you feel low and depressed.