If you only take away one thing from this article, remember that depression is treatable. With time and treatment, you can feel better. Consider talking with your doctor or a mental health professional about how you’ve been feeling to see if talk therapy or medication may be right for you.
There are also things you can do on your own to feel better. Here are a few suggestions from the National Institute of Mental Health:
Try to be active and exercise.
Go to places, events, or activities that you once enjoyed.
Expect your mood to improve gradually, not immediately.
Do not expect to suddenly “snap out of” your depression. Often during treatment for depression, sleep and appetite will begin to improve before your mood lifts.
Set realistic goals for yourself.
Break up large tasks into small ones, set your top priorities, and do what you can as you can.
Spend time with other people.
Confide in a trusted friend or relative, and let others help you.
Postpone important decisions.
Don’t make major choices, such as changing jobs or getting married or divorced, until you feel better. Discuss decisions with others who know you well and have a more objective view of your situation.
Remember that you won’t always feel down.
Keep in mind that positive thinking will replace negative thoughts as your depression responds to treatment.
