Although depression affects many people around the world, each person’s situation is unique and requires unique treatment. However, there are a number of common lifestyle concerns that can actively make you feel worse while you are trying to recover. If you’re suffering from depression or anxiety, these are some of the things you should avoid. You should also seek professional treatment for depression if you need it.
Don’t Dismiss Your Problems
They aren’t going to go away if you simply ignore them. Even though it can be unpleasant to begin, seeking help and confronting your problems is the only path ahead.
Don’t Drink Excessively
Although it may temporarily improve your mood, alcohol does not address any problems and can soon lead to new ones. It also has a depressive effect, which makes recovery even more difficult.
Avoid Staying In Bed
Staying in bed can make it difficult to get your day started. However, be sure that you are getting adequate sleep as well. Insomnia can exacerbate sadness, and sticking to a consistent sleep schedule is the best way to avoid it.
Try To Get Some Outdoor Time
You should try to maintain social contact if you can, but if you can’t, at least get some fresh air and sunshine. Spending time outside has been shown in numerous studies to be an effective way of alleviating depression and anxiety.
Don’t Get Lost In Virtual Distractions
It’s easy to get caught up in the virtual world, but don’t go too far. At best it’s avoidance, but at worst it further separates you from the outside world, providing your issues a space in which to grow out of proportion.
Avoid Comparisons
Avoid comparing yourself with other individuals. You’re almost definitely not seeing things the way they are, and it will just make you feel worse if you convince yourself that you are coming up short. That is particularly true on social media, where most individuals merely broadcast the finest elements of their lives.
Don’t Beat Yourself Up
Never feel bad about being depressed. It’s a disease having hereditary as well as environmental causes. It’s not your fault, and you can’t suddenly snap out of it.
Don’t Worry Too Much About What Will Happen
Try not to ponder too much about the future, especially if it leads to you only imagining the worst-case scenario. When something good happens, try to be present in the moment.
Don’t Start A New Relationship Unless You’re Ready
If you don’t have a grasp on your situation, think twice about starting a new relationship. It isn’t fair to the other person until they are fully involved, and any relationship failure caused by your depression will be devastating to both of you.
But, Don’t Try To Do It Alone
Do not believe that you can overcome depression on your own. Just as you would get medical help with a physical ailment, you should seek professional support if you need it. Talking to trusted friends and relatives can also be hugely beneficial.
Contact Me
Finally, and most importantly, never give up hope. There will come a time when life will feel infinitely better, and regardless of how you’re feeling right now, that day will arrive sooner than you expect. If you live in or near Chandler, Arizona, and you want to learn about treatment for depression or other mental health issues, contact me today to schedule an appointment!