6 Tips To Combating Depression

Long ago, I put together some tips when I was working on a project dedicated to coping with depression! Whilst these tips are obviously nothing new, I hope some of you can learn at least something from these tips!!
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TIP #1:

A study found that our brains are normally hardwired to focus on the negativity in our lives. That sucks! However, one of an optimist's secret to happiness is to challenge negativity with positivity. How does one accomplish that? Through gratitude and mindfulness. To really open up your perspective and look around. Many times, when we start treating life like a blessing, it starts feeling like one! No one said that would be an easy task, so if you find yourself struggling to be mindful for a couple of weeks, don't give up! Standing up against your wiring was never meant to be simple!

SOURCES:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/wired-success/201406/are-we-hardwired-be-positive-or-negative

TIP #2:

WHOO! EXERCISE! Who doesn't love to get all sweaty n' stinky? Well, in order to become mentally healthier, it doesn't have to be that way. You can walk your dog, ride your bicycle, or take a stroll in your neighborhood's park! Refresh your mind and let go of all your worries, allowing each and every step you take to be therapeutic. :)

SOURCES:

- http://www.webmd.com/depression/features/does-exercise-help-depression

- http://www.webmd.com/depression/features/exercise-and-depression-expert-q-a

TIP #3:

Loving yourself is a struggle many with depression endeavor, and even for the average person, it was never meant to be an easy task; we are constantly forced to recognize our flaws by other people or certain situations. However, never allow your flaws to define you! You have far more strengths than weaknesses, believe it or not. Heck, sometimes our weaknesses even serve as a peculiar form of strength! You have enough strength to walk, to read these ver words, and to breathe, but you can't draw. See what I mean? Go as basic as you can; light doesn't have a size, but it always has the same effect. :)

SOURCES:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/maybe-its-just-me/201004/loving-yourself-how-important-is-it

TIP #4:

Who would've known that translating your feelings into words could be so therapeutic? You know why that may be? This is because feelings are almost unexplainable, but when we have the ability to describe them as how we interpret them, relief pours upon us like rain. The pencil/pen/writing material and the paper will not - and never - judge you. It's effects may or may no be limited if you type your feelings on a computer or phone rather than writing with a pencil or pen on a lined sheet of paper, but find whichever way works for you! (:

SOURCES:

- http://newsroom.ucla.edu/releases/Putting-Feelings-Into-Words-Produces-8047

- http://psychcentral.com/lib/the-health-benefits-of-journaling/

TIP #5:

Many with depression tend to lose interest in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed and staying at home seems more convenient to them, but if they can find something they love to do at home, they can slowly branch off into the outside world, and so on! Since everyone's cases are different, it isn't this easy for everyone. Remember that these methods won't always work the first time you try them; you have to keep trying and allow the effects to come eventually. Those who wait patiently tend to exhibit more in the end, whether positive or negative, than would an impatient individual. Difficult paths often lead to beautiful destinations. :)

Also, coloring and doodling have, in fact, been proven to reduce stress and anxiety! It won't completely take it away, but don't let it discourage you: it shall grant you a sense of relief when you realize that it helps in SOME shape or form.

(Don't always color those complicated designs in coloring books; they tend to stress you out even more. If you want to, though, go for it!)

SOURCES:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/arts-and-health/201401/doodling-your-way-more-mindful-life

http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2015/07/doodling-for-cognitive-benefits/398027/

http://bebrainfit.com/anti-stress-coloring-books/

TIP #6:

MUSIC!! YASS!! Some people don't like it, but I'm sure most do! Music can release dopamine and other positive chemicals in our brains! Did you know that your favorite songs tend to be your favorite because they have an association to an event in your life?

Singing along with your music, dancing, or becoming involved is even MORE beneficial, as you are now literally becoming PART of the music.

Music is also known to help people out in stressful situations and/or depressed situations, so make sure you use it to your own advantage! (:

SOURCES:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/your-musical-self/201101/why-music-listening-makes-us-feel-good

https://www.psychologies.co.uk/music-makes-you-feel-better

I hope some of these tips were able to help out at least ONE person, or someone who needs a small push to continue smiling!

Below are some statistics on depression, too! :)

SOURCES:

http://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Mental-Health-By-the-Numbers

http://www.nami.org/NAMI/media/NAMI-Media/Infographics/GeneralMHFacts.pdf

Oh, and by the way, you're an amazing person. Did you know that?