What is the first step in self-care for depression?

Don't let your depression get you! Always try to send the bad thoughts away. Visualise your problem - your depression is like a big dark monster sitting on your neck, and it is up to you whether you'll learn how to live with it, or try and send it away.

Baby steps in everything. Taking care of your physical health is quite crucial and should be one's focus.

changing the ambience or atmosphere. the place where you think the most. you need to change the area.

The first step is accepting that you are depressed. Accept that you feel bad and that feeling is temporary. Once you come to terms with your depression you can begin to heal

The first step for self-care in depression is to take time for yourself. Can't leave the house? Don't. It'll be a lot more painful leaving home than going out unless you have something to help distract you like drawing or music that can help put your mood up. If you have a job or school, make sure to make calls or send emails to ensure people know what's up and why you're absent. People are very understanding and will allow you to tend to your depression.

Identifying that a problem exists with which you need help from someone aside from yourself. As is often said, knowing is half the battle.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can really benefit your mental health, such as a healthy diet, plenty of sleep and leisure activities for example.

The first step is realizing that you deserve better. Depression can hit anyone, and it can hit hard. There are many approaches to dealing with your depression, but the first step is always realizing that enough is enough and that you want positive change. The next step is to talk to a doctor, or therapist, or counselour, or to go to 7 Cups. :)

Getting your self out of bed! This seems small but it is one of the biggest accomplishments to achieve with depression. Sometimes depression can make us feel sad and unmotivated or even unable to get out of bed. Push through that, jump up, and get going to a productive day that you'll be proud of later.

I would say, making a routine and take care of the human basic needs. I know it's not easy but I promise, build a habit and commit to it will be rewarding. Making one goal at a day, and taking small step is a good way to start, then adding it gradually until you become the person you want to be. The bad feelings might not disappear right away, but completing some goals in life always sparks joy, doesn't it? You can change and shower youself with love like if you taking care of a sick someone you love. Just be gentle.