Tips to Battle Depression

While depression is a serious illness, you can fight back against it and win if you know what to do when it strikes. If your depression is severe, however, it's important to seek the advice of a health care professional.

Most people with depression, have a mild to moderate form, and they can do a lot to help themselves. By using some tips and tricks to get through depressive episodes, you can feel better and look forward to life.

Handling Depression on Your Own

Conquering your depression is possible, so avoid giving in to the fear that you won't be able to handle it. Success often comes from believing in what you would like to accomplish instead of what you have convinced yourself that you can’t do.

People who succeed keep pressing forward, even if they're scared or things look difficult. They continue to work because they know there are great rewards awaiting them. Your peace, passion, and purpose are those great rewards!

These strategies can help you reclaim your life back from depression:

1. Focus on gratitude. Each one of us has something good in this life to be grateful for. Even if it's only the fact that we're still alive, it matters, you matter and God is not done with you yet! Each day when you get up in the morning, before you check your phone, email, social media, and whatever else you check when you wake up, make a list of the good things in your life.

· Small things count, too, like the beautiful sunrise you saw this morning or an unexpected smile from a stranger.

2. Know who your friends are. Spend your time with people who share positive energy, attitudes, goals, and beliefs. These kinds of people can help raise your spirits and your vibration when times are tough.

· Get in touch with your spirituality. Develop a relationship with The Creator · Even if you're not a spiritual or religious person, there are plenty of groups, both online and offline, where you'll find like-minded, happy, positive, and supportive influences. · Get involved in a support group for people with depression. These people, like you, are finding ways to conquer their depression. You can join an online group or find something in person, either way, connect with people who can relate to your experience.

3. Get moving! Exercise is one of the best ways to feel better. You'll have more energy and it's a great mood-booster as well. Start small if you need to but work your way up to 3-5 times of focused exercise per week. · With exercise as a part of your regular routine, you'll feel like smiling again. Your desire to have hobbies, friendships, and life experiences will come flowing back!

4. Pay attention to what you're eating. A lot of fatty, high-calorie foods can make you feel sluggish. If you're feeling depressed, these "comfort foods" can make you tired and increase your desire to remain on the couch. Instead, have something healthy like fresh fruits and vegetables.

· Avoid changing your diet drastically all at once because that's more difficult to stick to. Just start making small changes. You'll be surprised how much of an effect it has on you, and in such a short period of time, too.

There's Even More You Can Do To Conquer Depression

You can feel better more quickly if you're dedicated to making changes in your life. These changes can start out small so you feel comfortable making them, but please understand that there is no healing in the comfort zone so don’t remain there for long. Try reciting positive affirmations each day when you wake up and as much as you need throughout your day, soon enough your subconscious will believe it and you'll realize that you really are waking up feeling good.

Say positive things when you wake up, before you go to bed at night, and any time you just need a boost. It may seem strange to you, but your mind just might start to internalize and believe them.

These positive statements, or affirmations, can change your life, one thought at a time.

The things you tell yourself often become reality; therefore, you can choose to make your reality a good one. Make a commitment today to feeling better and you'll soon start to see your depressive moods fade into a memory of the past. Of course, consult with your healthcare professionals before making any drastic lifestyle changes, especially if you are struggling to overcome your symptoms.

DISCLAIMER: These are my opinions from my own experiences and are in no way meant to be medical advice. If you are struggling with depression please contact a health care professional.