How to Handle Depression with Actions

As someone who has suffered all forms of depression, who has been diagnosed as manic depressive, I find sometimes I fight myself. It is easier to say things than to do things. Whenever I go through a depression, I remember what brought me here, why I am lucky, why I can smile. But it takes more than this thinking; it takes action.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Read, write, be artistic. As a writer, I tend to gravitate towards things that will change my perspective. As a student, I see all the reasons to read and write. As someone who battles depression, I see the value in expressing myself; you should too. Reading is one of those serious games with ample rewards. Reading a novel or masterful biography is like zoning out and exploring a new land. There again, writing, or just being artistic, also opens new doors. When we open these doors, let us not forget that being artistic can be a cure in and of itself.
2. Talk, talk, get out. I need movement to get me out of the house, actions to escape depression. You should talk to people. You should get out into the world. This doesn’t include shopping, but, in some ways it does. Anything that gets you out of the house and out of your thoughts is an improvement. It is important to be social. If you have nothing to say, sit amongst people, or watch a movie with depression. These are the best actions, because you see people willing to help in their own way. Sitting alone with depression is the worst route.
3. Walk, run, exercise. Yes, get out of the house, walk, run, and exercise. This is the next step important step to a healthy body and mind, a way that has battled depression for a long time. One should consider walking and listening to music. There are few things more freeing than a morning walk when the sun is about to rise and the birds are already awake. The world can be left at home, at the office, and when one does this, there is only improvement in things like self-esteem, confidence, and happiness.
4. Avoid stimulants and other substances. Alcohol, smoking, and other illegal drugs are dangerous to people who are prove to depression. If you battle depression on a regular basis, consider limiting the amount of alcohol you take in.
5. Seek help and succeed. When you ask for help, it is not about trying to get things, but finding things. If you ask someone you are close to for help, that is the biggest step. It requires a certain person to do it, at a certain time. Sometimes one is desperate and just asks. Think of the people in your life who are active in the world; these are the ones who can help the most. How do you ask? It varies. If you do ask, your chance for succeeding improves.

Tips & Warnings

• Drugs are not the answer for the depressed. Not only are the depressed more apt for addiction, but they are more apt to fall deeper into depression.