Are you experiencing persistence in sadness, disinterest in leisure activities, insomnia, or hypersomnia? Including but not limited to weight loss/gain, restlessness, feelings of worthlessness, and guilt.

Depression is a mental health disorder that affects how you think, feel, and handle daily activities. It’s different from regular mood changes and feelings about everyday life. Contributing factors include traumatic life events, genetics, chronic illness, substance abuse, etc. An estimated 3.8% of the population experience depression.

Being a treatable condition, there are several ways to counter sadness. Some of which have been highlighted in this article.

1.     Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

There are various aspects of a healthy lifestyle that can influence your overall mental well-being and aid in fighting misery. Such aspects include:

·         Eating a balanced diet (avoid processed foods, sugar, and caffeine)

·         Prioritizing adequate sleep (7 to 9 hours of quality sleep per night)

·         Stress management through meditation and deep breathing exercises

·         Engaging in meaningful activities and interests that align with your values and passions

·         Avoiding drug abuse (limit use of alcohol and overdosing/underdosing)

Incorporating these elements into your lifestyle, along with other aspects, ensures proper decision-making for battling depression.

2.     Build a Support System

Basically, surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, and peers who can offer a listening ear and provide encouragement and understanding of what you’re facing at that moment.

Sharing your problem with trustworthy individuals could relieve you of feelings of isolation and provide emotional support. As it’s said, a problem shared is half solved.

3.     Seek Professional Help

Mental health professionals such as therapists, psychiatrists, or counselors provide support, guidance, and treatment options necessary for effective depression management. They could also prescribe antidepressants as medication for the depressive disorder.

Reaching out to a therapist gives you a safe space to explore emotions. This way, you get to identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to unhappiness and eventually develop coping mechanisms to alleviate your sadness.

4.     Set Realistic Goals

Setting realistic goals is essential for progress and overall success. Prioritize SMART goals:

·         Specific (clear and well-defined in accordance with relevance)

·         Measurable (track your progress and evaluate your performance objectively)

·         Achievable (within reach, given your resources, time, and abilities)

·         Relevant (aligned with your values, priorities, and long-term objectives)

·         Time-bound (have a defined timeframe for completion)

When setting your goals, consider your capability and relevant resources for success. Don’t be too hard on yourself, and don’t rely on other people’s opinions to materialize your objectives.

5.     Exercise

Regular physical activities prove to be very crucial to the overall state of mental health. For instance, it can help to release endorphins to the brain, which act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. Overall achievement of fitness goals boosts self-esteem and confidence, alleviating feelings of helplessness.

Overcoming depression is a gradual process that requires support. Each individual’s journey is unique, so it’s vital to find what works best for you and take things one step at a time. Opening up about your struggles can be the first step towards healing. Take charge of your mental health by reaching out to trustworthy individuals. Remember, you’re not alone, and help is available.