~The Toolbox: Mental Health Tips and Tools ~
-----------3 TOOLS TO MANAGE DEPRESSION------------
The symptoms of depression can be really distressing. For some people, there is little ability to function, get out of bed or have the desire to do much of anything! However, if you can rally yourself enough to do the following 3 things, you might see some improvement in how you're feeling.
1) Talk to Someone: Make sure you have somebody in your life who you're being honest with. Whether it's a family member or friend, having this kind of outlet can only help to relieve any feelings of sadness or hopelessness you may be having. Sometimes getting an outside perspective can help challenge what might be irrational thinking on your part. If you have nobody to talk to at all, try an online forum like E-Notalone.com for support.
2) Start a Gratitude Journal: Keep a blank journal on your night stand with the sole purpose of making a daily entry of one thing you're grateful for for that day. It can be anything you want - from being grateful for a particular friendship - to the fact you were able to get out of the house to go to the store. This can be hard for people who are struggling with severe depression! The more you can shift your thinking to the positive the better you'll feel.
3) Take a Walk: The simple act of getting fresh air and the benefit of oxygen circulating through your body can make a huge difference in how you feel. Take advantage of a local park, the beach, a trail or a city block to move your body and get your heart rate up. If this seems overwhelming, take a quick jaunt up and down in front of your house. That night you can write about your gratitude for getting out for that walk.
The previous 3 tools are ideas you can use right away and are a good start in fighting the symptoms of depression. Try to be kind to yourself and find a local mental health professional for further assistance if you need it. If you are actively suicidal right now please call 911.