Exercising - Studies show that a regular cardio exercise routine can be just as effective as the highest dose of the most potent antidepressant.
Writing - Many therapist recommend writing down your feelings when you are depressed. Journaling can be cathartic, and help get your negative feelings down on paper.
Healthy Diet - Processed foods, excessive amounts of
sugar, and caffeine can all exacerbate depressive symptoms. Dry eating a balanced diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables (especially green ones like Kale, Spinach, and Broccoli), whole grains, and lean protein.
Socializing - Depression encourages individuals to isolate. Socializing boosts serotonin levels (the brain chemical that makes you happy).
Meditation - Meditation has been proven to have a profound impact on depression and anxiety. You donât have to be a Buddhist or Hindu to meditate, and there are many apps that can help you get started.
Spirituality - If you have a strong spiritual background, studies have shown that prayer and regularly participating in your spiritual community increases serotonin and shortens depressive episodes. The exact reason is not known, but individuals with a strong spiritual background tend to recover from depression at a quicker rate than others.
Volunteering - Depression is an egotistical illness. It traps you mentally and causes your brain to direct all of your negative thoughts at your own body. Studies have repeatedly shown that volunteering increases serotonin levels and has a positive impact on depressed individuals in terms of mood.
Get Back to Nature - Like many of these other coping mechanisms, physicians and scientists do not really know why nature, especially sunlight improves the symptoms of depression. Even gardening has been proven to improve the mood of depressed individuals. Pets/Animals also help improve the mood of those struggling with mental illnesses.
These are just a few coping mechanisms, and Iâm sure everyone has their own unique way of coping. However, the mechanisms above have been scientifically proven to make a noticeable difference in the lives of depressed individuals