2006-08-17 11:10:28 · 9 answers · asked by ~Ronyea Q♪ 3 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Other - General Health Care
I've dealt with depression since childhood. Some of my problem is chemical; so I take anti-depressants. The rest of the problem--the emotional part that has to do with my history and personality--is what I have to learn to overcome myself.
Antidepressants can't do anything more than keeping you from doing something really stupid (take 'em if you have to, but they're not a cure-all!); the rest of it is taking care of yourself and telling yourself, in a lot of subconscious ways, that you're worth living and enjoying life.
Managing your physical health is important: Staying at a healthy weight, making sure you're getting all the vitamins/minerals you need, managing any chronic illnesses, and going to the doctor when you're sick.
Stop smoking--you'll get more oxygen to your brain, and that helps in keeping it working right.
Stay in touch with other people. Some people need more social time, some less; but have friends--true friends--and spend time with them. Your family can also be a source of great support.
Do things you enjoy. Get a hobby, spend time with friends and family.
Find purpose in life. Your religious and philosophical viewpoint should be well-defined.
Get out there and help other people: Volunteer, donate money, or just help out people you know.
Invest in the future: Get a college degree (or another college degree), become an "aunt" or "uncle" to a child, or invest money for your retirement.
Take time out to relax. Learn to meditate; take walks; read or watch TV. Anything that allows you to take your mind off any problems you may have will help you.
Don't do drugs--they're addictive, and they ruin your life (and your mood). Alcohol and caffeine are fine, in moderation. Both can be useful, but will make you susceptible to depression if overused.
Stay mentally active. Do puzzles; play games; write stories or poetry. Use a computer. Go to the library or search the 'Net to find out about something you're interested in.
Know yourself. A journal helps; going to church or learning philosophy or psychology can be of use when putting yourself into the framework of the larger world.
Learn how you respond to things emotionally; and learn to use emotions as tools to handle your problems, rather than becoming subject to your emotions.
Get a pet. Having someone who unconditionally loves you, whom you take care of, is a great self-esteem booster. (I suggest a cat. But then, I'm a cat person.)
Do something creative. Art, writing, gardening, woodworking... anything you like to do.
Take care of yourself. Wear clothes you feel comfortable in; keep yourself clean and well-groomed; get a haircut you like; get into an exercise program to tone your muscles. When you take care of your body, you are telling yourself that you are worth it.
All in all, it's really common sense; but then, as we know: Common sense... isn't common.
2006-08-17 11:31:46 · answer #1 · answered by lisa450 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
1
2016-12-24 04:57:13 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Definitely do things that you enjoy as much as you can (if you still feel up to doing them). Also keep your mind focus on the things that you dream for in life. Don't ever give up hope. It is very important, as well, to take care of your general health. Exercise helps your mood greatly. Also eating properly and sleeping right.
Personally, I only start feeling depressed when I get fooled into thinking that nothing is ever gonna change or get better in my life... when I think I have no purpose on earth... when I feel I am alone and no one understands me. If you are feeling like that, you should try to find a friend, relative, counselor, or even some message board where you can chat about your feelings. Talking about your troubles can make a HUGE difference in your overall emotions. It's a good way of letting go of some of the hurt (or numbness in some cases), and it's also reassuring to know you are NOT alone. Good luck *hugs* :)
2006-08-17 11:21:26 · answer #3 · answered by Flyleaf 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Have a good, satisfying life.
I'm not being sarcastic and andy and all the answers that say anything else are wrong. Drugs only cover up the problems and put the situation in an imcomprehensible haze. Music, friends, all that won't help unless the soul and mind are at rest.
2006-08-17 12:18:39 · answer #4 · answered by London 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
think happy thoughts
go jogging
go shopping
read a book/magazine
zoloft
get a small pet
masturbate
yahoo! answers
read The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire...it'll take a year
these are things that I actually do to keep from feeling depressed.
2006-08-17 11:18:51 · answer #5 · answered by Ciliciam 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
The leading herbal remedy for depression right now is VALERIAN ROOT, how ever the blood in your body effects the brain, therfore if you are running low in the iron dept. you need to use CHLOROPHYLL. this is a liquid and it is completely tastless, it helps the body build the blood you need among other many helpful things
2006-08-17 11:25:46 · answer #6 · answered by jfreeknowledge 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
play video games. Water the plants. Play with your pet
2006-08-17 11:15:17 · answer #7 · answered by jercha 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
stay busy
2006-08-17 14:09:54 · answer #8 · answered by mike L 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
try painting! it's great
2006-08-17 11:15:55 · answer #9 · answered by rouba158 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋