But any action that enhances mental, emotional, and physical health can be considered a self-care activity. It also means saying no to others when overwhelmed and taking space to calm and soothe oneself.īasic self-care activities include eating a healthful diet, engaging in creative activities, and taking a soothing bath. Self-care means taking time to relax, recharge, and connect with the self and others. Self-care activities are any actions that help people look after their wellbeing. Self-care is essential for good physical and mental health. Each person has their own strengths, abilities, and positive qualities that make them who they are. They may also be a parent, sibling, friend, spouse, neighbor, and colleague. When depression symptoms begin, some people find it helpful to repeat: “I am not depression, I just have depression.”Ī person should remind themselves of all the other aspects of themselves. Separate yourself from the depressionĪ condition does not define a person they are not their illness. Remember, it is possible to manage symptoms with treatments, such as lifestyle changes, medication, and therapy. It is not a sign of weakness or a personal shortcoming.Īccepting that a depressive episode may occur from time to time might help people deal with it when it does. Depression is a widespread and genuine mental health disorder. Learning more about depression can help people deal with the condition. Self-help books and phone and online counseling courses are available. Self-help techniques, such as meditation, mindfulness, and breathing exercises can help a person learn to look at problems in a different way and promote a sense of calmness. They should focus on their strengths and on what they have learned from previous depressive episodes. Remember that depression is treatable and the feelings will not last forever.Īnyone who has experienced depressive episodes before should remind themselves that they can overcome these feelings again. However, these reactions may contribute to low mood and worsen other symptoms, such as loss of appetite and disrupted sleep. Feeling panicked or anxious is an understandable reaction to the initial symptoms of depression. Identifying the onset of a depressive episode can be scary. See a doctor if symptoms persist for 14 days or more. Rate moods on a scale of 1 to 10 to help identify which events or activities cause specific responses. Use a diary to log important events, changes to daily routines, and moods. Spotting the signs of depression early on may help them avoid a full-blown depressive episode. Keeping track of moods and symptoms might help a person understand what triggers a depressive episode.

The following tips may help people deal with a depressive episode: 1.

Even those who have experienced depression for a long time might find that making changes to the way they think and behave improves their mood. Tackling depression as soon as symptoms develop can help people recover more quickly. Twelve tips for dealing with a depressive episode

Bipolar depressive episode