Sometimes, life can feel overwhelming. It’s hard to get up, go outside, and do what you know will make you happier. Depression is a huge weight on everyone’s shoulders, and many feel they cannot get through it. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way — there are several ways to help yourself get out of this funk:
Exercise
Exercise helps by releasing chemicals in your brain called endorphins, which lowers your stress level. Endorphins also boost your mood and give you an improved sense of well-being. Exercising regularly, particularly anything that increases your heart rate, has also been shown to help significantly reduce anxiety and stress.
Diet
It would be best if you ate a balanced diet full of fresh, healthy foods. A severely unhealthy diet can lead to depression and make it even harder for you to get out of the funk. In addition, foods like sugar and processed foods can make you feel uncontrollably sad. It’s also important to snack on foods that have omega-3 fatty acids, like fish, walnuts, and dark chocolate, which can help balance your mood.
Avoid Stress
Don’t take on more than you can handle, even if you have to say “no” once in a while. It’s also important to seek out positive stress, like taking time out of your day to do things that make you happy, like spending time with friends. Some activities like reading or going for a walk can also be positive stress relievers.
Be Grateful
When you’re depressed, it can often feel like nothing good in your life. It’s important to remember to be grateful for everything you have. Writing about what you’re grateful for could help get you out of your funk. Try writing in a journal, as it will help you think about everything you’re grateful for and remind you that there are good things in your life.
Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, these strategies aren’t enough to get out of a funk. Depression can be brought on by a traumatic past or difficult situation. Talking to a professional who can help you work through your problems is important. Many successfully get out of their funk by talking to someone who can listen and provide insight and offer them tools. They will be able to assist you in finding the best way to cope with depression and will be able to prescribe medication if necessary.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs
While alcohol and drugs may make you happy for a short time, they can also make you more depressed. Additionally, alcohol can exacerbate your symptoms and make depression harder to deal with. Make a conscious effort to avoid these substances, as they will do more harm than good in the long run. They can affect your judgment and logic, making it harder for you to think clearly and make decisions that will help.
Enjoy Your Time Alone
Sometimes, it’s a good idea to spend some time alone and get away from everyone and everything. While this may feel isolating, it can often be just what the doctor ordered! If you don’t have the means to go away for a few days, try taking time for yourself during the day by doing something you love, such as painting or going for a walk, without distractions. Vacationing can also be a great way to get out of a funk! It’s important to celebrate the things that you love, and this will help you to see them in a new light.
Keep in Mind
Getting out of a funk is possible. While you may not eliminate your depression, you can make it less severe. You deserve happiness in life, so be kind and gentle with yourself and get back on your feet! Our seasoned experts can help you achieve your goals and get out of a funk! Contact us today at 732-392-7311.
