If you are feeling depressed…
- Seek help. If you’re having suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 (suicidepreventionlifeline.org).
- Let those closest to you know. Point them to more information to help them better understand what you are going through.
- Get enough sleep. When you're stressed, your body needs additional rest. Insomnia is often a symptom
of depression, so talk to your health provider about natural sleep remedies.
- Take a time-out. In addition to a treatment plan, do what relaxes you, whether it’s yoga, massage, listening to music or taking a bath.
- Don’t stop taking prescribed medications unless advised to.
- Add mood-boosting foods to your diet, including nuts, fatty fish, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and dark chocolate.
If you have a friend or family member suffering from depression…
- Be supportive. “Telling people to ‘buck up’ and get over it and move on is the worst thing you can say to someone with depression,” says Nancy, a depression sufferer.
- Really listen. If your loved one feels like talking, ask how you can help.
- Learn more. Remember, depression is no one’s fault; it’s a very real medical condition.
