Depression is a disorder that is evidenced by excessive sadness, loss of interest in enjoyable things and low motivation. This mental illness is affecting many millions of people around the world. And one of the most challenging dilemmas in learning how to overcome depression is confronting the taboo that surrounds mental health.

BE ACTIVE

Exercise provides you with many benefits. Not only is physical activity good for your heart, it also helps to calm your mind. Do simple exercises or go for a swim when you are free.

BE POSITIVE

If you are used to negative thinking, this may be difficult for you at first. It takes work and persistence to learn positive thinking and live a life of gratitude. The sooner you change your mindset, the better. Hang out with positive people, look on the bright side and try to find something good in everything.

GET REST

Caffeine can interfere your rest. Make it a habit of going to bed at the same time each night to assure you at least 8 hours of shut eye. Avoid loud music and television right before bed. This hypes you up and can interfere with sleep. Instead, take a warm bath, listen to soft music or read a book. One of the simplest ways to overcome depression is to rest more.

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TAKE VITAMINS

The vitamin B is responsible for a good emotional health. Deficiency of this vitamin has been known to trigger depression. Take a supplement or eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean cuts of meat.

GO OUT MORE

Isolating yourself only makes depression go worse. Turn to family or trusted friends to share what you are going through. Go to social functions and events mingle with the crowd. Meet new people and make friends. Being around others who are dealing with depression lets you know that you are not alone.

LET SUN SHINE

Expose yourself to some sunlight every day. Sun stimulates the production of serotonin, the mood stabilizing chemical produced in the brain. Take a brisk walk outdoors early morning before 10 am.

GET THERAPY

There are many forms of therapy available for people who are depressed. Cognitive behavior therapy is a type of therapy that helps you discover ways to cope with life situations.

MEDITATE

A mindfulness-based meditation combats depression. Doctors at the University of Oxford reported this in Science Daily. Meditation is a technique where you sit silently and focus your thoughts on peaceful feelings. The purpose of meditation is to allow the person a stress-free time to relax and rebuild. Meditation enhances memory and improves cognition.

ADOPT PET

If you don’t have one, get a pet at your local animal shelter. Not only are you doing good for the community, you are doing something positive for yourself. Research supports that people with pets have lower percentages of depression than those who don’t have a pet.

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VOLUNTEER

Whether it’s the orphanage home or local hospital, find a place to volunteer. When you do something to help the less fortunate it gives you a form of positive energy. This comes from the production of endorphins that are released in response to your actions of volunteering. One way to be less down is to help those in need.