What can I do to help with my depression

**Depression** can be incredibly challenging, but there are several **self-help strategies** you can try alongside professional treatment to improve your well-being. Remember that seeking professional help is essential, and these strategies can complement your treatment plan¹²: 1. **Create a Personalized Self-Care List**: - Make a list of activities that boost your mood or help you when feeling overwhelmed. These can be unique to you and might include: - Listening to a favorite song. - Coloring or drawing. - Connecting with a friend through a call or text. - Looking at cherished photo albums. - Engaging in light exercises like yoga or tai chi. - Going for a brief walk. - Practicing breathing exercises. 2. **Start a Journaling Routine**: - Write down your thoughts and feelings regularly. This can provide an outlet for emotions and help you process difficult thoughts. - Track what makes you feel better or worse to identify patterns. - Challenge negative thought loops by becoming aware of unwanted thoughts and replacing them with helpful ones. 3. **Explore Online Self-Help Guides**: - There are helpful worksheets and resources available online that can guide you through self-help techniques. 4. **Exercise Regularly**: - Both aerobic exercise (like walking or jogging) and anaerobic exercise (like weight lifting) can alleviate depression symptoms. 5. **Practice Relaxation Techniques**: - Tense and relax muscle groups methodically to promote relaxation. - Consider light therapy if seasonal changes affect your mood. 6. **Read Self-Help Books Based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)**: - CBT-based books can provide practical strategies for managing depression. 7. **Consider Computerized Therapy**: - Some computer programs offer therapeutic content and exercises. Remember that self-help strategies are valuable, but professional guidance is crucial. Reach out to a mental health professional or a trusted person in your life to discuss your feelings and explore additional resources. You don't have to face this alone, and there is support available for you. 💙¹²³⁴⁵ Source: Conversation with Copilot, 5/21/2024 (1) Self-Help For Depression: 10 Methods and Resources. https://psychcentral.com/depression/self-help-for-depression. (2) 5 Self-Help Strategies for Depression - Mental Health First Aid. https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/external/2018/07/5-self-help-strategies-for-living-with-depression/. (3) Self-help strategies and complementary therapies. https://depressioncenter.org/outreach-education/community-education/depression-toolkit/want-stay-mentally-healthy/self-help. (4) 10 Self-Help Tips for Managing Depression - The Recovery Village Drug .... https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/depression/self-help-for-depression/. (5) Self Help for Depression - McGill University. https://www.mcgill.ca/counselling/files/counselling/depression_moodjuice_self-help_guide.pdf. (6) Getty Images. https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/illustration/silhouette-sad-woman-with-rain-clouds-in-royalty-free-illustration/1285353300.