The Best Self-help Tips for Dealing with Depression

If you struggle with depression, you probably know that the very things that will help you feel better can be the most difficult to do. 

The key is to start small.

You can build on small gains over time, because the road back from depression is a gradual one.

But your gains will add up.

Be patient with yourself.

Things will get better. 

Remember, small actions over time are the bricks that pave your road to recover. One cuddle with a pet, one simple meal, one call to a friend.

Here is a list of self-help categories, to help you organize your recovery plan.

Get support from others

• Talk to a friend or family member.
• Email, text, or call someone.
• Make plans to get together with a friend, even if it’s at home.
• Ask someone over to help with a chore.

Nurture yourself

• Spend time in nature, even if it’s sitting outside.
• Take a hot bath or shower.
• Take a nap.
• Watch your favorite TV show.
• Treat yourself as gently as if you were sick with a bad cold, because depression is a legitimate medical condition. 

Move your body

• Take a walk, even if it’s five or ten minutes.
• Do a yoga or exercise routine on YouTube.
• Stretch while in bed.

Eat a mood-boosting diet 

• Avoid processed foods and sugar.
• Eat dark green vegetables every day.
• Add healthy fats (nuts, avocados) to your diet.
• Drink plenty of water.

Challenge negative thinking

• Ask yourself, would I talk that way to a friend?
• Download this worksheet, “Challenging Negative Thoughts”, to help you reframe your negative thoughts.

Know when to seek further help 

• Treatment for depression is available and effective.
• If you are using self-help tips and your depression is not improving, talk to your doctor or a therapist.

You don’t have to recover from depression alone. I encourage you to reach out to a mental health professional. Within a few months of therapy, you should expect to see significant progress in feeling less depressed.

I am authorized to treat clients in 40 states and you are welcome to get in touch with me. I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation. If I’m not available, I can provide you with appropriate resources so that you can find the help you are looking for.

Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation with me