How to Shake Depression

There are various causes of depression, which is characterized by sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities and feelings of hopelessness. But whether you deal with occasional or chronic depression, there are ways to shake the symptoms and improve your mental state.

Things You'll Need

• Light box
• Vitamins
• Medication

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Instructions

• 1

  Get some sunlight. Staying indoors or without adequate sunlight can aggravate depression or trigger bouts of depression. Make plans to participate in outdoor activities, such as gardening or playing sports. Take a walk around your neighborhood. Another option is to get a light therapy box.

• 2

  Boost mood with vitamins. Several natural supplements are available to help fight depression, anxiety and other common mental conditions associated with mood swings. Visit your local health foods store or ask your doctor for recommendations. Supplements which help curb depression include omega-3, valerian root, ginseng, St. John's Wort and Sam-E.

• 3

  Increase exercise. Improve depression by increasing your body's production of pleasure hormones and endorphins through physical activity and exercise. Plan to exercise for a minimum of 30 minutes every day to boost your mood. Great workouts include aerobics, biking, swimming and dancing.

• 4

  Limit responsibilities. If you feel overwhelmed and anxious, reduce your activities or responsibilities. If work triggers ongoing stress and depression, consider other employment options.

• 5

  Give up alcohol. Alcohol is a depressant, and over-consumption can worsen depression. Avoid alcoholic beverages if you have a history of depression or mental illness.

• 6

  Develop close bonds. Isolation and loneliness also contributes to depression. Widen out and establish relationships. Spend quality time with family and friends. And if necessary, join a local or online support group for depression sufferers.

• 7

  Consider medication. If unable to improve depression with natural and home remedies, ask your doctor for information on antidepressants, such as Paxil or Zoloft.