5 Little Things That Can Help You Manage Depression
When you’re dealing with depression, sometimes even the little things can seem daunting. Cleaning the house and other errands are simply out of the question when you’re fatigued and all your brain wants you to do is lay there and contemplate your existence. Sometimes, even brushing your hair can feel like burden. Focusing on the little things, like changing your clothes or washing your face is all you can do, and that’s okay! Now, let’s take a look at some things you can do to manage depression when you’re feeling really down that will help you feel more productive, and help you take care of yourself when that’s the last thing you feel like doing.
1. Open the windows/blinds.
Open the windows in your room! Letting the light in can help your body and mind feel just a little bit better when you just aren’t feeling up to doing anything else. The vitamin D from the sun is known for helping people with depression, so it’s always something worth trying. Sometimes all you need to help get motivated is a little sunlight and some fresh air.
2. Brush your teeth.
I know this can be a hard one when you’re depressed, but brushing your teeth can help you to feel productive and it’s a simple way that you can take care of yourself without a lot of effort. Sometimes you don’t feel like filling a bathtub and doing a bunch of extra stuff to pamper yourself. Everyday tasks like brushing your teeth can go a long way, and you’ll thank yourself at your next dentist appointment.
3. Set a timer for five minutes and clean up wherever you can.
This one might be a little bit harder, but this is also a way you can care for yourself when you’re feeling down that can be really beneficial to your mental state. Having a messy or cluttered space can cause anxiety and make your depressive episode worse, so, set a timer on your phone for five minutes, or even less if that’s all you can do. Picking up clothes on the floor, putting bits of trash in the bin and straightening up bedding can help keep you calm and when your space is clean, your mind is clearer.
4. Change your pants/shirt.
Changing your clothes might seem like a bit of a stretch when it comes to helping you deal with the bad days that depression can bring, but trust me when I say that something as simple as putting on a fresh set of clothes can be the motivation you need to get up and throw a load of laundry in the washer or do something even more daunting when you’re just not feeling your best.
5. Make your favorite snack.
Eating your favorite comfort food can make you feel better when you’re down, and if all you have energy to make is a can of spaghettios, then celebrate yourself for taking care of your body by feeding it whatever you can at the time.
These tips may help you out, but they’re not a replacement for talk therapy and any other recommended treatments that you and your therapist have talked about. Remember, taking your medication and talking to your loved ones and your medical professionals is also important when you’re feeling depressed. If you have any of these feelings, or you think you may need someone to talk to, contact us at Stonebriar Counseling Associates if you are in the Plano & Frisco, TX area, or look at online resources for your area to find a mental health professional that is right for you.