One of the first things we stop taking care of when suffering with depression, is ourselves. Whether it is not bothering to eat breakfast in the morning, skipping the gym, showering a little less often, not getting out of bed on the weekends – for many of us depression takes hold and the things that were once important are no longer even on our radar. This is why self-care through depression is so important.
Depression in the UK affects 1 in 5 people and can cause extended low moods, loss of energy and interest or pleasure in previous hobbies, changes in appetite, suicidal ideation, feelings of worthlessness and a lack of concentration.
Once working with a treatment plan, there are many things you can do yourself in the comfort of your own home that could make a huge improvement on your quality of life.
Exercise Daily – exercise doesn’t have to mean going to your local gym or running around your neighbourhood. Yoga, for example, is a great and free way to keep yourself active without leaving your living room.
Manage your Diet – trying to avoid highly processed and sugary foods which are known to cause artificial highs and lows, whilst trying to include more fish, vegetables, olive oil and cereals could help lessen the severity of depressive symptoms.
Maintain a Healthy Sleep Pattern – sleep is a lot more important than a lot of people consider, and getting a good eight hours sleep every night can make all the difference. However, those who suffer with depression are more likely to experience insomnia making eight hours sleep often impossible. Before going to sleep avoid watching television or looking at your telephone, take a bath or read a book instead to help you relax – and try to get to sleep and wake up every day at the same time, even on your days off, to help promote a better sleeping pattern
