Coping with depression is a difficult task for many. It drains you of your energy and hope, leaving you feeling numb, and even the tasks that you once enjoyed doing seem meaningless. At GNC Dubai (German Neuroscience Center), a leading neurology hospital in Dubai, we make sure to provide depression support groups to help those suffering and guide them on their paths to recovery.
There are different ways that you can start on your journey to recovery. I understand that even these things can be extremely difficult to do – but they’re not impossible. You have control over how you recover, and it’s okay if it takes time. Everyone is different, and you should never compare your journey with someone else’s. It’s not a requirement for you to recover within a matter of a few days or weeks. It takes time, and it’s important that you put yourself first and go at a pace that is comfortable for you.
Reach out to friends and family
Reaching out to those closest to you can make a difference during your depression. Of course, depression itself makes it difficult for many people to hold conversations, and it can make you want to isolate. You must remember that your loved ones only want the best for you and will do anything they can to help you get through your difficult times. Remember that asking for help is not a sign of weakness.
Find new hobbies or activities that make you feel good
If you’ve lost interest in a hobby or activity, it’s always helpful to find new ones that will help make you feel better about yourself and give your mood a boost.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Depression typically causes sleep problems for many. You either sleep too little or too much, and this directly affects your mood. Try to get yourself on a proper sleep schedule and control how long you’re asleep. Learn how to maintain a healthy bedtime routine that will help you relax and fall asleep better.
Keep stress in check
Stress tends to worsen depression, so it’s vital to learn how to cope with stress. You must keep your stress levels in check, and you can do so by finding ways to relieve pressure. Practice relaxation techniques that will help you reduce stress – yoga, deep breathing exercises, and meditation are useful de-stressing techniques.
Stay physically active
While this is a common tip, it’s also extremely important. Exercise will help improve your lifestyle and help you with fatigue. You don’t have to create a full-blown routine, but anything that will keep you physically moving is helpful.
Follow a routine
Following a routine and keeping yourself busy will boost your mood and help you stay away from negative thoughts. A full-time job will help you maintain a routine, but if you are unemployed, try your best to find a routine that keeps your mind and body active. Try out new hobbies, learn how to cook and bake, declutter your bedroom, and find new ways to help you stay busy.
Do not indulge in bad habits
While smoking or consuming alcohol may seem to provide temporary relief, you must remember that these are unhealthy habits that can affect your physical wellbeing.
Practice gratefulness
When you’re depressed, it’s easy to feel hopeless, as though you have nothing good in your life. Please remember that you have friends and family that love you; that you are alive and physically healthy. Write down the little things that make you happy in a journal and aim to note down at least 5 to 10 mood-lifters per day. On particularly low days, you can revisit what you’ve written down to remind yourself that there is still light in your life.
If you or someone you know experiences mental health issues, it is important to seek help from a qualified professional. Our Resource Specialist can help you find expert mental health resources to recover in your community. Contact us now for more information on this free service to our users.
About the Author: Dr. Harry Hogan from German Neuroscience Center in Dubai is a UK-trained Clinical Psychologist hailing from Ireland. He completed his master’s degree in Health Psychology at the University of Ulster and completed his doctoral training in Clinical Psychology at the University of East London. He has almost a decade of experience working across a diverse range of mental health and other specialist psychology services in Ireland and the U.K.
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