Developing depression has almost become as common as catching a cold. The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that globally, there are 350 million people suffering from this mental illness. While this statistic may be alarming, you don’t have to become a part of it, that’s why in this article, we are going to tell you how to avoid depression.
Become Active
Getting exercise is not only a great way to stay fit and healthy but it also helps to keep you away from developing depression. Generally, staying active and busy has the ability to improve our mood but what this doesn’t mean you must now run from city to city or become a swimming star! Any activity, whether it’s working in the garden, going for a walk or even starting a new hobby, done for at least 30 minutes per day should work perfectly.
Improve your Social Life
Having a social life ensures that you constantly have something fun to do with the people you love the most. Your friends and family are usually there to support you through thick and thin, so it’s important to have good relationships with them. Those suffering from depression will often begin to exclude their friends and family out of their lives and choose to live their lives alone, which is never a good thing. Make the effort to stay in contact with them and try to make new friends along the way as well. As they say, the more the merrier!
Get Extra Support
Sometimes we need a little bit more than just the backing of the people that love us the most. Professional therapy is one of the best ways to help vent any issues or problems you might have. The benefits of getting professional help is that it’s unbiased, meaning that this person will be able to give you clear and accurate advice on the situation alone, without taking any personal issues into account. Alternatively, activities such as yoga and having a diary or journal can provide you with another outlet to help you successfully deal with any stress or pressure you might have.
Look After Your Health
A healthy body and a healthy mind are often two thinks that are linked together. If you are in a poor physical state, it will undoubtedly have an effect on your frame of mind as well. One way to look after your body is to simply do the basics well – get enough sleep, have a healthily diet and as we mentioned above, exercise regularly. If you are healthy, the chances are that you won’t suffer any illness, let alone depression.
Watch Your Drinking Habits
Like your body and mind, another two things that are often linked together are alcohol and depression. If you are susceptible to depression, it’s highly advised that you stay away from alcohol at all costs as it is a mood depressing substance.
Prepare For Everything
Being prepared for most things in our lives saves us from lots of stress and worries. It eliminates any obstacles or worries that can be experienced by being unprepared. While it may be hard to predict what may happen, preparation helps to minimise any stress that might be experienced, which may lead to depression.