Depression is a silent killer, it crawls on you unsuspecting and before you know it, suicidal thoughts starts creeping in. The first step to overcoming depression is recognizing and admitting that you are depressed. While it is easy to overcome it, it is not a sudden like you don't just overcome it immediately. It takes time and effort but surely.
The first step to overcoming depression is
1. Ask for help. It is not easy to do because one of the symptoms of depression is isolation. Feeling ashamed about it is okay but reaching out to someone and talking about it really helps. This is the time to surround yourself with friends and family, those who can brighten your mood and fill you up with positive thoughts and darkness. This is the time to use social media to your advantage. Make new friends.
2. Exercise. Exercise does not only help you stay healthy but active also because it releases some natural anti-depressing chemicals into your brain that gets you active. You can start with little work outs at home, early morning jogging or even going to the gym. It helps you stay mentally alert. Having friends you exercise with can help boost your overall mental health.
3. Eat healthy, drink plenty of water. Eating the right food can help improve your mental well being. This is the time to say yes to those fruits and vegetables and do away with foods high in sugar and carbon content.
4. Take care of yourself. This is the time to pamper yourself. Take yourself shopping, buy some new clothes and dress up. Go to the movies. Spend time outdoors and get a little sunshine. Keep yourself occupied. Find that hobby you love and indulge yourself. Do you love pets at home then get yourself a pet. If you like gardening then get your hands busy.
5. Change your line of thoughts. This is the time to think only positive thoughts about yourself. If it helps having a journal where you list all your mistakes that makes you depressed and also list the good things about yourself it is okay. Replace bad memories with happy and cheerful memories.
6. Acknowledge that it is a slow process and you will definitely get there. Say positive words to yourself everyday.
No one should go through depression alone, if it is critical then seeing a therapist can help.