Depression is commonly treated with a variety of medications and psychotherapy.
However, more and more doctors and psychiatrists have started to promote self-care
as another important part of treatment.
The first step is to look for and get the right kind of help. Depression is
a serious illness, and it needs to be looked after seriously. See your doctor
and get help. It's always a good idea to get a physical exam in order to rule
out other possible causes of the symptoms. You should tell your doctor that
you think it might be depression, so that he or she can ask you the right questions
and come to the most accurate diagnosis. Therapy is also very important. Many
studies have shown that the most effective way to fight depression includes
a combination of medication, sensible self-care and good short-term psychotherapy.
Self-education is an important part of self-care. One of the ugly features
of depression is that it distorts thinking. Everyone who has depression should
learn as much as they can about the disorder. This achieves three things:
- It will allow you to understand the disorder better.
- It will underline the fact that these are very real medical disorders and
will help to fight prejudice and stigma.
- It will give you knowledge and tools that you can use to help yourself.
Here are some other ways that you can help to take care of yourself, prevent
relapse and maintain wellness:
- Support groups are a very important form of self-care. They provide much-needed
emotional support and are a place to share concerns, information and experiences.
They also underline the fact that you, as someone with depression, are not
alone. Depression is an illness, not a weakness! Contact your local mood disorders
or mental health agency for a location near you.
- Physical fitness is very important to people with depression. This can be
very hard because depression zaps your energy and limits motivation and drive,
but your body has to work as effectively as possible in order to counter the
effects of depression.
- Diet is also important. Depression tends to damage your appetite. In addition
to making healthy food choices, vitamins and supplements are often valuable
in providing balance.
- Resist the urge to allow yourself to become isolated from others. It is
very common to want to withdraw from other people when you're depressed, but
try to keep family and friends part of your life, when you are depressed.
Isolation and loneliness can make depressive symptoms worse, but social contact,
such as regular attendance at sports activities and family gatherings can
help. One-on-one interactions, such as going to a movie or out for coffee
with a friend are also good forms of social contact. Being around others provides
support, companionship and has a good effect on your general health.
- Don't allow friends or well-meaning family members to make you feel ashamed
or guilty about seeking medical care. Educate those around you to the facts
about depression.
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