One: Take up meditation in order to increase your level of focus and relaxation. While this may be difficult at first, over time it will become easier. There are classes and teachers available in some communities. There are also a great many books, videos and audio recordings that guide people in these techniques.
Two: Changing dietary habits is almost always a step in the right direction. Processed foods should be replaced by fresh fruits and vegetables in addition to lean protein sources. There are many vitamins and minerals in fresh produce and whole grains that are lacking in the modern diet. Deficiency in them can lead to depression, anxiety and a host of other problems.
Three: Taking up an exercise program can help you in a couple of ways if you are depressed. Not only does it give you something positive to do each day, it can also increase the endorphins and other hormones that are related to a positive mood. It can increase self-esteem and if you join an exercise group, it can provide a great avenue for meeting new people.
Four: Getting a medical checkup is recommended in order to rule out any organic causes for depression. Some people experience depression because they are diabetic, pre-diabetic or experiencing other physical problems such as with their thyroid. Take a complete list of symptoms to your doctor so that they can help determine if a physical cause is behind your mood.
Five: Avoid alcohol and caffeine if you are depressed. While some depressed people believe that consuming these liquids helps, the opposite is actually true. Those who consume these feel a temporary change in their mood. However, both deplete the body of important vitamins and can cause other problems that are ultimately worse, including anxiety.
Six: Get some sunshine each and every day, especially in the winter time. Exposure to sunlight will help your body to produce Vitamin D. Low levels are indicated in depression and other mood disorders. Going outside for fifteen minutes each morning or using a full-spectrum light should have significant benefits.
Seven: Laughter is one of the greatest medicines, and it is absolutely free. Find something to laugh about several times each day to help improve your mood. You will release good hormones and train your facial muscles to smile.
As you can see, treating depression can be done without the use of a bunch of chemicals and painful years of therapy. Add these suggestions into your life and you will experience a notable difference in how you feel. Then, you can share you experiences with others.