Tips to relieve symptoms of depression

1. To relieve yourself from symptoms of depression, keep yourself hydrated. When our bodies begin to dehydrate they begin to shut down and this includes certain brain functions. Along with oxygen we cannot live without water. Keep drinking a steady flow of water for your total well-being.
2. Food allergies have been linked to causing depression in some individuals. Speak with your doctor if you are suffering from depression and you’re not sure why, this may be the cause.
3. When it comes to dealing with depression, it is important to know what it is that can cause you to feel especially depressed. This is important because this is the first step to overcoming your issues – stopping the feelings from arising and eliminating what is causing you to feel this way.
4. Finding a new hobby or interest will help in the process of overcoming depression! Whether you decide to learn pottery, dance class, or take up archery, find something new to do. This will add interest, variety, and satisfaction to your life. Cultivating new interests has been found to relieve the symptoms of anger or sadness in those who struggle with depression.
5. If you are dealing with depression and are not on any other medications, discuss St. Johns Wart with your doctor. St. Johns Wart is an herbal remedy that has proven effective against depression in some clinical studies.  This natural, herbal remedy for depression can be very effective. It works in much the same way as Prozac by increasing the availability of mid-brain serotonin. This helps elevate your mood and alleviate your feelings. It is mild and non-addictive, so quite safe to use. It should not be mixed with some other medications though, so talking to your doctor first is essential.
6. Remember yourself in the greater picture. No matter how large the universe is, you still exist in it. This means you are important. Your role may be small, yet it is a vital  part. You are important to your loved ones and friends, which means you can be important to yourself. Selfishness is fine as it pertains to your self-worth, which means you can own your worth.
7. Over indulging in food may seem to provide some immediate relief but in reality it will only lead to longer term disappointment and worsen depression. What ever is making you depressed will not be remedied by eating so try and find some other way to comfort yourself, one that you will not feel guilty about later.
8. Take care of things that you have listed as to-do tasks. Even the simple act of finishing a few chores can do wonders for your spirit and your positive nature, giving you a sense of pride and accomplishment as you can check items off your to-do list. Even if it is a minor task, you will find that it feels great to mark it off your list.
9. Most people think that depression is just like being really sad but true sufferers know that this is not the truth. If people say things like “just chin up” to you, try to realize that they mean the best and if you can get positive interaction then this could help you move in the right direction.
10. If you suffer from depression, try taking up a hobby. Interest in a new activity can take your mind off your daily troubles, as well as, provide some fun entertainment. Scrapbooking, photography, even painting can provide an outlet for your emotions and show off your creative skills!
11. Try not to let your depression interfere with your normal life. Just as people who are having trouble with physical diseases shouldn’t stop everything, neither should you stop your life just because you are suffering from this problem. Find ways to motivate yourself to get out of the house and you may even find that your depression greatly reduces.
12. You could also try to stay away from foods that are high in saturated fats. If you eat too many fried foods or meat, you will feel lazier and more sluggish. This will cause your blood to become thickened and ultimately result in poor circulation.
13. When it comes to dealing with depression, try to get at least a few minutes of sunlight per day. This is important because not only is this visually soothing, but the effects of a moderate amount of ultra violet rays can actually have a positive effect on your overall mood.
14. A helpful tip for anyone suffering from depression is to make an effort to cut crying, complaining and lengthy discussions of sadness out of your daily routine. Constant expressions of unhappiness may cause those around you to attempt to provide a sympathetic ear, which may actually end up perpetuating the depressive cycle. By trying to remain positive, you will avoid sinking into a rut of self-pity.
15. Listening to music is a very good way to fend off depression, but if you are able to, playing music can be even more effective. The same holds true for all of the arts, being involved in them, even if you aren’t that good, can be a great way to deal with hard times.

Remember feeling sad over a loss is normal. If however, the sadness does not subside then you might be suffering from depression. If you feel like you are suffering from depression, never feel ashamed about asking for help.

If you would like to book an appointment or find out more about dealing with Depression contact Christine on:
07809 690 964 or email.

Face to face sessions in my Practice or online - Skype & Zoom hypnotherapy