Top 7 Ways to Treat Depression

Depression is a serious health condition affecting many people. It leads to emotional and physical issues and can interfere with the person’s daily life and all its aspects. Many medications can be useful, but here are the top 7 ways to treat and manage your depression.

7. Avoid Stress

Stress and depression are associated. Many factors can cause stress, which can trigger mood disorders such as depression or anxiety. Studies show that all types of stress can lead to negative effects on mental health including work, family issues, and education. Try to avoid stress to lower the risk of developing clinical depression. (1, 2, 3)

6. Exercise

Exercise is a great way to prevent depression. Whether your exercises are intense or not, they play a role in lowering your stress level. Studies show that exercises release chemicals that can improve cognitive functions and make depressed people feel better. (4, 5, 6)

5. Diet

Fruits and vegetables are highly recommended for depressed people. Some dietary changes can be great for treating clinical depression. For example, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, unsaturated fats, omega-3 rich foods, and avoiding processed foods can enhance brain functions and improve mood significantly. (7, 8, 9, 10, 11)

4. Sleep

Having enough night sleep is essential for avoiding depression. Insomnia is one of the most common causes and symptoms of depression, it is a vicious cycle. Try to have a bedtime routine, avoid electronic devices before sleeping, exercise, or read a book before sleeping. (12, 13, 14, 15, 16)

3. Avoid Alcohol & Drugs

Depression is associated with alcohol and substance abuse. 20% of alcoholic people will experience depression at a certain point of their lives and the rest may try alcohol and drugs because they are depressed. Stop alcohol and avoid drugs, they just make depression worse even if you feel better for a while. (17, 18, 19)

2. Therapy

Therapy is highly recommended for depressed people. Talking to a therapist may soothe your negative thoughts. Along with medications, you can get control over your life gradually again. There are many types of therapy such as CBT that can help identify ways to deal with your depression. (20, 21, 22, 23)

1. Avoid Triggers

Try to identify what triggers your depression symptoms and stay away from them. Of course, this is a long process. First, you need to identify the triggers, which may take time and effort. After that, have a plan for each trigger. This can be a life-changing way to treat your depression, but it is effective in the long-run. (24, 25, 26, 27)