Based From Ease Depression. Depression can leave you feeling cut off from the world, drain your energy, and quash your desire to be active. One good way to ease that loneliness and help manage depression is to reach out to others, forming healthy social connections with those around you. However, you can’t be with other people all the time. So, engaging in healthy solo activities could help fend off feelings of isolation and reinforce your depression treatment. Start with these ideas.
Most doctors treating chronic depression would like their patients to exercise,” says Peter Kramer, MD, a clinical professor of psychiatry and human behavior at Brown University in Providence, R.I. There’s good reason, too. Research published in the Annals of General Psychiatry suggests that regular physical activity helps ease symptoms of depression among adults. Exercise can also build confidence and help you cope with stress or anxiety. Being physically active prompts the release of brain chemicals such as neurotransmitters and endorphins, which can boost mood and ease depression symptoms. Even taking a short walk outside or riding a stationary bike can restart your engine.
Research shows that a growing number of people are turning to meditation to help manage depression because it can help interrupt recurring negative thoughts. Even practicing simple meditation techniques could improve a negative mood and reduce stress. A 2009 study conducted by scientists at the University of Oxford in England found that people with severe and recurring depression benefit from incorporating mindfulness-based cognitive therapy — a combination of ancient forms of meditation and modern behavior therapy — into their treatment plan. Consider taking a basic meditation class or follow a beginner’s audio or video guide.
