Talk to a trusted friend or family member about your thoughts and feelings. This person can help you understand what is going on in your mind and body, and give you the support you need to get through this difficult time. It can be difficult to talk to someone you don’t know, especially if you have a history of depression or anxiety. However, it is important to remember that you are not alone and that there is someone out there who understands what you’re going through and is willing to listen to you. You can also reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or visit their website at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org to learn more about the resources available for you and to connect with other people who are struggling with mental health issues. If you or a loved one is in crisis, please call the Crisis Text Line at 866-4-CALL-US (1-866-488-7386) to reach a trained crisis counselor immediately. The crisis text line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so you never have to wait until the next day to speak with someone who can listen and offer support. For more information on how to contact the crisis line, visit the NSPL website or call their toll-free hotline at 800-784-2433 (TTY: 711).
Seek professional help. There are many ways to seek help for depression, anxiety, or any other type of mental illness. Some people find it helpful to see a professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, who specializes in treating mental conditions. Others find that they can get help from a support group, such as a church dedicated to helping people in their time of need. In addition, you may be able to find a therapist who is trained to work with people suffering from mental disorders. These professionals are often referred to as “counselors” or “psychotherapists” because they are trained in working with individuals who suffer from these conditions. They may also be called “therapeutic counselors,” “behavioral therapists,” or even “neuropsychologists.” The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has a list of organizations that can provide you with information and referrals to therapists and other professionals who specialize in dealing with these types of problems. NAMI also has an online directory of therapists in the United States and Canada.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help, even if it seems like it might be hard to do. Many people struggle with depression for a variety of reasons, including a lack of self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness, feeling like they have no control over their lives, being unable to cope with the stress of everyday life, having a difficult relationship with their family or friends, not having enough money to live on, etc. Sometimes it can feel like there’s no way out of this situation. But, as long as you keep trying, things will get better and you will eventually find the strength to face your problems head-on.
Take care of yourself. When you feel depressed or anxious, take a deep breath and breathe in through your nose. Breathe out through the nose and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds. Then exhale and repeat the process. Do this for at least 10 minutes every day.
Get enough sleep. A good night’s sleep is essential for your health and well-being. Sleep deprivation can cause you to feel tired and irritable, which can make it harder to focus on your work or school work.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Eating a balanced, healthy diet is a key part of managing your mental and physical health. Try to eat foods that are high in fiber and low in calories. Also, try to limit the number of processed foods you eat.
Exercise regularly. Regular physical activity helps to keep your body in good shape and helps you stay mentally and physically healthy.
Meditate. Meditation is an ancient practice that has been practiced for thousands of years by people all over the world. People who meditate regularly are said to be in a better state of mind than those who do not.
Stay in touch with your family and friends. Your friends and family are your best source of support and encouragement.
Find a good therapist. Finding the right therapist can take some time and effort. That’s why people need to take the time to research the therapist and find out as much as possible about his or her background, qualifications, training, experience, credentials, fees, hours, location, telephone number, website, email address, phone numbers.
