10 Ways to Prevent Depression Relapse
Depression is a debilitating condition that affects a significant number of people worldwide. Studies reveal that 50 percent of those who had at least one episode of major depression are going to experience a relapse. But this does not mean you will be one of them. There are plenty of things you can do to avoid being depressed again. We picked the best ones for you!
1. Take care of your physical health.
Our physical and mental health works hand in hand. According to Dr Eve Wood, author of “10 Steps to Take Charge of Your Emotional Life”, there’s a huge evidence that clinically depressed people have a higher risk of developing medical illnesses, such as diabetes and heart disease. Also, if you found out you have serious physical health problem, you begin to feel sad and anxious – symptoms that mark the onset of depression. Observing proper diet, avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, and adopting positive lifestyle changes will certainly help you maintain a healthier physique.
2. Don’t stop, nor rush treatments.
You should always seek advice from your therapist or doctor when deciding to quit treatments. Some antidepressant medications – when you stop taking them – are no longer effective the next time you use them. For many patients, the best way to prevent a relapse is to continue undergoing treatments.
3. Ditch your ‘to-do’ list, at least once in a while.
Take a break from your usual routine and take quality rest. Too much stress can make symptoms of anxiety and depression much more severe during a relapse. Amidst your busy schedule, take time to sit down for awhile and empty your mind. Taking naps during midday is also a great way to refresh your mind and recharge your batteries.
4. Exercise.
According to experts, exercising is one of the best ways to prevent depression. Gerard Sanacora from Yale University describes exercise as an antidepressant on its own way and an antidote to stress. Make physical workout a part of your lifestyle. But don’t exercise too much because it is likely to wear you out physically and mentally.
5. Practice optimism.
Most people who develop depression tend to be overwhelmed by negative thoughts more easily. Undergoing proven treatments, such as cognitive behavioural therapy can help you develop a brighter and more positive outlook in life.
6. Reach out to others.
Studies suggest that being compassionate is the key to lasting happiness. When you reach out, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to shell out money. Listening to a friend in distress, assisting an elderly, volunteering in community services, and sharing your food to your co-worker – these things will certainly make you feel better.
7. Be thankful.
Before you sleep, make it a habit to list all the things you are thankful of. This way, you remind yourself of how blessed you are even though you are faced with plenty of trials and difficulties. In a study published in the American Psychologist, it was found that people who make a daily list of three good things in life are less likely to develop depression.
8. Develop stress-busting strategies.
Did you know that chronic stress can cause changes in your brain structure and affect your mental health? You can never get away from stressful stuff, that’s true. But you can always prevent yourself from the harm of stress. The best stress-busters include yoga, meditation, hypnotherapy, acupuncture, talk therapy, and exercise.
9. Reconnect with your loved ones.
Feeling alone and lonely can increase the likelihood of depression relapse. Spend quality time with your family and friends. Expand your social network. Socialise with different types of people (the good ones of course). Learn from them, laugh with them, and communicate with them.
10. Let go of the past.
You need to accept the things you cannot change and focus on what you can, suggests Dr Sanacora. People who are vulnerable to depression tend to blame themselves always. It is indeed difficult to let go of the past but with the help of a professional therapist, you can do it!
Dear Readers,
Can you think of other ways to avoid depression relapse?
Share your comments below!
©Copyright 2012 by http://www.NaturalTherapyForAll.com Counselling Wolverhampton - All Rights Reserved.