What to do to beat depression?

What to do to beat depression?

While it sounds terrible to the diagnosed patient, the diagnosis of “depression” has actually lost much of its scarcity in recent years as the causes of depression are much better known and the means to combat depression are better than in the past. The first line of treatment for those suffering from depression is without a doubt the use of antidepressants prescribed by a doctor, usually combined with some type of talk therapy by a psychotherapist. In cases of mild depression, the use of alternative methods to combat depression may be indicated, such as: B. certain herbal remedies. Aside from these treatment options, which are more or less determined by the patient's doctor, there are and are many supportive measures that a depressed patient can and should actively use to increase his chances of defeating depression and preventing it from recurring once he has been successfully treated.

Key patient-centered activities that can help combat depression include a healthy diet and exercise. It has been shown time and time again that a proper nutrient mix of fruits and vegetables, fish, dairy products and meat has a profound positive effect on the depressed patient (aside from improving overall health). Vitamin and mineral supplements can also be added to such a healthy diet. Activities such as brisk walking, jogging or other sports are also known to be very helpful when done in appropriate amounts. Another important step to combat depression is to socialize with other people, such as family members and friends, as much as possible. It is generally very difficult for a depressed patient to do this, especially in acute phases of depression, since having no real interest in or even dislike of people is one of the most common symptoms of depression.

However, if a patient can push themselves (or from a caring friend) to meet people and enjoy themselves (as much as possible under the circumstances), much can be gained. Getting plenty of sleep and being able to relax and avoid stress at work and at home are other important steps toward overcoming depression. In particular, the strong positive correlation of stress with depression and many other illnesses has been repeatedly shown. While stress avoidance in itself is a good way to overcome depression, further support can be provided through specific relaxation techniques and meditation. Another important contribution to improving the chances of successfully defeating depression is increasing the self-confidence of the depressed patient, as this mood disorder is often associated with low self-confidence and even self-hatred.

As described above, there are many different ways to combat depression in addition to depression medication and talk therapy. The combination of all of the above activities is a guarantee of a significant improvement in a patient's chances of overcoming depression. In addition, the described remedies significantly contribute to the prevention of depression that might otherwise occur in the future.

Inspired by Alex Matis