10 Ways To Deal When You’re Depressed

Let’s face it: depression sucks! It hurts like hell and more often than not, it feels like there’s no way out. I’ve been down in the dumps myself for quite a while and once you’re a seasoned brooder, you start to learn a thing or two on how to alleviate the pain and avoid the funk for a bit. If you’re going through a rough time right now, try these ten tips on how to deal with depression.

Zone out for a bit.

Take some time to take deep breaths and try to stay calm. Look up at the sky for reassurance, appreciate nature and the free things in life. It may not wash away your problems but it helps to know that there are a few constants in this life we can depend on.

Avoid social media.

I’ve found that avoiding social media during my worst days is always best. Unfortunately, some of the people we thought were friends aren’t always on board to be there for you and that hurts more than whatever was bothering you in the first place. It’s a sick trap but it’s also pretty eye-opening.

Find someone you trust to talk to.

I find that my list of people I thought I could trust gets shorter and shorter after they learn I’m depressed. That’s fine, though. Keep those good people around because they’re the true meaning of “ride or die.”

Listen to music.

This one is an absolute must! Whether you need some uplifting vibes (St. Lucia, flor, Smallpools) or something that speaks your pain out loud (Garbage, Lana Del Rey, Halsey) there’s always something to relate to that shows you that you’re not alone.

Cry it out.

Seriously. Don’t be afraid of looking pathetic. Go find a place to be alone and cry until you feel better. It works. Trust me.

Write out your feelings.

Writing has always helped me feel out whatever I need to let out. Grab a journal or start a private blog and just let it all out. No judgements.

Channel your hurt into something creative.

Ever wonder what inspires artists to craft the perfect song? Pain. Look at Halsey and her Badlands record. She turned her pain into therapy and gave us an epic album that continues to inspire millions of people every day.

Indulge in some retail therapy.

Materialistic things will never solve your pain but it sure does feel good to indulge once in a while. I just bought myself a Crosley turntable and it really brightened up my spirits a bit.

Go hug some puppies!

Puppies are life’s pain-killer, I’m convinced of this! I got to pet a baby Pomeranian last week and my heart almost exploded! Go find a place where you can play with some puppies…or kitties or bunnies…any type of cute animal!

Remember to love yourself.

I know it’s hard to love yourself when you’re down in the dumps but it really is crucial to your self-preservation. Take care of yourself and the rest will follow.

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