Depression

We all feel sad at times, especially when life doesn't go the way we want it to. If you are experiencing sadness for what seems to be no reason at all, or persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness that lasts for longer than a few weeks, you could be dealing with depression.

Signs of depression can be

  • Negative feelings, thinking, and overall mood

  • Loss of interest in things once enjoyed

  • Low energy and motivation

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Physical symptoms (i.e., upset stomach or loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, headaches, weight loss or gain)

  • Withdrawal from family and friends

Below are some activities that can help you learn more about what depression is, recognize its signs, and know what to do about it. As always, I am here for you if you want to talk, and will do my best to help you through it. Please reach out here.

Exercise. Your physical wellbeing is directly tied to your mental and emotional health. A simple 15- to 30-minute brisk walk every day can do wonders for a down mood. Choose movement you enjoy, whether it's running, riding a bike, dancing - just get moving! People who are depressed may not feel much like being active. But make yourself do it anyway (ask someone to exercise with you if you need to be motivated). Once you get in the exercise habit, it won't take long to notice a difference in your mood.

Meditation and yoga poses can also help relieve feelings of depression. Two other aspects of yoga — breathing exercises and meditation — can also help people with depression feel better. See my Virtual Calming Space for some great instructional videos and links.

Identify your troubles, but don't dwell on them. Try to identify any situations that have contributed to your depression. When you know what's got you feeling blue and why, talk about it with someone you trust. Talking is a great way to release the feelings and feel understood.

It's okay to feel sad and talk about it, but don't make those things ALL that you are or unpack and move there. Take action to feel better, and empower yourself to help pull you back to a better place.


Nurture yourself with good nutrition. Depression can affect your appetite, whether it makes you feel like not eating at all, or if all you want to do is eat. If depression has affected your eating, you'll need to be extra mindful of getting the right nourishment. Proper nutrition can influence a person's mood and energy - you really ARE what you eat. Aim to eat plenty of natural foods, like grains, fruits and vegetables, and be sure to eat regularly, even if it's something light when you don't feel hungry.

Express yourself. Depression can cause a person's creativity and sense of fun to feel blocked. Exercise your imagination by painting, drawing, doodling, sewing, writing, dancing, composing poems and/or music, etc.) Getting your creative juices flowing can quickly lead to positive emotions. Take time to play with a friend or a pet, or do something fun for yourself. Find something to laugh about - laughter really IS medicine and immediately lift your mood. Funny eCards, movies or TV shows, YouTube videos, or inside jokes with a friend - whatver it is, just find some humor.

Try to notice the good things in your life. Depression can affect a person's thoughts, making everything seem negative and hopeless. Make an effort to notice the good things in life, whether it's your strengths, gifts, or blessings. It can be as simple as warm blankets and pajamas to more profound like having at least one good friend you can count on. Write them down so you can easily remember them the next time you are struggling to find the good things in life.

Do something you enjoy! Read, write, watch TV (not too much), hang out with a friend, try a new hobby or sport, take a nap, pet your favorite pet, get outside, get some fresh air and sunshine...if you enjoy it, then go do it. It really is the simple things that bring the most joy, if you let them.