Top 10 Things You Can Do If You Are Depressed

Recently, Joey de Leon drew flak on social media after making comments about depression during Eat Bulaga’s Sugod Bahay segment on Oct. 5, 2017. The 70-year-old actor and TV host said in his native language that depression is just a made-up thing. De Leon went on to say that people show not show support to those who go through depression. Several netizens called out the TV host for his statements. Following the backlash that De Leon received on social media, he apologized on television.

Depression is a serious matter. There are people who are living proof that depression is real. People shouldn’t trivialize the struggle that these people are going through. One is certain though, depression will pass. It may seem like the feeling will not go away, but just being able to get by each day means it will pass.

If you have depression or if someone you know has depression, remember that you will be able to get out of it. Here are some things you can do

Photo Courtesy: Familydoctor.org

1. Turning to God when depressed.

Taking action when you are depressed can be very difficult. Sometimes thinking about that steps you have to take to overcome depression can be overwhelming that it makes you feel trapped in such intolerable situation.

Depression may tempt you to distrust God, but don’t let it happen. If you suffer from depression, turn to God. Close your eyes, go to a corner in your house, curl up your knees to your chest and start praying to God. Talk to Him about what you are going through. If you have nowhere to turn, God will listen to you won’t judge you. Have faith in God’s ability to heal you. Attend Church, local Bible study too, and be active in ministries.

2. Find someone you can honestly talk to and open up your feelings to.

Dig up your friends’ list or contact list and get in touch with your long lost friend that you feel you can entrust your feelings to. Friends are there to help us when we go through difficult times. Talking to a friend you can trust can make a great difference in helping them feel that they are not alone and that they are very much supported in recovering from depression.

3. Download mental health apps and meditate.

There are various mental health apps that you can download on Google Play and App Store. For one, you can try downloading Headspace. It is a free app that offers guided meditation.

On the topic of meditation, it is also equally important to set aside some time for yourself where you can just meditate.

4. Watch inspirational videos on YouTube.

You will be surprised to find out that there are many others who also go through the same thing as you are. Ted X Talks share great speeches from wonderful people that can help you during tough times.

5. Cry.

A good ‘ol cry can really ease the pain in your chest. Let it all out. If you feel that need to cry, do so. You will feel better if you cry.

6. Go out.

Getting out of bed may be really hard for someone who is depressed, but please do try to get out. Go out of the house even for just an hour. Enjoy a brisk walk. Breathe fresh air. Do something that can take your mind of your thoughts even for just a little while.

7. Find your passion or try a new hobby.

Even if you are in the midst of depression, try to find a way of finding your passion . Fight depression with your passion. Get out of bed and do what your love. It can be as little as planting flowers, writing a poem, reading a book, or listening to your favorite artist. It doesn’t matter how little it can be. Finding your passion can save you from depression.

8. Don’t be too hard on yourself.

Don’t be too hard on yourself. You are already going through some tough times so try be compassionate with yourself. If you feel the need to resign from your work, then do so. Go back to your work when you feel healthier. Don’t let yourself face a host of pressures that could further contribute to your depression.

9. Get rid of toxic and negative people.

When you have depression, the last thing you would want is to be around people who doesn’t understand you.

10. Seek professional help

If you feel the need for professional help, don’t be shy. Talk to your doctor and find other options.