Before I start it'd be awesome if you could all check out Olivia's blog. It's all about music and has some awesome videos of her band Harbor!
Enjoy!
depression
dɪˈprɛʃ(ə)n/
noun
- 1.severe, typically prolonged, feelings of despondency and dejection."self-doubt creeps in and that swiftly turns to depression"
Depression isn't something to take lightly. It's a serious mental illness. It's not a noun. Having depression is scary and horrible- like being stuck in a trap that you can't get out of. If you know anyone or think you may be suffering from depression get help as soon as possible.
This 'coping with depression' was requested via Facebook. I've been, recently, put on anti-depressants (or as my family calls them 'happy pills') and they are working, it's sad that I can't be myself without taking a tablet but I'm happy. Finally. I am also getting psychotherapy for my depression. Here are some tips and tricks that have helped me in the past and present!
Carry something.
Ok, this sounds really stupid but this has become a constant habit of mine that's generally worked! I, personally, carry around a blue marble stone with me everywhere I go and whenever I am having bad thoughts or someone says something triggering, I take hold of the stone and play with it. It completely takes my mind off of what I was previously thinking and occupies my mind. Try it, you'll be surprised!
Get plenty of sleep and turn off electronics.
When people are depressed they tend to have something similar to insomnia, and become restless at night. I found/ find it easier to get to sleep and night when I turn off my laptop/phone/ipod etc off 1 hour before I go to bed. The light from electronic devices cause your brain to think it's day time- when in fact it isn't, and it becomes harder for your brain to relax and realize it's bed time soon. Another thing that's tied in with sleep is getting to bed early! And by early I mean 8-9:30. It may seem ridiculous, but because you're going to bed so early, you wake up feeling refreshed and awake.
Talk to someone.
I can't stress enough how important this is! You have to let people know what's going on inside your head. You can't cope with depression on your own. Even if you think you're showing signs of depression you have to let someone know how you're feeling so they know what to look out for and seek help for you. If you have depression, it can be hard to open up to people and tell them what's really going on- and trust me I know, but you can't expect people to help you if you don't tell them what's going on and you can't get better without help.
Eat healthy foods, exercise and drink plenty of water.
Feeling and being healthy help your mind make healthy decisions and boost your 'happy' hormones. Even if it's a 10 minute walk, a piece of fruit and a little glass of water- it's a start! Try fit it in to your everyday routine and you'll be feeling and looking 10x better!
Look good.
Have a shower, curl your hair, put on make up and wear that dress you love! Make yourself feel pretty, it'll boost your self-confidence and you'll feel good about yourself!
Get organised
The more organised you are, the less of a mess your brain will be. I find it useful carrying a little notepad and pen around with me to jot down things that pop in my head during the day, this way I don't forget and I'm not stressing out.
Join a club/ do something you love.
Joining a club or doing something that you enjoy it will help you make friends and distance your mind from all things depression, even if it's a little escape for 30 minutes a day.
I hope these tips help you in anyway/ shape or form.
Love you all.
Lottie
xx
