Psyche logo

How to Guide of Depression & Anxiety

Life doesn't stop just because your serotonin does!

By Porsche GPublished 5 years ago 2 min read
Like

Depression is a cruel b**ch & anxiety is no better. Not to sound like a self help book, but I have found a few ways to make living life better even with the constant extra baggage.

1) Get a pet.

Firstly they give you a reason to get up in the morning, with them needing to be fed/walked/let outside. Animals are also very intuitive, especially dogs & cats. They can sense when you are feeling happy or sad and a reassuring cuddle from them can make you feel a 1000 times better. I realise this might not be practical for everyone, so find a friend with a pet that you can see every so often to lift your mood! There are also apps like BorrowMyDoggy. Be it a dog, lizard, or pet rock (okay maybe not the pet rock), animals will give you the unconditional love you need!

2) Keep to a schedule & write lists.

Keeping a diary & lists for simple things like when you are going grocery shopping or when your next doctor appointment is can be a big help. This will help you ease your anxiety over time by keeping from forgetting all those things you needed to ask your boss about! This can restore a sense of control & as anxiety can be set off by the slightest thing, controlling your triggers will limit the possibility of a panic attack.

3) Exercise

Don't worry, I get it. Most days you just want to lie in bed and hide from the world. Just hear me out, though. Many studies have been done on the benefits of exercise for depression. The majority of results show that an hour of exercise a week can help ease symptoms of depression. Whether you choose to go for a walk outside with your dog or jump in a pool, it can really help!

4) Friends/Family/Anyone that Listens

I'm not asking you to go and tell the lady at Tesco's about your depression but start by finding just one person that you trust to talk to. I know how hard it can be to open up but having at least one person that you can count on to listen to your problems & help you process your emotions will really help.

5) Accept it.

Yep, easier said than done. When I started to accept that I was going to be living with depression & anxiety indefinitely, that is when it all changed for me. Learning to live with it & not fight it is honestly the best piece of advice I can ever give. Have little victories by starting to look at something everyday. The weather that day might have you down but look at that flower & think, "That is a damn pretty flower..."

selfcare
Like

About the Creator

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.