Depression and mental illness are no more a taboo subject. More and more people are coming in the open to discuss their problems, find ways to manage them and debate methods to avoid recurrence.
However, before the issue hits in a big way, there are small activities that can help a person manage it to the best possible extent that one can.
Many say that a cup of coffee is relaxing, if a bout of depression overcomes a person. It helps soothe and initiates a mechanism whereon a person starts to think logically.
Though there is no confirmed study on this, but various researches have proven that certain activities can be helpful in such situations.
Hot water bath –
A recent study experimented on two groups of people. One was asked to bathe in the afternoons whereas the other was asked to exercise.
After eight weeks, the people who bathed in hot water were better off on the depression scale.
It calms the nerves, improves the circadian rhythm, lowers signs of insomnia and has long term therapeutic impact.
Meditation –
Cutting oneself off and meditating helps interrupt recurring negative thoughts. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy — a combination of ancient forms of meditation and modern behaviour therapy — work wonders for clearing the state of mind.
Exercising the body –
Most doctors treating chronic depression recommend exercise to their patients.
It helps build confidence and enhances ways to cope with stress or anxiety. Endorphin chemical gets released by the brain that helps boost the mood. Exercising can be of any sort – aerobics, running, cycling or going to a gym.
Social communities help –
One good way to ease loneliness and help manage depression is to reach out to people. Common hobby groups, social circles, friends, families and help groups are wonderful ways to bond, meet like-minded people and get into discussions that can ward off anxieties.
Yoga –
Yoga can greatly help people who are already on medication for depression.
It balances the body and mind and reduces fatigue, anxiety and stress.
Music therapy –
Listening to music is another activity that is widely recommended to fight depression. Listening to music has a cumulative effect. The more you include it in your life, the more enjoyable it becomes.
Depression is a grave situation that hampers the normal thinking capabilities of a person. It drives one towards loneliness and stress. Fighting it at a personal level by indulging in these activities can help. However, if the problem persists, consulting a specialist is a must.