Depression is becoming increasingly prevalent among children, teens, and adults. People no longer misread symptoms of depression as laziness, and there is a growing awareness about the importance of professional help. Typical symptoms of depression are irritability, lack of motivation, change in eating and sleeping patterns, low self-esteem, and severe anxiety or panic attacks. This article talks about methods of coping with depression in a natural manner.

Can we treat depression naturally?
If you can identify or recognize symptoms of depression in yourself or any family member, consult a doctor. You may want to help yourself and get better independently, but you have to get a diagnosis from a doctor or psychiatrist. Though treating depression naturally can help patients to cope with the symptoms, it cannot replace treatment. Also keep in mind that if you are under treatment, you can not stop the medication halfway and try these natural techniques.

1. Set goals for motivation
Setting reasonable and manageable goals can help you get through your day. Some examples are “waking at seven every day,” “writing two pages by the end of the day,” “walking the dog twice a week,” “helping with grocery shopping,” “exercising twice a week.” You can start by setting daily goals and extending them as you go on.

2. No comparisons
Practice evaluating your life goals and achievements only against yourself. Do not compare your situations with others. If you are a caregiver, do not compare or judge your patient with anyone else like a sibling, classmate or colleague.

3. Make room for happy things
All of us have our favorite things that make us smile and happy. It could be a hobby, a walk to the park, serving someone, reading, or even stargazing. You can make a note of things that give you joy and spend time doing that.

4. Eat and sleep on time
Lack of interest in eating and sleeping routines is one of the biggest impacts of depression, leading to multiple cyclical issues like exhaustion, overeating, gas, acidity, etc. Plan healthy menus with a balanced diet, avoiding junk and processed food. An occasional sweet treat is fine as long as you don’t binge on it. Go to bed early and wake up at the same time till it becomes a habit. It is essential to not force yourself to eat but eat on time for habit formation.

5. Reach out and communicate
Take the first step and talk to friends and family about your thoughts. You may be surprised to see that many are willing to listen and are willing to hold your hand. Avoid people who may pull you down or do not want to listen to you or anyone who fills you with negativity.

6. Sweat it out
Make it a habit to get outdoors for a walk, jog, run, or swim. Physical activity improves blood circulation and is an instant mood lifter. If that is not possible, engage in some stretching, aerobics, or dancing at home. They also release endorphins that can make you feel good and improve depression symptoms. Engage in doable exercises and do not set unreasonable goals that can harm you in the long run.