What You Can Do
It can be extremely difficult to take action to help yourself when you feel like you can barely function. However, there are many things that you can do - both while you are waiting for treatment and when you are receiving treatment from a care provider. Here are some tips from the National Institute on Mental Health.
Move through the slideshow to discover some helpful tips.
Be active and exercise
Even if you just take a 10 minute walk, you are trying - which will help.
Do something you once enjoyed
Go to a movie, a ballgame, or other activities even if you are just "going through the motions"
Spend time with other people
Try not to isolate yourself; let others help you. Confide in a trusted friend or relative.
Expect your mood to improve
Do not expect to suddenly "snap out" of depression. During treatment for depression, sleep and appetite may begin to improve before your mood lifts.
Set realistic goals
Doing just one small thing is a victory when you are depressed. Be gentle with yourself if you do not reach a goal - just set a different one, and keep trying.
Break up large tasks
Set priorities and do what you can as you are able. Break up large tasks into smaller manageable ones.
Postpone important decisions
Discuss decisions with others who know you well and have a good view of your situation. Making big life decisions can wait until you are feeling better.
Things will get better
As your depression responds to treatment, positive thoughts will begin to replace negative ones.
Continue to educate yourself
As you are able, learn more about the illness of depression, its signs and symptoms, and treatment options.
