How to Get out of a Depression Episode
Everyone experiences low points in their mental health. When you struggle with depression, this condition can drain your energy, cause you to feel hopeless and make it difficult to take the steps you need to feel better.
Depression is a treatable mental health condition — but if you’re wondering how to not be depressed anymore, there is no simple answer. However, if you don’t have immediate access to medical help, there are small steps you can take to punch holes in this curtain of darkness so you can find renewed hope.
How to Get out of a Depression Slump Without Medication
The things that can help you break free from a depression slump are often the very things that feel most difficult to do. Sometimes just thinking about putting a plan into action can seem daunting. Yet, there’s a huge difference between something hard and something impossible. You may not have much energy, but you should have enough to implement a few of these ideas each day — even if it feels hard:
- Reach out to friends or family.
- Make plans.
- Find something you can look forward to.
- List what you like about yourself.
- Visualize a happy memory.
- Spend some time in nature.
- Take care of a few small tasks.
- Read a good book.
- Watch a funny movie or TV show.
- Listen to music.
- Take a long, hot bath.
- Play with a pet.
- Do something spontaneous.
That first step is always the hardest, but taking action can substantially boost your mood and energy long enough for you to seek professional help if you need it. Each small but positive step you take for your overall mental well-being can help you feel happier, healthier and more hopeful.
How to Get out of a Depression Relapse Long-Term
Any level of depression should be taken seriously. Seeking professional help is a bold step that shows self-respect, courage and perseverance. A therapist or counselor can offer clinical insight and guide you through various treatments and approaches personalized to your unique situation and needs.
Some people have more severe forms of depression, including Major Depression Disorder. This condition is often biochemically based with genetic roots, and it may require medication as a long-term solution.
No matter how severe your depression is, the faster you address your symptoms, the more likely you are to recover. In fact, most people who start treatment show significant improvement within four to six weeks.
Know When to Seek Help
For those who feel hopeless, scared and alone, it’s not uncommon to attempt to relieve depressive symptoms with alcohol or drugs. Sadly, the depression always returns, causing many to self-medicate over and over again and leading to a cycle of substance misuse and addiction. If you are in this destructive cycle, help is available.
At 7 Summit Pathways, we treat addiction and the underlying mental health conditions that sometimes reinforce substance use. With Dual Diagnosis treatment, you can find the strength you need to change your life. Contact us today to learn more.