Tips to Help You Cope with Depression

by Dr. Zwig Dr. Zwig

Millions of people all over the world experience depression during their lifetime. For some people, depression is a chronic state or a mental illness that never seems to go away. For others, depressive episodes are more infrequent and fade over time or after relatively simple coping strategies. If you experience depression, you need to know there is nothing wrong with seeking professional help. Professionals like Adam Zwig, psychologist, can help with some coping mechanisms, even if it's just enough to get you through to your next mental health checkup. Here are some ideas that might help.

Talk to a Psychologist

If you have a toothache, you'll call a dentist. If you break a bone, you see a doctor to have them reset the bone. When you're experiencing depression, you should likewise see a doctor who can help you with this other health issue. Talking to someone who is trained to help is extremely helpful in that they can provide guidance and other working coping strategies. They can help you identify your motivations behind your behavior and thought processes.

Write it All Down

You don't even have to write about your depression or even your feelings in that moment. Writing can be immensely therapeutic, whatever you choose to write about. People are often more expressive and are better able to sort out their feelings with pen and paper than they are even talking about it with somebody. Keeping a regular journal will also help you see how far you've come and what you've done to get out of similar situations before.

Focus on Your Best Self

People who experience depression often also have a poor self-image. You can combat this by focusing on your best qualities. You can also take some time to do something for yourself. If you used to enjoy going to the movies, then buy a movie ticket and get out. Take some time to remember the things you used to love doing and reconnect with a previous version of yourself.

Just as you would visit the doctor if there was something wrong with your body, you should see a mental health professional like Adam Zwig, psychologist if there was something wrong with your mental health. Your depression may be a brief episode and it may be a symptom of a chronic mental health problem. Either way, getting help from licensed and educated mental health professionals will be immensely helpful.