What Are Some Ways To Cope With Depression?

Depression can be more than just having the blues. We all get sad once in a while in reaction to something happening which we don’t like. That feeling of sadness is normal. Nonetheless it can make a turn for the worse if we allow it. Depression can ruin our lives if we don’t learn to cope with it constructively.

There are different methods of coping with depression which more often than not depend on the factor causing the depression in the first place. Identifying the causative factors therefore should be foremost in your mind if you want to beat depression.

Common Causes of Depression and How To Cope With Them

Money Matters. Money does matter to a lot of people so much so that the lack of it causes depressive or anxiety attacks. If money is the root of your problem, here are some things you can do to reverse the situation:

  • Make a list of your monthly expenses as well as your income. It happens so often that people do not realize how much they are spending compared to what they are earning unless it’s laid in black and white. Getting it on paper opens your eyes to reality.
  • Get your whole family together to discuss your situation. Be honest with your family. They have to know the truth, no matter how painful it is. Everyone needs to be involved, even kids. If you are spending more than what you earn, discuss with your family the items that you will have to cut off from your list. Focus on needs, rather than wants. Learn to prioritize. At the moment, you cannot have everything you want.
  • Consider getting your debts consolidated. If your credit card bills are piling up and credit card agents and lawyers are running after you, don’t run away. Seek help. There are credit card consolidation companies you can turn to for help.
  • Learn to make more money. If your income from your regular job is not enough to meet your household expenses, learn to make more money to supplement your income. Try baking and accepting orders of pies, muffins, and cakes, for one. If you are creative, try online writing.

Unemployment/Job Loss. The recession is making it hard for people to get employed. Many are losing their jobs. If this is what causes your depression:

  • Consider taking a different career path.
  • Get yourself qualified. Enhance your skills, broaden your knowledge, and take licensure or qualifying examinations. It pays to have the necessary credentials.

Broken Relationship. Fairy tale endings do not happen to everyone, but it’s not the end of the world. If you are depressed because your girlfriend/boyfriend has broken up with you, remember that life goes on. Here are some tips to get over it:

  • Allow yourself time to grieve. Grieving is part of the healing process.
  • Do not blame yourself. Things happen because they are probably bound to happen, not necessarily because it is someone else’s fault.
  • Treat yourself to something nice. Don’t wallow in self-pity. Believe you are special and you deserve to be treated as such. Get relaxing spa and beauty treatments.
  • Spend time with your family. Have a family vacation. After all that’s happened, your family members are the best people who can make you feel better.
  • Read a funny book or watch a comedy flick.

Regardless of the factors causing depression, exercising, getting on a healthy diet, living the good life, and taking the B-vitamins and other vitamins for depression can all help reduce the possibility of depression turning worse.