Feeling depressed

There is a belief that during winter we feel more depressed. For this, there is a medical explication like changing temperatures, the lack of sun exposure, or the need to sleep more. It can be more obvious during holidays because this is the moment when we learn that we have to spend time with the family; if you don’t have the family near, it is clear enough why you are not happy during holidays.

When we are talking about depression, we are referring to that mood disorder that causes persistent sadness or loss of interest in what you do. It may feel like a need to lie in the bed all day long, being pessimistic or low-motivated.

It is a natural situation and with proper preparation or support, you can move on. Of course, for more complicated problems, you have to call a specialist for dedicated treatment.

So, let's see what we can do from the very begging:

• Recognize what you have. I know that we are still in a society that stigmatizes any kind of sickness (especially the psychological ones). But denial doesn’t help. What you feel is real. You need to admit what you feel and to express it.
• Work with your negative thoughts. Depressed people are very realistic in some regards. Because of this, I won’t hide any negative thinking. Recognize it and work on it. What is the worst-case scenario it can happen? But there is also any good thing about that? Stay deeply on it to know your thoughts like a very good friend knows you.
• Create some habits. Depression makes us feel useless. Because of this, we need some habits to follow or some targets to achieve. Having this in mind, we will not be anymore in the situation to think “what a miserable day I have to do nothing”.
• Sleep, sports, and eating are part of this routine. Drinking water is also important; from time to time, eating some sweets can be added.
• Find your tribe. Have a group of friends to spend your free time with and to share some hobbies. Learn new things with them and go to places that give a nice feeling. Be present and be aware of what you are doing.

Despite these, probably the most important advice is to ask for help. We hardly do this because we are thought to do everything by ourselves. For sure, we can manage this on our own, but with somebody near us, it can be easier.

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