Top 10 Ways to Battle Depression

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When you are depressed things can get foggy and overwhelming and you forget how to help yourself. Here are some ways to organize your thoughts and take action against depression.

Depression cannot only seep into our minds, but also the pain can wedge itself deep into the tissues of our bodies. That's why exercise is at the top of my list.

Exhaust and break down the hurt with exercise. This is your time to let it all out. It can feel like the depression is seeping out of your pores, and then the endorphins kick in which eases the depression. It's like a detox for your emotions. No meds needed.

Surround yourself with activities and friends (meetup.com, community center, church, family, volunteer, sports.) This places you in a space where you can get lots of love and warm conversations. Nighttime can be difficult, so have a few friends you can call or chill with. Roommates can be a great help as well.

Watch comedies, read jokes and be around people who make you laugh and don't let you go to that negative space - especially at night.

Release it. Stop making things so difficult on yourself. Release the idea that you have control of everything. You don't, and that's ok. Everyone is on their own journey with God and learns at different speeds. At some point you will look back and be astounded by depth of love God has for you. You will look back at all the events that transpired and realize how much you grew in those dark times and the people He sent your way in your time of need. Never ever forget the quickest way to heal your depression - and release it - is through God's love.

These top four are so important because they force you to get out of your head a little. My chiropractor gave me some good advice after my traumatic rollover accident when a huge semi rammed into my truck  - as you make new positive memories on the road, they will begin to slowly push out that negative memory, not only in your mind but in the tissues of your body.

Know that you are going to begin to heal as you create new positive memories. Allow yourself to become hyperaware of your blessings and the beauty in this world. It may begin with surrounding yourself with your favorite music, being outdoors enjoying the smell of rain or an epic sunset, and take in positive and inspirational books, movies, workshops or videos on Youtube. Thoughts are things, so keep gathering all the positive ones up like gifts.

Keep reminding yourself that you are getting better a little bit every day and that even though you don't feel completely better yet, you know you will soon because you are taking action. Just the fact that you are seeking this advice out means you are taking action and creating a new positive memory.

If you have a traumatizing memory, or something that was emotionally damaging, you are now going to change that memory by visualizing yourself, as you are now, taking yourself out of the situation and comforting yourself. One example would be to ask yourself the first time you didn't feel loved. Visualize yourself as you are now taking yourself by the hand away from the situation, picking yourself up and looking yourself in the eyes and saying I love you so much. Take yourself somewhere beautiful and create a good memory with yourself that replaces that damaging memory. Moving forward - from this moment on - that memory now is forever changed for the better. You will never think of it the same. Remember thoughts are things that can be healed and changed.

Stop hurting yourself by going back to that unhealthy relationship, drug, or harmful thoughts. Remember, every day starts and gives you the chance to rewrite your choices. If you don't have the will to stop yet then make this the first day you seek out help. A good place to start is findtreatment.gov

There are free support groups, guidance or church counselors, life coaches and hotlines. Talk it out, then stop ---. Once you have talked it out with people and faced it head on, force yourself to stop talking about it a little at a time even though it's on your mind. This will allow you to create new experiences. Otherwise it just perpetuates itself.

Don't be afraid to ask someone to pray for you either. It's so powerful.

Aroma therapy baths, candles, inspirational quotes and music, art and color -- these are all things that can seriously alter your mood and calm you down. Or maybe get a puppy/kitten or create a healing garden. Be creative.

These are your go-tos anytime it's too much, anytime things get too foggy and you forget how to keep moving. This is your game plan.

Remember LOVE ALWAYS REMAINS,

Founder

Legacy for Love