How to Get Out of Your Depression Groove

"No, mom. I'm not PMSing."
"No, dad. It's not about a boy."
"No, hun. It's not about you."

We all know that feeling when genuinely happy, mentally healthy people find out you're depressed. If only I had a dime for every time a friend or family member said, "just be happy, think positive!". Like no, it's definitely not that simple.

Depression runs deep in my family. Suicide and sickening depression go back generations and trickle into our genes when we're about 12 years old. From there on, it's a lifelong roller coaster. Thankfully, we've learned to be there for one another and practice healthy mental exercises to stay safe when we're in our deep, dark times. I want to share some tips and tricks to help you feel better, or even just ride out your groove for a few days, weeks, or even months.

Tip #1: Don't separate yourself from close family and friends. Sometimes, the very, very last thing you want to do is be social. Ugh. People. But really, find out who your bestest friends are who understand your condition and can accept that sometimes, the depressing demons haunt you. This way, they won't judge you and will know how to cope along with you. You don't necessarily even have to do anything or get out of the house. I love going to my mom's and curling up in bed with her to watch Spongebob Squarepants. If you feel like binging on ice cream and red wine, find a BFF who shares that same luxurious desire.

Tip #2: Even though it's hard, eat decent foods and go to the gym at least three times a week. This is probably the hardest thing to do when you're feeling depressed. I get it - no energy or initiative. But if you can realize that these things scientifically help your serotonin levels and release endorphin's, you'll remember that you're healing and helping your body from the inside out. Eat happy, yummy fruits rich in vitamins like: kale, banana, orange, lemon, cranberry, salmon, yogurt, chocolate, and whole wheat.

Tip #3: Make yourself look good - you'll feel good! Go to the hair salon and get a quick trim or ask your stylists to skip the trim and just do a quick wash and a deep moisturizer treatment. Get your nails done, too! You don't need to spend a fortune on a sparkly acrylic set, either. Get a simple manicure (around $30) or just get a regular coat of polish on your natural nails. Don't feel like spending money or leaving your house? Scrubbing my feet with a pumice rock or doing a deep, exfoliating scrub on my face always makes me feel fresh. Even showering and using a leave-in moisturizer makes me feel like I've accomplished something on my off-days.

Tip #4: Don't sleep too much! Oversleeping can cause a lot of issues. When you sleep in too much, it's harder to sleep at night and cause overthinking or haunting thoughts at the wee hours of the early morning. Oversleeping can also cause a groggy, lost feeling all day long and we already feel that way when we're in a moody funk. Sleeping in only adds fuel to those laggy feelings. Set your alarm exactly 6-8 hours from when you're ready to doze off, then start your day with a warm cup of coffee and some cuddles with yourself, a pet, or a stuffed animal. If you feel like it, add in a brisk walk. Then, start your day!

Tip #5: Get in touch with distant loved ones. Nothing gives me more hope and a warm, fuzzy feeling than calling my grandma with a small list of positive things I've accomplished that I can use for conversation material. You don't have to tell your aunt, uncle, or grandparents that you're depressed, or that you're calling for a reason. Just tell them that your job is treating you well, your dog did a hilarious thing that morning, or you really love the way your hair turned out when you curled it for the first time in forever. It can make you feel more connected and grounded to people that love you, no matter what you're battling inside.

Tip #6: It's so normal to ask for help. There have been a few times when it's too hard to do these things. You can't eat, sleep, or function as a normal human being. That's okay. I've gone to doctors and counselors and got the help I needed, when it was really needed. That's normal. That is why these people are here... To help us. Use it!

NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE:
 1-800-273-8255