If you’re one of the many people struggling with depression, you know full well how it feels on a daily basis. It’s a round-the-clock battle that can really weigh you down. You may be feeling fatigued, unmotivated, or even isolated from the rest of the world.

In looking for some relief, the simple act of retreat may seem most enticing to you. Unfortunately, this will only keep you stuck in the cycle of depression longer.Many of the steps that help relieve your depression may not feel comfortable at first. In fact, they may even seem counterproductive. And you may not see immediate results.

Persistence will pay off, though.

Despite the fact that it may take some energy to do so, please consider the following 6 steps to relieving your depression.

1. Connect with Others

Socializing might be last on your to-do list. However, getting social again has plenty of benefits that will help move you toward depression recovery. Although withdrawing and retreating may feel more comfortable in the moment, connecting with others will support your recovery process in the long run.Whether it’s with a support group, friends and family, or even an organization where you volunteer, push yourself to get connected.

2. Get Moving

Your fatigue and emotional heaviness might make it difficult to get out of bed each morning or rest at night. And the thought of a 30-minute run may not be at all on your agenda, and you likely don’t see how it ever will be.

Still, physical activity has been proven to be a positive mood booster.

Of course, you needn’t go overboard at first. Engaging in physical exercise can start small. Rather than a 30-minute run, go for a 10-minute walk. The effects of exercise are long-lasting. Just a short walk can boost your mood. One small step at a time will get you on the road to recovery.

3. Soak Up the Sunlight

In addition to exercise, the sun has mood-boosting effects, too. Try to get at least 15 minutes of sunlight each day. A short walk on your lunch break or drinking your morning coffee near a well-lit window can make a big difference.

Sunlight increases serotonin levels and improves your mood. Furthermore, it enables your skin to manufacture vitamin D, which also helps battle depression.

4. Enjoy a Hobby

You may have given up on some of your previously enjoyed hobbies and activities. Now is the time to shake off the dust. Getting started may seem hard because you feel rusty or even unmotivated. Most likely, your skills will return back to you quickly along with the joy you felt before. Expressing yourself through the arts may make you feel rejuvenated and upbeat faster than anything else.

5. Eat a Healthy Diet

When dealing with depression you may only be hungry for comfort foods. In fact, you may not have an appetite at all. The foods you eat can directly impact how you feel. It’s important to eat mood-boosting foods like fresh fruit and veggies.

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and trans fats. These might seem fitting at the time but will have adverse effects on your mood.

6. Focus on Your Accomplishments

Depression has a way of masking the positive things in life including your own accomplishments. Furthermore, it tends to make you focus on what you haven’t achieved. Force yourself to focus on what you have accomplished. Whether it’s getting to work on time or successfully cooking a new recipe, take stock in it. No matter how big or how small, bring awareness to all the positive things you are doing.

Depression can cause life to feel out-of-control. Feeling unmotivated comes with depression territory. Reach out to someone you trust, develop a routine and stick to it. Soon, your actions will feel purposeful.

Aim for balance in your life. Consider therapy. It will be easier to accomplish your goals when you’re supported and taking one step at a time toward happiness. I invite you to call me at 310-962-4330 for a free 15-minute phone consultation to discuss your specific needs.