Gloss How-To: Manage Depression With Healthy Living

We all feel down from time to time, but depression is a lasting, persistent feeling that can start to interfere with your life. The symptoms include difficulty making decisions, feeling tired and run down, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, loss of interest in your own life and appetite changes.

If you’re feeling depressed, it’s important to see a health care professional. Medication and therapy can really help you get back on track. In addition to that, you can also take charge of your own health. There are many lifestyle choices that can boost your mood, enhance your energy and help alleviate depression.

- See the sandman. A consistent, healthy sleep schedule is vital for your energy level and mood. Prepare yourself for a good night’s sleep by avoiding daytime naps, exercising three or more hours before bed and doing something to relax your mind and body right before bedtime (such as taking a bath). If you find you still cannot sleep, try staying in bed and reading, writing in a journal or completing a crossword.

- Be active. An active lifestyle with regular exercise will help you keep fit and energized.

- Eat right. Some people may turn to snack cakes and chips when they’re feeling blue, but that’s the opposite of what your body needs. Healthy eating, in general, will keep you energized and feeling great. What’s more, certain foods may fight depression.

- Replace unhealthy behaviors. When you’re worrying or starting to feel really down, don’t engage in unhealthy habits. Instead, get up and get busy. Do a chore around the house, work in your garden, help out a friend or family member — just get your body busy and give your mind something new to think about.