Taking action that is different from depression can be a powerful coping tool.
 Brain research has taught us that the experiences we have stimulate brain growth, creating new cells and connections between cells. When we experience depression, brain cells in specialized areas of the brain grow. The stronger these connections become, the more likely you are to be depressed. Positive, joyful experiences create growth in other specialized areas of the brain. As you cope with your depression, you will want to learn to interrupt the depressive networking of your brain and shift to positive networks. This means taking action that is different from depressive behaviors. So how can you do this?
Just DO SOMETHING
┬áNo action is too small if it is behavior that moves you away from depression. Remember that recovering from depression is gradual. Congratulate yourself on even small victories. For example: If cleaning up the kitchen is too much, just wash a few dishes or take out the trash. If a big grocery store run feels overwhelming, grab just what you need and get out. If you canÔÇÖt get dressed, change your underwear and socks or put on clean pajamas. If you donÔÇÖt feel up to taking a shower, use wet wipes or dry shampoo
 End isolation
Depressed people isolate themselves for a host of reasons. Perhaps they feel unworthy of support. Perhaps they donÔÇÖt want others to see them at their worst. Perhaps they are utterly exhausted. Whatever the reason, the more depressed people isolate, the more depressed they become. The best course of action is to consistently chip away at isolation. Call a friend. Make a concerted effort to get out of the house. Take a short walk. Maybe say ÔÇ£hiÔÇØ to someone you meet. If a walk is too much, just sit on the porch. Congratulate yourself on whatever action you were able to take.
 Look for joy in your life
Putting yourself in happy situations or just thinking about past pleasurable events can switch your brain to positive networks. And the more your brain dwells in the land of the positive, the less depressed you will become. So accept that birthday party invitation and praise yourself for attending. Play with a small child or a pet. Switch the channels in your brain by switching your TV to Comedy Central. Think of a positive event from the past and describe it in detail, using all your senses. Make a plan to repeat this experience as soon as possible.
Source
Wehrenberg[CA1] , M. (2010). The 10 best-ever depression management techniques. W.W. Norton & Company.
Even though our blogs can be helpful, Mind Over Matters recommends that you seek professional help if your depressive symptoms are severe. Please seek help if you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, if you are unable to care for your basic needs or attend to your basic duties, or if your symptoms are accompanied by substance abuse.
