6 Ways to avoid depression and live a free life

According to the World Health Organization, about  280 million people in the world have depression. And depression is more common among women than men.

Depression can occur at any age, and it can happen to anyone. It can be severe and life-altering, affecting the quality of life. Misunderstanding depression can lead to undertreatment and stigmatization of depression.

Depression affects individual mood, thinking, daily activities, food intake, and work.  It can also affect how people think, feel, and act. It can also have an impact on people’s physical health and other aspects of a person’s life. Pressures on people are becoming more and more pronounced in a social environment at an increasing rate.

There is no single cause of depression. It can occur for a variety of reasons and has different triggers.

For some people, an upsetting or stressful life event, such as bereavement, divorce, illness, redundancy and job or money worries, can be the cause. The cause varies from one person to another.  

There are many lifestyle changes and stress management techniques that we can use to prevent and avoid depression relapse.

Below are a few tips on how to avoid depression.

1. Exercise regularly.

Exercising regularly is one of the best things you can do for your mental health. Exercise can help in the treatment and prevention of depression in several ways.

Exercise can increase body temperature to help calm the central nervous system. It helps release more chemicals that can boost mood. And it also reduces immune system chemicals that may worsen depression.

All types of physical exercise can help prevent and treat depression. One can take a staircase instead of using the elevator and try to always maintain a physical fitness level. Involving in group exercise creates a form of inclusion and belongingness to a group.

2. Reduce time spent on social media.

Increased usage of social media can increase the chances of getting depressed, limiting the time spent on social media will be very helpful in fighting depression. And help increase self-esteem.

3. Build a strong relationship.

Having a strong support system and an active social life is important for our mental health. Social support from family and friends can protect against depression. Attend social events to meet with people and find new friends.to make your social life active always.

The video below discusses how to manage depression.

4. Get plenty of sleep.

Getting high-quality sleep is necessary for both mental and physical health. According to National Sleep Foundation, people with insomnia or who suffer from sleeplessness have a high risk of developing depression compared to those who sleep well.

To get a better sleep, try not to look at any screen for two hours before bedtime. Meditate before sleeping, avoid caffeine at noon, and sleep on a comfortable bed.

The video below discusses 5 signs of depression.

5. Avoid stress.

There is a big relationship between stress and depression. People who are always stressed and do not manage it are prone to depression.

Research shows that stress has an adverse effect on mental health, life satisfaction and general health. It is good to always manage stress.

6. Eat well.

An unhealthy diet can deprive the body of vital nutrients it needs to maintain physical and mental health. It is advisable to eat a balanced meal, lots of fruits and vegetables, and reduce high-sugar and high-fat food. And also stop the intake of processed food.

We all need to watch out for signs and symptoms of depression and fight hard to avoid it at all costs. Let us watch out for our friends, families and colleagues and observe these signs and symptoms in them.

Below is an interview on the causes, signs and symptoms of depression and how to prevent it.