Living with depression can feel overwhelming and isolating. It can make everyday tasks more challenging, impact your relationships, and affect your performance at work or school. Many people with depression feel sad, lose energy and become less interested in activities they once enjoyed. If you feel the same way, you’re not alone. Depression can happen to anyone, and it’s common in the U.S. and beyond. An estimated 5.7% of adults around the world experience this condition. Fortunately, there are also strategies you can try to help manage depression, and you can incorporate them into your daily life. 

At Lightfully, we can support you with treatment plans that can help you manage depression and enhance your quality of life. From improving sleep to practicing mindfulness, small, healthy changes can add up over time and make a big difference. Along the way, you can have support from deeply compassionate experts who can help you feel better. 

Keep reading to find seven daily habits that may ease depression and improve your well-being. 

7 coping skills that support mental health during depression

Trying to manage depression can be challenging, but small daily habits may help you feel better. If making changes to your schedule feels overwhelming, you can start with one and build a healthier routine over time. The following habits may help you manage depression, improve your well-being and create a helpful balance in your life. 

Here are some coping strategies you can try:

• Create a routine.

Developing a healthy daily routine can help provide structure and a sense of stability in your life. Having set times for sleeping, eating, exercising and other activities helps many people feel more stable and less stressed. Making time for healthy habits can go a long way toward improving your mood. Plus, taking care of the important things in your life can give you a sense of accomplishment each day.

• Exercise regularly.

Getting regular physical activity releases endorphins, which are chemicals that help you feel good. It also increases serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that are also associated with a better mood. Exercising helps reduce stress, boost energy and improve sleep quality. Many people find it helpful to start gradually. Building up to 30 minutes a day is a great goal, but even a few five-minute walks throughout the day is better than no exercise at all.

• Get enough sleep.

Prioritizing sleep can help you control your emotions and reduce stress. It can also make it easier to focus, make decisions and cope with challenges. Not getting enough sleep may affect cognitive function and worsen depression symptoms. While some people need more sleep than others, generally seven to nine hours are recommended for adults. Try these sleep scheduling changes to help get a good night’s rest. 

• Eat a balanced diet.

Maintaining a healthy diet can help your body get nutrients that may improve brain function and regulate neurotransmitters. In the process, these nutrients can stabilize mood and reduce irritability. You can talk to your provider about what type of diet is best for you.

Generally, a well-rounded diet consists of:

• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Whole grains
• Lean proteins
• Nuts and seeds
• Healthy fats like olive oil

• Spend time with loved ones.

Connecting with your friends and family can help combat the feelings of isolation that depression can cause. Strong relationships can foster a sense of belonging, lift your spirits and be the foundation of a reliable support system. 

• Practice mindfulness.

Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment. It’s a great way to shift your mind away from negative thoughts and can help improve your mood. Practicing mindfulness every day can help you strengthen this coping skill to enhance your well-being.

Examples of mindfulness include:

• Mindful breathing — Take a short break and focus on the feeling of inhaling and exhaling. 
• Meditation — Sit quietly and focus on your breath, body, or a word or phrase that helps you feel more calm. 
• Guided imagery — Close your eyes and picture a relaxing scene like a beach, using your senses to focus on a relaxing setting.

• Do activities you enjoy.

Setting even a small amount of time for activities you enjoy can go a long way toward boosting your mood. It’s a great way to reduce stress, shift focus away from negative thoughts and achieve your goals. Many people enjoy journaling, gardening or listening to music, but you can choose the activities that make you the happiest.

Lightfully can help you with depression

Taking a small step each day can help you move forward in the long run. Creating small, consistent habits can ease depression and support your mental health. It’s OK to start gradually and build on your progress over time. Just remember that every step counts. If you need expert support to help you manage depression, you can reach out to us at Lightfully.

Our licensed clinical therapists are here to support you. Rather than addressing symptoms individually, we provide evidence-based, clearly defined, whole-person-centered care to help you experience positive changes. At Lightfully, we offer multiple levels of care provided by deeply compassionate experts who are here to customize your treatment to meet your needs.

Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.