A SURVIVAL GUIDE

**STRATEGY TO COPE WITH DEPRESSION **

When you are feeling depressed it is important to take care of yourself, thiis means doing things that make you feel happy and good both physically and emotionally. Sleep is very key as it can help control your mood and reduce stress try to establish a regular sleep routine, where you go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to help you get something's off your head and mind. Exercise is also very important as it can help release some chemicals that make you feel happy and also help you forget what you're depressed about at that moment. You don't have to do a lot of exercise just a short walk each day can help don't just stay in one place.

It is easy to get in to negative thoughts and emotions which these can be change your mindset and make you feel worse. One way to manage these thoughts is to challenge them, ask yourself if they're really true or if they're just your depression talking, try to change negative thoughts into positive ones instead of thinking and tagging your self "I am a failure" try thinking "I made a mistake" but I can learn from it and definitely you will.
In 2020 I had the bad and worst experience of my life due to an ailments ("Scoliosis" Curve in the Spine) I can't sleep because of severe pained, I can't walk 1km without sitting down, foods is no longer sweet again I have lost my peace to an extend i feel the better option to get things off my mind and rest is to commit suicide. I was seriously in pains and always hurt nothing seems attractive and interesting to me anymore with all the medical assistant I was not getting better I have loose hope, just excessively depressed and its really affect my academic performance and mental health. One day I met somebody who's condition is more worse than mind, then I encourage and gave my self hope that I can achieve what so ever I want to achieve with that 'Scoliosis'. I just needed to stop thinking negatively and continue my medication, doing exercise directed by the Physiotherapist and key into some advice that's how I get over depression despite suffering from an ailments. I said my self "I will never look like my problem and I won't allow anything to depress me" The story is very long just have to summarize. DON'T GIVE UP!

Another way to cope and manage emotions (Depression) is to focus on your thoughts and feelings without judgment, paying attention to your senses (Mindfulness) which can really you feel more centered and can reduce stress and anxiety.
Eating healthy foods is also important as it can give you energy and help you feel better, try eat balance diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Doings things you enjoy can help take your mind off your depression and make you feel better; For example reading a book, listening to music, watching movies, dancing or outdoor activities/exercise.

When you're feeling depressed it's important to have people around you who can support and encourage you. This can be friends, family members or a therapist let them know how you're feeling. Talking to someone about how you are feeling can help you feel heard and understood and can give you a different perspective on your situation. Don't be afraid to reach out for help most especially to people you trust.
Join a support group or online community to connect with others who are going through similar experiences which can help you feel less isolated and more connected and can make a big difference when you're feeling depressed.

**Conclusion: ** Coping with depression requires a combination of self-care, emotional management and social support.
Remember, depression is not a sign of weakness and seeking help is a sign of strength. Don't be afraid to reach out for support and don't give up hope with time patience and the right things you can overcome depression and live a fulfilling life. Keep moving forward even when it feels impossible and know that better days are ahead!

All images in this post are my own!
SUICIDE IS NOT AN OPTION
NEVER GIVE UP
LET LOVE LEADS ❤