Lately my mental health has been in shambles; been moving from one depressive episode to another alot of them triggered. If this is you as well, i'd like to share a couple of tips that have been helping me get through it. A thread.

1. I journal; i developed a habit of journaling on a daily basis. I have a self-care journal and a gratitude journal. My self-care journal helps me document my thoughts & how i feel; the gratitude one helps me appreciate the little things despite the darkness.

The journals gear you to positivity which is what you need to get by.
I am always willing to gift someone in need because i know the immense progress you can achieve when you journal.

2. Take a shower; this may sound basic but sometimes when you are having a depressive episode it's difficult to even get up and take a shower. What showering does other than the usual, it makes you aware of your senses & surroundings. It is also energizing.

3.Engage in a creative activity.
This keeps you grounded and takes your mind off things. Personally, i invest in coloring books and love to color, it's therapeutic. One can also do other creative activities such as painting, cooking,DIY Decor. Artistic activity elevates the mood.

4. Focus on the people who lift your mood; you need people around you who are aware of your condition and also are the epitome of positivity. Have people who cheer you up rather than bring you down.
Even if it's that one friend who makes you feel better, reach out.

5. Add more structure to your day; when having a depressive episode there is a tendency of not wanting to do a thing. That makes it even worse. It can be hard to complete tasks but have a planner that helps you make plans for your day & set appointments for yourself...

Promise yourself to follow that structure or schedule even when it doesn't involve you having places to go.
I promise you it will uplift your mood because you'll start being consistent with your to-do list when you see you can accomplish your tasks.

6. Practice mindfulness;it works by minimizing symptoms of stress and anxiety; Ways of practising mindfulness include meditation, yoga & breathing exercises.
Personally, i use an App called Calm that helps me meditate every evening.
It's available on Google Playstore & IOS.

These activities help you focus in the present moment.

Get a physical activity; throw on a t-shirt with sweats/ tights and go for a walk. Walks are a natural pick me up. Start with one specific area at a specific time then once you get used to it, you can increase the distance.
Walks help you feel good, any form of physical activity

Does. Scientifically exercise releases endorphins which help reduce pain and boost pleasure. It's worth a try.

8. Make a happy list;your favorite colors, places you'd love to visit, your favorite memories, your favorite stores, your favorite restaraunts. The whole concept behind this list is to make you feel happy, make you laugh or feel good.

This execise leaves me smiling or happy even if it's for a little bit. Do try it when having a depressive episode.

9. Identify your negative thoughts and put them on the witness stand; Depressive episodes manufacture negative thoughts and when you start having them, question them.
This creates a mental filter on what takes precedence or is worth occupying your mind.

Depression isn't about a person being weak or flawed, it's a disorder not a shortcoming.
I hope these tips help someone today.