5 Secrets to Preventing Depression

Depression hits all of us a one time or other. I'm not talking about clinical depression where you need professional help. I'm talking about those times when you just feel sad. Maybe it's the weather; lots of snow or rain. Maybe it's the kids getting to you. Maybe it's your partner doing something really bad. Maybe it's yourself messing up at home or work. Whatever triggered your bad mood, it's there and it doesn't feel good. Not to worry. Here are five quick and easy ways to help you get over that moody, sad feeling.

1.
In whatever form you want, you need to exercise. Walking is probably one of the easiest and cheapest ways. It requires no equipment, except good shoes, and can be done in all parts of the country and in all kinds of weather. Swimming is also good if you happen to be close to a beach or swimming pool. When you exercise, your body's internal "juices" start flowing faster and natural hormones and endorphins are released that make you feel better. Exercise also allows you to "smell the roses". Choose a nice place to go for that walk.

2.
Compliment the people around you. Tell your sister who's wearing that sweater you haven't seen for awhile how nice it looks on her. Tell you children how nicely they did their homework. Compliment your partner on how well he/she cleaned the dishes. Compliment yourself on how well you handled some situation at work. Depression can't survive in a complimentary mind set.

3.
Start a conversation with a stranger. How many times have you been in a grocery store waiting in line to check out. There's nothing to do but wait so say something positive to the person in back or front of you. Make sure you keep the comments positive. Don't start the conversation going by complaining about the long wait to go through the express lane. A positive comment starts the conversation on a friendly tone. Use the compliment ideas of secret number two. A depressed mood can't compete with a positive tone of conversation.

4.
This one is really strange: wash your hands. What, you're saying...you gotta be kidding me. Believe it or not washing your hands in warm water helps boost the circulation. This warmth helps you feel happier and yes warmer. You've heard the expression "Cold hands, warm heart". The reverse in not true. A compliment to washing your hands in warm water is taking a warm bath. How can anyone feel sad when you're soaking in a nice tub of warm water? Your whole body will feel warm and soothed. Depression and sadness are bye-bye.

5.
Studies show that a good mood is contagious. Make it a point to hang out with friends. Make sure the friends you associate with are upbeat and friendly. We all have friends who are less than upbeat. Keep your contact with them at a minimum. The sooner you connect with someone upbeat, the faster you'll feel the same.

Keep those "blue moods" at bay by following these suggestions. There's no need to go through life depressed and moody. You have the power to reverse these negative emotions.

American Psychological Association