3 Healing Practises to Help Manage Depression

On estimate, 45% of people will experience a mental health disorder at some stage of life, with roughly 1 million Australians experiencing depression every year.

Depression is a prevalent mental disorder characterised by an ongoing state of sadness and absence of pleasure. It may often have no perceivable cause and can affect physical health, quality of sleep and social interactions.

Luckily, it is highly treatable using multidisciplinary treatments, but it requires an openness to heal from the sufferer. To help manage depression, try incorporating at least one of these healing practises into your lifestyle.

3 Good Things

This technique is a way of implementing positive psychology to tune into the amazing things going on in your life. When in a depressive state, it's often hard to see past the gloom so practising this technique daily will help shed some light on the good you experience. 

Every day recall 3 good things that happened. This can be anything as small as finding matching socks in the dryer or as big as buying  a new car. Write them down at the end of each day and, if you like, you can reflect back on the list every month.

Example:

Received a text from a loved one

Went for a walk in the sun

Cuddled with a pet

Self-Love List

On a blank sheet of paper, recall all the things you love and appreciate about yourself.

For example; 

I love that I maintain a healthy diet that nourishes my body, or

I love the way my hair looks, or

I love that I'm organised

Engage in this practise once per month and try to add new points each time.

Small Talk

Striking up conversations with strangers can make us feel more connected and boost our sense of self. 

Try to make a connection whether at the gym, commuting to work or in line for a coffee. You can simply ask how their day is  or relate the topic to your immediate surroundings.

If that seems too difficult for now, try simply just smiling. You may be surprised at how impactful one smile can be in the lives of others.

If you’re struggling with depression and would like some help using holistic approaches, make an appointment. Together, we can explore your goals and needs to formulate a treatment plan tailored specifically to you.