When you feel depressed, you will naturally find ways to cope with the negative feelings. Try engaging in activities that bring relief and help with relaxation. It is essential to also talk to your doctor and listen to their advice. Here are some ideas:

  • Socialize
  • Exercise
  • Face your fears
  • Creative projects
  • Love on your pet
  • Find a hobby
  • Sleep between 7 and 9 hours per night
  • Relaxing with music, a book or movie
  • Pay attention to your thoughts
  • Practice deep breathing
  • Learn what your triggers are
  • Build a routine
  • Clean or organize
  • Do things to boost your self-esteem
  • Meditate
  • Redecorate
  • Treat yourself
  • Keep a journal
  • Go to therapy
  • Listen to music
  • Go for a walk
  • Let yourself cry
  • Try yoga
  • If you have medication- make sure to take it
  • Follow your doctor’s orders

Sometimes these coping techniques can be unpredictable. What may help you once, may not help the next time. Or something that has helped dozens of times before just might not do the trick anymore. There are times where our moods remain unchanged no matter what we do, but the one thing we can do is keep moving forward. We can keep putting one foot in front of the other even if it feels like slow motion or we’re making our way through fog. Sometimes we need to rest. Sometimes we need to sit with these feelings. Sometimes we may need to turn back. Sometimes we might not even remember the direction we’re going in. Just remember to put one foot in front of the other. We’ll get to where we’re going.

When to see a doctor

If you feel depressed, make an appointment to see your doctor or mental health professional as soon as you can. If you’re reluctant to seek treatment, talk to a friend or loved one, any health care professional, a faith leader, or someone else you trust.

When to get emergency help

If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Also consider these options if you’re having suicidal thoughts:

  • Call your doctor or mental health professional.
  • Call a suicide hotline number — in the U.S., call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). Use that same number and press “1” to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.
  • Reach out to a close friend or loved one.
  • Contact a minister, spiritual leader or someone else in your faith community.