Depression can often be misunderstood, stigmatized, and thus untreated so its common for feelings ofhopelessnessto persist.

Therefore, its important to recognize the telltale signs of depression to manage the disorder sooner.

Depression is a medical condition that needstreatmentits not a sign of weakness or failure.

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The prevalence of a major depressive episode was highest (17.0%) among individuals aged 18-25.

Experiencing the following symptoms can make it difficult to function.

Take an inventory of how often youre giving yourself care andcompassionon a daily basis.

Are you alert and interested in changes in your mental and physical health?

Are you aware of your emotions, and can you process them adequately?

Are you taking good care of yourself?

Are you doing activities that bring you joy just for the sake of it?

Working on these self-care pillars is essential to optimizing your physical and emotional health.

Be Intentional About Quality Sleep

Sleep quality is an important indicator of well-being.

Seven to eight hours is recommended for optimal health.

If your sleep is not improving, seek assistance from your doctor to explore your options.

Biologically, meditation has a positive, notable impact on certain physiologic functions.

Practicing mindfulness can also lead to a perceptual shift.

There may be a relationship between decreased Vitamin D levels and depression.

To get out of a depressive episode, adequate exposure tonatural sunlightcan help fulfill your daily Vitamin D quota.

Or you may be around people and still feel alone.

However, humans are innately social creatures.

The Harvard researchers noted that relationships are a powerful predictor of happiness and life satisfaction.

Practicing gratitude can help increase positive affect, subjective happiness, life satisfaction, and reduce depression symptoms.

Whatever you like to do for joy.

Depression can take a significant toll on the quality of your daily life.

Taking these tangible steps can help you get out of a depressive episode.

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