5 Things I Do When Depression Hits Me Hard

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5 things I do when depression hits me hard

Today I am going to talk about something that’s super important but can be tough—depression.

It’s that heavy feeling that can make everything seem overwhelming and joyless.

It messes with your sleep, your appetite, and your ability to enjoy the things you used to love.

It’s like being stuck in a fog where nothing makes sense.

I wish I could tell you there’s a magic pill or a quick fix, but the truth is, there isn’t.

Tackling depression is a journey, and what works for me might not work for you.

But that’s totally okay!

And while there’s no magic pill or injection to cure it, there are ways to navigate through it.

In this post, I’m sharing 5 things that have helped me when depression hits hard.

P.S.- These strategies work for me, but your journey might be different. but don’t give up, keep searching until you find what works for you.”

5 Things I Did That Helped Improve My Mental Health

1. Create a Morning and Bedtime Routine

ROUTINES. I love daily routines, schedules, and time management.

After falling into depression, routine was the first thing that helped me become disciplined.

Otherwise, mornings used to be my enemy. I’d lie in bed for hours.

I’d stay in bed till noon, scrolling aimlessly or staring at the ceiling.

I used to hate waking up early in the morning.

Not just because I was not an early riser but because I thought, I’d feel terrible if I woke up.

I always felt tired, even if I slept for hours, and I just didn’t want to face another day that could be overwhelming.

Everything feels like a struggle, and it’s hard to find motivation or joy in anything.

The mornings can be particularly challenging because it feels like I am starting the day with a sense of dread and hopelessness.

That changed when I built a morning routine—not overnight, but gradually.

Now, I start my day with a short meditation.

Just five minutes of stillness and breathing set a calmer tone for my (overthinking mind).

Then I journal—nothing fancy, just a quick brain dump of thoughts or three things I’m grateful for

At night, I wind down by putting my phone away (yes, it’s hard) and reading a book instead.

Routine organize my days and my thoughts.

And when depression tries to knock me down, these small rituals remind me that I have a bit of control.

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2. Try Not to Isolate Yourself

When depression takes over, hiding from the world feels like the safest option for me.

I used to avoid phone calls, skip family gatherings, and dodge invitations from friends continuously for a long time.

However, I realized that isolation only makes things WORSE.

Loneliness feeds depression like dry wood fuels a fire.

Human connection, even if it’s just a quick chat or a coffee date, brings warmth and comfort.

As an introvert, Reaching out to other people is so hard for me.

So, I push myself (gently) to connect.

Sometimes it’s a quick chat with a friend, even if I don’t feel like it.

Other times, it’s just sitting with family, even if I’m not actively engaging.

The simple act of being around people can break the cycle of negative thoughts.

3. Gratitude Matters

Depression whispers that you have nothing to be thankful for.

But, Gratitude shouts back, “Oh yes, you do!”

It’s like an antidote to negative thoughts.

When I’m feeling down, I grab my journal and jot down 3 things I’m grateful for—even if it’s as simple as good coffee, a warm shower, or a kind word from my neighbor.

Please note that “Practicing gratitude doesn’t erase depression, but it shifts your perspective.

And sometimes that’s enough to get through the day.

It reminds you that not everything is dark and bleak.

Some light exists, and focusing on it helps brighten the shadows.

4. Do Something That Makes You Feel Alive

When your mood is in the gutter, doing anything can feel like a Herculean task.

But trust me on this—doing something that makes you feel alive can be transformative.

For me, that’s cooking.

There’s something therapeutic about chopping vegetables, stirring sauces, and filling the house with delicious smells.

It’s a creative process that demands my focus, pulling me out of my head and into the moment.

Sometimes, I throw myself into self-care—a long bath, a face mask, or painting my nails—anything that reminds me I’m worthy of care.

Whatever makes you feel alive, even for a few minutes—go for it.

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5. Limit Excessive Screen Time and Connect with Nature

Fortunately or unfortunately, we live in a screen-obsessed world.

 And too much of it can suck the joy right out of life.

When depression hits me, I find myself scrolling endlessly.

I’m getting lost in a sea of bad news, comparing my life to everyone else’s highlight reels.

It’s like I’m sinking deeper and deeper.

It pulls you in and leaves you feeling worse.

That’s why it is crucial to Limit screen time and head outdoors.  

Even if it’s just stepping onto a balcony or sitting by an open window, connecting with the natural world can shift your perspective in ways no app ever could, trust me.

Nature reminds me that life moves on, seasons change, and growth is always happening—even when it feels like I’m stuck.

Final Thoughts: 5 Things I Do When Depression Hits Me Hard

Depression is BRUTAL. There’s no sugar-coating that.

Depression is tough—so much tougher than words can convey.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but there are ways and practices that can help.

These are mine.

They won’t magically erase the darkness, but they create cracks where light can seep in.

Keep experimenting until you find what ways work best for you.

Remember, you’re not alone in this fight.

I wish you a happy journey.

 5 Things I Do When Depression Hits Me Hard

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