Positive thinking and regular exercise can help deal with depression, suggest US physicians. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) advises people not to foster negative thoughts like fear of failure. Instead, replace them with positive thinking, it says.
And get as much exercise as possible — at least 30 minutes four to six times a week, says AAFP.
The physicians also recommend participating in activities that make you feel good about yourself.
While you are depressed, AAFP suggests avoiding making any major life decisions. Don’t drink alcohol or take unprescribed drugs. Both can cause serious interactions with antidepressant medication and can exacerbate depression, said AAFP.
Depression is a serious medical condition that can make a person feel unusually sad, worthless, restless or even suicidal, uninterested in activities that used to be fun for several weeks or longer.
The disorder requires professional treatment, often with a combination of medication and psychological therapy.