Lifestyle and home remedies

Depression generally isn't an illness that you can treat on your own. But in addition to professional treatment, these self-care steps can help:

• Stick to your treatment plan. Don't skip psychotherapy sessions or appointments. Even if you're feeling well, don't skip your medications. If you stop, depression symptoms may come back, and you could also experience withdrawal-like symptoms.
• Learn about depression. Education about your condition can empower you and motivate you to stick to your treatment plan. Encourage your family members to learn about depression to help them understand and be supportive of you.
• Pay attention to warning signs. Work with your doctor or therapist to learn what might trigger your depression symptoms. Make a plan so you know what to do if your symptoms get worse. Contact your doctor or therapist if you notice any changes in symptoms or how you feel. Ask relatives or friends to help watch for warning signs.
• Take care of yourself. Eat healthy and be physically active. Consider walking, jogging, swimming, gardening or another activity that you enjoy. Sticking to a regular routine can help improve your mood.
• Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs. It may seem like alcohol or drugs lessen depression symptoms, but in the long run they generally worsen symptoms and make depression harder to treat. Talk with your doctor or therapist if you need help with this issue.