Looking for relief from stress, depression and anxiety? Here are five quick tips to aid in combating depression:

Overcoming depression is not easy, you cannot beat it through sheer power although you do have some control over it. Here are five quick tips to aid in combating depression:

Tip #1. Let In Sun!

Working hard without regular breaks is a great way to build up stress and tension. Make sure you have at least one 15-minute break in the morning and the afternoon – and make sure you take a lunch break – at least 30 minutes to allow your body and brain to relax and reset. If possible, eat lunch away from your workstation – get outside in the sunshine if you can.

This is one reason why many people suffer from depression more often in winter than in the other seasons. It’s simply because the nights are longer and the days are darker. If you must stay inside for long periods, you can always lighten up your room with brighter lights to help offset the darkness. Of course, simply having lunch outside the office for a change and taking frequent walks in the early afternoon will make a big difference. A simple change in your daily routine to get more sunshine can help you overcome depression.

2. Regular exercise can help relieve stress, depression and anxiety.

Exercise releases endorphins into your system and will give you a natural boost – making it harder for depression to set in.

Exercise will also provide you with a break from brooding and dwelling upon problems and troubles – but only if you perform the right kind of exercises. Avoid forms of exercise that will let you brood (weight lifting, jogging, treadmills) and partake in exercises that require your full concentration. Competitive sports such as squash, tennis, badminton and circuit training are all excellent examples.

Tip #3. Take a Break. Sit back and Relax.

Avoid negative self talk – telling yourself you’re useless, worthless, stupid, hopeless, boring, ugly, and a loser. Equally, don’t let yourself believe that other people hate you, find you difficult to be around and that you’re better off being alone.

Negative self talk is incredibly powerful and they will hurt you. By accepting yourself and acknowledging that you’re not perfect and that you make mistakes, just like everyone else does, will go a long way to overcome the effects of depression.

4. Isolation is another problem experienced by stress, depression and anxiety sufferers. It is quite o.k to want some time to yourself – but it’s not o.k to be constantly alone and shun the companionship of others. When you constantly isolate yourself, you allow yourself to dwell on problems and events and beat yourself up for hours on end.

Also, did you know that exercising regularly is a vital depression buster. Simply because it allows your body to produce more endorphins than usual. Endorphins are sometimes called “the happy chemicals” because of their Stress-Reducing and Happiness-Inducing properties.

Tip #5. Get a Social Life outside of work.

No man (or woman) is an island. Your inner circle of friends are there to give you moral support. Spending time and engaging in worthwhile activities with them could give you a very satisfying feeling. Establish close ties with your family and friends. The love and care expressed by others could tremendously boost your immune system and fend off illnesses. Best of all, you’ll live a more secured and happy life.

These five depression busting tips will help raise your spirits and bring a better quality to your life.

If you are concerned that you, or a loved one may be suffering from depression, seek advice from qualified psychologist