Depression tends to knock at our doors very frequently when we are stressed about something. January seems to be the time that most Kenyans have alleviated stress levels due to financial constraints and the many responsibilities that you have cater for. Many have children in school who require school fees, rent/mortgage, transport cash to work and not to mention the upkeep. Things get worse when you have a pregnant wife/girl friend. This mostly happens when since many tend to spend excessively during the festive holiday in December. If you are one of the above people am talking about, here are ways of handling depression.
1.Exercise
Physical activities helps one reduce stress levels. By doing some exercises one is able to stay relaxed and drown all the psychological and physical tension that one has. The sense of satisfaction that one gets from accomplishing a challenge comes in handy in raising ones self-esteem and reduces stress.
2. Avoid alcohol
Many depressed people tend to result to drinking in the hope of reducing the stress or simply forgetting. However, what they do not know is that alcohol makes it even worse. This is because, if you are broke and use the little money that you had on alcohol, then you have just gotten yourself into a much worse situation. Getting drunk helps you forget your problems for some hours but when you sober up, the problems seem even bigger and thus increasing your stress level thus becoming more depressed.
3. Stay involved with friends
When you find yourself depressed, it is important to stay involved with friends. Isolating oneself makes it much worse and may result into evil thought such as suicidal thoughts. Get to have some good time with friends and share your problems with the trusted ones. You might just find out that they are actually going through more things than you.
4. Sleep well
Sleep is sometimes the best medicine especially to depression. A good nights sleep or a power nap during the day will help you to fight depression as you will be able to think more clearly after you have relaxed your body and mind.
By Pauline Kagwiria
