Depression Anxiety Help: 8 Steps That Actually Make a Difference (4 of 5)

Get Enough Exercise

Health professionals regard exercise as the best therapy for severe depression due to its proven effectiveness. It doesn’t require you to pump iron or run a marathon either. Even light to moderate exercise, such as walking, can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Outdoor activities add the bonus benefit of providing nature’s calming influence while you’re moving. Go for a leisurely stroll after dinner. Plan a weekend hike. Do some gardening. All of these activities boost the brain’s feel-good chemicals!

Make Time To De-stress Yourself

Rest and relaxation are absolute musts. Depression and anxiety are emotionally-draining, making it difficult to stay engaged and productive. Just as you’d rest to treat a physical illness, mental health conditions also require recovery time. Give yourself permission to do calming activities that you enjoy. Cuddling with a pet, listening to music, watching a good movie, or taking in quiet moments in nature are excellent activities for symptom relief, especially when integrated into a comprehensive approach to depression and help.