Depression, anxiety, and stress are rampant these days.
Economic hardships, an unprecedented pandemic, too much technology, information overload, inflation…. the list of aggravated stressors goes on and on!
48.6% of Americans are on anti-depressants according to the CDC, which shows us this is something many people struggle with. You are not alone. ❤️
Here are 8 unexpected reasons you might be feeling down and how to address them going forward:
1. It’s What You’re Eating
Food is literally cellular information.
Processed foods are destroying our mental health. We all know we have an obesity crisis (60% of our country will be obese by 2030), but did you know there is a direct correlation between the food we consume and poor mental health?
Multiple studies have found a correlation between a diet high in refined sugars and impaired brain function — and even a worsening of symptoms of mood disorders, such as depression.
So if you struggle with your mental health, stick to a diet that consists of real whole foods and limit processed food as much as possible, if not entirely depending on how sensitive you are. Cut out sweets and sugar. You will feel so much better.
2. You Hold it Inside
LET IT OUT.
You need to talk to someone. Whether that be a therapist, your best friend, your sibling, your mother, your grandmother, or a cousin, just tell someone.
It’s probably eating you alive. Maybe you sit with your thoughts all day because you’re too embarrassed to tell someone. Maybe you pretend like “everything is fine,” but deep down, you know something isn’t right.
Maybe you think things will get better over time, and maybe they will, but it never hurts to share how you feel with somebody you trust.
Nobody is perfect. If anyone is going to judge you for what’s going on in your life, you’re talking to the wrong people.
Be open. Express yourself. Share your story.
Everyone has one.
3. You Don’t Sleep Enough
Sleep is a key factor that determines the state of our mental health. Not getting enough sleep skews our body’s ability to regulate our emotions.
Sleep is just as important to our health as eating, drinking, and breathing. It allows our bodies to repair themselves and our brains to consolidate our memories and process information.
Poor sleep is linked to a weakened immune system and mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.
4. You’re Not Dedicating Time to Yourself
You’re burnt out.
Maybe you work too much or never have time to yourself because you are busy with the kids. Whatever the case may be, you need to take time for yourself. Even if it’s only 30 minutes a day, your alone time is necessary to recharge and process your own emotions.
If you are constantly on the go and rarely have a minute to sit and reflect upon the world or your personal life and goals, you’re bound to feel depressed.
You have to allow time to do the things you enjoy and get creative. For some, this might be yoga, relaxing at the beach, grabbing food with friends, playing basketball with the guys, or reading a book. Take a bubble bath, light some candles, play some music, and get in your element, whatever that might be.
5. You’re Struggling Financially
It’s hard to save money these days, but it’s not impossible. In a survey with 3000 people, 72% reported feeling stressed about money within the previous month.
70% of Americans have less than $1,000 in their savings, according to another survey.
Even worse, 45% of Americans have nothing saved.
Start tracking your expenses. Try and cut down where you can. Everything adds up.
Always ask yourself, “Do I really need this?”
6. You Hate Your Job
The work we do on a daily basis becomes a large part of who we are. If you don’t enjoy what you do, your mental health is bound to suffer.
Don’t be afraid to make changes in your life. It’s never too late to change careers. Prioritize what is most important to you.
Where there is a will there is a way.
7. You Don’t Move Enough
Lack of movement is correlated with depression and severe mood disorders. Besides the fact that it’s good for your physical health, exercise is highly beneficial for those who struggle with their mental health.
If you’re struggling with depression, please, never hesitate to get help. You are not alone and it’s very common to feel how you’re feeling.
Starting July 16, dialing 988 will connect you with mental health, suicide prevention, and substance use disorder counselors.
Until then, you can reach the hotline at 800-273-8255.
If you don’t struggle with depression, you might know someone who does… so send these tips to anyone it might help! ❤️✨
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