Need Self-Care Ideas For Depression? I Have 10 Easy Ones!

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I know how hard it is to find self care ideas for depression and that is exactly why I created a post about it!

Finding ways to take care of yourself when you’re depressed can help improve productivity and your mental state. Finding attainable activities that won’t cause too much stress or mental load can be hard. Here is a list of self care ideas for depression that won’t be too difficult to get yourself to do if you are having a difficult time.

This post is all about self care ideas for depression! 

Why Self Care is Important For Depression

Self-care is like the secret sauce for managing depression. Sure, it might be a bit tricky when you’re feeling down, but trust me, it’s worth it! Picture it like this, self-care is like a superhero for your physical, emotional and mental well-being. It’s got your back, even when things get tough.

Now, imagine you’re on a journey, navigating through the ups and downs of life. Yes, a mental health professional is like your trusty GPS, guiding you in the right direction with treatment options and support. But, don’t forget your self-care routine! It’s like your favorite playlist, lifting your mood and energizing your journey.

What does a self-care strategy look like, you ask? Well, it’s like packing your favorite snacks for a road trip. You need to take care of your physical and psychological health (think nutritious food and good tunes), manage and reduce stress (like avoiding traffic), and recognize your emotional needs (you know, those quiet moments when you pull over to enjoy the view).

You can also find help from your fellow travelers. Peer support, practicing mindfulness, and spending time in nature can be like that roadside diner offering comfort food, a friendly face, and a breath of fresh air.

Remember, self-care isn’t just about pampering yourself (though a little indulgence never hurt anyone!). It’s more like a trusty co-pilot, helping you handle the everyday stressors and manage the symptoms of depression. It’s all about improving your overall mental health and quality of life.

And don’t forget the P.L.E.A.S.E method! It’s like your vehicle’s maintenance schedule, reminding you that self-care includes essential aspects such as balanced eating (fuel), sleep (rest stops), and exercise (keeping the engine running smoothly).

In the end, self-care isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity when dealing with depression. It’s about taking control of your health and managing symptoms. But remember, even the best drivers need a mechanic sometimes. So, while self-care is a crucial component in managing depression, don’t forget to seek professional help when needed. Happy travels!

Self Care Ideas For Depression

1. Drink Water and Take Vitamins/ Medication

I have a whole blog post about how drinking water has helped my mental health. Taking care of your body can really impact your mental health. When you don’t drink enough water, you can get a headache or not be able to function as efficiently.

Try drinking a gallon of water and taking a multivitamin to see if that helps. In conjunction with other things on this list, this can help get your mind in a better track. 

 2. Pursue a Hobby or Interest

I have been enjoying crochet because it is easy to pick up where I left off. Things like sourdough take a long time, and there’s not a lot of hands-on time, so I use sourdough as a money-saving hobby that I enjoy and not as much something for my mental health.

It can be very meditative to shape and handle the dough, so sourdough can be a great activity if you have a lot of time on your hands.

If you enjoy painting, that is a great way of being creative and getting your mind off any struggles you’re going through. 

 3. Talk to a Friend or Mentor 

If I sit in my living room with my roommate, we will sit together and talk about our days. If you live with people, just listening to them speak or hanging out can even help my mental health. Caring for yourself can mean just being with people who don’t tear you down. 

 4. Look into Therapy

Even searching about therapy can help find tools in how to help yourself. Maybe find a CBT Therapy book and work through that. If you can’t afford to go to therapy or services like Betterhelp.

Betterhelp does have a student discount that you can check out if you are a college student to make it a little easier on your wallet. Therapy is another great way to find self care ideas for depression.

 5. Eat Something (Even If it is Not The Best For You)

While eating something nutritious would be my preferred method, but I notice when I am anxious or depressed, I don’t eat enough food. This is a great way to get up out of bed and do something for your body that doesn’t take too much energy.

I find that keeping cheese and crackers, hummus, and ramen on hand helps me eat when I don’t feel like cooking. I prefer not to order delivery because it puts too much stress on me financially and if I don’t finish the food, I feel bad for spending so much money.

Finding safe and easy foods that don’t break the bank are great ways to keep yourself fed even when you have food aversions or can’t get out of bed to prepare. 

 6. Spend Time Outside

I like to do this by sitting on my balcony in my apartment and listening to music. Even if it is not enjoying nature, it could just be people watching or listening to the sounds outside. Finding peace in being in nature and doing nothing is a great skill to have under your belt. 

 7. Get Enough Sleep

When I’m depressed, I find I get too much sleep. But when I make sure to go to bed at a reasonable time, it makes me feel more put together and good about myself. Having an attainable routine and taking melatonin or Benadryl helps me fall asleep at a good time.  

 8. Do a Load of Laundry

Getting a pair of clean socks, pants, and a shirt can really help you feel a little better. I find little self-care activities that don’t require too much commitment can be a great way to boost your morale. Helping yourself feel a little cleaner without having to be up for too long can go a long way. I like just putting one outfit and some towels in the washer and dryer because it gives me just enough without feeling like I will spend forever afterward folding and putting clothes away. 

 9. Clean Off Your Bed

If you have clothes or food on your bed, go ahead and clean that off. Wipe off any crumbs and give yourself an easier time going to sleep. Cleaning off your bed can give you even some mental space when you are sleeping and not worrying about knocking something off of the bed while trying to get some vital shut-eye. 

 10. Watch A Comforting Movie

Find a few movies that don’t stress you out and can watch easily. Find some on Netflix or Hulu or Amazon that won’t cost you anything and have them written down on your phone just in case you need something easy. Try watching it in a common place like your living room instead of your bedroom to invite others to watch it with you. 

Well, There You Go

This post was all about self care ideas for depression.

Remember that not everything in self care will lead to instant gratification, but it can make you feel a fraction better.

You are going to find that you feel better little by little as you incorporate more self-care.

Comment below with more ideas for depression self care, because I know I’ve only scratched the surface!