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Prevention
Depression can come and go. When depression symptoms come back it’s called a relapse.
Depression can come and go. When depression symptoms come back it’s called a relapse.Just as a reminder, depression symptoms can include feeling sad, hopeless, or losing interest in ornot getting pleasure from the things that you used to enjoy. You may be finding it hard to focus,remember things, or make decisions.Depression can feel different for everyone.But when you are feeling better there are things you can do to help lower your chance of depressioncoming back.Here are a few ways.Take your medicines exactly as prescribed.Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.For example, you may have side effects like difficulty sleeping.Or your symptoms may not feel like they are getting better. There may be better medicine for you.Continue to take your medicine even after your symptoms improve. Don't stop taking them withouttalking to your doctor. If your depression keeps coming back, your doctor may suggest that you takemedicine even longer.Keep going to counseling. Talk with your counselor if you are having a hard time attending yoursessions or you think the sessions aren't working.Choose healthy foods. Include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains in your diet each day.Move more. Adding a little movement into your life may just be the mental perk you need. It can beas easy as moving more today than you did yesterday.You can choose almost anything, like walking, running, biking, and swimming. Working in the yard,such as raking or pushing a lawn mower, and dancing count too.It’s best when it’s something you like to do.Keep a regular sleep schedule.Try for 8 to 10 hours of sleep a night.© The Wellness NetworkIf the normal stuff—like avoiding caffeine before bed, shutting off devices at least a half hour beforeyou try to sleep, and turning off the lights—isn’t working, it may be time to talk to your doctor abouthow to get a better night’s sleep.Avoid using illegal drugs or marijuana and drinking alcohol. If you need help quitting alcohol or drugs,it's important that you talk to your doctor.See your doctor right away if you have new symptoms or feel that your depression is comingback.And please, if you have thoughts of hurting yourself or another person, get emergency help orcall 988 right away.For some people, depression can ease back into your life without an invitation or an event.It can just come back. You know yourself best, so if you feel sad, anxious, or hopeless most of thetime for more than a few days, call your doctor.© The Wellness NetworkThis program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.© The Wellness Network
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