When you’re suffering from depression, even the simplest everyday tasks like getting out of bed can seem impossible. Getting through the day while depressed can be difficult, so we’ve put together some tips on how you can start off your day on the best foot.
Before You Get Out of Bed
When you first get up in the morning, give yourself a few moments to think of all the positive things happening that day. Think about the friends you will get to see at school, the beautiful weather that you may get to enjoy and the time you’ll have at the end of the day to read a good book. Try to think of one thing that you could do to make your day enjoyable, like scheduling in some time for some fresh air or getting coffee with a close friend after school. By visualizing yourself having a good day before it even starts, you’re setting a positive tone for the day ahead.
First Thing in the Morning
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Once you’ve gotten out of bed in the morning, drink a full glass of water or herbal tea. Staying hydrated is super important when you’re depressed; dehydration is linked to stress and fatigue. After drinking a glass of water, try doing a few minutes of yoga, stretching, meditation or any other mindful activity that will help you be present throughout your day.
Take Care of Yourself
After you’ve completed your mindful activity, take time to take good care of yourself by brushing your teeth, washing your face and doing any other personal care chores you need to complete.
Before you start your day, make sure you eat a healthy breakfast. While sweet breakfasts such as sugary cereal and toaster waffles may seem like a tasty option, starting your day off with a healthy meal will help keep your mood and energy levels elevated throughout the day. Some quick and healthy breakfasts to make include a bowl of whole grain cereal, a bowl of oatmeal, fresh fruit and yogurt or a smoothie.
Finally, before you head out the door, make sure you have everything you will need for the day ahead, such as homework, to reduce the amount of stress you experience throughout the day.
Preparing Yourself for the Next Morning
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At the end of your day, before heading off to bed, there are a few things you can do to make the next morning easier and smoother. Set out the clothes you plan on wearing the next day so you don’t have to choose them the next morning, and put all the things you’ll need for the day in a tidy pile by the door so you’re not scrambling around in the morning running late because you can’t find your papers or your keys. Finally, make sure you get to bed at an early enough hour that you’re able to get a full 8 hours of sleep. Doing a few little things the night before will help reduce a lot of stress when you wake up in the morning with little motivation.
Starting your day when you’re feeling depressed can be really difficult, but with these tips you may find waking up a little bit easier in the morning.
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