Feature Image: Frederic Frognier
Depression affects a lot of teens, but there are ways to handle your stress and feelings to better manage and prevent depression.
Talk to someone
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Sharing your feelings is one of the hardest and bravest things to do when feeling depressed, but it’s a major step to getting help and feeling better. Talk to a friend, parent, teacher or coach—anyone you feel comfortable discussing your mental health with.
Surround yourself with positive people
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Depression can hold us back from doing the things we love, but positive people will help boost your mood and encourage you to participate in fun activities.
Exercise
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Exercising releases endorphins, a natural feel-happy chemical created in the brain, so staying active is a great way to to boost your mood and improve self-esteem.
Get outside
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Not only is there fresh air and sunshine, but chances are you’ll be more active outside than inside. Unplugging from technology and getting outside helps to reduce depression, so turn off the TV and start exploring!
Avoid drugs and alcohol
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Drugs and alcohol may make you feel better for a while, but they will make depression worse and have negative effects in the long run. Choose safe, healthy coping methods instead.
Keep a journal
Writing about what is bothering you or stressing you out helps you come to terms with the issue and come up with a plan to solve the problem.
Eat healthy
Eating well is part of living a healthy lifestyle, which is known to improve depression, self-esteem and confidence.
