Being lonely or sad can be a normal part of our lives from



time to time. We get sad when we fail our exams, when

we're rejected by the person we love, or when someone

very close to us dies. Depression, however, can be much

more serious than just plain loneliness. It could lead to

life-long consequences that could destroy your self-esteem,

health, and well-being.

Here are some excellent tips to conquer the despondent mood

and get the most joy out of your daily activities.

1) Get Enough Light and Sunshine.

Lack of exposure to sunlight is responsible for your

body's secretion of the hormone melatonin, which could trigger

a dispirited mood and a lethargic condition.

Melatonin is only produced in the dark. It lowers the

body temperature and makes you feel sluggish. If you

are always cooped up in your room (with the curtains

closed), it would be difficult to restrain yourself

from staying in bed.

This is the reason why many people are suffering from

depression much more often in winter than in the other

seasons. It's because the nights are longer, there are more

dreary weather days, and we sometimes go several days

without seeing the sun.

If you can't afford to get some sunshine, you can

always lighten up your room with brighter lights.

Have lunch outside the office. Take frequent walks

instead of driving your car over short distances.

2) Get Busy. Get Inspired.

You'll be more likely to overcome any feeling of

depression if you are too busy to notice it. Live

a life full of inspired activities.

Do the things you love. If you're a little short

on cash, you could do simple things like

taking a stroll in the park, participating in your favorite

sports, reading books, or engaging in any activity

that you have passion for and would love to pursue.

Set a goal - a meaningful purpose in life. No

matter how difficult or discouraging life can be,

remain firm and have an unshakable belief that you

are capable of doing anything you desire. With

this kind of positive attitude, you will attain

a cheerful disposition to beat the blues.

3) Take a Break.

Relax. Listen to soothing music. Soak in a nice warm

bath. Ask one of your close friends to massage

you. Take a break from your stressful workload

and spend the day just goofing around. In other

words, have some fun.

4) Eat Right and Exercise.

Avoid foods with lots of sugar, caffeine, or

alcohol. Sugar and caffeine may give you a

temporary burst of energy; but they later

bring about anxiety, tension, and other

problems. Alcohol is a depressant. Many people

drink alcohol to "forget their problems." Again, this is just

a temporary fix. Many times when the ?high? wears off,

you'll feel even worse.

Exercising regularly is a very important depression beater

because it allows your body to produce more

endorphins than usual. Endorphins are sometimes

called "the happy chemicals" because of their

stress-reducing and happiness-inducing properties.

5) Get a Social Life.

Your circle of friends are there to give you moral

support. Spending time and engaging in activities with them

will give you a very satisfying feeling. Nothing

feels better than having group support.

Never underestimate the power of touch. Doesn't

it feel so good when someone pats you on the back

and gives you words of encouragement during your

most challenging times? Hug or embrace someone

today. You'll never know when you have saved

another life.

Get intimate. Establish close ties with your

family and friends. The love and care expressed

by others could tremendously boost your immune

system and fend off illnesses. Best of all, you'll

live a more secured and happy life.