Most of us today are depressed. Depressed because of what we see on social media. Depressed because of the problems. Depressed because of nothing. Some of us may think that depression is not that big deal when in fact it is. By just depression itself, it can make a person suicide. This problem can take lives.

We all know that each of us has different stories to tell. We are all humans. We are not perfect. We are not a robot. So, if you ask me how do we handle depression, then here is the answer.

Based on the article written in WebMD(dot)com, they stated that “..the hippocampus, a small part of the brain that is vital to the storage of memories, appears to be smaller in some people with a history of depression than in those who’ve never been depressed. A smaller hippocampus has fewer serotonin receptors. Serotonin is one of many brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters that allow communication across circuits that connect different brain regions involved in processing emotions.”

They also add, “Some researchers have found that the stress hormone cortisol is produced in excess in depressed people. These investigators believe that cortisol has a toxic or “shrinking” effect on the development of the hippocampus.”

So basically if you feel depressed right now, don’t blame yourself. You do not have any control over it.

Depression is a problem, thus, it should have a solution. Here are some ways and tips on how to cope with your depression based on help guide(dot)org:

1. Look for support from people who make you feel safe and cared for.

But be aware. Not all your friends can help you. Some of them can worsen the situation.

2. Aim for 8 hours of sleep.

Sleeping is the best medicine to cure depression. Complete sleep can make your brain refreshed and can also create good chemicals in our brain.

3. List what you love about yourself.

All people have two sides: bad and good quality. You should always see the good rather than the bad side within ourselves.

4. Spend some time in nature

Even if you are not a nature lover, seeing natural new things can make you forget problems for a moment.

5. Listen to music

Listening to music can make you feel happy for a short period of time.

6. Boost your B vitamins

Deficiencies in B vitamins such as folic acid and B-12 can trigger depression.

7. Don’t skip meals

Skipping meals can make you feel irritable and tired.

8. Food rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 can stabilize your mood.

9. Emotional reasoning. Believing that the way you feel reflects reality (“I feel like such a loser. Everyone must be laughing at me!”)

Everyone can feel sad. Even for a short period of time. Even dogs can feel sad. It is part of being natural. It is part of being a human. To be honest, you are lucky enough to have problems. You are lucky to feel sad because if you don’t feel that way, there is a huge chance that you are a psychopath.