2. Spend time with people who care about you to help improve your mental health
According to research, anxiety and depression can be reduced with high levels of social support.[2] Our mental health is vital to the performance of our physical health; people with depression often develop other health issues as well. According to Nieca Goldberg of Joan H. Tisch Center for Women’s Health at NYU’s Langone Medical Center, stress can elevate your adrenaline and cortisol, and can impact your blood pressure and heart rate.
One on one time with a trusted friend that has your best interests in mind is one of the most effective ways to get rid of stress and help the nervous system recover from the trauma of depression. The one factor that is paramount in reaching out to people close to you, is to choose someone that is willing to be a listening ear, that will allow you to vent all of your frustrations. A good listening ear will pay attention to what you say and don’t say, give you their full undivided attention, without criticizing or judging you.
What to do:
- Open up and reach out to your friends, don’t isolate yourself from others
- Plan ahead to make sure all party’s schedules aren’t conflicting
- Preferably, invite them in the decision making process of the location you will meet at
- Be yourself and share as much of what’s going on with you
- Be sensitive enough to listen to their feedback and/or story as well
