One of the most common diseases in the modern world that unfortunately affects numerous people is depression. Although some scientists believe that it occurs due to chemical imbalances in the brain, others oppose this idea. Nevertheless, they all agree that the prescribed medications do not really work. Instead, they can even worsen the situation.

Luckily, there are some natural methods that can help you to manage depression and regain control over your mental state. Keep reading and find out the tricks and tips that can help you to be happy again.

1. Dancing

Dancing is a perfect mental exercise that can make you feel happier, calmer and more relaxed. It soothes the nervous system and has positive effects on the brain. You can practice ballroom dancing, line dancing or break dancing, depending on what works best for you.

2. Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids

According to some studies, patients who consumed fish oil on a daily basis noticed 50% decrease in symptoms like sleep disorders, anxiety, decreased sex drive, suicidal thoughts and unexplained feelings of sadness. Omega-3 fatty acids can also improve the cardiovascular health and lower the levels of cholesterol. They are found in flaxseeds, salmon, tuna and walnuts.

3. Working out

When your body is active, the heart pumps more blood which has positive effects on your overall health. Exercising also reduces stress by stimulating the secretion of endorphins and increasing the growth of the brain cells. Working out is especially helpful when you are angry or stressed because it drains away the negativity.

4. Use more light

One of the main reasons for the low mood during winter months is the Seasonal Affective Disorder which appears as a result of less light. It includes symptoms like, apathy, irritability, depression, sleeping disorders, anxiety and loss of libido. Make sure you use more light to overcome these symptoms.

5. Travelling

Travelling can also alleviate depression and boost your mood. It doesn’t have to be far away since the point is to enjoy your stay. This will increase your self-confidence and help you to face all challenges in your life.

6. Lifestyle changes

In order to change your mental state you have to quit the old habits and adopt healthier lifestyle. For example, replace the processed and greasy food with healthier alternatives, such as fruits and vegetables. Provide enough sleep for your body and drink plenty of water.

7. Stop living in the past

Spending time rewriting, recreating and reliving the past will leave you in a state of despair. If you want a different and happier life, you need to change your thought process.

8. Do what makes you happy

Do everything that makes you happy, for example watch your favorite movies, hang out with your friends, go shopping, enjoy long walks, etc.

9. Avoid being alone

Being alone can make you feel lonely and depressed. Therefore, make sure you do some brain-stimulating activities and socialize yourself as much as possible.

10. Live in the present

Depression appears when you overemphasize the negativity in your life and discount the positivity. Stop over-thinking and overanalyzing the situations in your life. Instead, live in the present moment and don’t let the past and the uncertainties about your future to steal your joy.

11. Plan your future

One of the main reasons for depression is having no idea what to do with your future. You have to find out what you want and work on achieving your goals.

12. Have faith

When you have faith you attract positive situations. Believe in love and soon you will notice positive changes in your life.

13. Appreciate the good things in your life

People nowadays seem too busy with themselves and they rarely think about others. They even forget to express their appreciation and gratefulness. Any act of kindness and goodness should be appreciated and acknowledged.

14. Two sides of the coin

Sadness and happiness are two sides of a same coin. Everything will become easier once you realize that you have to deal with both emotions at certain point of time.