How Men Can Actively Combat Depression

Depression is one of the most common health conditions for men, yet there continues to be a stigma attached to confronting or talking about mental illness. However, there is no shame in admitting you are living with depression, as the condition affects millions of people across the world.

If you believe you are living with the mental illness, and you want to take control of your health once and for all, read the following tips on how men can actively combat depression.

Fight Mental Illness with Exercise

It is common for people’s energy levels to significantly drop when living with depression. As a result, you might be tempted to lie in bed or curl up on the sofa, rather than maintaining an active lifestyle.

However, 25 studies have found that regular physical activity can help fight depression. Counteract the symptoms of depression by exercising for at least twenty minutes per day, five days a week, which will raise your heart rate and will release endorphins in your body, which will lift your mood.

Consider Testosterone Replacement

It isn’t unusual for men over the age of 30 to be diagnosed with low testosterone, as its production can decline with each passing year. If you are suffering from depression, fatigue, mood swings, weight gain or depleted energy, you should book a consultation for testosterone therapy in Lafayette, which can suppress your body’s conversion of testosterone into estrogen.

Never Isolate Yourself

Many people believe they need to isolate themselves when living with depression, or they might not want to bother their loved ones with their problems. Unfortunately, social isolation can prevent you from improving your mental health.

No matter how afraid or embarrassed you might feel, you should confide in a friend or family member about your emotions, which could be the beginning of the end of your depression. You also must push yourself outside of your comfort zone and start socializing with your loved ones, which could boost your mood and make you feel more secure in your relationships.

Reignite a Passion

Depression can affect almost every aspect of your daily life. Not only can it affect your mood, but it can also impact your passion and hobbies. That’s because you might lack the energy or focus to embark on your favorite pastime.

Rather than allowing yourself to succumb to a lethargic state, you must pursue your passions to avoid giving your depression power. Embarking on your favorite hobbies will allow you to focus on something other than your state of mind. It could even reignite a passion inside of you, which will add optimism into your everyday life.

Stop Punishing Yourself

It’s time to stop punishing yourself for living with depression, as this will only amplify your feelings and prevent you from seeking the help you need. Constantly criticizing yourself will eat away at your self-worth, so you must start by showing yourself some compassion and self-love. To do so, pick up the phone and book an appointment with your doctor, so you can finally combat depression and move forward with your life.