Depression is a health condition that affects a person’s mental state and leads to unexplained bouts of sadness, dullness, and tiredness. It can affect anyone irrespective of age or gender. While the disorder has to be diagnosed and treated by an expert, here are five ways to overcome depression naturally.

1. Exercise
If you’re feeling down and want a quick way to up the mood, try exercising. This method is slowly being considered a treatment option for depression and other mental health conditions. When you exercise, the body releases endorphins. These chemicals trigger a positive feeling and make you feel like you’ve achieved something. So give exercising a try.

2. Volunteer
One of the best feelings in the world is to give something to someone without expecting anything in return. This is what volunteering is all about. You can volunteer to cook for people in need, offer help in animal shelters, or volunteer your time. There are so many positives about volunteering:

• It helps you get out of the house at regular intervals.
• It lets you meet new people.
• It enables you to understand that others are struggling just like you.
• It makes you think of positive things.

3. Write a diary
In the list of five ways to overcome depression naturally, one of the easiest yet practical things is maintaining a diary. Write down how you feel every day. Make a note of the things that you feel positive about and the things that put you down. Write down the stuff that you’re grateful for. It will help clear the mind before you sleep, and you can always look back to the good things and feel happy.

4. Declutter the house
Cleaning the house is also one of the best ways to get away from depression naturally. People who are depressed usually don’t take great care of their home or room. As a result, their living space gets cluttered and messy. This adds to the sober mood. So take a day off to declutter and buy something nice for your room. This will add to the positivity.

5. Eat healthy and fresh food
Are you a person who relies on takeaways every day? Do you buy frozen food and packaged food and don’t step into the kitchen at all? The final option in our list of five ways to overcome depression naturally is to get out, buy fresh fruits and vegetables, and come home to cook a hearty meal. Fresh food from your kitchen will warm your heart and your body and make you smile.

These five ways to overcome depression naturally will make a difference to your mood. Keep friends and family close and take help from your doctor and opt for medications if needed.