When you are dealing with depression, everyday activities can get a little more challenging. From socializing with friends to going to work, or simply getting out of bed can be a struggle. However, there are some things that you can do to cope with depression and improve your quality of life. So, here are six tips for living with depression. 

1. Have a support network
For some people, this might mean building stronger ties with family or friends. In someone with depression, the feeling of knowing that they can always reach out to their loved ones for support can go a long way in improving their condition. If you do not see a support group in your family or friends, you can enroll yourself in a community group that gathers in your area. Alternatively, you can even look for an online support group to help you deal with the situation better. 

2. Lower your stress levels
Though stress is a vital part of your daily routine, too much stress can aggravate your depression. Though overcoming stress may be challenging, it is not impossible. First, try to understand your stress triggers and their root cause. If these triggers are avoidable, you should try to eliminate them from your life as much as possible. If not, change your thoughts and behavior towards it to decrease the degree of stress. 

3. Improve your sleep hygiene
Mood and sleep are interconnected. A study concluded that in 80% of people with depression, sleep disturbances are common. When you are depressed, you might find it hard to sleep or continually feel too exhausted to get out of bed. However, working on your sleep hygiene can better the quality and quantity of sleep. For example, do not use the phone for at least an hour before going to bed. Instead, read a book or indulge in any other calming activity. Also, have a fixed sleep-wake cycle. 

4. Forgive yourself for the bad days
Unfortunately, people with depression are usually their worst critics. Please understand, there will be both good days and bad days. If you do not find the will to keep moving despite giving your best on the bad days, do not be hard on yourself. Be self-forgiving, and start the following day afresh. Just remember, you are human, and depression is an illness. So, be kind to yourself.

5. Reach out to a professional
At times, people in your support group may not be able to help you. In this situation, you will have to get a professional involved. So, do not shy away from reaching out to a professional. A trained professional can assess the situation and offer adequate solutions. This tip will help you manage and live with depression.

6. Reframe negative thoughts
How you think has a significant impact on how you feel. Unfortunately, depression might push you into negative thinking, making it challenging for you to reframe your thoughts. You can recognize all the undesired patterns and modify your thoughts to appear more realistic and hopeful. When you are consistent in your effort, your brain automatically starts focusing on positive things.