Connection is a basic human need. It can be just as important to someone as food, shelter, and water.
While a connection is important, it’s also important and can be necessary to get some alone time to rest, recuperate, and recharge for whatever the next day will bring your way.
Because connecting with others is so important, isolating or withdrawing oneself from activities can be a sign that there’s a larger issue at play. This is one of the many signs and symptoms of depression.
So what are you supposed to do if you live alone? Here are 5 effective strategies for reducing the risk of depression while living alone.
1. Practice Self-Care
Self-care can be extremely important, especially for individuals who live alone. It’s important to take care of yourself. Your body requires proper fuel in order to function to the best of its ability. You can do this by giving your body the food it needs throughout your day, getting at least eight hours of sleep each night, and moving your body for at least thirty minutes each day.
2. Maintain Your Social Skills
Just because you live alone doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone. Maintaining your social connections or building new ones is a great way to help reduce the risk of developing depression or help reduce some of the signs and symptoms if you may already have depression.
Reach out to a friend or family member and set up a time to hang out. You can also join a club or group in your area that you’re interested in. This can help you explore your interests and hobbies but also connect with other like-minded individuals who share similar passions.
3. Try New Things
Depression can cause many people to withdraw from people, places, and activities that they once enjoyed doing. Living alone can make it easier to decide to just not attend something or not hang out with anyone. Try not to do this as it can lead to worsening signs and symptoms.
Instead, sign up for an activity or class that you’re interested in. If you’re interested in volleyball, try to find a league. If you have a passion for art, sign up for a workshop. No matter what you’re interested in, channel those and explore your interests so that you can become excited about your life again.
4. Get Outside
Spending time outside has been proven to help naturally reduce levels of stress in the body as well as boost one’s mood. Similar to moving your body, spending time in nature can be extremely beneficial to one’s overall mental health and wellness. Getting outdoors can help you explore, soak up some sunshine, and cross paths with others in your community — which can help make you feel a little less alone.
Find ways to get outside. Go for a walk around your neighborhood, ride a bicycle, go for a hike, or visit a local park.
5. Seek Professional Help
While there are certain lifestyle changes that you can implement on your own help to help reduce and better manage some of the signs and symptoms of depression, there is no proper replacement for seeking additional help.
A therapist trained in depression treatment will be able to help you determine the root cause of your anxiety. They’ll also be able to help you work through any signs and symptoms you may be dealing with. Even if you took the time to work on some of the lifestyle changes, a therapist may be able to recognize some different methods or techniques that you may not have considered yet.
Don’t delay in getting the help you need and deserve. Reach out today to set up an initial consultation.