5 Methods to Overcome Depression After a Break Up

Almost everyone of us suffered from a break up someday in our lives. The feelings of blues and sadness in this period is not easy and affects every activity we do in our daily work. Sometimes, symptoms persist and can become full blown depression. Lingering sadness, anxiety, lethargy, loss of joy in activities, changes in sleep and eating habits - these can be symptoms of depression that should be addressed. It is very important to take good care of yourself during this difficult time. Here are 5 strategies to help you get over the depression of a break up:

1. Eat well and healthy. Steer clear of junk foods and processed sugars, and eat mostly fruit, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. If you have trouble with your appetite, try carrying around healthy snack foods to eat throughout the day. If the opposite is true and you overeat, try limiting your intake to meals, and be sure you aren't eating while distracted, like in front of the TV. Set a time to stop eating in the evening.

2. Try taking supplements. It is always advisable to consult your health care provider before trying new supplements. A food based multivitamin is a good start, as well as calcium if you need additional calcium, and fish oil. Fish oil has many physical benefits including the promotion of healthy brain function. L-theanine is a good anti-anxiety natural supplement, and 5 HTP (hydroxytryptophan) is a helpful natural antidepressant that increases serotonin, a mood regulating brain neurotransmitter.

3. Exercise regularly. Consult your physician to determine the appropriate level of physical activity for you, then adopt a regular cardiovascular-focused plan. This type of exercise releases endorphins into the body through the sustained elevation of heart rate. Try working up to 45 minutes 5 times a week. Not only will you feel better emotionally, but your physical health and body image will improve.

4. See a counselor to talk things out. Spend time with friends and family who can be supportive as well. A professional ear can be valuable and the feedback very beneficial. It may be helpful to have someone to help you sort out what went wrong in your relationship and how to avoid repeating future negative patterns in relationships.

5. Practice self care on a daily basis. Write a list for a daily activities that you like to do, cross every activity when you finish it, and when you finish the whole list make a new one.