Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause deep sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities that once brought joy.

While medication and therapy can help manage depression, some individuals develop bad habits that can worsen their condition. Here are ten bad habits that are prevalent among people with depression.

1. Drinking Alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant that can inhibit neurotransmitters that regulate mood, which makes it more challenging for people with depression to improve their mental health.

It is also a temporary escape from negative emotions, which can lead to alcohol abuse. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), people with major depressive disorder (MDD) are also twice as likely to have alcohol use disorder (AUD) relative to the general population.

2. Substance Abuse

Aside from alcohol abuse, people with depression may engage in substance abuse such as using illicit drugs. Substance abuse can worsen depressive symptoms, create additional health problems, and result in addiction.

People with depression are more likely to overdose when using drugs.

3. Isolating from Friends and Family

People with depression may isolate themselves from friends and family due to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and guilt. This behavior can lead to a lack of social support, which can exacerbate depressive symptoms.

Lack of social support has been shown to increase the risk of depression and suicide. It’s essential to maintain healthy relationships and practice communication skills to support one’s mental health.

4. Sleep Deprivation

Sleep deprivation, or lack of sleep, is common among people with depression. However, it can worsen depressive symptoms, leading to irritability, lack of motivation, and fatigue.

It’s crucial to practice good sleep hygiene by having a regular sleep schedule, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a comfortable sleeping environment. Additionally, therapy techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-i) can help regulate sleep patterns.

5. Self-Medicating

Self-medicating is a bad habit prevalent among people with depression who may turn to substances or other behaviors to relieve symptoms. While self-medicating may bring temporary relief, it can worsen depression symptoms over time and lead to addiction.

Instead of self-medicating, it’s important to seek help from qualified professionals who can provide appropriate treatment.

6. Poor Diet and Nutrition

People with depression may have a poor diet and consume unhealthy foods high in sugar, fat, and salt. The lack of essential vitamins and minerals can worsen depressive symptoms and lead to physical health problems.

A balanced diet rich in nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D can help improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms.

7. Procrastination

Procrastination is a common habit among people with depression as they may feel overwhelmed by tasks and lack motivation. However, procrastination can lead to feelings of guilt and further exacerbate depressive symptoms.

It’s important to practice time-management skills and break down tasks into small, manageable steps to avoid procrastination.

8. Negative Self-Talk

People with depression may engage in negative self-talk, such as criticizing themselves, blaming themselves for circumstances beyond their control, or making negative predictions about the future.

This negative self-talk can further worsen depression symptoms and lead to a cycle of self-defeating thoughts. It’s essential to practice positive self-talk by challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with positive affirmations.

Therapy treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help improve negative self-talk and teach coping skills.

9. Avoiding Physical Exercise

Physical exercise can help alleviate depressive symptoms, boost self-esteem, and improve overall health. However, people with depression may avoid physical exercise due to feelings of fatigue, lack of motivation, or low self-esteem.

Instead of avoiding exercise, it’s important to start small and gradually increase physical activity levels. Regular exercise can significantly improve depressive symptoms.

10. Avoiding Mental Health Treatment

People with depression may avoid seeking mental health treatment due to stigma, lack of financial resources, or other barriers. However, avoiding treatment can worsen depressive symptoms and result in long-term health problems.

It’s crucial to seek professional help from qualified mental health professionals who can provide appropriate treatment, including therapy and medication management.

Conclusion

Depression is a debilitating mental health condition that can cause a lack of enjoyment in life, low mood, and loss of interest.

While medication and therapy can be beneficial, it’s essential to avoid bad habits that can worsen depression symptoms. Habits such as alcohol/drug abuse, self-medicating, poor diet, procrastination, and negative self-talk can have a detrimental effect on mental and physical health.

Seek help from qualified professionals, practice self-care, and maintain healthy habits to improve your mental health and well-being.