According to Medipages, depression is a mental health disorder characterised by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life.

Possible causes may be biological, social or psychological, or it may be a symptom of blood sugar instability, a sign of feeling disconnected or even an indication that your Vitamin D levels are low, or all of the above.

It can also be a sign that you are avoiding a difficult decision, such as a work situation or relationship. Staying in that situation will only make it harder to keep your mood positive. 

If your symptoms of depression are lengthily or severe then you need to get help from a medical professional. However, if you suffer from mild depression and stress research shows that adopting habits of gratitude and positive actions leads to greater optimism. 

Below are a few fun tips for managing depression and stress during Covid-19.

Some of these have been recommended by Dr Christiane Northrup.

Change the narrative: If you find you’re spinning and becoming increasingly anxious managing a busy schedule of work, school lifts and household chores, use positive language to mentally relieve pressure. For instance, switch words such as “heavy” schedule or “crazy busy” with positive terms that relax and encourage lightness.

Use your language to reinforce the joy of being busy. Instead say,

“My schedule this week is abundantly rich”

1. Clean the clutter: In any process of recovery, it is important to clean out the old and make way for the new. Cleaning a draw, sweeping the floor or volunteering can go a long way to soothe your emotions and recharge for recovery.
2. Creativity as a cure: sadness is meant to alert you to grieve a loss and also take better care of yourself. – it is not supposed to be a chronic condition says Dr Christiane Northrup. Do you have a creative outlet, do you have awards in the house that you received in the past. Display them and remind yourself of your creativity and accomplishments.
3. Enjoy what nature intended: Even with Covid-19 creeping into our psyche, we live in a world where natural, organic, vegan food and skin are abundantly available. Put on your skin what nature intended, will not only make you feel more confident but it’s good for your wellbeing too. Choose foods and products that are packed with wild-harvested essential oils and natural plant extracts to boost the immune system and relax the senses.
4. Cupping Therapy: Cupping Therapy dates back over 5000 years but even with it’s modernized form, it still offers the same eastern medicine relief as it’s done for thousands of years– aches and pains, stress, anxiety, indigestion and skin regeneration. It is easy to administer ritual that can be done in the comfort of your own home.

Try this exercise: Massage the Stress No More Genie wellness oil onto your face. Using the Bellabaci Facial Cups, slowly massage circles around your forehead and temples to relieve tightness, stagnation and toxin build-up. In 5 minutes you will feel instant relief and relaxation.