Living with depression is difficult. A lot more difficult than many people will ever know. You’re strong for being able to put up with it; to fight it day in and day out, in an attempt to absolutely own your mind, which is one of the most powerful tools on the planet.

For those of you who suffer with depression, living a healthy and active lifestyle can help mitigate the symptoms of depression. Hence the reason I bring you “8 Natural Everyday Treatments for Depression.”

1) Get in a routine

Depression is known to mess up the structure in the lives of those affected by it, until all days in the week seem to just blend together. Setting yourself up with a daily schedule or routine can help you gain this structure back in your life. Not only will it help regain structure, but having a routine is proven to keep your mind busier – a great way to keep those depressive thoughts from creeping into your mind.

2) Set goals

Feeling like you can’t accomplish anything because of your depression? Well, I’ll tell you right now that you’re WRONG. Set goals, no matter how small to help you feel like you’re accomplishing something with your day. It’s important to start by making the goals small and incremental. This allows you to continuously reach new heights and slowly build yourself up one day at a time.

3) Get active

As many of you reading this may know, I’m a huge advocate of exercise. Heck, that’s half of what this blog is about! Allowing yourself some daily exercise will help your brain release more endorphins – also known as “feel good chemicals.” If you’re new to the whole exercising idea, start small by going for a brisk walk or a light jog.

4) Sleep consistently

When people say they need their “beauty sleep,” they aren’t lying. Getting adequate amounts of shut-eye is not only good for your physical appearance, but it allows your brain to reset and recharge itself. By getting yourself into a regular sleep schedule (aim for 7-9 hours a night), you’re doing your brain and your body a huge favor. It’ll thank you for it later.

5) Hold yourself responsible

Things like depression make people want to hide, give up their responsibilities and just let go of everything. This is exactly what you shouldn’t do. Hold yourself responsible for living the lifestyle you WANT TO LIVE, not the one depression is choosing for you. Try doing things like keeping involved in school, work, and making plans with friends. Fulfilling your responsibilities will give you a sense of joy and accomplishment.

6) Try supplementing

If you’re a believer in supplements as a natural remedy source, don’t be afraid to try them (just make sure you consult your doctor). Vitamins and minerals such as fish oil, folic acid and St. John’s Wort are shown to have a promising effect counteracting the symptoms of depression. Other foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and avocados, have been shown to help offset symptoms of depression.

7) Explore new options

Stuck in a rut? Don’t fret! Try doing something new that seems like it would capture your interest. Challenging ourselves to try something new helps the brain release new chemicals they may have been limited before. Finding new things you enjoy also helps release higher levels of dopamine – the chemical that is largely responsible for the feelings of pleasure and enjoyment.

8) Be stronger than your mind

Just because you’re depressed doesn’t mean you’ll never be happy. As mentioned earlier, the brain is an extremely powerful tool, but once you’re able to begin controlling your mind, the rest of the world is at your hands. Sometimes it may feel like you have to “work” at having fun – so do it. Eventually you’ll find something you enjoy or you’ll meet somebody that makes you happy. Depression can make you feel like you’ve lost enjoyment in life, but this shouldn’t be the case. Think of it like riding a bike – it’s easier than you think to relearn, and in time life will feel full again.