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  • Coping with high functioning depression can be hard,

  • but before going into details on how to deal with it,

  • you might want to watch our video '7 signs you may have high-functioning depression'.

  • This type of depression is a lot more common than you think.

  • According to Anxiety and Depression Association of America or ADAA,

  • Approximately 3 million people battle with it per year.

  • Many times this mental disorder goes unnoticed because even though it's a debilitating problem,

  • most people are functional, but don't worry.

  • Here are 6 practical tips to deal with high-functioning depression.

  • Number 1: Get organized.

  • For some, high functioning depression means forgetfulness and disorganization even though you get things done.

  • You can't remember important dates and don't get to places on time among other things.

  • Buy an agenda and faithfully write down everything such as doctor appointments, birthdays,

  • projects, movie release dates, when your car on oil change is due, when bills need to be paid, even simple things like

  • anniversaries or when you start and finish your menstrual cycle.

  • Your agenda will be your best friend

  • First thing each morning when you wake up,

  • grab it and view what you need to get done during the day and week this way you won't forget anything

  • Number 2: Home organization.

  • To help yourself out, clean and throw away anything you don't need anymore.

  • If it's in good condition, you can donate it, or have a yard sale.

  • Why? Because extra clutter in your home means it will be more difficult for you to stay organized.

  • Go out and buy containers, decorative boxes and folders.

  • The trick here is to divide things into their correct place.

  • For example, in different folders place papers by categories such as car bills in one folder and utility bills in another.

  • In your room, divide your shirts in one drawer and pants in another.

  • The same goes for other materials around the house.

  • The trick here is to put things in places that you will remember to look for it.

  • Number 3: Socialization and Hobbies.

  • High functioning depression comes with isolation.

  • To fix this, get involved in your favorite activities or hobbies.

  • For example, if you like to practice martial arts then take a class.

  • This way, you are blowing stress off by doing things you love,

  • but at the same time you are socializing with others.

  • Number 4: Self care.

  • The problem with depression is that you have zero energy to take care of yourself.

  • In turn, your self-esteem will be on the floor.

  • No matter how hard it gets, take care of yourself.

  • I know you've heard this all the time,

  • but get enough sleep, drink sufficient amount of water and eat plenty of healthy meals.

  • Believe it or not, what you eat is how you feel.

  • If you don't get hungry or thirsty,

  • use an alarm clock on your cell phone to remind yourself to eat and drink water.

  • There are even apps you can download that remind you of this,

  • and on the plus side, some of those apps are interactive, making it fun for you.

  • Number five: Distraction.

  • High functioning depression is complicated in the sense that you are constantly overthinking and criticizing yourself.

  • To counter this make sure you have healthy pastimes to keep your mind busy.

  • For example, starting a new TV series or reading your favorite book, looking up new artists,

  • coloring, going for a walk, hanging out with friends, going to the bookstore and etc.

  • The point here is to keep yourself busy and not let your mind wander negatively.

  • Number six: Exercise and Hygiene

  • Exercising and good hygiene improves your self-esteem and self-worth.

  • Research shows that thirty minutes a day of exercise for at least four days a week will boost your mood.

  • And I know when you are depressed, there's no way in hell you want to get up and move.

  • But trust me, it makes a difference.

  • If it's too much at first, start by taking a walk around the block and gradually add cardio to your routine.

  • Look for fun exercises such as riding a bike, dancing, Zumba, running or sports.

  • Anything that will get you moving, but is entertaining for you.

  • Don't forget to shower and wash your face and mouth twice a day.

  • This will freshen you up and lighten your groggy mood

  • High functioning depression is difficult to deal with, but not impossible.

  • If these tips aren't enough to help you,

  • then psychotherapy may be of great use.

  • Don't be afraid to ask for help.

  • Talking to the right people who truly care will help you

  • Not only that, but if you end up taking medication for this, then remember, there is no shame in that.

  • What are other tips and tricks you use to help cope with your high functioning depression?

  • Let us know in the comments below.

  • If there are other topics on high functioning depression that you would like us to cover, let us know and don't forget to subscribe.

  • Thanks for watching.

Coping with high functioning depression can be hard,

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