If you were having a tough time

Go to the movies. Go fishing. Go to my favorite sushi restaurant. If my team were in town, I'd go to a baseball game.

If you like them, schedule a massage.


Try a free yoga class at a local gym. Most offer a free first class.

I can't even believe I'm saying this but....exercise. I really dislike running but when I feel like I'm in a funk, I throw my gear on and turn the music up and hit the pavement.

I also love to swim and is a sure-fire way to get rid of the blues for me. I realize not everyone swims so I never suggest that but anyone can run and it does work. I can get in the pool and just go for 90 mins or so and I get in that zone after about 30 mins and I really only stop because I gotta pee. There is just something about the water for me.

I've also heard about these floatation spas and a lot of my friends on FB have been doing it for various reasons but they all rave about it. Maybe give that a try.

Me? I'd order yummy takeout for several meals, have grab and go type breakfast/lunch stuff on hand, and I'd settle in with a comfy blanket and binge watch tv--Pride and Prejudice, Downtown Abby, Titanic etc. but I'm an introvert homebody so that works for me.

I would get a pedicure. And a haircut. Make myself feel good about myself. 
I would also go somewhere I enjoy going by myself, the museum or the art gallery. Or the conservatory and take pictures of beautiful flowers. 
I would also take a bubble bath with a good book. 
I find when I get a day to myself I need to plan something ahead or I will just sit in front of Netflix and do nothing. If I have a few appointments booked I get out of the house. 

What helps me is getting involved doing something I really like to do. That could include doing some crafts, getting into some pampering such as a pedicure, getting some great takeout food and binge watch some TV shows or a movie ( as long as they ate not depressing).. Going for little get-away with a friend, or to visit a friend. It really helps just to get involved in an enjoyable activity that takes your mind off the stresses in your life. If you are struggling with depression, it can be hard to motivate yourself to do anything! But it really does help to get busy with an activity. If you have a friend that can go somewhere fun with you or even come over with takeout and binge watch a show that may help. Staying home alone can sometimes be depressing and getting out of the house really helps. Do something good just for you. I hope you are feeling better soon.

I would lunch or dinner with friends. For me, solitude is the worst enemy during tough times.

I totally agree.  Some alone time is nice, but if I'm feeling blue and I have too much time by myself, I tend to sink.  If I were you, OP, I'd plan a trip out to a store or restaurant and then have time at home as well.  Spending a few hours at a bookstore or the library can feel great if you're a lover of books.

If I could go do anything? I'd go travel to the beach/ocean. Nothing in the world makes me feel happier and more at peace than that.

I'd also go see live plays at a local theater.

And just generally take myself on dates. Go to all the restaurants I wanted to try. Go to a salon and have my hair done.

I'd make sure I was out of the house, occupied, and in the fresh air.



(((hugs))) OP. I hope you start feeling better soon.

Honestly, I'd do whatever I wanted. Seriously. If I felt like being alone, I'd be alone. If I felt like being with friends I'd be with friends.

We have a spa with therapeutic waters that I go to. Sauna, steam room, hot tubs, cold plunge pool.

Making things always makes me feel better. A diy project, sewing something, just creating any anything.

I'd make it a point to get outside for a long walk, at least once. Fresh air, exercise, and sunshine always do wonders for my psyche. If you can't get outside, light a candle and try some yoga. You can find lots on youtube.

Then I'd rent a funny movie and curl up under a blanket.

Maybe go get a pedi, if you find that relaxing, or if not go get your hair done or get a massage.

My own secret tip for curing depression: own a cat

I agree with these two.


For myself, I need to be surrounded by nature. I would just find a place outside where I could chill out alone. Maybe bring a book. I found that being outside by myself helps me to think things through better.

May sound odd but when I find myself like that, down, depressed, worried, anxious and have time alone - I clean and organize - especially my closets.  I think having something like that to focus on and keep me busy, helps keep my mind busy and gets me through it.

I know with bad depression it is very hard to find the energy to do most of the things mentioned here. I'm so sorry you are dealing with this. I'd probably bunker down with good food and Netflix. ((hugs))