How to Cheer Yourself Up When You're a 13-Year-Old With Depression

Hi sweetie, and nice to meet you. Dealing with depression is a tough challenge, especially at your age. But you're taking a big step in the right direction by wanting to understand and address it.

Stay Busy: The Key to Fighting Depression

Try to keep yourself as busy as possible, even if it feels challenging at times. When I go back to my rural home, I'm always on the go. I mow 5 out of 30.5 acres with a push mower in just 2 days. It’s a fantastic workout! I also have a riding mower, a Cub Cadet zero-turn mower, which makes the job even easier and more fun.

This busyness can help lessen depression and anxiety. When you're engaged in activities, you're less likely to dwell on negative thoughts. Consider picking up a sport or hobby you enjoy, such as reading, gardening, or even mowing the lawn. These activities can give you a sense of accomplishment and help you feel better.

Laugh It Off: The Power of Humor

Watch something funny or enjoy a good comedy movie. Laughter is truly the best medicine! I recommend shows like Family Feud, where the host Steve Harvey has a great sense of humor. Laughter will help you forget about your worries for a while and bring a smile to your face.

Avoid Triggers: Protect Your Mental Health

Avoid triggers that can worsen your depression. This includes excessive sugar, smoking (if applicable), caffeine, and soda. These can have a negative impact on your mood and overall mental health. Try to focus on a balanced diet and maintain a healthy routine.

Seek Professional Help: Guidance and Support

Visit your local MHMR (Mental Health Recovery Center) or search online for your country's MHMR. The psychiatrist or counselor there can provide valuable guidance and support. If you feel particularly down, consider visiting your church. There are often caring people who can offer support and encouragement.

It’s also important to see a medical professional or counselor at school for help. They can provide additional support and guidance to help you manage your depression. Finding a therapist who specializes in treating teenagers can be a great resource.

Set Realistic Goals: A Path to Purpose

Having a clear goal can provide a sense of purpose and motivation. Understand yourself and identify what brings you joy and fulfillment. Whether it's reading books, playing chess, or practicing a new skill, setting goals can help you stay busy and engaged. Reading can be particularly helpful, as it can open your mind to new worlds and ideas.

Develop Skills: Enhance Your Emotions and Mindset

Developing skills can be a fun and rewarding way to manage depression. Chess and Go, for example, require you to think ahead and make strategic decisions. These skills can be transferred to other areas of life, helping you become more confident and focused.

Journaling and speaking about your feelings can also be beneficial. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you understand them better and release any pent-up emotions. Similarly, practicing communication skills can help you express yourself more effectively and build stronger relationships with others.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. By seeking help, staying busy, and developing new skills, you can work towards a brighter and healthier future.