If you’re depression never seems to get any better, and it feels like you’ve tried everything you can to improve your mental health, you might be feeling like throwing in the towel and giving up on yourself, but please don’t do that! We know it’s hard to feel hopeful when you are suffering from depression with seemingly no hope on the horizon, but here’s the thing: there is always hope to be found.
That being the case, here are 6 things to try when your depression isn’t getting better:
- Rethink Your Routine
Okay, I know routines can be boring—wake up, drink coffee, check emails, repeat. But depression loves a rut, and sometimes switching things up can help. Change your environment, take a different route to work, or add something new to your day that excites you (or at least doesn’t make you groan). Even tiny changes can kickstart your brain into thinking, “Hey, maybe things aren’t so bad after all.”
- Ask About Spravato
Now, for something you may not have heard about: Spravato. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill antidepressant. It’s an FDA-approved nasal spray that’s used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant to tackle treatment-resistant depression. Sounds fancy, right? Well, it kind of is. Spravato contains esketamine (a cousin of ketamine), and it’s shown promising results in helping people who haven’t responded to traditional medications. So, if you feel like you’ve tried everything, Spravato might just be your next best move. Plus, who knew a nasal spray could pack such a punch?
- Go Beyond the Couch
Therapy is awesome, but maybe it’s time to switch gears a bit. Have you tried cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)? What about art therapy? Heck, even equine therapy (yep, hanging out with horses) is a thing. The point is, there are so many different approaches to mental health that if one isn’t cutting it, another might. Don’t be afraid to shop around—think of it like trying on new shoes. You’ll know when something fits.
- Exercise
Yeah, yeah, I know—exercise is always on these lists. But hear me out: it doesn’t have to be all gym memberships and green smoothies. Dance around your living room like no one’s watching, go for a hike, or try yoga with your dog. The key is to make movement fun (or at least bearable). Exercise releases those feel-good endorphins, and even a little bit can make a difference. Start small—like 10 minutes a day—and build from there.
- Talk to Your Doctor About Medication Adjustments
If you’ve been on the same meds for what feels like forever and they’re just not doing the job anymore, it’s okay to ask your doctor about changing things up. Your brain chemistry changes over time, and sometimes what worked once might need a little tweaking. Whether it’s a dosage adjustment, adding a new med, or trying something different (hello, Spravato), your doctor is there to help you navigate it all.
- Don’t Give Up on You
When your depression isn’t getting better, it’s easy to feel like you’re stuck in an endless loop of gray. But there are always options, even if they seem a little outside the box. Keep exploring, keep asking questions, and most importantly, keep fighting for your happiness. You deserve it.
Keep on keeping on, and get the help you need to find hope again, and maybe even see brighter days on the horizon!
Disclosure
This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions are my own, and the information provided is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for guidance on medical or psychological conditions.