Overcoming Depression on Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is a wonderful time of year unless you are suffering from depression. Depression increases on many holidays and Valentine's Day is no exception. Here are ten ways to lift those spirits and shake the Valentine's Day blues for good.

10. Remember that you are not alone in your depression at this or any time of the year. Many people become so wrapped up in themselves and their own depression that they forget about the millions that are worse off than them. Visit some folks that are less fortunate with the intention of raising there spirits and you will find that you raised your own as well.

9. Zero in on your depression and the thoughts that are causing it on Valentine's Day. Negative thinking is very common with people that are depressed and finding out the negative thoughts you are having is the key to reversing it. Ask yourself what thoughts are running through your mind and then challenge them. You will find that many of the thoughts are simply not valid, and realizing this can lift your mood.

8. Set aside some whine time. It sounds silly to be sure, but allowing yourself time to feel depressed can sometimes disarm the depression itself. By allowing it you are actually taking some control over it and therefore more likely to be able to break the chain.

7. Take yourself out for a Valentine's Day treat. Go to the spa, or the gym, or get a massage. Allow yourself something special on Valentine's Day that you normally would not. Sometimes loving yourself is better than being loved by someone else.

6. Force yourself to smile on Valentine's Day. You may not feel like it but the simple act of smiling can lift depression away more effectively than anything. Keep a smile on yourself throughout the day.

5. Give yourself a workout. Valentine's Day is a day to be doing things, and going for a jog or working out at the gym will certainly lift your mood. Depression really responds well to exercise, and you just might meet a Valentine at the gym.

4. Eliminate the Valentine's Day chocolate. Sugar rushes are the worst enemy of mood levels. Stay away from the candy hearts and chocolate bears.