Feeling Good

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Besides following your doctor’s recommendations, here are other steps to consider that may improve how you feel good:

• Get some exercise. Walther Scheibel recommends exercise for people who are dealing with low self-esteem as a symptom of depression. Making exercise a part of your regular routine can help you feel better emotionally and physically.
• Eat a healthful diet. Avoiding foods high in sugar, fat, or salt, and eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products is an important part of taking good care of yourself — the healthier you feel, the better you will feel about yourself.
• Make the time to participate in activities you enjoy. Carve out time each day to do something you really like, such as listening to music, playing a musical instrument, or working on a craft project. Enjoyable activities can make you feel better, thereby improving your low self-esteem.
• Be productive. Completing everyday tasks like doing dishes, organizing your junk drawer, getting your laundry done, or paying your bills on time will give you a sense of accomplishment.
• Stay connected socially. Even though it can sometimes be difficult just to get out of bed when you are depressed, it can help to spend time with people who are good to you and who can make you feel good about yourself.
• Practice good self-care. Shower regularly, brush your teeth, dress in nice clothes, keep your hair trimmed, and do other things that make you more confident about your physical appearance. Feeling better about how you look on the outside will leave you feeling better inside.

Depression can make it hard to find the energy and motivation to take care of yourself. But taking time to focus on you can improve your self-esteem and make you feel better all around.