Healthy Habits to Support Your Depression Treatment

If you only have the energy to focus on one thing, make it this: follow your care plan. Sticking with your prescribed treatment gives you the best chance for improvement. Your depression care plan may include:

• Taking medication as directed ( psychiatric medication )

• Attending therapy as recommended ( depression therapy )

• Asking questions about your care whenever you need to

• Completing any “homework” assigned by your therapist

• Avoiding substances that can interact with medication, such as alcohol

Remember, depression can be life-threatening when left untreated. Professional support can help you find a plan that works for you and provide guidance if you’re struggling to maintain your treatment.

Take Our Quick and Easy Depression Questionnaire

Major depressive disorder affects millions of people across all age groups. Take this assessment to identify symptoms commonly associated with depression and understand if you may be suffering from clinical depression.

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This health survey is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any personal health concerns. Completion of this survey does not establish a patient-clinician relationship. Responses are NOT monitored. If you are thinking of harming yourself or others please call toll-free 9-8-8 for the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7), 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency room. By proceeding, you acknowledge this disclaimer and agree that this tool is for general awareness only. You assume all risks associated with its use. The survey administrators are not liable for reliance on its content. The above health survey is based on the Patient Health Questionnaire PHQ-9.

The PHQ-9 and GAD-7 are Pfizer products. PHQ Copyright © 1999 Pfizer Inc. No permission required to reproduce, translate, display or distribute.

In the last two (2) weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?

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Step 1 of 10

10%

Question 1*

Little interest or pleasure in doing things.

Not At All	Several Days	More than Half the Days	Nearly Everyday

Question 2*

Feeling down, depressed, or hopeless

Not At All	Several Days	More than Half the Days	Nearly Everyday

Question 3*

Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much

Not At All	Several Days	More than Half the Days	Nearly Everyday

Question 4*

Feeling tired or having little energy

Not At All	Several Days	More than Half the Days	Nearly Everyday

Question 5*

Poor appetite or overeating

Not At All	Several Days	More than Half the Days	Nearly Everyday

Question 6*

Feeling bad about yourself – or that you are a failure or have let yourself or your family down

Not At All	Several Days	More than Half the Days	Nearly Everyday

Question 7*

Trouble concentrating on things, such as reading the newspaper or watching television

Not At All	Several Days	More than Half the Days	Nearly Everyday

Question 8*

Moving or speaking so slowly that other people could have noticed. Or, the opposite – being so fidgety or restless that you have been moving around a lot more than usual

Not At All	Several Days	More than Half the Days	Nearly Everyday

Question 9*

Thoughts that you would be better off dead, or of hurting yourself in some way

Not At All	Several Days	More than Half the Days	Nearly Everyday

Your Zip Code*

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Email Address*

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If you feel you are at risk of harming yourself or someone else, call 911 or seek emergency assistance. You may also contact the National Suicide Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.

Incorporating healthy habits can make a significant difference in your mental well-being and complement your depression treatment. The most effective daily routines for managing depression may include:

• Regular exercise: Any movement helps-walking, jogging, yoga, dancing, or even playful activities with your children all release endorphins and can positively affect your mood. Research even suggests hot yoga can help with depression symptoms . Check with your doctor before beginning any new routine.

• Consistent sleep schedule: Aim for 7–9 hours per night. Wind down with a screen-free routine, avoid caffeine in the evenings, and keep your bedroom cool and comfortable. If healthy habits don’t improve your sleep, ask your care team about options, including therapy or medication for sleep disorders .

• Mindfulness and relaxation: Mindfulness, breathing exercises, and meditation can manage stress and promote calm. Practicing the principles of mindfulness or exploring yoga for mental health can offer supportive techniques.

• Setting realistic goals: Break tasks down into manageable steps and celebrate small achievements. Progress-no matter how small-builds confidence and motivation.

• Limiting exposure to negativity: Consider reducing your time with distressing news, negative social media, or people who make you feel worse about yourself. Choose environments and influences that support your recovery.

It’s natural to wonder if depression can be cured. The answer often depends on the type of depression you have, its severity, and your personal health history. For some, depressive episodes are isolated and may not return after successful treatment. Others may experience chronic or recurring depression. While there’s no “magic cure,” depression is highly treatable. Many people recover or maintain long-term wellness with the right combination of treatment, healthy habits, and support. According to 2026 LifeStance data , 73% of patients* showed improvement in symptoms of depression during treatment. Staying engaged with your treatment plan, adopting healthy routines, and reaching out for help when needed can help you manage depression-even if symptoms return from time to time.

Social connection is a vital part of recovery. Depression symptoms often cause people to withdraw, but reaching out to others-even with a simple message or call-can lighten your emotional load and boost resilience. Consider practical ways to build your network:

• Keep regular contact with friends or family, such as a weekly phone call

• Participate in group activities, clubs, or classes when you feel up to it

• Combine social support with healthy activity by joining a fitness class or community group

• Seek support from those who understand depression and will offer encouragement

There’s no need to share beyond what feels comfortable. Each effort, however small, matters in your recovery.

What works for one person’s recovery might not work for another, so explore a few habits until you find what helps you feel supported. In addition to sleep, movement, mindfulness, and social support, you might try:

• Engaging in hobbies: Activities that bring you purpose or joy, such as reading, painting, gardening, or music

• Maintaining structure: Establishing a daily routine, even when motivation is low

• Practicing self-compassion: Celebrate every bit of progress. Be patient with yourself-recovery is a process.

Building a foundation of healthy habits and self-care supports your depression treatment and long-term resiliency. or find a LifeStance provider near you who can help you explore effective approaches.