depression

Change your eating habits
Like exercise, eating sensibly can have a positive
effect on how we feel. Avoid high-sugar foods
and drinks and too much alcohol, and try to eat
a balanced diet to get your recommended five
portions of fruit or veg a day. Some foods may
even help to reduce depression, including those
high in omega-3, such as oily fish (tuna,
mackerel, sardines, salmon) or walnuts.
Increase your sense of purpose
Volunteering is a great way to support a good
cause, boost your self-esteem and meet new
people. It can give you a sense of purpose and
help you to feel less isolated. There are lots of
different opportunities around, so find
something to suit your skills and interests.
• Charities often need volunteers of all ages.
For example, Independent Age looks for
volunteers to make regular friendship phone
calls or visits to older people (020 7605 4255,
independentage.org/get-involved).
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