What has helped your depression, other than CBT/medications?

[Kaleidoscopia]

I have moderately severe depression, and ASD. I can’t take medications because it triggers a health condition I have (RLS), and CBT doesn’t work well with how my ASD presents.

Those seem to be the top line treatments for depression of this severity.

Other things I do that are meant to help are exercise (swimming), and I eat healthily (mainly because I have to as quite a few unhealthy foods are RLS triggers). Sleep-wise, it’s ok but I don’t get a lot of deep sleep (average of around 20-30 minutes). I do maintain good sleep hygiene (is it just me or does anyone else hate the term ‘sleep hygiene?’).

What has helped your depression?

Taking up running made an immediate, noticeable difference. I can't say the same for swimming or cycling though, there's something specific about running for me. Planning creative projects also boosts my mood (less so when I attempt to execute them!)

The very best I feel is when I’m eating as healthily as a I can and working out a few times a week. BUT it takes a lot of determination to get there and I’m currently in the downward spiral of eating shit, feeling shit and having no energy again.

Hypnotherapy has always been a godsend for me. Once you find the right person it really does help so much. I have an amazing woman I’m going to book in with again to get me back on track.

Good luck! Hope you’re ok