People with symptoms of depression should talk with their doctors. In addition to therapy and medical treatment, other steps may be taken to help reduce those symptoms in some patients.
Exercise regularly. Not only does exercise alleviate mild depression, it helps reduce the overall incidence of heart disease. The best exercise, according to Stein, "is one you'll stick with." Aerobic exercise is most effective, including brisk walking, running, dancing, bicycling, and using an elliptical machine. Aim for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
Maintain ties with your family, friends, church, and/or community. Studies have shown that people with a close-knit social support system had a lower rate of heart disease than those without such social support.
Practice stress-reducing techniques, including yoga.
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