Statistics have shown that one in every four people suffers depression. This has been proven to be one of the biggest problems that many have been faced with in our society. From relationships issues to family problems down to issues that concerns work, employment and socialization, there are tons of things around us that can actually bring our spirit down and trap us in that gloomy atmosphere where we feel miserable. It goes without saying that depression can wreck a whole lot of havoc on our system - It can come in between our everyday activities and make us less productive.

But having something to do about it is of a very paramount importance. 

Just as our body needs nutrient to be healthy, so does our brain. When we feel depressed, it simply means that our brain is producing not enough brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters are our feel-good chemicals - they are released by the brain to make us feel good, relaxed and happy. They are the one responsible for our general sense of wellbeing. Examples of such chemicals include dopamine and serotonin. 

Our brains need certain activities to keep our mental health at its best. Whether your antidepressants aren't working for you, or you just want to supplement your treatment with some good ole natural remedies, here are some simple happiness-promoting activities you can actually engage yourself in. They can bring you out of that mood swings and make your days lit.  

A focused silence well done does not only deliver you to enlightenment but can also help you relax and feel good too. There are lots of benefits that come with meditation. Some studies even proof that meditation is more effective than drugs or counseling in combating depression. 

Yoga is actually becoming one of the world most sought after activities. As an alternative to exercise, yoga provides lots of mental health benefits. With the stretching and controlled breathing, yoga helps to tame your stress and diminish symptoms of depression. 

Waking up in the morning to do something very relaxing can get you prepared for the day’s challenges. A cup of coffee in the morning is usually a way in the right direction. Just do all that you can to relax yourself in the morning when you wake up, it allows your body to ease into your day by setting the tone of the day for you. 

Having to do list written down helps you to plan your day effectively. Writing is not only a healthy and constructive way to release negative energies, but it can also help you take control of your own personal narrative, which can help change your perception of yourself as well and help you overcome any obstacles. 

Observational studies show that people who eat a lot of fish are at a 17 percent lower risk of depression than those who don't eat much at all. Fish are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish which can help fight inflammation in the body and improve the levels of neurotransmitters e.g dopamine and serotonin.

There is no medicine that is as good as having an adequate sleep. When you give your body the right amount of sleep, it makes you feel healthy all around including your brain. Nothing is worse for your body than sleep deprivation and the same holds true for your mind too. Sleep deprivation has been linked to mood disorders according to several researches. Sleep adequately and see how your body will  thank you for it. 

Socialization  

Although it can be hard to muster up the desire to be around people when you're feeling down, socializing can help improve mood and fight depression, and even reduce your risk of physical ailments. A study have shown  that people who have a large network of friends outlived those with fewest friends by 22 percent, likely because having many companions can help provide support, boost self-esteem, and ward off depression.

There are lots of benefits you can achieve from exercising. Doing exercise help your body to release feel-good chemicals called endorphins which can help counter depression. Burn some calories if you want to feel relieved from stress and depression.