Dealing with depression is tough, and it’s not just about feeling sad or low. It can impact every part of your life, from work to relationships to even something as basic as personal hygiene.
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When you’re in the thick of it, taking care of yourself can feel like an enormous task. But maintaining your hygiene during these times is crucial—not just for your physical health but for your mental well-being too.
How Depression Affects Personal Hygiene and Self-Care
Depression is more than just feeling down—it’s a complex mental health condition that can sap your energy, motivation, and interest in activities you once enjoyed, including self-care. This lack of energy and motivation is why many people with depression struggle with maintaining their hygiene.
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It’s not laziness; it’s the mental and physical exhaustion that depression brings. Understanding this can help you approach self-care with more compassion for yourself.
1. Start Small with Oral Care
When you’re depressed, brushing your teeth can feel like climbing a mountain. But oral hygiene is important not only for your health but also because it can boost your mood.
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If brushing twice a day seems like too much, start with just once, perhaps in the morning, to set the tone for the day. If brushing feels too hard, try using mouthwash.
2. Simplify Your Hair Care Routine
Hair care can feel like a big task on a normal day, so we understand how it must feel when you’re depressed, especially if you have longer hair. Dry shampoo can be a lifesaver on days when washing your hair feels impossible.
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Also, opt for a low-maintenance hairstyle that requires minimal upkeep, like a ponytail, bun, or even a shortcut that doesn’t need much styling.
3. Take Baby Steps with Your Skin Care
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and taking care of it can make you feel better, even on the worst days. But during depression, a full skincare routine can seem like too much.
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Start with the basics: wash your face once a day, even if it’s just with water. If you can manage it, use a gentle cleanser. Moisturizing is also important because depression can sometimes lead to neglecting hydration.
4. Keep Showering Simple and Quick
Showering can be a big hurdle when you’re depressed, but it’s important for both your hygiene and your mental health. If a full shower seems too daunting, try to focus on the essentials—wash your body quickly with a gentle soap and rinse.
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Alternatively, if standing in the shower feels like too much, you can sit on a stool. You don’t need to wash your hair every time—just getting your body clean can make a big difference in how you feel.
5. Dress Comfortably to Improve Your Mood
What you wear can have a surprising impact on how you feel. When you’re depressed, getting dressed might seem pointless, especially if you’re staying home.
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But putting on clean, comfortable clothes can help shift your mindset. You don’t need to dress up—just change out of your pajamas into something that makes you feel a little more put-together.
6. Use Scented Lotions for a Mood Boost
Depression can dull your senses, but using a lightly scented lotion can provide a small sensory pick-me-up. Hence, choose a scent you love and apply it to your hands or arms whenever you need a little boost.
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The act of applying lotion can also help you feel more connected to your body, providing a small but positive impact on your mood.
7. Keep Your Space Tidy with Minimal Effort
A cluttered environment can add to the stress of depression. If cleaning feels too hard, focus on small, manageable tasks like making your bed or clearing a small surface.
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Even just picking up a few items can create a sense of accomplishment and help you feel more in control of your space, which in turn can positively impact your mood.
8. Hydrate to Support Your Body
Staying hydrated is crucial, but it’s easy to forget when you’re feeling down. Keep a water bottle next to you at all times, so you don’t have to get up frequently.
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Drinking water not only helps your body function better, but it can also improve your skin’s appearance, helping you feel a bit more refreshed and energized.
9. Focus on Small Wins, Not Perfection
When you’re struggling with depression, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything you think you should be doing. But it’s important to focus on small wins. Maybe today you only managed to brush your teeth and wash your face—that’s okay!
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Celebrate the little victories instead of beating yourself up for what you didn’t do. Self-care during depression isn’t about perfection—it’s about doing what you can to take care of yourself in small ways.
10. Remember, It’s Okay to Ask for Help
Taking care of yourself during depression is hard, and it’s okay to ask for help. You can ask a friend or family member to check in on you; seeking professional support from a therapist can also make a big difference.
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You don’t have to go through it alone, and sometimes just talking to someone can lift some of the weight off your shoulders.
