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Being lonely or sad can be a normal part of our lives from time to time. We get sad when we fail our exams, when we're rejected by the person we love, or when someone very close to us dies. Depression, however, can be much more serious than just plain loneliness. It could lead to life-long consequences that could destroy your self-esteem, health, and well-being.

Here are some excellent tips to conquer the despondent mood and get the most joy out of your daily activities.

1) Get Enough Light and Sunshine.

Lack of exposure to sunlight is responsible for your body's secretion of the hormone melatonin, which could trigger a dispirited mood and a lethargic condition.

Melatonin is only produced in the dark. It lowers the body temperature and makes you feel sluggish. If you are always cooped up in your room (with the curtains closed), it would be difficult to restrain yourself from staying in bed.

This is the reason why many people are suffering from depression much more often in winter than in the other seasons. It's because the nights are longer, there are more dreary weather days, and we sometimes go several days without seeing the sun.

If you can't afford to get some sunshine, you can always lighten up your room with brighter lights. Have lunch outside the office. Take frequent walks instead of driving your car over short distances.

2) Get Busy. Get Inspired.

You'll be more likely to overcome any feeling of depression if you are too busy to notice it. Live a life full of inspired activities.

Do the things you love. If you're a little short on cash, you could do simple things like taking a stroll in the park, participating in your favorite sports, reading books, or engaging in any activity that you have passion for and would love to pursue.

Set a goal - a meaningful purpose in life. No matter how difficult or discouraging life can be, remain firm and have an unshakable belief that you are capable of doing anything you desire. With this kind of positive attitude, you will attain a cheerful disposition to beat the blues.

3) Take a Break.

Relax. Listen to soothing music. Soak in a nice warm bath. Ask one of your close friends to massage you. Take a break from your stressful workload and spend the day just goofing around. In other words, have some fun.

4) Eat Right and Exercise.

Avoid foods with lots of sugar, caffeine, or alcohol. Sugar and caffeine may give you a temporary burst of energy; but they later bring about anxiety, tension, and other problems. Alcohol is a depressant. Many people drink alcohol to "forget their problems." Again, this is just a temporary fix. Many times when the 'high' wears off, you'll feel even worse.

Exercising regularly is a very important depression beater because it allows your body to produce more endorphins than usual. Endorphins are sometimes called "the happy chemicals" because of their stress-reducing and happiness-inducing properties.

5) Get a Social Life.

Your circle of friends are there to give you moral support. Spending time and engaging in activities with them will give you a very satisfying feeling. Nothing feels better than having group support.

Never underestimate the power of touch. Doesn't it feel so good when someone pats you on the back and gives you words of encouragement during your most challenging times? Hug or embrace someone today. You'll never know when you have saved another life.

Get intimate. Establish close ties with your family and friends. The love and care expressed by others could tremendously boost your immune system and fend off illnesses. Best of all, you'll live a more secured and happy life.