[isolated and lost]

Does anyone have anything that they have found helpful for energy during depression? I am exhausted after just taking a shower in the morning.

[CantExplain]

I sometimes used to find exercise energising.

[pbutton]

Yep, exercise helps me the most too.

Eating bananas and apples
Drnking lots of water
Vitamin B 12
Vitamin D
Taking naps

[vanessaG]

Yeah I'd say exercise helps me but it's very hard for me during a deep depression. That or a walk outside. Usually the fresh air hits me and makes me feel good & energized for a bit.

Exercise is probably the best, but I rarely can get myself to do this... Another alternative, maybe a little easier, is to make sure to eat well--fruits, veggies, no unhealthy/fried snacks, etc. Essentially foods high in protein and vitamins. Hard-boiled eggs in the morning, for example. Taking a long, hot shower (with some good-smelling shower gel or lotion afterward) when I want to take an afternoon nap is helpful.

Good luck. Please know that you are not alone and it will get better.

[growlycat]

It's interesting timing that you mention this. I am going through a huge energy drain right now. Getting a full night's sleep helps, but today I noticed that the sun streaming through my car window while driving to work felt fantastic. I have to get more direct sunlight...

I take a vitamin supplement, esp. the B vitamins seem to help energy-wise. At work today they had the 5 hr energy drink people there giving out samples---could not come at a better time! Tastes nasty but I think it works. What a commercial THAT is? Tastes like @$$, but it works!!

[CantExplain]

Originally Posted by growlycat

It's interesting timing that you mention this. I am going through a huge energy drain right now. Getting a full night's sleep helps, but today I noticed that the sun streaming through my car window while driving to work felt fantastic. I have to get more direct sunlight...

Ah yes! Fill your house with bright lights.

[confuseduk]

I rely on Red Bull to get me through the day

[Perna]

Rousing music?

[SallyBrown]

Everything mentioned above, plus making plans with friends in order to force myself to go out and to get some energy from their company.

[bluemountains]

Soak up the sun as much as possible! Exercise, but make it light so that you aren't overwhelmed-a brisk walk, maybe? I like to put on my book on tape, take a walk, and enjoy the sun all at the same time. All get my mind elsewhere.
Bluemountains

Originally Posted by confuseduk

I rely on Red Bull to get me through the day

Ha, yeah, that used to be my go-to fix when I felt drained... but it doesn't mix so well with having high anxiety - I'm jittery enough these days - so I had to knock that practice on the head!

[confuseduk]

Originally Posted by just_some_girl

Ha, yeah, that used to be my go-to fix when I felt drained... but it doesn't mix so well with having high anxiety - I'm jittery enough these days - so I had to knock that practice on the head!

Yeah it doesn't help my anxiety either, that's why I have a couple of kalms tablets to even it out!

[Velvet Cactus]

I can only suggest what has worked for me-cutting down and out the amount of sugar in my diet. I was once a the point that one measly bagel would mean an instant two hour nap! Talk about no energy. Sugar is toxic, I tell you! Try a little experiment-cut out all the sugar you can for a week. (It's hard-the darn stuff is in everything!!) With any luck you will be limboing in no time! And get quality ZZZZ!

[CantExplain]

Originally Posted by Velvet Cactus

I can only suggest what has worked for me-cutting down and out the amount of sugar in my diet. I was once a the point that one measly bagel would mean an instant two hour nap! Talk about no energy. Sugar is toxic, I tell you! Try a little experiment-cut out all the sugar you can for a week. (It's hard-the darn stuff is in everything!!) With any luck you will be limboing in no time! And get quality ZZZZ!

When I'm tired, the first nothing I check is my blood sugar.
If it is high, insulin peps me up.

You're not diabetic, by any chance, Cactus?
Are you thirsty all the time?

[elliemay]

Pay attention to your body. The energy drain is likely coming from your brain. It is possible to ignore it.

Your legs likely want to walk, you arms likely want to move. Your face likely wants to see the sun.

There is a very strong mind/body connection no doubt. Most give all the power to the brain, but that doesn't have to be the case. The connection works both ways.

Give your body what it wants and the brain will learn its place in the scheme of things.

Stupid brain.

[mommyof2girls]

I would say take a 5 hour energy drink..... That helps me A LOT....

[WikidPissah]

Exercise...I know it's really hard when you're depressed, but if you can push yourself into it, within 5 min you start feeling better.

[rockymtngal]

I find fish oil helps. It makes me think a bit clearer too.