Depression isn't a walk in the park and we totally get it. You're all too familiar with the usual remedies - talk therapy, meds, staring intensely at a picture of a rainbow – yeah, we've all been there. However, there might be some sneaky things you're doing, unbeknownst to you, that may be dragging you down deeper into the pit. We've talked to the pros and will fill you in on what you may be doing wrong, plus they even threw in some life hacks for you. So buckle up!

1. Neglecting Your Meat Vessel (You Are What You Eat)

We know depression has you feeling like a flattened pancake, so hopping out of bed to do jumping jacks or make a quinoa salad isn't on your to-do list. But, hate to break it to you, shoving your body's needs to the bottom of said list isn't doing you any favors. Zishan Khan, MD, a guy who gets paid to know about these things, insists on giving your body some TLC. Yes, fruits and veggies are actually good for you - who knew?! Also, get moving! No need to start training for a triathlon, but a bit of cardio can go a long way. And for god’s sake, sleep! Your sacred slumber does wonders for your mental health.

2. Self-Judging (Cut Yourself Some Slack)

Feeling like garbage just because you're dealing with depression isn't constructive. It's like beating yourself up because you caught the flu. Alice Hua, PhD, suggests to flip those negative thoughts on their head and replace “I must exercise” with “I plan to lay on the floor and attempt a sit-up”. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day.

3. Isolation (Text, Don't Ghost)

Disconnecting from planet Earth is a classic depression move. But hey, you're not the first one to feel that way. Nourishing relationships helps your brain release all the happy chemicals. No, you don’t need to start rehearsing for your Ted Talk, but being a little more social than usual won’t kill you.

4. Dodging Your Feelings (Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway)

Depression sure delivers a bundle of joy, doesn't it? It can be tempting to ignore that sinking feeling, but adios-ing your emotions will only make it worse. Have you ever heard that acknowledging a problem is the first step towards solving it?

5. Self-Medication (Booze and Drugs Aren't Your Buddies)

Seems like drowning your sorrows in a tub of ice cream and tequila looks good on paper, but it’s a one-way ticket to disaster-town. Swapping your mental health for a substance issue is like jumping from the frying pan into the fire. So if you’re reaching for the bottle a little too often, it’s time to let your doctor know.

Depression isn't a cake walk (if it was, wouldn't we all just be eating cake?) but the good news is, you're not alone. Addressing these common pitfalls might just be your game-changer. Remember to take care of yourself, reach out when you need to, and always keep pushing forward. So eat that kale, and conquer.