Take care and be kind to yourself

Managing stress

  • When internal stress overwhelms me, I decide to take a
    warm bath whilst listening to relaxing music.”

     Paul*

  • “When I was depressed I was also tired all the time. Even very little disappointments were emotionally hard and stressful. I had to learn again to manage stressful things. I had to repeat it to myself that this isn´t such a big deal.”

     Lauri*

  • “I take time also for being by myself and relaxing the way I like. That is equally as important as getting things done.

     Alma*

Key points

Scientists recognize that stress is a normal reaction that occurs in response to threats or difficulties. This is sometimes called the “fight or flight response” and is a natural reaction to danger. Scientists and doctors understand that stress causes physical changes which are designed to help you take on threats or difficulties. You may notice that your heart pounds, your breathing quickens, your muscles tense, and you start to sweat.1

Once the threat or difficulty is over, the physical effects usually fade. But, stress can lead to over-activity of the body’s stressresponse mechanisms. It can impact your emotional, mental, and even physical health.1 Relaxing in the way you like can help you manage stress.

This section is related to the benefits of managing stress which may have an impact in people with depression.

Be mild and gentle and “go with the flow” – don’t be hard on yourself if things don’t go as planned
or you don’t reach your goals. When this happens, lower your goals and give yourself a second chance.
Start today with a first step, and remember that different things work for different people at different times.

  • Taking care of myself and helping myself was crucial.”

    Helen*

  • “At a certain point in time, I realized that being depressed is only a condition. Just to accept it for what is and think “let it simply be and don’t worry, it is only a temporary condition ” helped me to survive.

    Paul*

Do not change or stop your treatment without advice from a healthcare professional, such as your referring doctor.
If your symptoms worsen, please consult a healthcare professional, such as your referring doctor.

This document has been cocreated by GAMIAN-Europe and Servier.
* Quotes shared by the patients reflect their own experiences and do not necessarily reflect medical and scientific evidence or practice.