Hello everyone. I am feeling a little down right now. I have an exam later today at 2, and after that I have work. I am very nervous and anxious for both of these. I need to do something to calm myself down. Do any of you have any tips? Don't worry, this is not an emergency, so don't be afraid of saying something that'll put me over the edge! I'd really appreciate it! 

Really, experience with it has helped me over the years; the more accustomed to it and familiar with it you become, the less you let it get to you.

Otherwise, there's some simple things I've found. When in that bad state of mind there's a tendency to reinforce it in your choice of music; I'd suggest something lively, fun, and upbeat instead. Make yourself eat something light, like cereal and a banana or something of that sort (heavy or high fat foods can make you even more sluggish). Showers can help. Dress yourself with the intent of having some pride in your appearance, as generally randomly chosen baggy clothes meant almost to disguise oneself become the instinctive choice. Open the blinds and make yourself sit in the sun which can be surprisingly invigorating.

If, after doing those things, you feel capable of forcing yourself to exercise, I'd suggest seizing that opportunity as it can help immensely. The above is about all I can think of for "today" that would help me in the short term.

Otherwise, what worked for me over about 12 years of dealing with it was medication. I learned that I had manic tendencies and, once someone finally decided to investigate my blood chemistry, it was discovered that I had the natural testosterone levels of a fairly old senior citizen (I'd highly suggest looking into hormones before trying antidepressants, as they may be entirely unneeded). Having treated the hormones and settled on a couple of less serious, low dose antidepressants, I'd say the difference is night and day.

Just something to maybe consider looking into in the future. Often, though, doing all of those little things I mentioned and establishing routine are enough to really help you get control of your life. Good luck with your exams! :)

Talk with friends, see goofy things, go eat something you like.In another words, do things that you enjoy and that dont make you think about the things that is making you worry

Ahh, that'd probably help! I almost never exercise, and that probably isn't good for my mental health!

It's been shown in study after study that exercise is more effective than any antidepressant on the market. It helps in just about every aspect of a person's life, from providing energy throughout the day to allowing for more productive sleep at night.

It doesn't even have to be a lot, so don't burn yourself out by starting too strong. Seriously, all I do are pushups, situps, leg raises, some easy free weight things, and the occasional walk... you could start with much less if you've not been doing anything, and you'll feel the effects all the same.

I guess that's another huge issue. I've had many problems with anxiety over the years, to the point that I've blocked out all friends and isolated myself.

Eat some snacks? They are great when you are feeling stressed.

Lots and lots of masturbating. I can't even remember when was the last time I was seriously depressed.

This is a slightly bigger life choice but I promise it can help... I don't know what your work situation is, but you might want to take some random job even if only for a few hours a week. I used that tactic just to make myself get out of the apartment more often, and you'll usually develop at least a couple of new friends from which new social circles can blossom. You just need to open yourself up to it.

Even if you don't, though, just having that new routine and being showered, dressed properly, and out around people can do a lot for your mental state. Just something to consider.

I guess I can do that in a few hours, I have a Tim Hortons gift card.