As human-beings we experience strong emotional ups and downs. While we always expect to feel the “ups,” it is normal and natural to also feel the “downs.” There are many ways that we can fight these boughts of depression, without the need for a therapist or prescription medication. One great way to boost your mood is with a healthy bout of sleep.

Studies show that depression and sleep often go hand in hand. The less you sleep, or the more irregular your sleep patterns, the higher you chances are to feel depressed. There is also a converse relationship with sleep and depression – sometimes depression can be the instigator for insomnia. It’s a common chicken vs. egg dilema.

If you are looking for ways to naturally boost your mood, be sure that you are engaging in a healthy sleep regimen. Doctors usually recommend to their depressed patients that they get enough sleep and maintain a regular sleep-wake schedule. And when we say “enough sleep,” this generally means 7-10 hours of sleep every night – even on the weekends. It is also important to stick to a sleep schedule, meaning you go to sleep and wake up in the mornings at the same time every day. By helping your body regulate it’s natural sleep time, you can also regulate and improve your body’s own chemical makeup – thus, defeating any bouts of depression and stabilizing your moods.

Word to the wise: Cheer up with a healthy dose of sleep!