As someone who's struggled with depression since I was in elementary school, I've had to look really hard to find remedies that work for me that don't include psychotropic medication or self-medicating. Not all of these may work for you, but they're all worth a try and have helped me from time to time. Most are free, which is pretty helpful if you're broke or on a budget.
1. Going for a walk in the morning
Getting fresh sunlight in the morning helps boost your serotonin and/or dopamine levels so it's physiologically good for depression. In general, it can help get you into good spirits because a) It gets you out of the house which might be a stressor for what's bothering you, and b) You get fresh air. It's a peaceful distraction to listen to the chirping birds, see kids on their way to school, and maybe even a fluffy stray dog on the side of the road; who knows? If you don't like your neighborhood, it may not be the best idea for you, but it helps me sometimes to have a change of surroundings, especially once I wake up to kickstart my day.
2. Visit a dog park, the pet store, the pound, or a friend with pets.
There's something very therapeutic about animals. Studies have shown that petting a furry friend relieves stress and can help to put you in a better mood. I love animals, and for a long time I wasn't able to get a pet and I missed that interaction. Dog parks are free, and the pound will allow you to walk around and see the dogs and cats they have available for free too, same with the local pet store. If you have a friend that already has animals, even better! Or if you have your own, obviously just pet/play with that little buddy if you're feeling down.
3. If you're not able to go on morning walks, still try to get out into nature.
Just like animals have shown to be therapeutic, so has time in nature. If I need to clear my head, I like getting out into "the wilderness". This can be as simple as a walk to the park, or as complex as a walk through the mountains or a drive to the beach. Walking produces serotonin and dopamine because it's still exercise, so it can be beneficial if you're feeling down. Again, pay attention to the little things: the leaves, a barking dog, the wind through your hair, etc. It can be a clearing activity if you allow it to be. It can be nice to bring a journal along as well, or listen to some music.
4. Drink some Chamomile Tea
Chamomile (and other type of stress relief teas) can be helpful for when you're feeling depressed, as well as if you have anxiety. If you don't already own any, you can usually get some for relatively cheap at the grocery store (less than $7). My favorite brands personally are Celestial Seasonings and Yogi which should be available at your local grocery (Ralph's, Walgreens, Rite-Aid, etc.) Also, try to avoid adding too much sugar. This can result in a "crash", and negatively affect your mood more.
5. Get Your Vitamins Together
Depression can also be worsened by a poor diet, and it can be hard to gain the nutrients when depressed because eating is probably not high on your priority list. If that's the case, there are vitamin supplements that can be helpful with boosting serotonin and general good-feelings. Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B-12 (which are not only beneficial for depression, but also for Bipolar Disorder), Vitamin C (helps with energy and positive moods), and Magnesium are great vitamins to try out. These are usually in multivitamins and can be found cheaply (less than $20) at discount stores like Target, Walmart, etc. I take vitamins daily and usually see a difference if I've been skipping days.
6. Dance Around the House!
It might sound silly, but putting on your favorite song and dancing/singing around the house will probably make you feel better. You might even end up dancing for much longer than you originally thought. Maybe 5 or 6 songs in, instead of just one.
7. Journal
Processing your emotions through writing can be really helpful with taking the power away from them. I've found journaling at least once a week is really crucial for me, and if you might find that the more often you journal, the better you might feel too. Along with journaling, I've found writing, drawing, and poetry have been helpful as well. All can help to create a meditative state.
