How to Get Out of Bed With Depression

When you're living with depression, even getting out of bed can feel impossible. This isn't laziness—it's a real symptom. Depression affects brain chemistry, causing crushing fatigue and lack of motivation. But there are strategies that can help.

Why Depression Makes You Tired

Depression affects neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine—all involved in energy and motivation. Depression and sleep problems are closely linked: poor sleep worsens depression, and depression disrupts sleep. It's a difficult cycle.

Tips to Help You Get Up

Start Small

Don't expect to jump out of bed energized. Start by brushing your teeth, then go back to bed if needed. Celebrate every small win—these represent real progress.

Plan Something to Look Forward To

A tasty breakfast, your favorite coffee, or a few minutes of a show you enjoy. Having something pleasant waiting can provide motivation.

Let Light In

Open your curtains as soon as you wake. Natural light signals your body to produce alertness hormones and helps regulate your circadian rhythm. If you wake before sunrise, consider a light therapy lamp.

Set a Simple Morning Routine

Routines reduce decision fatigue. Keep it simple: wake up, open curtains, brush teeth, get dressed. The more automatic it becomes, the easier it gets.

Use Multiple Alarms

Place one across the room so you have to physically get up to silence it.

Seek Professional Help

These tips help, but depression requires professional treatment. At Next Step Psychiatry, Dr. Aneel Ursani and Fathima Chowdhury PA-C provide medication management and coordinate with therapists to address the underlying condition.

Depression Treatment in Metro Atlanta

With proper treatment—medication and/or therapy—mornings can become more manageable. We serve patients throughout Lilburn, Lawrenceville, Tucker, and Gwinnett County.