Depression is a very common mental disorder nowadays. It is taking over the world and the effects it has on people can be extremely severe. It is an illness that cannot be cured by a single visit to the doctor and a pack of antidepressants.
It takes a special kind of help from your loved ones. It takes hours, weeks, and maybe months of patience and determination. It takes encouragement, love, and motivation.
Because, whatever it is that you experience, it’s definitely not more important than life itself. It’s not worthy. Whatever it is, you need to be able to find the strength within you and just keep moving forward.
Depression is not something that defines you. It’s just one of the obstacles along the way. I know you have the power to carry on regardless of your current situation. You are a fighter.
So, here’s a little something that might just do the trick and help you move forward even though you are depressed:
1. FIRST OF ALL, DON’T BE AFRAID TO CALL IT WHAT IT IS
Depression. It actually isn’t really scary when you think about it.
You have to be able to talk openly about your feelings. Every irrational fear, ever dreadful thought that crosses your mind. When you experience a really dark day, be honest with yourself and the people around you.
Are you feeling extra moody? Are suicidal thoughts scaring the living hell out of you? Believe me, when I say this, but those sensations are normal. You shouldn’t be afraid of them.
After all, those are just reminders that you’re a human being made of flesh and blood who cares about their life.
2. DON’T BE TOO HARD ON YOURSELF
When you don’t feel like doing something, take it easy. Don’t force yourself. There’s a difference between motivating yourself to keep going and forcing yourself to have fun.
It’s your feelings we’re talking about. If you feel like crying, do it. If you want to scream, do it. Once you feel better, try to find that motivating force inside of you and get up!
3. DON’T HESITATE TO ASK FOR HELP
After all, that’s what friends and family are for. Even though they sometimes might not understand your struggle, it is nice to have someone next to you when you experience that kind of perplexing emotions.
Even if that special someone has no idea how to help you. Sometimes listening can be everything you needed.
Share your darkest fears. Don’t make the mistake to bottle up your feelings.
4. DO THE THINGS THAT MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD
Find the things that make you feel extra alive and motivate yourself to do them even on days when you don’t feel like yourself.
I promise, once you get in your zone, you’ll see what I’m talking about.
5. LEARN SOMETHING NEW
Try to keep the fire inside of you burning on those blue days by giving yourself a challenge.
For example, challenge yourself to go to yoga class or learn a new painting technique. Go register on Skillshare and save some courses that you want to listen to.
There are so many things you can do. All you need is a little push. And I really hope this article will do that for you.
6. LEAVE THE HOUSE AT LEAST ONCE A DAY
It doesn’t necessarily mean that you should always hang out with people. You can go for a stroll in the park, hike, go for a run. Whatever you think it will relax you or lift your spirits up, you should go for it.
7. AVOID NEGATIVITY AND BRAIN-POISONING
Avoid all the drama. You don’t need more than you already have. Whether it’s the social media, toxic individuals who suck your leftover energy, or pessimistic and meaningless conversations, avoid it.
Your brain is like a sponge, it absorbs anything you “spill”. So, you make sure those are positive and happy thoughts.
8. TRY TO SOCIALIZE MORE
No matter how depressive you feel sometimes, try to maintain your relationships on a healthy level. As I said, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you should force to socialize when you feel dark.
Just when you decide to do so, try to surround yourself with positive and cheerful people.
Image: Robert Marcillas Ronda
