Depression is so prevalent, but it is something that’s not often talked about in the open. For those who have had to deal with clinical depression, there remains a certain degree of stigma associated with the condition.
This shouldn’t be the case, as being depressed in itself is one of the most terrible things that can happen to a person.
The good news is that there are treatments – medication or natural methods – that can help. However, even when you’re undergoing treatment, there will still be days when you feel as if the weight of the world was on your shoulders.
When you find yourself facing those moments, remember our main tip on how to beat depression: take baby steps.
Here are some simple, “baby things” which you can do when you’re feeling extremely low.
1. Remind yourself you’re not alone.
One of the thoughts that can bring a depressed person to the edge is that he’s alone. No one understands what he’s going through. He’ll have to handle everything on his own.
If you think this way, STOP.
If there is one thing you need to remember, it is this: You are definitely not alone.
You may not realize it, especially in the throes of a low period, but there are people who care about you and your well-being – your family, your friends, your doctors, and even fellow depressed people who may not know you but feel for others who are in the same boat.
Just thinking about this will help you get out of a dark moment, even if slowly. And, if you approach someone close to you in this moment, it will be even better.
2. Do whatever it is you need to do at the moment of extreme stress due to depression.
Depression is difficult to explain to those who haven’t experienced it – and we’re talking about clinical depression, not just bad days/bad moods.
One thing is for sure, though: for a depressed person, there are low moments so intense so much so that it seems there is no hope. At all.
These are the moments that pose the most danger, so instead of going over to the dark side, so to speak, do whatever it is that will make you feel better – even if just a tad – right away.
Call your doctor.
Call your sister or your best friend – whomever is closest to you and you feel comfortable talking to.
Cook.
Do yoga.
Whatever it is that you know will help at that moment, do it. Don’t hesitate.
3. Create/plan one thing a day that will cheer you up.
Over the months, this step is what has worked best for me. Instead of dreading waking up because of not wanting to face the day, why not plan at least one thing for the day that you will look forward to?
It’s a great way of relaxing at night before bedtime, too.
A coffee meetup with a friend at a laidback cafe.
A tub of ice cream at the end of the day.
A walk in the park in the afternoon.
A leisurely breakfast before going to work.
These are little things, but if you have at least one thing that you enjoy and can look forward to during the day, your chances of having a low will diminish.
4. Meet with friends as much as you can.
Depressed people tend to shy away from company.
“I am not good company right now, so why should I meet with others?”
“I just don’t feel like socializing.”
The rationalizations can go on and on, but studies – and personal experiences – have shown that socializing helps beat depression.
Even if you’re introverted, the chances are that you still have a handful of good friends. Make it a point to meet with them – or one of them – from time to time if you can’t do it once a week. Or, at least talk via the phone or messaging.
Human contact does wonders, even if you may not want to admit it. Just try it in small doses. It will still help.
15+ Quotes to Beat Depression
Originally posted on March 3, 2015 @ 8:30 am
