Depression Management

I’m not going to tell you that I can cure your depression. What I can do is try to help you survive it more easily. There are days that you’re a little blue and need something simple to snap out of it. There are other times that depression is a deep darkness that lingers you can’t shake. No matter where you’re at right now, know that this too shall pass. I’ve struggled with depression for as long as I can remember. I know the storm well. So well, in fact, when it hits hard I know to lay low and ride it out. Even the worst depression hits its peak and comes down. You’re going to make it through this! Here are some ways that help me with depression. I hope this list is helpful to you.

• Seek out genuine friendships with people you can talk to about being depressed or what you’re struggling with. There are always people who will rejoice with you in the good times. Find a friend that will come sit with you in the darkness.  
• Connection with the right people lifts the spirit.
• Have faith that things will work out. Be hopeful. Suffering from hopelessness is one of the darkest things about depression.
• Be selective in your social circle. Some people are toxic. Protect yourself from the poison of unhealthy relationships. 
• Get over the guilt of being depressed. This is nothing to be ashamed of.
• Purposely do things that make you happy.
• What are you passionate about? Make time for that in your life.
• Serve. Find somewhere that you are needed and can get involved where you are appreciated. If you’re so depressed you don’t want to get out of bed, can you find something to get involved in with no obligation? Don’t sign up to volunteer several times a week if you know there are days you don’t want to leave the house. Find a charity or ministry you can attend at-will on the days that you’re up for it.
• Find things to look forward to. That’s one of the biggest things to make the future look brighter. You need something to live for.
• Self-care!!! Do what you need to do to take care of yourself. If you need to stay in pajamas and lay in bed awhile today, let yourself. If you need a midnight snack, enjoy. Take care of yourself.
• Try to figure out what it is specifically that’s making you depressed. Is there anything you can do to solve that problem or lessen the severity of it?
• Manage your stress. Visit my stress management blog here.
• Go for a walk outside.
• Spend some time in nature.
• Journal
• Humor
• Music
• If you’re Christian, find comfort and inspiration in the bible. Prayer can help a lot. Going to church may be helpful.
• Depression is often co-morbid with anxiety. If you suffer from anxiety, visit my blog on anxiety management here.
• Love yourself. Know that you are valuable. Know that you are worthy.
• If you can’t manage your depression on your own or you just don’t want to battle it alone anymore, it’s okay to get help. You’re worth helping.