Depression is real! Not just for those who are chronically ill but also for those who aren’t! This time of year is especially bad for depression because it’s cold and you don’t want to go out. And if you are chronically ill you don’t get to go out as often because of all the cold and flu going around. Especially this year with the flu shot being approximated to be only 10% effective. So what can we do to handle depression in the winter months that doesn’t involve medication. Let’s look at a few options.
1. Find and stick to a daily routine– This is so important especially for those of us who are not working. The days run together and you don’t know what day it is or even what time of day it is! So finding a routine that you can stick to everyday will help keep your days less blah.
2. Set Goals– When you are depressed you feel like you can’t get anything done. So set small goals for yourself EVERYDAY!! Some that you know you can accomplish and mark off this list. I don’t know about you but for me I love being able to cross things off a list. There is such a feeling of accomplishment. (For information on how to set goals see my previous post on goal setting)
3. Exercise – To many spoonies this is the most annoying topic to discuss at a drs appts. When you feel like crap the last thing you want to do is exercise. But it’s proven that exercise releases endorphins (the feel good chemical), and it will make you feel better. Even if you can just get in 10 min two or three times a week. And it doesn’t have to be some great big workout with weights and sprints. Just walking around the block or doing yoga is plenty. Just something to get that heart pumping.
4. Take on some kind of responsibility– I know from experience that the last thing you want to do when you are depressed is commit to anything. But especially for those who aren’t working or going to school this one is important. Try and take on something like cooking meals for your family one or two nights a week. Or find some place to volunteer a couple days a month. Much like setting goals if you you can accomplish something it will make you feel better overall and help to counter the depression.
5. Try to have fun– When you are depressed usually the last thing you want to do is stop sulking and have fun. But try anyway. If you enjoy reading pick up a new book, if you’re a movie person go see the movie that you’ve been wanting to see. If your favorite things still don’t seem fun just keep trying. Eventually you will get out of that rut!
Depression is hard and frustrating. And something that everyone deals with at some point. But there are ways to fight depression other than medications. If those non-pharmacological methods don’t work it might be time to talk to your doctor. There is nothing wrong with taking medication if you need it and don’t let anyone make you feel that way if you need to go that direction. These are just a few ways to help fight depression, there are tons of options and books you can read on the matter. Because one option isn’t going to work for everyone. If you feel like you are slipping to far it’s okay to reach out for help from a friend or family member. Remember, depression sucks but it is only temporary!
I love this! I have been through depression before myself and it is no joke but you can always overcome it such good tips!
It’s hard and it sucks but it can be overcome. Thanks for the kind words