Losing mail is like having a low mood, but belief you will eventually overcome. Despite moments of contentment my depression steadily returns. Like many peers I am wondering why I am still depressed in spite of my commitment to medication management. Generally, my response is to tweak the medication with your doctor. However, "there is no magic pill" or "happy pill" to kill depression. There will be many battles to fight, but we will still win the war.
Like so many instances, despite medication compliance some symptoms will linger like my schizophrenia and bipolar symptoms, which I'll tackle in another blog article. Likewise, depression is one of those situations where the mental illness overrides the effectiveness of medication.
However, we hope for better days, which it is attainable. There are three tips I'll share which personally gives me hope and will support you too. We'll trump this depressive season and continue the battle to wellness. Here are some strategies to lessen the turbulence: 1) Special Place, 2) Stay Connected, and 3) Grip Your Energy.
First, develop a special place. Like the philosophy that a cluttered house is a cluttered mind, there are ways to control this. I try to keep my special place okay. And, I encourage peers to do the same. That is to keep at least one area of the home manageable. This can be your go-to place to ease the chaos within. And, try to brighten your area and get more light with the open blinds and curtains.
Second, stay connected. As you know, there are all type of ways to connect. That is through electronics, etc. Let your support network know that you need them to check on you more than usual.
This might look like daily emojis in your text messages. Or, a selfie picture to help others know how you're doing. Pictures can provide a lot of information especially to those you know you best. This is particularly great for long distance relationships. Also, for caregivers to check in. Whether your eyes look different, no makeup which is unlike some of us in pictures, and bad hair days or the same clothes, will indicate the stress level and need for help. The selfie has worked for me with my out of state relatives.
For parents, make a comfortable place in your child's room or play area. Or, have your kid play games in the same room as you. My son is stuck on videos games like many of our kids. This was challenging but this way of staying connected helps. Also, watch shorter shows and movies to control your energy that will help you extend yourself more with family.
Perform a check in with your partner at the end of the day. This not only releases stress and communicates your thoughts and emotions but brings you closer to your partner, and enables you to keep up with what is going on outside our made-up bubbles.
Practice self-reflection. Consider journaling, meditating, and prayer. Sometimes quiet moments can help us rejuvenate. Aside from my methods to managing depression, a peer told me they tell themself jokes in the mirror, this is uplifting. You may want to watch upbeat movies with happy endings or cartoons- something light. Create a routine that you would enjoy such as incorporating your favorite hobby.
Finally, hold on to your energy whenever it comes. You may put yourself on a timer to handle house chores, work duties, and personal obligations. Also, cook more than one meal at time to eat later on in the week.
Again, the three tactics I use to minimize the weight of depression, and which can help you is to 1) manage your special place, 2) stay connected with you support system and family, and 3) take control of your energy when you have it. I hope at least one tip will help you combat depression and reinforce the fact that you are not alone in this battle for recovery.
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