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Just for Today

For many years I've struggled with symptoms of depression and fight hard to control it. Low mood can manifest in several ways. For me, depression is war on energy, motivation, hygiene, concentration, productivity, anxiety, memory, and the pain of it all. Not being able to function at the level I'm capable of. The inability to finish tasks which used to be second-hand nature, easy and simple. After years of ongoing medication changes I've developed the right approach to conquer my depression with my doctor. Now I take two antidepressant medications, a mood stabilizer, and antipsychotic. Yet, that's only a fraction of the story to overcoming my challenges with symptoms.

    I fight the mind wars everyday. In fact, earlier today I fought with myself to get out of bed to take my medicine in order to control the day's battles. My mountain was the burden and challenges to gathering enough energy to get up and move. I laid in bed playing out the role in my head. I envisioned myself taking my medications and being rejuvenated into pressing forward. 

    I saw myself completing a lot of my things to do list, if only I could get out of bed to take the medicine. My strategy to win the day's hurdles were to practice medication management, walk my dog, and to wash the depression away in the shower. Fortunately, these activities work. Furthermore, my energy is picking up momentum, even as I document the challenges right now.

    As you know, depression can be a beast. Still, it's manageable. Yet, just for today, I could say I'm winning. 

How did you take control of the day? Are you managing your self-care? If not, what can you do to increase wellbeing?

To manage depression I encourage you to discuss treatment options with a mental health specialist. Also, exercise, consider vitamins, and talk to someone. Journaling can become your record of progress and changes to share with your doctor and therapist.

To support someone with depression, check on them, motivate them to speak with a therapist to learn more coping skills, and help them as best you can. For example, cooking, cleaning, or simply talking, etc.

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