You make a list, and mark off each thing you get done.

Focus on the task in the moment.

Distract your usual thought pattern.

Make a "To Do" list. Mark stuff off as you go. Making stuff off the list always made me better and I could be depressed but still get some stuff done. Not everything but get stuff crossed off shows progress.

So, I think there is a difference between letting yourself feel depressed and giving in to that feeling and letting it take over your life. Think "it's okay that I am feeling this way," but then also try to do things that counter those feelings. So if you just feel like sleeping, try to do at least one thing on your to-do list instead. Take small steps and be patient with yourself.

We definitely all go through this. My motivation has been low these days. I still have to work and get things done however. I do make to do list for sure that helps me. I also just take these moments day by day. Focusing beyond that makes me feel worse so that helps me. Take it one day at a time.

Definitly make a short list every day. Make it small things, like wash the plates and bowls, fold one load of laundry, clean one room. I know when I am depressed the chores pile up. My therapist suggested i choose three small tasks each day so by the end of the week, everything is done. Baby steps are okay. Forward is forward

In my world, lowering my self-expectations is part of letting it be okay that I'm not okay. Some days are better than others. Where is the surprise in performing better on good days than on bad days?

The menial chores can wait while I work on self-care.

Hello,
One day at a time and be gentle with yourself. I’m sorry you are going through a rough time. Please stay strong. We are here for you.

Continue to post. I hope you will find encouragement here. Stay safe. Take care and God bless.

I really needed to hear all that everyone has said here.
I have kind of hit the wall today. Working at home for one job and laid off from
another part time job.
My son and husband are both working. Earlier in the day I felt kind of tired
and anxious but tonight, feeling really down. When I'm depressed I feel is in my
throat and chest and it literally hurts. I feel like crying and am self criticizing all over the place.
I think I can relate to what you are saying: Trying to do what you can to keep from getting more and more depressed, but also being kind to yourself? So happy that I came across this post tonight. Hugs and Love to All

That is a good question. How do you allow yourself to be ok with being depressed but also continue to be productive?

The tightrope walk of opposite feelings/needs. Perhaps it is possible to make time for both, but separately? While I am productive, I focus, because later, I can sit and be with my other feelings.

You are not alone! Maybe sharing my own strategies might spark a helpful thought. I set daily goals (dishes, homework, mowing, etc.) but they always include down time. I give myself a time of day for a meaningful and inspiring podcast, nap time, or sitting with a hot cup of tea, or meditation/breathing sessions when it fits around getting other things done. In those "down times", I don't fight my feelings...instead, I give them time to just be. I highly recommend mindful breathing, if you do not already do that. There are so many good resources out there for learning how.

Hang in there, everyday is a new opportunity to find your balance!