(((TC)))~~

It's so much easier for me to be disciplined and motivated when I have outside accountability. But that has not been my life for the last 10 years.

What things do you like to do to relieve stress and anxiety? I like to start my day with yoga practice. When getting started, I set an intention to clear my mind and body by setting all my troubles and worries beside my mat where I can pick them up after practice. And then, when I've finished my practice, I intentionally "forget" to collect my troubles and worries.

For the next few days, TC, just take really good care of yourself. Reach out if necessary.

Hi TC,

Sorry to hear that you're falling into a depression. Stress, I feel definitely plays a role in making our condition worse.

The good news is that we're never powerless in making a situation better. What steps can you take, to ensure that you at least feel a little bit better, right now? Do you have any favorite things that you can do?

For me, when I'm feeling low, I usually go for a walk outside in a scenic area (a park, by the water, etc.), in order to get the fresh air and sunshine (vit D!) which I need. Or, I'll engage in another form of exercise to boost my mood. If I can't do that, I try to engage in self-care by relaxing -- I'll take a warm bath, or watch a nice tv show or movie. I hope you can find something which will make you feel better.

Hey TC -- I've been struggling with depression now for over two months and I totally agree that having structure in your life helps immensely to ward off the bad days. I find that if I can get myself up to do it, volunteering is a great way to add structure to your life and do something worthwhile at the same time. I hope you don't swing downhill -- I'm thinking of you and sending good thoughts and hope that you'll start to feel better soon. ((((hugs))))

weirdly, structure sends me into the pits of depression. I hate being tied to a schedule. I used to be really bad from september until june while the kids were in school because i had to have some sort of routine. i lived for the weekends and the holidays when the clocks could be thrown out the window and it was unnecessary to know what day it was! structures stresses me out big time. am i nuts?

I'm totally lost without structure. I have no structure now and have to figure out a way to get some. It's just sending me deeper into a depression.

It's a big drag TC having to be your own boss/parent...

But in a loving way you have to commit to leaving the house exercising, going out engaging with people...making plans and finding information....

You have to be tough in a soft way......