Depression Support Group

Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.

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Mental Health
/ Depression Support Group

How to Cope

OneDayAtATimeMyAss
OneDayAtATimeMyAss

I have had depression and anxiety for over 15 years. When I was 17-20, my depression was very severe (two suicide attempts requiring hospitalization). Now that I am 30, I'd like to think I've learned a thing or two about how to "cope." I have accepted, whether I like it or not, these are issues I must make room for in my life and that I need to handle them. Every single day, I make the choice to get up; even though every single day, all I want to do is stay in bed.  I am also very thankful that I am now on medication that seems to help keep the episodes/lows from going too low. 


My question I pose to you all - what works for you? How do you "cope" or handle being depressed and/or anxious every day? I used to journal, but now I feel like that has become a trigger for me, which I am pretty bummed about because I like to write.

rcurtis1010
rcurtis1010
I found regular morning meditation helps me start my mornings out right. I also found regular exercise and sleep and eating habits really help. I also love to journal in a happiness journal so theres no negative in it. Another routine I have is a life coaching appointment once a week to help keep me heading in the right direction. I struggled really hard to find the right routine for myself that actually sent me in the right direction instead of a downwards spiral. <3 message me if youd ever like to talk
sonnycamehome
sonnycamehome
Like you, I make the choice every day to get out of bed, when every part of me is telling me to stay in bed! It's not easy. I find daily physical activity super helpful as well as having the right supports in place...therapist, psychiatrist, support group, etc...I don't have much family support so I really rely on my "professional" support system. Getting out of my apartment each day makes a big difference, and having a steady routine also helps. Trying to find the little things throughout the day that I can enjoy makes a big difference as well :)
shadowlady
shadowlady
I like to journal too on my worst days. I always pray that the Lord gives me strength for the day. Also, reading inspirational books helps. The Bible is full of comfort for depressed persons. God bless.
Dece
Dece
Hello

i have found that what i eat has a big affect on how i feel the next day. i have days when i still struggle but since changing my diet to a organic clean mostly vegetarian one i have not sunk as deep as i used to into that black hole called depression. if you would like me to share any info on my diet send me a message and i will teach you what i have learnt.

kind regards
Daniel
TotalRegret
TotalRegret
I think you've pretty much nailed it - making the right choices, choosing to do the opposite of the emotion we're feeling. It's hard because it's relentless, but as you say, it's about acceptance of making space for the big black dog in our lives, but not giving it the power to control us.

Based on what you shared, I think you're doing a brilliant job - well done! TR
AboundingJoy
AboundingJoy
@TotalRegret, I agree. Depression becomes a lens through which we see and interpret life. It distorts reality and truth for the afflicted, making it nearly impossible to separate the truth and the lie. Therefore, it is a huge step to keep choosing to do "right" instead of relying on our feelings. But because we are emotional beings and easily get caught up with our feelings, this is easier said than done!
OneDayAtATimeMyAss
OneDayAtATimeMyAss
Thank you for all of your comments. Lately, I have been thinking about how, most everything, is a balancing act in life. That said, I think I have learned the most about how important it is to try and "balance" what we are feeling against what we should/should not choose to do. I've always struggled with keeping things in balance. If I focus on diet, usually exercise takes the back burner. If I focus on work, my social life is nonexistent. If I focus on controlling my emotions, sometimes I end up bottling them up and then breaking down, instead of "handling" them as they come.

Thoughts??