The
key to depression recovery is to start with a few small goals and slowly build
from there. Draw upon whatever
resources you have. You may not have much energy, but you probably have enough
to take a short walk around the block or pick up the phone to call a loved one.
Set Goals
Something special happens the moment the paper meets the pen and we write down our goals. Our brain chemistry
changes, neurons fire, hormones are deployed, and we start thinking about how
we can achieve those goals.
Sleep
Getting the right amount of sleep is healthy for our body and mind. Some argue
that sleep deprivation treats depression, but I don't buy it. I think it's a
cheap distraction that catches up to you within days. Get enough rest.
Exercise
If you're physically capable, try one hour of cardio (or as much as you can).
If you're tee-shirt is soaking wet, you're standing in a puddle of your own
sweat, and you can feel the endorphins pumping through your body, you did it
right. Shower up and try not being happy, I dare you.
Forgiveness
Many times we're making ourselves sad for no good reason at all. People have
been known to keep grudges for lifetimes (most religions and nationalities keep
them for generations). When you forgive, you remove this weight off
your shoulders and put yourself in a position to be happier.
Gratitude
Many times when we complain we can cause ourselves to be sad. Complaining is just a factor of not taking into account what we're grateful for. Sit
down and make a list of 100 things you're grateful for right now (and I dare
you not to feel better).
Sunlight
Certain people have a disorder, in which, due to a lack of sunlight, they experience seasonal sadness. I'm somewhat
affected by this in the winter when the days are shorter. That's why it pays to
grab your iPod (or your friend) and go for 30 minute walks each day and embrace
the sunlight.
Hydration
This has always been my downfall; I don't drink enough and chances are you don't either. Some days I
drink only 1 cup of water, and I feel horrible. When I remember, and drink 2-3
liters, I'm happy as a kitten on cat-nip, and productive as a bat out of hell.
Friendships
Your life force, support system, and everything that matters. It's not hard to
make friends if you put the time in. Everyone wants to be heard, appreciated,
and loved. Start off by listening, appreciating and loving, and it will come
back your way.
Reading
Take a temporary leave from reality and bury yourself in one of your favorite
books. A lot of wise people have been through what you're going through and
they made it through to the other side to tell about it.
Journal
This could be an escape but it doesn't have to be. You can write about fiction,
and transport yourself to another world, or you can write about what's going
on, and let your thoughts carry you through to a solution. Many great books
were written by people who were, at least at the time, going through a period
of pain and suffering. (dumblittleman.com)
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