Embracing The Abyss

#Depression #mentalheathmatters #mentalhealthawareness

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Depression can be overwhelmingly unbearable but you don't have to go it alone. Here are some tips to help get you through those dark times:

Self-care: Take care of yourself by ensuring you are resting/sleeping enough. Eating balanced meals, and incorporate movement into your daily routine. You can also try activities that bring you joy/contentment. For me, writing and reading fill my cup. If I am too mentally drained to read, laying in bed and watching my favorite Netflix series helps me cope at times.

Socialize/Connect: Stay in touch with family and friends (if family is not a safe space for you, join a local support group or church group. Try not to self-isolate, as this can exasperate your depressive symptoms. Connecting with loved ones can help your mood/state of mind by having that means of support (feeling seen and heard) or just simply being in their presence.

Managing stress: 
Do not overextend yourself. Set limits, you can sign up for a dance class or an art session like "Painting with a Twist" where you can drink while you paint (although maybe avoiding alcohol altogether while depressed is the best route), a yoga or exercise class to release endorphins.

Mindfulness meditation/breathing techniques: 
Meditation can help you maintain singular focus and rid your mind of the overflow of thoughts. The process of mediating can lead to better physical and emotional well-being by reducing anxiety and stress.

Weigh the pros/cons for your options with Medication and/or therapy: 
Medication and/or therapy is not right for everyone but both therapy and medication combined can be extremely helpful, or even regular therapy alone as you can establish a baseline which can useful in figuring out which treatment options are better suited for you.