Tough start – Things to remember when depression hits

Between testing positive just before new years and having to isolate and loosing my job 3 days into the new year, my 2022 got off to a rough start. I can honestly say I took a real knocking going into this year but it reminded me of a few things I thought I would share with you to remember for when depression hits.

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Don’t wallow for too long

I am all for wallowing because it feels better to wallow than face something unpleasant. But, it doesn’t get you anywhere. When I lost my job I gave myself 1 day to process and feel sorry for myself and then I got back on the job search sites and got applying. I needed to earn and I wasn’t going to do that sitting on my backside watching TV (however nice that sounds). That quick turnover paid off majorly because within a week, I was starting a new job with amazing prospects.

It doesn’t have to be as quick as 1 day but don’t sit in that place for too long. Being proactive and finding solutions to your problems is the best way to feel better.

Learn from your situation

Unfortunately, loosing my job was not a new concept for me but I can say this one came as a shock. You know when you think you’re doing well in something and then it’s pulled out from under you and you can’t see why or where you went wrong. Well, this one was like that. There were a few things I did find out a bit later one and have been able to look at them and learn from the mistakes I was making without even realising.

There is always something you can learn. None of us are perfect or all knowing. I don’t like admitting that I was wrong but it is healthy to see that and learn from it. I am learning this one everyday, trust me.

Remember that depression passes

Only another person who suffers from depression can understand how never-ending it can feel. Lately, I have been feeling like I’m in a tunnel that doesn’t want to end. the nice thing is that, even when you can’t see the light at the end of that tunnel, it is still there and it will come. Taking the time you need to work through your depression is ok. I turned to a friend recently who knows how this feels and it was so amazing to be able to say that I’m not OK and she accepted me as I was in that moment.

Do an activity that keeps your mind and hands busy

For me it’s crocheting. And to make things better, I have nephew who is about to arrive so I have someone very special to make things for. Keeping busy is a healthy way of getting through the depression tunnel. I may have also spoilt myself with a new set of hooks to help my new project get started.

Sharing something you have made with someone else can also have an amazing effect on your depression. I love sharing my makes with friends, family, crochet groups on social media. The act of encouraging others and receiving encouragement can help you turn the corner.

There is no shame in getting help

These days asking for help isn’t so much of a shameful things, thankfully. It is not a weakness to admit that you need help. Actually, it takes great strength to admit that. We were not made to be loners. People need each other. I have restarted my therapy and am proud of myself for taking that leap again because it will help me with my work and relationships in the future.

YOU DON’T NEED TO GO IT ALONE!!!

Depression is not a an uncommon thing and there is no shame in acknowledging those feelings. What is important is that you find ways to cope and get to the other side of those depressive times. I hope you have enjoyed reading some of my tips and I hope they help you in future.

Until next time…