Looking back there’s so much of you to be proud of. The proof in trying is all the progress you’re able to make in spite of all you’ve been through. Getting up, going back to work, getting back in touch with friends, those are all steps in the right direction. I know it’s not easy and that some days you won’t feel like trying, don’t be too hard on yourself, we’ve all been there. You can do this! Nows a good time to recite your affirmations: (1) I am capable (2) I am worthy (3) I deserve better (4) I won’t give up on myself (5) I deserve love (6) I won’t worry what others think (7) I can and I will do this … whatever you need to hear to remind yourself of what your goals are in life is a good way to develop a mantra for yourself that works. Look up quotes on Pinterest, do whatever it takes to keep going in life. No ones a fan of lost time, boredom, or procrastination, it happens, the goal is to keep yourself busy each day so that you don’t hit those lulls in time. Its when you have too much free time on your hands to think about life that sometimes the depression can get worse, so my best advice would be to keep yourself busy. According to NIH, “Depression symptoms can interfere with your ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy your life.” [1] This is why I walk everyday it’s not all about fitness and looking good, there are so many psychological benefits to working out and working on yourself, not only does it make you feel good but it also helps to get your mind off of the things that are bringing you down in life, including your troubles. This is why getting things done with depression is so difficult, some other normal symptoms of depression are: “sadness, anxiety, loss of motivation, difficulty concentrating.” [2] Think not what can someone do for you, but what can you do for yourself to help keep you on track and get on the right path again. The more independent you are in terms of managing your symptoms the easier it will be to interact with others and form relationships with others. That’s just my finding, when you get hard on yourself, it makes all socialization difficult it may seem like it’s the only thing you have to talk about your mental health, think what about everyone else! When you start having concern for others that shows that you know that you’re not the only one and allows for regular conversations to occur where you are helping and not just helping yourself and that’s how it should be, getting through a difficult time then being able to be there for others, makes looking back on your life a little less depressing when you see the benefit to being you, able to help others too!

Reference:

[1] https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-in-women

[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/work-depression