SO Depresssssssed

deadstarsunburn

Usually my REALLY low days are when I haven't been in or seen the sun in days so I've found going tanning helps quite a bit. Just force yourself to exercise and it would help a ton. I know what you mean, but if you don't think about and just get up and get going there's less time to dwell on having to get up.

aewinter18

Drink a glass of water. Take a shower and put on some clothes that make you feel good. Do your hair and makeup -- nothing fancy, just enough to make you like what you see in the mirror. Then leave the house. Basically, do the opposite of whatever you feel like you want to do. Because that's not YOU wanting to sleep all day, that's depression.

I think of depression as a parasite. It needs you to hole up in bed and not take care of yourself because if you get up and pull yourself out of the funk, it has to let you go. It won't have anything to feed on. So it makes you think you want to lie around in your pajamas doing nothing, because that's what depression needs you to do in order for it to stay alive. So depression wants you to mope, tell depression to screw itself and do the opposite of that. Get out there. Exercise, even if it's just taking a walk outside or doing some good stretches and jumping jacks. Eat healthy food. Take your vitamins if you take them (and if you do'nt, I suggest looking into a D supplement -- it's helped me more than I can explain). Turn on some happy music. Do not sit around in your pajamas. If you try to get moving and it really just doesn't take, then sit and read a good book or watch your favorite movie, and don't let yourself feel bad about what you're not getting done today, because that's also the depression talking. Just keep going.

Having also dealt with depression, I 100% agree with this. Do not listen to the depression, it feeds it. Do the opposite of everything you feel you want to do.

Amazing Advice! It's very tough. Here's to hoping it resolves at some point.

maryjay51

Thanks for the suggestions. Hopefully all will be well as the day goes on. I'm gonna go do my hair, and get out of here and distract myself if nothing else

It's good to know that there are people like you all out there, that care.

Have a great day and I'll keep ya'll updated
xoxoxo

great idea!!! i go to tan, get my nails done, pedicure, hair style ..anything to just perk myself up and it always works .. good luck with your day and let us know how it went!

Git_er_Dun_Gal

I feel the same and have suffered from depression pretty much all my life. I dont know if having a mid-life crisis right now or just a combination of too much on my plate. I just want to run away and hide but has soo much responsibility that I can't. With it being winter I find a healthy dose of vitamin d helps somewhat and I know its not good but I find a tanning session helps perk me up quite a bit. Hang in there girl! this too shall pass....hugs my friend...i know how it feels!!!

LorinaLynn

What I do when I get like that is to push myself to just accomplish ONE task I've been avoiding. Maybe it's doing the dishes or laundry, or scrubbing the toilet and tub. Maybe it's coloring my hair. Maybe it's refilling the bird feeders outside. Maybe it's getting exercise. But I know that I'll feel better once it's done, and it often starts a chain reaction of accomplishing more and more things. If you absolutely can't push yourself and it lasts more than two weeks, talk to your doctor about possibly changes to your medications.

When all else fails, a really hot bubble bath with a good book in the winter is almost as good, sometimes better, than a lounge chair or raft in the pool in the sunshine in the summer.

Pocket_Pixi

I was diagnosed as clinically depressed about 7 years ago, when I have the really low days (which are few now) I make myself a deal. I will tell myself if I get up and go for a 5 minute walk than I can sit on the couch for 5 minutes, usually when I do the 5 minutes, I feel pretty decent and just kepe going,

Basically just getting up and doing it is the only way I can get out of the funk. Try to get outside, even if it is cold out, I find the fresh air is excellent and makes me feel better, if you can hit a tanning bed for a couple of minutes - it will help with the Vit D (you don't have to actually work for a tan) If you have a happy lamp use that.

Just remember depression is a liar and you will come out on the other end a better stronger person. I hope you get out of the low quickly!

sailorsiren13

Music, put some music on that you love and is upbeat, nothing depressing and get dancing, do a work out, go take a shower, get dressed put some make up on and call a friend for a catch up.

I agree i get in some pretty big funks to put it mildly and lately my husband has been thrilled because when he gets home the tv is off the music on and the kids and i are singing and dancing. Pitbull, Lmfao, David Guetta , Anything with a good beat we also have mandatory Marley at 5 pm we play a Bob Marley song. this started because when we lived on an island the radio did it and you know what it helps our whole family!!! I hope this helps you as well as all the other wonderful suggestions that this thread has had.

seanmcdh

GREAT advice, shiseido_faer!

classycouture

I know when I am having a bad day, one thing that really helps brighten it up (no pun intended) is a little heliotherapy! Although outdoor sunscreen is not allowed in tanning beds, put a little on your hands (seeing the sense of smell is the strongest linked to memory, it instantly makes me think of happy, warm summer days at the beach), hit a tanning salon, and just picture the sun, sand, and waves. Plus, the vitamin D is extremely beneficial, and may help lift your spirits a bit.

Hang in there!

EmilySG2011

I have had several friends with family members that have suffered from severe depression. You are not alone---so many people are battling this same problem. The advice from everyone to get up and do something is definitely the best advice. Staying cooped up by yourself just feeds the problem. Being alone is the last thing you need. I think everyone this time of year suffers from some depression and sometimes it is really hard to make yourself get up and be alive. Find a really good gym --- group exercise will at least get you out of the house and help burn calories and stress.

Proper nutrition and diet is also important. Be sure you are getting the right vitamins and overall nutrition--this helps support good mental health as well as physical health.

Don't shut people out and talk to someone. Getting up everyday, taking a shower and getting dressed is always a good way to start the day, even if you don't have an agenda. It just makes you feel better.

mill1295

I don't have clinical depression but I do seem to get SAD (thanks cloudy Ohio winters). One thing that has made this winter a lot better than last winter is that I started eating more fat. Fat is a nutrient and not enough seems to have bad consequences for many peoples brains. I'm not sure if you eat low fat or no fat type products to try to cut calories but I would HIGHLY suggest trying to eat more fat and see if that helps at all. I actually learned about this in a documentary and started eating more fat in the fall.. my SAD this winter has been no where as bad even with my best friend moving across the country

I truly hope this helps. Good luck.

LoreleiWalks

but the real best thing right now is the knowledge that it IS temporary and that this feeling WILL pass - even though it doesn't feel like it.

This.

I also suffer from depression and also anxiety (was pretty severe several years ago, but now much better, thank goodness). Apart from the above words of wisdom, I find that forcing myself to go for a walk and listen to music on my ipod can work wonders. Maybe it's the endorphins, but it usually helps me feel at least a teeny bit better. Hugs to you and wishing you well. Feel free to add me as a friend or PM me any time.

kritastic

bump.. great advice from all, when your down it feels good to know you aren't the only one

btpeanut

I find reading a good book in a cozy spot works.Its like taking a time out for yourself.

ajbeans

To the OP and anyone else who might be interested: depression comes up so much around here, I thought I'd start a group where we can talk about what we're going through and help each other find solutions to manage our depression. Feel free to join:

http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/2202-managing-depression

willnorton

the best thing you can do is look at all the people who responded...that should give you some upward energy...

I know depression is a medical issue but look at the positive things in your life right now...


find your happy thought....know we care about you.....this is a great family....

read the EdDavenport post again..i have been talking to this guy for a while...he has been where you are...he is my main motivation right now...when i get down i see someone who is in a better place and just dwell on that..

\things will get better for you....

I promise


Big Bill

cloud2011

I've been there some days. Some days it's an effort to wash your face. If it's one of those days, make it your goal to wash your face and brush your teeth. Comb or brush your hair. If you feel you can talk yourself into doing more, by all means do it.

If you don't feel like seeing people, you don't have to. But, it's important to try to get 10 minutes of sunlight a day for Vitamin D, which is said to affect mood. Morning light is supposed to be very good, too. I don't know where I read that, but I find it helps me. I someitmes just stand outside in my driveway if I know I'll be inside most of the day, for work or because it's cold.


This may not affect you, but if anyone reading this ever feels suicidal, AT ALL, there's a nationwide toll-free number you can call to get help. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255):

Veterans can call the above number and press 1.


I googled these numbers, so if someone else has more up-to--date information, please post it.

Seminolegirl97

My advice (although this will not solve all of your problems) get out of the house go workout. Tell yourself you just have to workout 10 mins. If after 10 mins you want to leave, leave. But I bet once you are out and about you will feel better and you'll stay working out.

Sorry you feel this way.

jpoulsen2

Depression is actually one of the main reasons I committed to using MFP.

Exercise is apparently really good for overall mood stability because it helps release the chemicals in your system that keep you happy. Exercise is also supposed to help you develop more normal sleep patterns, and for me that really helps with depression too.

I know it's crappy to think that something you don't feel like doing (working out) is somehow magically going to up your mood, but I figure it's worth a shot. Especially good if you can do anything outside too (sunlight + fresh air =good for mood), exercise with people (running buddies?), or exercise and feel extra pleased with your accomplishments (empowering).

Just some thoughts... good luck!

tangiesharp

bump

jaimec25

Just started on here myself but I suffer from chronic depression and understand where you're coming from. I wanted to give you encouragement and let you know I'm thinking about you.

When I'm feeling really depressed, I force myself to take a shower, put on clothes I feel good in, do my make-up, etc. and most of the time that act alone helps at least boost my spirit. I also have a music playlist on my Mp3 player of upbeat songs that make me feel good, that way I don't stumble on a sad song on the radio. If you can even start with taking a walk, you may find that you can work yourself up to more. I learned in treatment that you don't have control over the first thought that pops into your head but you do have control over your what you do with it, and your next thought. So take control of your thoughts and try to turn around your "stinking thinking" as one of the therapists would say. Also, if you have a behavior modification plan, fall back on those things you said you'd do when you started feeling down and if you don't have a plan, make one when you're feeling better so you have something to fall back on. If you have a support group in your area, go to a meeting. I'm new on here so I don't know anyone yet but feel free to add me as a friend. I hope you are feeling better this afternoon!

MrsGreen1985

This describes me to a t! I am on meds but some days - like today it feels as if there are not working.I couldn't drag myself out of bed untill 5pm (In the UK).
And nothing I do helps. I just wanna cry ... but we have a house guest so I keep it all in.
I live with my fiancé and even though he tries to help he just cant.I feel as though he could never understand how i feel because he is SKINNY and always has been . he doesnt understand it a struggle just getting out of bed. And at the moment I cant lose the weight which is just making it worse.

Its a battle

mscoco10

I say to try to pray for strength and push yourself even if its only a little. Wishing you better days.

judykritikos

While I don't have depression - my family and close friends do. I would tell my non-depressed friends the same thing as I would tell the depressed friends - you have to put one foot in front of the other, keep movign forward. Even if it's an inch.
You know MENTALLY that this will pass. It's come and gone before, right? You know it wont' stay, right? When you're "IN" it - you can't see that or feel that - but nonetheless, it's still true. You just need to remind yourself that it won't last - just a storm you're going thru.
Take a sheet of paper - big red marker and write: THIS TOO SHALL PASS. Put them up where you can see them - bathroom, closet door, cabinets - so you can see it. You won't FEEL it, but eventually when you keep reinforcing it to your brain - this WILL pass, just like the last time.
People in sales aren't necessarily depressed, yet they hear NO NO NO NO NO NO all day and all night. Their depression isn't clinical, but they feel the same - can't do it any more, why bother? etc. They are told the same thing - get up, keep going, it's not YOU, this will pass, good days will come.
We have a saying: Fake it till ya Make it. Put the GOOD clothes on, wash your hair and put make up on. Go outside - EXERCISE - get some fresh air. You could easily get into bed and stay there for hours, days or a week.
Or
you can get up, fake it till ya get it back - move forward, keep working out.
This too shall pass.
I know it must be SO hard to have this and not be able to control it. You can't - but you CAN work thru it till the sun shines again.

alimarieban

I too suffer from depression and anxiety. I have days like you've mentioned and I agree with most of the other posts that you have to get out of bed and get moving! Getting up, taking a nice shower or bubble bath, and having something to do really helps me. I will usually go shopping, on a walk, or clean my house. Anything that keeps my mind busy and my body moving. Hope this helps!

Stay strong!

vger11

I get up and make my kids pancakes and watch them smile

or

I play tug-o-wag with my big dogs

or

I watch hgtv

anything to make me smile.....esp doing for someone else, puts a big smile on heart.

hope you feel better sweetie