Get in touch with yourself

Sit down and think about what’s bothering you. Is it something you can address? Is it just the illness talking? I love reading autobiographies and memoirs to remind myself that everyone is just as mixed up as I am.

• Track your moods and your progress.
• Take the #100happydays challenge to bring a little light into the darkness.
• Get your thoughts and feelings out by writing in a journal.

Fight anhedonia and be productive

• Break things down into mini-goals.
• Go for a walk.
• Push yourself to exercise for 10 minutes.

Find things you enjoy

Many people find gardening, drawing, writing, and listening to music cathartic. Figure out what soothes you when you’re feeling hopeless.

• Distract yourself with games.
• Listen to music you love.
• Get out of your own head and into a book.
• Stock your house with healthy snacks so you can indulge without feeling guilty.
• Read old letters and look through photo albums to remind yourself of good times.
• Think of things to look forward to, even if they seem silly.
• Create a space that comforts you.

Connect with a supportive circle of friends

• Call or email an old friend you haven’t spoken to lately, just to say hello.
• The community at The Caregiver Space is online 24/7. Find support on our forums, meet friends in our chats, and follow us for a daily dose of inspiration.
• Join a class or group to push yourself to get out of the house and get social.

Get professional help

Find a counselor you’re comfortable with. This is a process that usually takes a few tries, but it’s worth it.

• If you’re on medication, check in with your doctor if you feel like they need to be recalibrated.
• Contact your doctor if your symptoms are changing.
• See if any of your medications might be contributing to your depression.

Are you reading this thinking about how stupid and unhelpful these tips are? Sometimes there just isn’t anything you can do. Hyperbole and a Half does an amazing job of capturing the experience in Adventures in Depression and Depression Part Two.

We’re all wired differently. Our goal isn’t to ‘fix’ anyone, it’s to help each other find joy and meaning in our lives. Remember, when it gets to be too much, contact a doctor. Keep reaching out until you find the help you deserve.