Tips for Self-Healing Depression
Depression is a complex mental health condition that can affect a person’s mood, behavior, and overall quality of life. As a result of the pandemic, depression has been on the rise at a staggering 32.8% across the US. Despite its prevalence and the professional resources available, this condition is still very challenging to understand and overcome. It is important to seek professional guidance, however many individuals do not have the resources such as health insurance or financial stability. In addition, many individuals are unaware that they are experiencing depression, I was included.
Read more: Depression Rates in US Tripled When the Pandemic First Hit
This can happen for a variety of reasons:
First, there is a Lack of Knowledge. Some people do not recognize the symptoms of depression or realize what they are feeling is depression and how it can negatively affect them.
Second, the Masking of Symptoms and Denial. Some people hide their depression by joking around, engaging in activities with friends and family, or putting on a brave face. Some are in complete denial. I am guilty of both. I would mask my depression by overworking. This was my way of coping with feelings I did not understand and quite honestly, felt I had no reason to have them in the first place.
Third, the Stigma. Unfortunately, there is still a lot of Stigma around mental health, especially among men. Some individuals may feel embarrassed or ashamed to admit their struggles with depression. For the majority of men, society has conditioned them to view depression as a sign of weakness and to be self-reliant. Thus making it difficult for them to admit their struggles and seek professional guidance.
Read more: Men And Mental Health Stigma
Fourth, the Physical Symptoms. Physical indicators of depression are fatigue, headaches, insomnia, and digestive problems. Consequently, many individuals are unaware they are dealing with symptoms of depression.
It’s important to remember that depression is a treatable condition, and there is no shame in seeking help. However, if resources are not readily available or you are looking for a more natural way to address your mental health, here are some tips you can do on your own to help alleviate some of the symptoms and self-heal.
Here are the tips:
- Challenge your negative thoughts: Depression can cause negative thoughts to spiral out of control and the next thing you know you are going down a deeper rabbit hole. The best way I was able to challenge these thoughts was by asking myself these questions:
- Why am I positive toward others, but negative toward myself?
- Why do I uplift others, but don’t uplift myself?
- Why do I give unconditional love to others, but accept conditional love for myself?
When I reflected on these questions, it came down to the most basic answer and that is how I truly felt about myself. From then on I began to challenge my negative thoughts with positive affirmations. I would journal and say them out loud until my mind followed. Try to challenge these thoughts with positive affirmations. Ask yourself if they are based on reality.
2. Practice self-care: Self-care means doing things you enjoy, such as spending time in nature, reading, listening to high-vibrational music, or whatever makes you happy.
I love going on hikes, so 3 days out of the week I dedicate time to go on hikes. It’s also important to take care of your basic needs, such as getting enough sleep, eating healthy food, and exercising regularly.
3. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness can help you stay grounded in the present moment and reduce the negative thoughts that come with depression. You can practice mindfulness through meditation, breathing exercises, or simply paying attention to your surroundings.
One of the ways I practice mindfulness is through poetry. When I’m struggling, I write Poems to release the negative energy.
4. Connect with loved ones: Reach out to friends or family members who can support you during this time. Joining support groups or seeking out peer support can also be beneficial.
All of these techniques helped me tremendously in my battle with depression, however, this is not an overnight treatment. Self-healing is a process, and it takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and take small steps every day to improve your mental health.
Daily Motivation Quote: “Believe in yourself, believe in your dreams. You possess more Power than you think”-DNK