RT
Depression is a life altering mental illness. Clinical diagnosis of depression come after individuals experience prolonged periods of hopelessness, sadness, and irritability.
Persons experiencing depression may have issues with eating, unexplained weight loss or weight gain, forgetfulness, and unexplained aches and pains.
Depression is a treatable condition over time with a focused and dedicated program.
Therapy for depression emphasizes the need for self care and self awareness. Professionals guide patients through safe activities that help uncover contributing thoughts and feelings. Depression often alters individuals’ abilities to see situations clearly. Thoughts can come across jumbled and disjointed. An unrelated third party can help connect feelings and emotions.
The neuroplasticity of the brain allows for connections to be rewired and reworked.
Neurobiologists believe that neuroplasticity allows behaviors and coping mechanisms to be altered at any stage in life via therapy.
In order to recover, it is important to acknowledge that the voices of a depressed brain are not accurate. The critical inner voice speaks negative, self destructive, words that do not accurately portray one’s true self. This voice is like a bully living inside of someone saying hateful things for no reason.
Recovery requires acknowledgment that this voice is false and leads to painful situations.
Depression can make people feel too much or nothing at all.
The emotions connected to depression must be addressed. Underlying feelings of anger or pain are triggered by something. Recovery requires reflection on these feelings by those in treatment. Addressing the source of emotions can stop masking and misplacement towards one’s self.
Lethargy and inactivity can result from depressed feelings.
Depression is a draining condition. It makes people not want to engage in activities. Physical exercise is known to physiologically improve mood. The brain creates endorphins that increase feelings of pleasure.
These endorphins are released directly following exercise. A consistent exercise program of at least 30 minutes daily can be contributed to improved mood in those with depression.
As feelings of depression create a negative self view, it may make individuals less likely to associate with others. Depression may decrease feelings of self worth.
People may believe that they are not worthy to be around peers. Their issues may seem like a burden. Embarrassment may result because ofnegative thoughts.Self isolation may occur with depression. Isolating only allows negative internal voices the environment to grow.
Improvement of depressed mood can be supported by interpersonal interactions with peers. Find groups that have similar interests. Look for social locations that enable interactions.
Find activities that are enjoyable. Depression places one in a dull headspace. Feelings of sadness and anger overshadow happiness. Recovery requires removal of the dullness.
Engage in activities that are joyful. Watch funny television shows.
Reality TV provides relatable content that allows temporary escape into a different reality. Talent on these shows are meant to engage in activities that provide entertainment. However, be mindful of triggering content.
Do not allow these programs to take the place of healthy interpersonal interactions.
Finally, it is important to acknowledge all emotions are valid. Sadness is a normally occurring emotion. Recovery does not mean removing sadness from life entirely.
Allow mental health days when you have a bad day.
