I found myself on the verge of going down the rabbit hole the other day. I felt off and started feeling down. I know this is a danger signal for me and could lead to depression. I am not so easily triggered as I used to be because I’ve learned how to catch myself before I fall too deep. I’ve evolved to the point where I can say “NO, That’s not true ” to myself, “you just feel this way in this moment”. In ” The Power of Now ” by Eckhart Tolle, he speaks of being a separate entity apart from the mind and thoughts, and how all the mind chatter and worrying about the future is so counterproductive because all we have is NOW.
As far as policing your thoughts goes, that can be impossible for some people without medication. I feel there’s still a stigma about mental health in general. The world needs to wake up. People shouldn’t be judged for receiving the help they need. There was a time when I couldn’t control my negative fear thoughts.. I remember in my 20s my cousin told me I could control my thoughts. I was like WHAT? HOW? It took me quite a long time to get this.
So, what is a short-term solution to get back on track if you are anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed? I have a few suggestions that I’ve used. Maybe they will help you too. If you have kids, you may need backup.
- Ditch work a day and don’t feel guilty.
- Read uplifting inspirational material, anything that makes you feel better.
- Movies have the power to take you away from your problems to a faraway place. Go to a matinee; no distractions there,
- Sleep, take a nap if possible.
- Treat yourself to something special
- Talk to someone in your life who supports you.
- Get therapy if your depression or anxiety is prolonged, 2 weeks or more.
- Search your heart and mind to figure out why you’re depressed, and know your triggers.
- Are there changes you need to make in your life?
- Keeping busy can help if you can’t nurture yourself with free time.
- Engage with people who will lift your spirits.
- Know that this too shall pass. The only constant in life is change.
This is just a list of remedies for mild depression that have helped me. If you or someone you know is talking /thinking about harming themself or another, a mental health professional should be sought.
