I have found over the years when the bad times happen, when depression has kicked into high gear, I do not want to do anything, go anywhere, talk to anyone, etc. Most of us with mental illness can relate to this in similar ways. Many times when things are bad, I cannot talk myself into doing anything, even answer text messages. In previous blogs, I've talked about things we can do during the bad times to help us through. However, what I have discovered for me is I need to decide what to do during the good times so when the bad times come I have a plan in place.
1) Get an accountability partner. This can be a good friend, coworker, pastor, classmate, etc. You need someone you can trust and understands what you need. When you call them, you don't have to go into details; just make up a couple of words so they know you need help; help to encourage you to get out of bed, show up to work, class, church, etc.
2) Decide to take a bath or a shower. This seems like an obvious simple thing, but in the middle of depression it is not. Most of the time if I can get away with it and know that I don't have to see anyone, why take a shower is my thought. It is amazing what a simple shower or bath can do for your mental welfare. Make the decision to drag yourself into the bathroom and clean up, even it is a 3 minute event.
3) Decide to walk outside and stand in the sun for 5-10 minutes. Sunlight is a source of vitamin D which plays a role in our depression.
4) Do not cancel commitments. Go to class, your child's school event, a friend's baby shower, church, work, etc.
Again, these things may seem silly to people who do not struggle with a mental illness. But during the good times when depression is under control, we need to make decisions on what we need to do when depression is out of control. This can help us through!!!
