Overcoming Depression 2021

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Physical distancing, in particular, has made the COVID-19 pandemic challenging for people with mental health conditions. People might not leave home for support from health practitioners or their religious or spiritual community, for example. They may also be avoiding seeing their friends or family. These things can lead to increasing rates of depression and anxiety.

How to reach out for support

  • Look for support from people who make you feel safe and cared for

  • Find ways to support others

  • Care for a pet

  • Join a support group for depression

How to fight depression

Depression can drain your energy, leaving you feeling empty and fatigued. This can make it difficult to muster the strength or desire to seek treatment.

However, there are small steps you can take to help you feel more in control and improve your overall sense of well-being.

  • Meet yourself where you are

  • If you need to wallow, wallow, but do so constructively

  • Know that today isn’t indicative of tomorrow

  • Assess the parts instead of generalizing the whole

  • Do the opposite of what the ‘depression voice’ suggests

Can you prevent depression?

There’s no sure way to prevent depression. But you can:

  • Find ways to handle stress and improve your self-esteem.

  • Take good care of yourself. Get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly.

  • Get regular medical check-ups.

  • Get help if you think you’re depressed. If you wait, it could get worse.

  • Connect with a trusted friend virtually.

  • Try to avoid extreme thinking and focus on more balanced and accurate thoughts.              

It’s ok to ask for help

Everyone experiences depression and anxiety in different ways. It’s normal for some people to need more support than others. If symptoms make it hard to function normally, or if they last more than a few weeks, it might be time to get help. Talk to your healthcare provider if you need help navigating depression and anxiety. They can refer you to a mental health provider or other resources.

Consider clinical treatment

You may also find it helpful to speak to a professional about what you’re going through. A general practitioner may be able to refer you to a therapist or other specialist. They can assess your symptoms and help develop a clinical treatment plan tailored to your needs. This may include traditional options, such as medication and therapy, or alternative measures, such as acupuncture. Finding the right treatment for you may take some time, so be open with your provider about what is and isn’t working. Your provider will work with you to find the best option.

 

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