Managing depression is hard. While we are connected more than ever, we are isolated as a society which is increasing feelings of loneliness and depression.
There is a difference between being depressed and feeling “stuck.” If “bad moods” are continuing and not shifting, or if you’re noticing you’re isolating yourself even further from your loved ones, you could be showing signs of depression.
Here are three common symptoms to look out for:
- Feelings of hopelessness
Many of us experience feelings of hopelessness, but if you’re feeling hopeless about life in general paired with feeling insecure and worthless, you may be experiencing some of the most common signs of depression.
- Changes in your sleep pattern
Many people attribute lack of sleep to anxiety or depression, but those battling depression may also be oversleeping.
- Lack of interest
Losing interest in things you used to care about like hobbies, social events or sports is another sign you may be depressed.
One of the best ways to combat your depression is to remind yourself there are people who care about you and you’re not a burden if you share your struggles with them. But if you worry about burdening them, reach out to a therapist who can help you understand your depression and provide you with strategies to manage it.
Living life in lockdown is not easy, but there are still ways you can beat depression while socially distancing:
- Attend regular virtual social events
Schedule a time in your calendar to connect with loved ones. Everyone can get busy but scheduling it in advance and on a regular basis will help you make space and time to catch up with the friends and family. It will become part of your routine. If you can’t see someone in person, consider using a virtual platform like FaceTime, WhatsApp Video, or Zoom.
- Get back to your favourite hobbies
With the demands of work and life, it is easy for our needs to be on the back burner. Make an appointment with yourself by carving out time in the calendar like you would any appointment. Keep this time sacred for you to reconnect with the activities that bring you joy.
- Get outside!
Getting outside and taking a deep breath of fresh air is so important for mental health. Exercise and sunlight can completely change your mood. Go for a jog or leave the city and take a hike. Even a quick ten-minute walk around your neighbourhood can make a world of difference.
- Indulge in self-care
Take a bubble bath, listen to your favourite artist, or read a book. Get away from the mundaneness of life and take ten or fifteen minutes to spoil yourself, whatever that may look like. Self-care does not need to take a lot of time, and just giving yourself a couple of minutes a week can improve your mood.
Above all else, if you’re having thoughts of harm towards yourself or others, you should seek out immediate medical attention and go to an urgent care clinic or emergency department. Understand that you’re not crazy –just responding to your environment. Our emotions come from the response to what is happening around us. Decide whether your feelings and situation are temporary. It might make sense for you to feel down and out right now. If your feelings don’t change for several months, it’s probably time to speak to a professional about coping strategies. Contact us at the Vaughan Relationship Centre and one of our therapist can support you in coping with feelings of depression. If getting out of the house feels too challenging, consider attending virtually.