Habits that Helped Me Cope with Severe Depression
Depression is a silent battle, often fought in our minds. In 2018, I made the decision to move back to Kentucky without a plan, and this is when I found myself. I incorporated these 6 habits that changed my life and allowed me to fight 13 years of depression.
1. Change Your Environment
Sometimes, a change in scenery can make a significant difference. You don’t have to move to a new state (like I did) to change your environment. You can start making small changes to your home like decluttering your space, adding candles or plants, rearranging furniture, or cool lighting—whatever brings your space joy. These changes crated a more welcoming and calming vibe, which positively impacted my mood. When possible, I also spent time outdoors, appreciating nature and fresh air.
2. Surround Yourself with Positive People
Depression often makes you want to withdraw from social interactions, but isolation can worsen the condition. I made a conscious effort to reach out to friends and family, even when it was difficult. I love creating art, so made the effort to join creative groups around me and learned so much from others.
Surrounding myself with positive, supportive people provided a network of encouragement and understanding. Their love and support were crucial in helping me navigate through tough times.
3. Read Books That Inspire You
Anytime I had a slow moment in my day (lunch breaks, slow workdays, etc), I would pick up a book and start implementing it into my days. Reading books helped shift my perspective and provided a sense of hope. Whether it was a self-help book, or a novel with an uplifting storyline, immersing myself in these books was both comforting and motivating.
4. Document Your Day - Give Yourself Grace for Getting Out of Bed
Keeping a daily journal became a powerful tool in my recovery. I started documenting my day, noting even the smallest achievements. On particularly tough days, simply getting out of bed and showering was a victory. Giving myself grace and recognizing these small wins helped build my confidence and reinforced the belief that I was making progress, no matter how slow it seemed.
Here are some questions I would ask myself and write down:
What did I do today?
What felt good?
Did I do something nice for myself or at least one thing that brings me joy?
5. Carry an Inspiration Book
I began carrying a small notebook with me everywhere I went. Whenever I encountered something inspiring—a quote, a beautiful scene, a kind gesture—I wrote it down. This "inspiration book" became a magical book of positivity that I could turn to whenever I felt low. It reminded me that there is beauty and goodness in the world, even in the midst of my struggles.
If nothing inspired you that day, write one positive thing that happened each day.
6. Add a Self-Care Activity to Your Evening
Incorporating a daily self-care activity to unwind after a long day was essential. Whether it was listening to my favorite music, taking a relaxing bath, practicing a hobby, or simply enjoying a cup of tea in peace, dedicating time to something I loved helped me reconnect with myself. These moments of joy and relaxation were vital in maintaining my emotional well-being.
Conclusion
Coping with severe depression is a deeply personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. However, these six habits provided a foundation for my healing. They helped me regain control, find moments of joy, and slowly rebuild my life. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, I hope these habits offer some guidance and hope. Remember, seeking professional help is also a crucial step in the recovery process. You are not alone, and there is always a path forward.
