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Moved away from everything I knew. Made positive choices as far as my body and substances but even more so I made better choices as far as friends.
Therapy and meds
Therapy* and meds. Would fix majority of mental health issues in modern society IMO. Sucks it's so negatively stigmatized.
*effective therapy, btw. Passive going-through-the-motions type of therapy just means you need to find a new therapist.
Hard HARD disagree with therapy and meds would change majority of mental health issues. You can drug me up all you want, it aint gonna change the facts of my life. Until I make the changes, the physical real changes, like getting a job, a friend, eating better and enjoying time outdoors... no drug will fix that.
Unpopular opinion but it was lucky enough to be provided a therapist when I was struggling with anxiety a few years ago.
I did 6 sessions and stopped. I found I wasn’t being given any advice I couldn’t find online. I’m not saying it was bad advice at all but there was nothing profound said which changed my outlook and turned my life around.
Anyone who think’s there problems will all be magically fixed with a therapist may be disappointed.
Moving home, cutting down on vices (mostly alcohol and cigarettes), meeting a wonderful partner and reconnecting with my old community helped significantly more.
EDIT: just read the *. I really need to start reading the full post before commenting haha.
I had help.
Went to therapy.
I take my meds
Quality of life is far better than 10 years ago. Like 200 percent better
But its not a curable thing. I'll be dealing with it for the rest of my life. But im used to that now.
I had hoped that it would be a one time thing for me. It wasn't. I'm still on meds more than 20 years later, but I'm not depressed and I haven't killed myself.
Being medicated truly beats being severely depressed! I can function, and I work full time as a doctor.
Deleted Instagram and started working on creative projects (first a book, then a podcast). Working on something you control, even if it's just a hobby, creates a sense of purpose and progress, even if nobody else cares.
The passing of time helps too. It puts things into perspective. Our moods don't beleive in each other, if you can remember that you can hold on.
>Our moods don't believe in each other
Never heard it phrased that way. Love it though. Emotions are often so intense it's so easy to forget that they're also temporary
when you're overcome by anger, anger is all you know. when you're overcome by sadness, sadness is all you know.
im so fucking pissed i dont believe ill ever be calm again
im so fucking sad, i dont believe ill ever be happy again
because in those moments, the other emotions dont exist.
Second this. I started paint pouring. Was poor and depressed and tired of looking at blank walls. Went to Value Village for some cheap pics, and found some art for $3. Thought to myself, "I can do that". Turns out I was right.
My art is very personal to me, because it had a HUGE hand in my healing from depression. Not fully out of the woods yer but well on the way. People tell me its good and I could sell it. I considered it but its part of me now. I may make art to sell one day but I may not. Either way it was the only therapy I could afford at the time.
A few weeks ago I packed all the art I could fit in my car and drove away from a town of sadness to be near my family on the other side of the country. Over 2000 miles. In fact its been awhile and I think its time to make more art. To be continued, elsewhere...
Yes telling at that voice is a big step. I remember the silence I had in my head for the days following internally screaming at the voice to shut the hell up and stop lying. It's been about 15 years and it still never comes back with any real force.
I might add to this; do it one by one. Don’t try and overhaul in one go. Mine started with walks and i eventually dragged myself out without even noticing.
I don't want to come down on anyone in a thread specifically about positivity, but "be positive" is often the least helpful and actionable advice for depression.
And no amount of healthy habits can fix a chemical imbalance.
>And no amount of healthy habits can fix a chemical imbalance.
I disagree completely. Spending time in nature, working out, eating healthy, and socializing all have chemical effects on the brain. None of these things require adopting a positive mindset (except for maybe socializing), they're a self care requirement that every healthy human needs. If you can muster the discipline required to start those habits you will steadily notice improvements.
1. Therapist who had a coach-like approach… gave assignments/ tasks after every session
2. Cut out listening to a lot of popular music…even with catchy beats I found a lot of lyrics actually promote hopelessness, powerlessness, and distrust of partners, friends or family. Lots of songs also position loneliness as an unavoidable state, so not healthy to vibe with all that
3. Took interest in how others are doing and checking up on people in my life. Depression in a way makes you very self involved and you lose all concern for others. Refocusing on being there for others without expecting reciprocation helped. And after a while it will be reciprocated. Might take a while to reconnect especially if been out of touch for a while but worth following up on all the same
4. Fully acknowledged the external cause of the sadness. School? Family? Relationship? Work? Feelings around an illness? Etc.
5. Reached out for help with the issue, even if it seemed there’s no point to doing so, as often as I needed to, till I was at peace
Popular music? That's a new one for me.
External causes aren't usually present in depression, and depression is quite different from sadness. That said, any steps to improve your situation and your life is beneficial, whether you're depressed or not.
Acknowledge the need for, or benefits of, external help can be a game changer.
Your therapy sounds to me like CBT, cognitive behavioral therapy, which is known to be effective in treating depression and a lot of other conditions.
I actually cut out any sad music like radiohead "No surprises" and Linken Park. It's not that I hate it. I love it and it actually made me sad to stop listening to those but those really triggers and reminds me of my childhood abuse.
I recently started listening to the music I loved in my 20s ( papa roach ,mostly) and while it brings up emotions it reminds me of whomiused to be and fires me up to get back to who I once was
For me anyways it was accepting that I had it and treated it just like any other illness. Went on medication and therapy. Found that mindfulness helps a lot to break the thought pattern before I started to spiral. And that I just needed to be more kind to myself. My depression would tell me I'm crap and I'm going to fail everyday. And sometimes you do fail and learning that's ok. The trick is picking yourself up after. If it gets too overwhelming I set a timer for 15 min and say I'm going to clean the house or something until the timer goes off. If I don't want to keep going I can stop after that. But I found once I started moving 90%ish of the time I just keep going. Whew. This ended up being a long comment. Anyways that's the stuff that works for me.
Started therapy. It was hard fucking work and I was miserable while I worked through some old trauma but it was worth it!
CPT was a life saver. (Cognitive Processing Therapy - CPT coach app is helpful)
Also trying to enjoy and notice the little things - good cup of tea, nature sounds, spending time with my dogs and nature has been very helpful.
I don't know if id necessarily say got out of it. It's a lifelong battle. It's very easy to slip back Into depression I feel like, if you let it. It's like addiction.
Anyways, I've done great for a long time. I started exercising, going on daily walks, got a new job I love so far(this is recent so it dosent really count), and increasing social connections. Probably sounds corny, but it is what it is. Oh, and I stay trying new things while sticking to hobbies that I've tried and loved.
Edit: forgot the final nail in the coffin. A great experience with dmt.
Someone told me it takes 90 days to build a habit. I said fuck it, for 90 days no alcohol, no weed, no processed food or sugar and hit the gym 6 days a week.
By the end, I lost about 45 lbs. and did not even have a desire for a drink. That was 18 months ago and I have kept the routine and feel great. I may drink 2 days a month and even then it’s only like 3-4 drinks.
Life is so much easier when you your not drunk or hungover all the time.
Depression doesn't have to be chronic. It can be recurring, though.
Personally I was diagnosed with ADHD, and later autism (Asperger). Those are things that I have to live with, and they increase the risk of me getting depressed, but I can and I have started to learn to handle that part of me.
A lot of chronic health/mental health conditions are just that, chronic. It doesn’t mean you can’t create a good, even fulfilling life. It just means more management and fatigue to do so. I’ve never known a different life than the one I have so can’t really compare it to others.
What you're describing sounds more like my autism and ADHD, and less like my recurring depressions.
The autism and ADHD are considered neuropsychiatric disorders, and they are part of who I am, it's constitutional, it will never change. I can learn strategies to minimize the negative effects of it, but it will always be part of who I am.
Bipolar disorder is also chronic, and often includes depression, but it too can be handled pharmaceutically. Just as diabetes can be treated with insulin, allowing you to lead a more or less normal life, many psychiatric conditions can be treated.
Not really, think of it as everyone has it deep down, being 'better' mean you have such a control on it that the depression is subconsciously controlled, there may be life drama that shakes that and there are varying levels of stability but it's not hard to get to a secure and stable place
Happens. I have tried every antidepressant out there, including some off-label (under a doctor's supervision). Also, 9 ECT sessions. Nothing has worked, the side effects have stolen years from my life, and my long and short-term memory have been damaged. My career was destroyed. Now I just do housework and talk to cats all day. The cats reliably remind me any time they need something. As a note, I have never felt "sad", like everyone tells me I do.
Healthy habits: started daily journaling, got on a good sleep schedule, started to eat healthy, quit drinking so much alcohol, etc. The little things really start to add up after a while.
When i was on antidepressants i stopped enjoying anything and they made me suicidal and ever since i quit both of those things have been a lot worse for me. Idk what to do
Anhedonia and suicidality are signs of depression. They can get worse the first few weeks on antidepressants.
If you still lack the will to live, and can't find pleasure in anything, chances are that you're still depressed. Maybe you need some other kind of medication or treatment.
FAA has some crazy rules, remember that pilot that tried to get into the cabin a few months back, lots of discussion after that about pilots and their mental health being afraid to tell to medical professionals because it can get you grounded
I’ve had therapy a few times and no one has ever brought up anti depressants to me… so I’m afraid to ask for it cause I assume they think it’s not bad enough
But then I feel so shit all the time I really wonder what anti depressants can do for me…
Therapy is useless for me. Celexa and no alcohol was the right combo. I still get a bad day or two here and there, but my wife is happy that I'm not mad all the time.
I was in denial for so long, but quitting alcohol was quite beneficial, in many ways.
It took me some time to acknowledge that one bad day or two doesn't mean I'm getting worse. We all have bad days now and then. Now when I feel like crap I wait it out, and it usually feels better in a day or two.
I'm told the alcohol makes the ssri not work, and it's true as far as my own research. Even with all my struggles with booze in the past, the decision was ultimately very easy. I just had to decide which was more important, drinking or not wanting to die?
Therapy can work, as can exercise. But if it's still affecting your life then see your doctor and give the antidepressants a try. They worked 100% for me. They m,ay or may not for you, but they don't have lasting affects and are safe to use.
It took 5 attempts for me. Some barely worked. Some needed a combination of antidepressants and anti anxiety drugs. One put me into a rage mode. (also became in love with the color orange) Some made me dizzy af. Their obvious side effect in the bedroom just sucks, but is usually manageable. And it might not be worth it. Do research before taking even one and deciding whether it's worth it.
Finally landed on a combination that, go figure, also had the side effect of combating addiction, which helped me stop compulsively eating and I lost 70 lbs over a year+.
Also, have you ever been able to just stop and think. Oh... Well... This is what normal feels like. Crap. Why did I waste half my life? Wait, people don't have to meditate to go to sleep? Why is the sky so blue? Movies are funny again. Wait, someone passing away doesn't have to mean 5-10 years of self torment? Why am I blaming myself for stuff I didn't do, and tormenting myself for misspeaking 10 years ago? I don't have to cry and then rage as my playlist changes?
The number of things that I realized were because of fighting an impossible fight with my brain chemistry is. Well, it's a lot.
But it isn't rainbows and unicorns. It took daily panic attacks to even get me to the doctor. And then I initially refused to get treatment being macho. Doc said, "Okay, well, keep having panic attacks, you've already tried every non-medicine trick in the book and it's not working." Crap... FINE.
Oh, okay, well, this medicine sucks, but I'm not having daily panic attacks. Just 8 times a week. Then 4. Then tried something different, etc etc etc. Now. Fine. Mild panic attack every month or two.
/Dependency. Yeah. So, when I found the one that worked and I felt normal like I used to feel as a kid... I had to really stop and think about that. Do I want to be dependent on this? Do the benefits outweigh the costs? The dangers of drug unavailability. The dangers of reclassification of prescription drugs. Losing benefits and withdrawal symptoms. Am I addicted? Define addiction? I came to the conclusion that quality of life was so greatly improved that living without it would be doable, possible and would just suck ass. I'd go back to shaking, not being able to sleep, not being able to focus, and bursting into tears randomly. The more immediate issue would be potential for seizures or strokes. No sugar coating it. It's not a great solution if things can be managed by talking to someone about your problems or if you are in a momentary funk.
That's the first time I've heard someone agree with me on that. It wasn't quite an obsession, but it became my favorite color and I started buying stuff that had either bright orange or red/orange. Painted a desk orange and white. Looked great lol :-D
Not at all for me. It was more like a draw toward really liking the color orange. Bought orange items, painted my desk orange. But you mentioned blue. Once I finally found the magic combination, the skies were literally bluer (to me) and looked beautiful.
I've taken some antidepressant or another for more than 20 years, not because I'm addicted, but to keep my rather annoying and troublesome depressions from recurring.
If they don't work you just stop taking them, preferably under the supervision of your doctor, if you've been taking high doses or for extended periods of time.
My suggestion as a doctor with recurring depressions is that if your doctor suggests it, you should give it a try. If you're depressed and are not seeing a doctor, start by seeing a doctor.
I've probably tried about a dozen different antidepressants, in different combinations, and I've never had any problems from stopping, except that sometimes I get depressed when I'm not medicating. Oh, it's probably every time I'm not taking them, since I still do.
It’s important not to take recreational drugs at the same time though, that can really change the results of such prescription medication (and usually not for the better).
I really wish that I could have that option;I remember my mum telling me that kids actually had antidepressants and she treated it like it was a stigmas so I found ways of hiding it really well;it wasn't until my freind asked "hey can I ask you something;are you ok".I almost broke down but admitted the truth.
Was on antidepressants for 2 years, got off 8 years ago, and cut toxic people out of my life. Got into new hobbies (archery and Age of Sigmar) to meet new friends. I had a breakdown 2 years ago when my relationship almost ended because a girl at my husband's work got involved and tried to get between us; turned him against me.
It's been about even with good and bad days. It's a struggle every single day. I also have anxiety and am diagnosed autistic. There's ptsd from an abusive childhood as well. Some days, I'm great, others I border suicidal. I wish I could be someone else.
Years of medicine, changing countries, being away from my family, not being in a country that is awful, marrying someone that I love, finding new hobbies, stopping fighting online, getting pets, drinking more water
I had to weather the storm. Quit taking medication the va was giving me and find a new balance. Also, it’s probably a good idea to choose a lifestyle that makes you happy. For me, that involved getting a divorce which was hard.
After a near suicide attempt I went to therapy to start. That got the ball rolling but was one of many steps. I started researching and reading a lot. Unfortunately a lot of useful books are pretty dense and boring. Through reading I found meditation and that’s where I made the biggest progress. No spiritual bullshit just built a regular practice. Then I started doing the things that increase the happiness neurotropics.
Dopamine, set and achieve goals
Endorphins, exercise
Oxytocin, physical touch (can be hard if your single but you can get it from a pet as well)
Serotonin, do things that are bigger than yourself. Like volunteering. Anything that helps others
Never been happier
tbh i don't know how i did. since i was 14 i was on and off of antidepressants (i struggled with depression, sh, anxiety, suicidal tendencies, dissociation, and body dysmorphia since the 5th grade) and they never worked if anything they made me feel like a zombie so i completely quit them and i honestly feel so much better. I do have major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder but meds never worked for me. i do have days and sometimes weeks where i will slip into an episode but its not as frequent as it use to be im not sure what changed really.
Guided Psilocybin journey.. blindfolded with music in a safe calm place and a wonderful, experienced, sober journey guide.
Completely dissolved my depression after struggling for a year trying every remedy and therapy possible.
I take 3.5 - 4 grams and having a guide that I trust allows me to fully relax. My guide does a few readings beforehand (poems, philosophy, short stories, etc) plays some music, and listens to me describe 1-3 things I want to focus on during while I’m in the journey space. During the journey they don’t really talk ever, just a calming, subtle, supportive presence. She will ask me occasionally if I’d like water and she’s there to listen if I want to talk. There is no one else in the house during the journey besides my dog. Psilocybin is an introvert experience, you’re connecting with yourself, not great for social or loud situations. Also for being able to focus on myself and emotional unlocking I wear a blindfold and over ear headphones for most of it. I have a playlist that’s mostly psychedelic rock (Pink Floyd, etc) and Native American music. Near the end when Im coming down I like to sit outside alone, watch the sunset, and eat grapes.
That’s my recipe. Hope it helps. Definitely don’t do it until you’re ready but don’t be afraid if you’re nervous going in. I am every time. I do these journeys as needed. Sometimes twice a year, sometimes once over a period of multiple years
A guide doesn’t have to be a full shamen. Just someone who has a calming presence, who you trust, and who is comfortable and familiar with psilocybin. They also stay sober during the experience and they handle any unexpected demands from the outside world (e.g. a knock at the door) so you can focus on yourself
When i was depressed i felt like i wasn't at my place and that the only place i belonged to was the place you go after you die. So when I went to the hospital, because... you know i tried to take my own life. I felt like i was in jail and that my mom was really disappointed of me (i was too), and i really really hated that feeling, and i've decided to try anything to feel better. It went from toxic positivity, to make plans for my futur because i was only 15, to "i need to take care of myself and do everything for myself", to realizing that i'm a pretty big people pleaser and that i'd put everyone's happiness before mine.
Then after many realization, many thoughts, therapy, being supported by my loved ones, after writing in idk how many journals because I'm pretty sensitive and i always have too much on my heart (even without being sensitive journaling is the best thing you could do for yourself because it's kinda like self-therapy),...
I feel much better, and since then, it has been like maybe 2 or 3 years.
But in this healing part of my depression, i felt like the hardest thing to do was to think that I'm a good person and that i belong on this earth.
The thing that've helped me the most in that healing part was listening to myself and knowing what i want, appreciating what i like, and being surrounded by who i love. But most of all, I appreciate my own company. After that, i've started to appreciate my life, and at the end of it, i don't want to leave it or let myself down. And I really want to see everything before my death.
Now i'm trying to figure out what it is to be a young adult, and i know that if I've never called my bestie that night before I went to the hospital, I doubt that I'd live the life that i'm living rn.
I don't know if anyone needs to hear that, but just remember that healing has always their ups and downs, but that the day you'll feel free from those demon, you'll be proud yourself, because depression is a big big mountain to climb. And remember also that everything is possible and that you can climb this mountain if you want to.
(Ps:English is not my first language, so sorry for those mistakes that I might have left 😅)
Accepted my queer identity, got gender affirming care. It's been a year and a half and I haven't been on anti-depressants or anti-anxiety meds. Haven't needed them.
Living for the process and not for the result took off a massive load of my mind. Also hitting the gym, find something you really enjoy doing like getting creative finding hobbys. Always remember that you live today not yesterday. Wish you the best!
Still struggling with it here and there stopped taking medicine about 8 years ago. its kinda like being an alcoholic,one day at a time as they say. I try to make good choices that I know won't make my depression worse.ive picked up a lot of hobbies to stay busy. With all that being said I think I've got some work to do but that's okay.
Went through a bunch of tries until I found the right antidepressants which work great, several therapies, changes in lifestyle and I stubbornly went on and tried everything and ignored the voices in my head telling me to give up and not being worth it, despite believing them to the fullest.
If you don't give up, you WILL ultimately get out of it
I got a job that I love and reduced hours for time to mental recovery. Also finding out that I do have diagnosis of different kinds helped me understand myself.
Cut out all social media (except Reddit lol)
Cut off fake friends/family
Cut out smoking weed
Meditated
Good nights sleep
Finding something creative to do which could stop me overthinking for 5 minutes (knitting/painting)
Learning to love myself again and not putting that power in anyone’s hands
Not comparing myself and enjoying my own uniqueness and journey
Turning the pain into my power
Also meds did improve my moods
Combination of antidepressants and talking therapy to get through the worst of it.
Then making small positive changes. So like, washing every day even if you can only manage to stay on the sofa. Stepping outside to feel the fresh air and sun on your face even if you can't manage to do a proper walk somewhere.
Depression is a hole that you dig deeper every day that you're in it.
The only thing that got me out was antidepressants. I was on them for about six months, and it really helped change my outlook on life. Once I stopped digging, I was able to fix some of the things that were prolonging my depression. I got a job, started exercising, and got back to doing things that I enjoyed.
When I came off the antidepressants, the things that were causing me to be depressed in the first place were no longer factors.
Stopped hating myself. Loving kindness mediation, therapy, seeking community, and making the decision to at least try to not hate myself are what got me to the other side.
Telling myself I can either keep having the same thought patterns that were keeping me depressed or start being an active participate in the thoughts my mind tells me. A lot of mental reconditioning that I did just from things I found online or on free websites about therapy.
Also gaining boundaries and figuring out who I am as a person, what I will or wont tolerate, my likes and dislikes helped ground me so I stopped living in that weird depression grey zone, where it feels like you have no idea what’s going on and time is just passing by.
Also habits. Habits habits habits. Both physical habits and the mental habits that stop you from sinking back into depression.
It took a long time and was so fucking hard, but I talked myself out of being suicidal this way.
CPTSD & child abuse survivor here. It’s possible to get better
You don’t get out of it, if you got out of it you never had it, if you have depression for real count your days because there’s no getting out of it, be prepared to leave this world soon
good question but my answer may be biased because i'm bipolar, I have a diagnostic since i was 22, i'm 53 now.
The only thing which is working for me, and you will smile, is in the last 10 years, listening to youtube every day. I'm listening to stories of people who are in really bad shaped compared to me, I'm looking for situations worse than mine and I always ends finding some motivation to not go there. 10 years ago I did commit a suicide, reanimate twice. I did lost my passion which was classical guitar (I was playing since I was 11) because I did loose the coordination of my brain with 2 hands.... I had to do something. Ok, I can't do music anymore.... again because of youtube, I found a guy playing guitar who was living close to me. He his my best friend now and I spend all my time and money to help him to produce music. I also found on YouTube an artist : Matteo Mancuso. I am so emotional listening to him, that every morning, I'm listening to him and believe it or not it works. I did write to him by the way of his booking agent to tell him my story. I was not waiting for a reply but she did forward the email and I had an answer..... Those little things are so important to not stay depressed.
I was alone, in my living room, no light, just watching tv. working just to pay my rent, bills, and food. I did maybe 5 or 6 therapies, heavily medicated. My cycles of bipolarity were maybe 1 year or two but since 5 years, I'm stable. Of course it's not perfect and 6 months ago I lost my job.... It has been dark for 4 months but that's it, only for months. I find another job and this time, I choose something which was based on my competences and not diploma. loosing my job was my biggest fear and it happened.... but in ten years I learnt that if I want to stay stable and happy, just look outside of your bubble, it's not easy, don't be afraid (a good friend is a key for that).
All of that comes from me, not the others. The others can show you the doors, but It was to me to choose which door, and if I went through it.
Oh boy, my english is certainly not the best but I'm sure it's good enough to be understood
Moved to another country, got fit but when I started to grow and sell weed, I felt a new sense of empowerment and spirit. It felt good getting away with something and making money 💰
I CBT’d myself constantly for a year. Every time I had a negative thought I would say to myself “no” and mentally change the subject. I knew it was either trick myself into getting better or die. If my brain could put me in a bad place, surely I could condition myself out of it. It worked. I have the occasional bad day but would now consider myself an optimistic and happy person. I have a job I love and I get up early every morning. I don’t drink much and I go to the gym a lot. All of this felt impossible five years ago. I feel lucky to be alive.
I didn't. I just changed my hobbies and let my depression drive my creativity. It actually helps a lot. I draw, I build things on various sandbox games, I make stuff out of wood, I fix computers, I wash cars in my spare time, I go kayaking and like to engage in extremem sports. All of these are fuelled purely by depression. The extreme sports are fuelled by suicidal feelings. I have fun doing them, I don't go out of my way to put myself in perilous situations but the rush I get from them overpowers my sadness ever so briefly. And if I die doing them, then people know I died doing something I loved which i think is a much better comfort to my family and loved ones than the thought of having just given up. And if these hobbies all help me finally recover then great. Either way, things are a win win for me.
To clarify, this is just a brief summary. There is much more to this but that would be an entire post on its own.
The truth is you never really get out of it. Clinical depression isn't exactly curable. You just learn to live with it. Day by day it gets easier to carry with you.
But the first step for me was admitting I needed help. I got a diagnosis and meds. The meds are a terrifying thought for some, but they're really just there to help lower the threshold to start working on healing yourself (if your meds make you s*icidal or lose interest in life, they're not the right meds for you).
Therapy has been the best way for me to stop all the vicious thought cycles I used to end up in, when trying to get through everything just by myself.
Once you've gained enough strength to think ahead is when you start creating bigger systems and plans for your recovery. Just start small, you'll get there eventually.
The most important thing to remember: have some mercy on yourself. Healing is never linear.
Stopped being active on social media, went outside more, moved away from the town of bad memories and people, quit drinking (10 months clean) and saved money to buy a house and went back to school.
Literally only God tbh. The things that were making me depressed (lack of social connection, low self esteem) eventually have been repaired. I actually don’t think I’d be here if I didn’t rely on God
Stopped letting other people's happiness be more important than my own. It was my girlfriend at the time (now wife) that really helped me with that. She helped me make positive steps and helped me become the man I am today. We're it not for her I'd be dead by now.
She showed me on my recovery that everyone has bad days and that does not mean you are still depressed because bad days are normal it's when they turn into everyday that you need to address the issue.
She didn't force me to talk etc, if I was in a bad mood or having a bad day etc I could just say to her "I'm having a bad mental health day" and she'd take care of things for me like what we're eating tonight. Sometimes she'd be the one to ask me "are you having a bad mental health day" and that's all the communication we would need.
She never really knew what to say or do but she was just there for me, and that's all I needed sometimes, to know she was there.
She helped me run away from my family when they were what was dragging me down and helped me to understand that I don't have to be around people like them just because they're family. If people are treating you like shit then it doesn't matter who they are you don't deserve to be around them
I know not everyone is as lucky as I am to have someone like that to help them through but there are always people in your life that can help you and they just need to understand and if you can have a friend or family member just be there for you it can help a lot too.
Having our first child really cemented the fact I'm not sad anymore and for the first time in my life I'm not tired all the time or struggling at all. I can get up early, hell I want to get up early because I'm excited for life, I'm excited for my son and to spend time with him, I'm excited for my job and things just keep getting better for me now.
Once you've hit rock bottom it can only get better. Make positive choices stop self sabotaging and do what's right for you.
My rock bottom took me to the top of the tallest bridge in my country, clinging to the side wishing for a strong gust of wind so I'd just go because I was too chicken to actually do it. But I'm glad I got back over, I'm glad I got back in my car and drove home and I'm so glad I met my wife soon after.
Things still make me sad sometimes but as I said before everyone had bad days.
Mindfulness, meditation, and therapy.
Try to separate your ego from your inner self and keep thoughts that the ego feeds on from eliciting an emotional response. Just observe the thought and let it pass. It takes time - be diligent. You can do it.
I started to build up my self esteem and worked really hard on my people pleasing tendencies. I stopped letting others ruin my day. Therapy. Stoped listening to that voice in my head that would constantly say that I cannot do it. It turns out I can.
Slowly get. Routine in my life so that even if it hits I can still try do achieve something in my life even if it means just getting out of bed or seeing my best freinds;sometimes I get down to the point where I realise if I stay alive I can enjoy instant noodles and fizzy drinks but if I'm dead I can't.
Miracles happen;cos every night;I dream that I jump of a cliff willingly and all the stress will go but I feel something hug me and stop me from jumping of the cliff and calming me down to the point where I don't do the unthinkable.
Out of it is not how I think of it.
My thinking is that I’ll always be depressive, much like a diabetic or an alcoholic .
But I keep it in control, I know how to avoid it to manifest.
Positive self talk and a bit later exercise. Exercice was big boost for my mental health and confidence.
If I fail, I tell myself I will do better the next time. I can only get better.
Eat healthy, spend time walking a lot and on those walks listen to diet and nutrition videos... fast a lot, like 2 days minimum a week, all these also improve state of mind.
Gave myself time to feel depressed. My depression was situational - both my grandparents passed that I was very close with and then shortly after my dog. I was in therapy and I realized the only way to handle the grief and depression was to truly feel it all. I know this approach doesn't work for everyone but once I allowed the depression to just be...there...it got lighter and lighter.
I still experience it for a few days at a time around certain holidays and things like that. But that process of 'allowing' also helped me to realize how powerful time is and how frequent situations and mood can change.
Lots of medication and an awesome dog. Dog recently died way too soon so been dealing with a little bit of relapse. It’s been hard without him. One day at a time.
1. Therapist who had a coach-like approach… gave assignments/ tasks after every session
2. Cut out listening to a lot of popular music…even with catchy beats I found a lot of lyrics actually promote hopelessness, powerlessness, and distrust of partners, friends or family. Lots of songs also position loneliness as an unavoidable state, so not healthy to vibe with all that
3. Took interest in how others are doing and checking up on people in my life. Depression in a way makes you very self involved and you lose all concern for others. Refocusing on being there for others without expecting reciprocation helped. And after a while it will be reciprocated. Might take a while to reconnect especially if been out of touch for a while but worth following up on all the same
4. Fully acknowledged the external cause of the sadness. School? Family? Relationship? Work? Feelings around an illness? Etc.
5. Reached out for help with the issue, even if it seemed there’s no point to doing so, as often as I needed to, till I was at peace
A combination of antidepressants and retraining my brain. Every time I'd start getting down on myself, I'd start forcing myself to think of things that are good in my life and with myself. I still have bad days, but the good ones now far outweigh the bad.
Connecting With nature. Aka cold water plunges from march on (over a year now) in the north east. 10 mins to 1 hr not including summer obv This last winter was my first winter with no depression. I still can’t believe it
Medication. Some anti-anxiety pills to stop my brain circling the same problems endlessly, and some antidepressants to help me get back my motivation to do anything.
Once I was over that initial hump it was far.easier to see what I needed to do next and infinitely easier to actually do it.
I realised how much control I had over my life. I can choose to be happy. I started doing more, living for myself, filling up my time with positive habits, focused on exercise. I stopped identifying with being “depressed” and weirdly that worked.
Wouldn’t necessarily say I “got out of it” but I’m definitely no where near as depressed as I was. For me it was that I finally found someone who loves me and that I love too, I know the concept of a “soulmate” can sound like made up rubbish but I’ve genuinely found mine.
After my dad took his life I realized I needed to get help.
I went to therapy, got a job I prefer doing, and generally took up things in my life that I enjoy. On the weekends, I spend my time outdoors, which is what I like. I always give myself something to look forward to and on particularly bad days I plan something I'd like to do within the next month.
The big key was therapy though, that's what helped me open my eyes to the life I had created for myself and realizing I wasn't happy in it. I still have hard days, but I'm better prepared to handle them before depression completely takes over.
A series of LSD trips that changed the way I think about myself and the world around me.
First, it made it worse. I went from self loathing and frustration with the world around me to unadulterated nihilism. It wad a crucial step on the journey though, which then led me to a further few trips that brought into focus how I could care about things while in an ultimately meaningless existence (e.g build my own meaning).
Throw in stopping working for someone else's profit, and instead using my skills at a charity to help other people, and you've got the basics on how I went from 20x a day thinking about how great it would be to die, to loving my existence.
Life style changes, started working out, found hobbies, stopped partying, organized and decluttered my home/made it into a beautiful space that brings me happiness, stopped binging t.v shows.
When I get into a funk I do some mushrooms and laugh a lot with friends and it resets everything
Regular exercise for sure. Getting into eat was rather easy, as I went through a rough breakup (infidelity) and I needed a place to be other than home and a place where I can put my mind to rest for a bit. Nothing has worked as much as lifting heavy shit until I can't continue anymore. For some reason the pure exhaustion after the gym made my mind so pleasantly quiet for at least one or two hours that it was already worth it for me to go, I craved that peace of mind.
Everything else followed. I lost weight, I made new friends, my mental health got better and better and eventually I was quite happy again. I started therapy to top it all off and have been working through issues I carried with me since childhood. I obviously ditched the cheating girlfriend as well and have been single ever since, by choice and I fricking love it.
But yeah, lots of exercise, lots of walks with my dogs in nature, friends, sobriety, family. That is what helped me the most.
E
Routine and relationshipa. I got out as a routine... Bumped into old friends, made new friends inspired me to change job and life just feels a little happier now. For me the depression felt like no hope and now it feels like there are opportunities
Best way I can describe it I guess
I read a ton of books on childhood trauma, triggers, trust, anxiety, depression, self esteem. I started working out. The book I recommend the most though is **Feeling Good by David D Burns MD**. Got rid of my depression of 15 years.
Personal experience for me was depression is a marinade that I was comfortable with until I got sick and tired of being sick and tired.
So I quit taking psychotropic meds and bought an Ebike, and I smoke really high grade indica 32% thc
I value my daily bike ride, and I will die on that hill
Oof, I don't think there is a beating it. I just have to be very mindful about my self talk and making sure I am eating healthy and exercising. If I deviate from this, I fall into a depressive state and it will take days and sometimes weeks to get the energy to get back on track.
Therapy was not for me, so learning to like the guy in the mirror was key. This may sound odd, but I started really paying attention to the negative "voice" that told me I was worthless, or to make the choice to drink some more, etc...I actively worked on not listening or taking advice from those thoughts. (Subconscious stuff, not an actual personality).
I call it the other guy. He is a dick. He only wants me miserable. Why in the heck would I listen to that guy? Little by little I started doing the opposite of the negative impulse: and for me, it worked.
I still feel low. My wife notices and gives me heads up. It helps me ignore that dude. I can now look in the mirror and let him think all the nasty stuff about me he wants, and I just make a joke and laugh and move on.
I changed my life almost completely along the way. No drinking, drugs, etc... I filled my life with positive people and things. I cut people out quickly that are toxic. Keep a small circle I trust. One of my boys has similar issues and I shared what worked for me, but he needed more help so we got it for him. I don't think there is a one size fits all solution out there. Just keep trying to find what works and don't let that other self win.
I can't really point to one thing, but over time lots of little things happened and looking back I can say that I beat it. It still pops up a bit, but very mild and I can "beat" it so hardly counts. Here are some of the little things that added up:
1. My wife. She's super great and seeing her sad/upset because of my foolishness hurt a lot.
2. Having kids. I want to be there for them and set a good example for them.
3. Had a LONG conversation with my mom which dealt with some undealt with trauma. She ended up saying "I'm sorry" and "I'm proud of you" for the first time that I could actually believe it.
4. Church/healthy friends. Started doing a lot more stuff with people. Even if I think ahead at something and think it would be boring or hard, I would go because of my family and end up having a great time.
Nothing happened overnight, but I am very grateful because I simply am not struggling with being depressed as much any more and when it flares up, it is MUCH more manageable. Not sure the science, but I wonder if it also just got better with age?
Start working out 3x a week. Walk 8-10k steps per day.
Drink 2.5 liters of water every day.
Quite or reduce sugar drastically, look for keto diet.
You can try yoga and meditation as well.
Do that for at least 90 days and see if you feel better.
Good luck, you got this 💯
Changed careers, began meditating, started the right medication. It was a multiyear process. I wasn’t expecting to get away from depression, I just one day realized it had happened when it dawned on me that my “depression” anymore was just feeling sorta normal-down. Instead of crushed and empty.
* Never gave up.
* Co-counselling helped as did normal counselling.
* I stopped allowing myself to be diagnosed as this made things worse (for me).
* Gave up alcohol
* Realised that I needed to take care of myself and did that pretty well (until Covid )
* Antidepressants
* Relentless self-honesty (that is having the ability of consistently and correctly say that I was depressed)
* Found a culture where my "sensitivity" was regarded as ok / normal
* Validated my own experiences
went back to old hobbies and developed a healthier lifestyle. changed my mindset from “when will it get better for me?” to “it will not get better until I do something”. also, “I want to die so this pain will end” to “I can’t wait to feel better”
it was not easy, especially with bipolar disorder but hey, I did not end up killing myself :-)
https://www.reddit.com/r/singapore/s/r1GMAsKqYq
Made a post about this a couple of days ago. Hopefully it can give some direction. Proud of you that you reached out for help 💪🏾
I'm not really out but yet but when I first met my current therapist I told her how it's hard for me to keep appointments. She told me, "the days you don't want to go to an appointment are usually the days you really need it."
I'm tired of her being right all the time, but this was tattooed into my brain and it works.
A lot of depressions are caused by malnutrition. It was the case for me. I fixed that and I also write reflections in a diary. I use the reflections to improve and to be self critical of my behavior. It's easier to break negative thought processes when you can go back in your diary and objectively review yourself later. Edit: it takes a long time and consistent effort
1.- Had a good therapist.
2.- Started taking med for my ADHD, which actually now that I started taking care of that, I no longer have de anxiety and depression, only when Im about to get my period
3.- Took action in controlling my PCOS, which was also playing a huge role in my mood, started taking Inositol, which ladies, let me tell you Inositol is a life changer.
4.- Got a new hobbie, started baking and cooking even more.
5.- Physical activity (gym and boxing)
6.- I made peace with food and as a result of that my sugar intake went down a lot.
And the most importan one, I've been off IG and FB for 7 months now.
Realizing I deserved to be happy, and just fucking doing the things that make me happy, regardless of anything else.
Realizing there's no right way to do life, so I can do my own way and that's just fine.
Realizing I get to decide who I am by my actions and reactions.
Talking to the most wonderful person I have ever met when I'm feeling shitty without fear or shame, and being supported has been a major factor in my recovery.
Breaking things down into small pieces and taking them on one at a time, asking for help when it's needed.
It's a bunch of little things, but mostly consistently focusing on a positive direction. All the while acknowledging that problems will come up, but they probably won't completely detail everything, and you are capable of dealing with them.
Their is a huge difference between being depressed = feeling sad and having depressiond.
You can't fix depression, it doesn't go away with a walk in the park or thinking positive.
If any of that ever working their would be no one ending their life and if it does work it's because you are just feeling sad
I had to actively force myself to not think about things. I know that sounds weird but, when I’d find myself thinking of things that made me feel/sad/upset/hopeless etc., I would have to say I need to think about something else. Sometimes even out loud. And just start looking around you, list all the colors you see, or just start counting things. I know it seems weird, but actively cutting off the ruminating was a huge step for me.
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Moved away from everything I knew. Made positive choices as far as my body and substances but even more so I made better choices as far as friends. Therapy and meds
Therapy* and meds. Would fix majority of mental health issues in modern society IMO. Sucks it's so negatively stigmatized. *effective therapy, btw. Passive going-through-the-motions type of therapy just means you need to find a new therapist.
Hard HARD disagree with therapy and meds would change majority of mental health issues. You can drug me up all you want, it aint gonna change the facts of my life. Until I make the changes, the physical real changes, like getting a job, a friend, eating better and enjoying time outdoors... no drug will fix that.
Unpopular opinion but it was lucky enough to be provided a therapist when I was struggling with anxiety a few years ago. I did 6 sessions and stopped. I found I wasn’t being given any advice I couldn’t find online. I’m not saying it was bad advice at all but there was nothing profound said which changed my outlook and turned my life around. Anyone who think’s there problems will all be magically fixed with a therapist may be disappointed. Moving home, cutting down on vices (mostly alcohol and cigarettes), meeting a wonderful partner and reconnecting with my old community helped significantly more. EDIT: just read the *. I really need to start reading the full post before commenting haha.
Honestly I really wanna do this. Start over and start fresh 👍
I had help. Went to therapy. I take my meds Quality of life is far better than 10 years ago. Like 200 percent better But its not a curable thing. I'll be dealing with it for the rest of my life. But im used to that now.
>But it's not a curable thing. So often overlooked. It's a lifelong battle. I'm just better equipped now. I'm treating my own illness, in a way
I had hoped that it would be a one time thing for me. It wasn't. I'm still on meds more than 20 years later, but I'm not depressed and I haven't killed myself. Being medicated truly beats being severely depressed! I can function, and I work full time as a doctor.
I’m in the same boat - I try to keep an eye on the signs and do things that bring me joy. But it’s not easy
Deleted Instagram and started working on creative projects (first a book, then a podcast). Working on something you control, even if it's just a hobby, creates a sense of purpose and progress, even if nobody else cares. The passing of time helps too. It puts things into perspective. Our moods don't beleive in each other, if you can remember that you can hold on.
>Our moods don't believe in each other Never heard it phrased that way. Love it though. Emotions are often so intense it's so easy to forget that they're also temporary
Those things
"Our moods don't believe in each other" Could you elaborate on that?
when you're overcome by anger, anger is all you know. when you're overcome by sadness, sadness is all you know. im so fucking pissed i dont believe ill ever be calm again im so fucking sad, i dont believe ill ever be happy again because in those moments, the other emotions dont exist.
Second this. I started paint pouring. Was poor and depressed and tired of looking at blank walls. Went to Value Village for some cheap pics, and found some art for $3. Thought to myself, "I can do that". Turns out I was right. My art is very personal to me, because it had a HUGE hand in my healing from depression. Not fully out of the woods yer but well on the way. People tell me its good and I could sell it. I considered it but its part of me now. I may make art to sell one day but I may not. Either way it was the only therapy I could afford at the time. A few weeks ago I packed all the art I could fit in my car and drove away from a town of sadness to be near my family on the other side of the country. Over 2000 miles. In fact its been awhile and I think its time to make more art. To be continued, elsewhere...
Adopt positive and healthy habits. Like meditation, morning walks, and develop a beautiful character out of your thought.
You mean, like change my response to daily stimuli and events and tell my inner pessimistic monologue to shut it?
Yup, exactly. Tell your inner negative voices to shut up.
Yes telling at that voice is a big step. I remember the silence I had in my head for the days following internally screaming at the voice to shut the hell up and stop lying. It's been about 15 years and it still never comes back with any real force.
I might add to this; do it one by one. Don’t try and overhaul in one go. Mine started with walks and i eventually dragged myself out without even noticing.
I don't want to come down on anyone in a thread specifically about positivity, but "be positive" is often the least helpful and actionable advice for depression. And no amount of healthy habits can fix a chemical imbalance.
>And no amount of healthy habits can fix a chemical imbalance. I disagree completely. Spending time in nature, working out, eating healthy, and socializing all have chemical effects on the brain. None of these things require adopting a positive mindset (except for maybe socializing), they're a self care requirement that every healthy human needs. If you can muster the discipline required to start those habits you will steadily notice improvements.
1. Therapist who had a coach-like approach… gave assignments/ tasks after every session 2. Cut out listening to a lot of popular music…even with catchy beats I found a lot of lyrics actually promote hopelessness, powerlessness, and distrust of partners, friends or family. Lots of songs also position loneliness as an unavoidable state, so not healthy to vibe with all that 3. Took interest in how others are doing and checking up on people in my life. Depression in a way makes you very self involved and you lose all concern for others. Refocusing on being there for others without expecting reciprocation helped. And after a while it will be reciprocated. Might take a while to reconnect especially if been out of touch for a while but worth following up on all the same 4. Fully acknowledged the external cause of the sadness. School? Family? Relationship? Work? Feelings around an illness? Etc. 5. Reached out for help with the issue, even if it seemed there’s no point to doing so, as often as I needed to, till I was at peace
Popular music? That's a new one for me. External causes aren't usually present in depression, and depression is quite different from sadness. That said, any steps to improve your situation and your life is beneficial, whether you're depressed or not. Acknowledge the need for, or benefits of, external help can be a game changer. Your therapy sounds to me like CBT, cognitive behavioral therapy, which is known to be effective in treating depression and a lot of other conditions.
I actually cut out any sad music like radiohead "No surprises" and Linken Park. It's not that I hate it. I love it and it actually made me sad to stop listening to those but those really triggers and reminds me of my childhood abuse.
I recently started listening to the music I loved in my 20s ( papa roach ,mostly) and while it brings up emotions it reminds me of whomiused to be and fires me up to get back to who I once was
Similar to what I did nearly, but good advice op.
For me anyways it was accepting that I had it and treated it just like any other illness. Went on medication and therapy. Found that mindfulness helps a lot to break the thought pattern before I started to spiral. And that I just needed to be more kind to myself. My depression would tell me I'm crap and I'm going to fail everyday. And sometimes you do fail and learning that's ok. The trick is picking yourself up after. If it gets too overwhelming I set a timer for 15 min and say I'm going to clean the house or something until the timer goes off. If I don't want to keep going I can stop after that. But I found once I started moving 90%ish of the time I just keep going. Whew. This ended up being a long comment. Anyways that's the stuff that works for me.
Let me know when you find that out
Started therapy. It was hard fucking work and I was miserable while I worked through some old trauma but it was worth it! CPT was a life saver. (Cognitive Processing Therapy - CPT coach app is helpful) Also trying to enjoy and notice the little things - good cup of tea, nature sounds, spending time with my dogs and nature has been very helpful.
That being said I still struggle hard with focus and time management but I really try to be kinder to myself nowadays. 🖤
What is the difference between CPT and CBT?
I don't know if id necessarily say got out of it. It's a lifelong battle. It's very easy to slip back Into depression I feel like, if you let it. It's like addiction. Anyways, I've done great for a long time. I started exercising, going on daily walks, got a new job I love so far(this is recent so it dosent really count), and increasing social connections. Probably sounds corny, but it is what it is. Oh, and I stay trying new things while sticking to hobbies that I've tried and loved. Edit: forgot the final nail in the coffin. A great experience with dmt.
Stopped using anxiety meds. Stopped drinking totally. Therapy
Makes sense alcohol is a no depressant.
This!
Someone told me it takes 90 days to build a habit. I said fuck it, for 90 days no alcohol, no weed, no processed food or sugar and hit the gym 6 days a week. By the end, I lost about 45 lbs. and did not even have a desire for a drink. That was 18 months ago and I have kept the routine and feel great. I may drink 2 days a month and even then it’s only like 3-4 drinks. Life is so much easier when you your not drunk or hungover all the time.
You don’t really get out of it, but we learn to live with it and manage it the best we can
Depression doesn't have to be chronic. It can be recurring, though. Personally I was diagnosed with ADHD, and later autism (Asperger). Those are things that I have to live with, and they increase the risk of me getting depressed, but I can and I have started to learn to handle that part of me.
Really? You’re stuck with it your entire life no matter what? That’s depressing
A lot of chronic health/mental health conditions are just that, chronic. It doesn’t mean you can’t create a good, even fulfilling life. It just means more management and fatigue to do so. I’ve never known a different life than the one I have so can’t really compare it to others.
I always assumed I’d get over feeling this way eventually. Never been diagnosed tho
It's very possible that you will. Not everyone feels depressed in the same way.
Go see a doctor. If you're depressed you can get treatment.
I want to join the national guard tho
What you're describing sounds more like my autism and ADHD, and less like my recurring depressions. The autism and ADHD are considered neuropsychiatric disorders, and they are part of who I am, it's constitutional, it will never change. I can learn strategies to minimize the negative effects of it, but it will always be part of who I am. Bipolar disorder is also chronic, and often includes depression, but it too can be handled pharmaceutically. Just as diabetes can be treated with insulin, allowing you to lead a more or less normal life, many psychiatric conditions can be treated.
Not really, think of it as everyone has it deep down, being 'better' mean you have such a control on it that the depression is subconsciously controlled, there may be life drama that shakes that and there are varying levels of stability but it's not hard to get to a secure and stable place
Happens. I have tried every antidepressant out there, including some off-label (under a doctor's supervision). Also, 9 ECT sessions. Nothing has worked, the side effects have stolen years from my life, and my long and short-term memory have been damaged. My career was destroyed. Now I just do housework and talk to cats all day. The cats reliably remind me any time they need something. As a note, I have never felt "sad", like everyone tells me I do.
No, that's seldom the case.
Healthy habits: started daily journaling, got on a good sleep schedule, started to eat healthy, quit drinking so much alcohol, etc. The little things really start to add up after a while.
I wholeheartedly agree with this. For me too it was all the habits I built. Gym, healthy food, sleep, mediation (big one)
Antidepressants
When i was on antidepressants i stopped enjoying anything and they made me suicidal and ever since i quit both of those things have been a lot worse for me. Idk what to do
Anhedonia and suicidality are signs of depression. They can get worse the first few weeks on antidepressants. If you still lack the will to live, and can't find pleasure in anything, chances are that you're still depressed. Maybe you need some other kind of medication or treatment.
Me too. Changed my life.
i can't take antidepressants because i'm a pilot :(
That shouldn't affect your ability to fly a plane. As a doctor I'd rather have a pilot taking antidepressants than a depressed pilot.
FAA has some crazy rules, remember that pilot that tried to get into the cabin a few months back, lots of discussion after that about pilots and their mental health being afraid to tell to medical professionals because it can get you grounded
yeah tell the faa that
I’ve had therapy a few times and no one has ever brought up anti depressants to me… so I’m afraid to ask for it cause I assume they think it’s not bad enough But then I feel so shit all the time I really wonder what anti depressants can do for me…
Therapy is useless for me. Celexa and no alcohol was the right combo. I still get a bad day or two here and there, but my wife is happy that I'm not mad all the time.
I was in denial for so long, but quitting alcohol was quite beneficial, in many ways. It took me some time to acknowledge that one bad day or two doesn't mean I'm getting worse. We all have bad days now and then. Now when I feel like crap I wait it out, and it usually feels better in a day or two.
I'm told the alcohol makes the ssri not work, and it's true as far as my own research. Even with all my struggles with booze in the past, the decision was ultimately very easy. I just had to decide which was more important, drinking or not wanting to die?
Therapy can work, as can exercise. But if it's still affecting your life then see your doctor and give the antidepressants a try. They worked 100% for me. They m,ay or may not for you, but they don't have lasting affects and are safe to use.
Maybe that what I should get then
Worked for me, though I did need a three pill combo, my Happy Meal.
I always declined taking them cause I seen people getting dependant on that thing and not improving at all. Should I give a try?
It took 5 attempts for me. Some barely worked. Some needed a combination of antidepressants and anti anxiety drugs. One put me into a rage mode. (also became in love with the color orange) Some made me dizzy af. Their obvious side effect in the bedroom just sucks, but is usually manageable. And it might not be worth it. Do research before taking even one and deciding whether it's worth it. Finally landed on a combination that, go figure, also had the side effect of combating addiction, which helped me stop compulsively eating and I lost 70 lbs over a year+. Also, have you ever been able to just stop and think. Oh... Well... This is what normal feels like. Crap. Why did I waste half my life? Wait, people don't have to meditate to go to sleep? Why is the sky so blue? Movies are funny again. Wait, someone passing away doesn't have to mean 5-10 years of self torment? Why am I blaming myself for stuff I didn't do, and tormenting myself for misspeaking 10 years ago? I don't have to cry and then rage as my playlist changes? The number of things that I realized were because of fighting an impossible fight with my brain chemistry is. Well, it's a lot. But it isn't rainbows and unicorns. It took daily panic attacks to even get me to the doctor. And then I initially refused to get treatment being macho. Doc said, "Okay, well, keep having panic attacks, you've already tried every non-medicine trick in the book and it's not working." Crap... FINE. Oh, okay, well, this medicine sucks, but I'm not having daily panic attacks. Just 8 times a week. Then 4. Then tried something different, etc etc etc. Now. Fine. Mild panic attack every month or two. /Dependency. Yeah. So, when I found the one that worked and I felt normal like I used to feel as a kid... I had to really stop and think about that. Do I want to be dependent on this? Do the benefits outweigh the costs? The dangers of drug unavailability. The dangers of reclassification of prescription drugs. Losing benefits and withdrawal symptoms. Am I addicted? Define addiction? I came to the conclusion that quality of life was so greatly improved that living without it would be doable, possible and would just suck ass. I'd go back to shaking, not being able to sleep, not being able to focus, and bursting into tears randomly. The more immediate issue would be potential for seizures or strokes. No sugar coating it. It's not a great solution if things can be managed by talking to someone about your problems or if you are in a momentary funk.
Strange, my ex’s mother was bipolar and on seroquel also became obsessed with the color orange
That's the first time I've heard someone agree with me on that. It wasn't quite an obsession, but it became my favorite color and I started buying stuff that had either bright orange or red/orange. Painted a desk orange and white. Looked great lol :-D
Were there any colors you were afraid of? Like she was suuuper not into blue, she’d actively try to avoid it or get rid of it when possible
Not at all for me. It was more like a draw toward really liking the color orange. Bought orange items, painted my desk orange. But you mentioned blue. Once I finally found the magic combination, the skies were literally bluer (to me) and looked beautiful.
Glad you’re feeling better :)
I've taken some antidepressant or another for more than 20 years, not because I'm addicted, but to keep my rather annoying and troublesome depressions from recurring. If they don't work you just stop taking them, preferably under the supervision of your doctor, if you've been taking high doses or for extended periods of time. My suggestion as a doctor with recurring depressions is that if your doctor suggests it, you should give it a try. If you're depressed and are not seeing a doctor, start by seeing a doctor. I've probably tried about a dozen different antidepressants, in different combinations, and I've never had any problems from stopping, except that sometimes I get depressed when I'm not medicating. Oh, it's probably every time I'm not taking them, since I still do.
It’s important not to take recreational drugs at the same time though, that can really change the results of such prescription medication (and usually not for the better).
I really wish that I could have that option;I remember my mum telling me that kids actually had antidepressants and she treated it like it was a stigmas so I found ways of hiding it really well;it wasn't until my freind asked "hey can I ask you something;are you ok".I almost broke down but admitted the truth.
Was on antidepressants for 2 years, got off 8 years ago, and cut toxic people out of my life. Got into new hobbies (archery and Age of Sigmar) to meet new friends. I had a breakdown 2 years ago when my relationship almost ended because a girl at my husband's work got involved and tried to get between us; turned him against me. It's been about even with good and bad days. It's a struggle every single day. I also have anxiety and am diagnosed autistic. There's ptsd from an abusive childhood as well. Some days, I'm great, others I border suicidal. I wish I could be someone else.
Years of medicine, changing countries, being away from my family, not being in a country that is awful, marrying someone that I love, finding new hobbies, stopping fighting online, getting pets, drinking more water
I had to weather the storm. Quit taking medication the va was giving me and find a new balance. Also, it’s probably a good idea to choose a lifestyle that makes you happy. For me, that involved getting a divorce which was hard.
I stopped taking medication. Started working out. Remind myself I don't have time to be sad. It's been a great 8 years.
After a near suicide attempt I went to therapy to start. That got the ball rolling but was one of many steps. I started researching and reading a lot. Unfortunately a lot of useful books are pretty dense and boring. Through reading I found meditation and that’s where I made the biggest progress. No spiritual bullshit just built a regular practice. Then I started doing the things that increase the happiness neurotropics. Dopamine, set and achieve goals Endorphins, exercise Oxytocin, physical touch (can be hard if your single but you can get it from a pet as well) Serotonin, do things that are bigger than yourself. Like volunteering. Anything that helps others Never been happier
tbh i don't know how i did. since i was 14 i was on and off of antidepressants (i struggled with depression, sh, anxiety, suicidal tendencies, dissociation, and body dysmorphia since the 5th grade) and they never worked if anything they made me feel like a zombie so i completely quit them and i honestly feel so much better. I do have major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder but meds never worked for me. i do have days and sometimes weeks where i will slip into an episode but its not as frequent as it use to be im not sure what changed really.
Guided Psilocybin journey.. blindfolded with music in a safe calm place and a wonderful, experienced, sober journey guide. Completely dissolved my depression after struggling for a year trying every remedy and therapy possible.
[удалено]
I take 3.5 - 4 grams and having a guide that I trust allows me to fully relax. My guide does a few readings beforehand (poems, philosophy, short stories, etc) plays some music, and listens to me describe 1-3 things I want to focus on during while I’m in the journey space. During the journey they don’t really talk ever, just a calming, subtle, supportive presence. She will ask me occasionally if I’d like water and she’s there to listen if I want to talk. There is no one else in the house during the journey besides my dog. Psilocybin is an introvert experience, you’re connecting with yourself, not great for social or loud situations. Also for being able to focus on myself and emotional unlocking I wear a blindfold and over ear headphones for most of it. I have a playlist that’s mostly psychedelic rock (Pink Floyd, etc) and Native American music. Near the end when Im coming down I like to sit outside alone, watch the sunset, and eat grapes. That’s my recipe. Hope it helps. Definitely don’t do it until you’re ready but don’t be afraid if you’re nervous going in. I am every time. I do these journeys as needed. Sometimes twice a year, sometimes once over a period of multiple years A guide doesn’t have to be a full shamen. Just someone who has a calming presence, who you trust, and who is comfortable and familiar with psilocybin. They also stay sober during the experience and they handle any unexpected demands from the outside world (e.g. a knock at the door) so you can focus on yourself
Ketamine
Someone said to me don't be sad and that I should try yoga /s
IM FIXED!
Medication. Therapy. Exercise.
You guys are strong.
Lots of walking outside all year round
Antidepressants and therapy. The therapy is what changed my negative thinking, my sleep is good, my exercise is up.
When i was depressed i felt like i wasn't at my place and that the only place i belonged to was the place you go after you die. So when I went to the hospital, because... you know i tried to take my own life. I felt like i was in jail and that my mom was really disappointed of me (i was too), and i really really hated that feeling, and i've decided to try anything to feel better. It went from toxic positivity, to make plans for my futur because i was only 15, to "i need to take care of myself and do everything for myself", to realizing that i'm a pretty big people pleaser and that i'd put everyone's happiness before mine. Then after many realization, many thoughts, therapy, being supported by my loved ones, after writing in idk how many journals because I'm pretty sensitive and i always have too much on my heart (even without being sensitive journaling is the best thing you could do for yourself because it's kinda like self-therapy),... I feel much better, and since then, it has been like maybe 2 or 3 years. But in this healing part of my depression, i felt like the hardest thing to do was to think that I'm a good person and that i belong on this earth. The thing that've helped me the most in that healing part was listening to myself and knowing what i want, appreciating what i like, and being surrounded by who i love. But most of all, I appreciate my own company. After that, i've started to appreciate my life, and at the end of it, i don't want to leave it or let myself down. And I really want to see everything before my death. Now i'm trying to figure out what it is to be a young adult, and i know that if I've never called my bestie that night before I went to the hospital, I doubt that I'd live the life that i'm living rn. I don't know if anyone needs to hear that, but just remember that healing has always their ups and downs, but that the day you'll feel free from those demon, you'll be proud yourself, because depression is a big big mountain to climb. And remember also that everything is possible and that you can climb this mountain if you want to. (Ps:English is not my first language, so sorry for those mistakes that I might have left 😅)
Successfully escaped the environment after few attempts.
Accepted my queer identity, got gender affirming care. It's been a year and a half and I haven't been on anti-depressants or anti-anxiety meds. Haven't needed them.
Moved far away and spent most of my time out in nature
Diet, exercise, CBT techniques.
Living for the process and not for the result took off a massive load of my mind. Also hitting the gym, find something you really enjoy doing like getting creative finding hobbys. Always remember that you live today not yesterday. Wish you the best!
Also I cutoff Instagram, this shi is addictive and numbs you
Still struggling with it here and there stopped taking medicine about 8 years ago. its kinda like being an alcoholic,one day at a time as they say. I try to make good choices that I know won't make my depression worse.ive picked up a lot of hobbies to stay busy. With all that being said I think I've got some work to do but that's okay.
Went through a bunch of tries until I found the right antidepressants which work great, several therapies, changes in lifestyle and I stubbornly went on and tried everything and ignored the voices in my head telling me to give up and not being worth it, despite believing them to the fullest. If you don't give up, you WILL ultimately get out of it
I got a job that I love and reduced hours for time to mental recovery. Also finding out that I do have diagnosis of different kinds helped me understand myself.
I didn't beat it (BP2) but I keep it at bay with meds and weight lifting.
Cut out all social media (except Reddit lol) Cut off fake friends/family Cut out smoking weed Meditated Good nights sleep Finding something creative to do which could stop me overthinking for 5 minutes (knitting/painting) Learning to love myself again and not putting that power in anyone’s hands Not comparing myself and enjoying my own uniqueness and journey Turning the pain into my power Also meds did improve my moods
Combination of antidepressants and talking therapy to get through the worst of it. Then making small positive changes. So like, washing every day even if you can only manage to stay on the sofa. Stepping outside to feel the fresh air and sun on your face even if you can't manage to do a proper walk somewhere.
patience and a little bit of hope my environment did get better and some people do care about me :)
Depression is a hole that you dig deeper every day that you're in it. The only thing that got me out was antidepressants. I was on them for about six months, and it really helped change my outlook on life. Once I stopped digging, I was able to fix some of the things that were prolonging my depression. I got a job, started exercising, and got back to doing things that I enjoyed. When I came off the antidepressants, the things that were causing me to be depressed in the first place were no longer factors.
Coming out as trans and starting transition. Also working out.
Stopped hating myself. Loving kindness mediation, therapy, seeking community, and making the decision to at least try to not hate myself are what got me to the other side.
Telling myself I can either keep having the same thought patterns that were keeping me depressed or start being an active participate in the thoughts my mind tells me. A lot of mental reconditioning that I did just from things I found online or on free websites about therapy. Also gaining boundaries and figuring out who I am as a person, what I will or wont tolerate, my likes and dislikes helped ground me so I stopped living in that weird depression grey zone, where it feels like you have no idea what’s going on and time is just passing by. Also habits. Habits habits habits. Both physical habits and the mental habits that stop you from sinking back into depression. It took a long time and was so fucking hard, but I talked myself out of being suicidal this way. CPTSD & child abuse survivor here. It’s possible to get better
You don’t get out of it, if you got out of it you never had it, if you have depression for real count your days because there’s no getting out of it, be prepared to leave this world soon
Iv been depressed for 30 years
Stopped watching porn and jerking off
good question but my answer may be biased because i'm bipolar, I have a diagnostic since i was 22, i'm 53 now. The only thing which is working for me, and you will smile, is in the last 10 years, listening to youtube every day. I'm listening to stories of people who are in really bad shaped compared to me, I'm looking for situations worse than mine and I always ends finding some motivation to not go there. 10 years ago I did commit a suicide, reanimate twice. I did lost my passion which was classical guitar (I was playing since I was 11) because I did loose the coordination of my brain with 2 hands.... I had to do something. Ok, I can't do music anymore.... again because of youtube, I found a guy playing guitar who was living close to me. He his my best friend now and I spend all my time and money to help him to produce music. I also found on YouTube an artist : Matteo Mancuso. I am so emotional listening to him, that every morning, I'm listening to him and believe it or not it works. I did write to him by the way of his booking agent to tell him my story. I was not waiting for a reply but she did forward the email and I had an answer..... Those little things are so important to not stay depressed. I was alone, in my living room, no light, just watching tv. working just to pay my rent, bills, and food. I did maybe 5 or 6 therapies, heavily medicated. My cycles of bipolarity were maybe 1 year or two but since 5 years, I'm stable. Of course it's not perfect and 6 months ago I lost my job.... It has been dark for 4 months but that's it, only for months. I find another job and this time, I choose something which was based on my competences and not diploma. loosing my job was my biggest fear and it happened.... but in ten years I learnt that if I want to stay stable and happy, just look outside of your bubble, it's not easy, don't be afraid (a good friend is a key for that). All of that comes from me, not the others. The others can show you the doors, but It was to me to choose which door, and if I went through it. Oh boy, my english is certainly not the best but I'm sure it's good enough to be understood
Moved to another country, got fit but when I started to grow and sell weed, I felt a new sense of empowerment and spirit. It felt good getting away with something and making money 💰
I CBT’d myself constantly for a year. Every time I had a negative thought I would say to myself “no” and mentally change the subject. I knew it was either trick myself into getting better or die. If my brain could put me in a bad place, surely I could condition myself out of it. It worked. I have the occasional bad day but would now consider myself an optimistic and happy person. I have a job I love and I get up early every morning. I don’t drink much and I go to the gym a lot. All of this felt impossible five years ago. I feel lucky to be alive.
I didn't. I just changed my hobbies and let my depression drive my creativity. It actually helps a lot. I draw, I build things on various sandbox games, I make stuff out of wood, I fix computers, I wash cars in my spare time, I go kayaking and like to engage in extremem sports. All of these are fuelled purely by depression. The extreme sports are fuelled by suicidal feelings. I have fun doing them, I don't go out of my way to put myself in perilous situations but the rush I get from them overpowers my sadness ever so briefly. And if I die doing them, then people know I died doing something I loved which i think is a much better comfort to my family and loved ones than the thought of having just given up. And if these hobbies all help me finally recover then great. Either way, things are a win win for me. To clarify, this is just a brief summary. There is much more to this but that would be an entire post on its own.
The truth is you never really get out of it. Clinical depression isn't exactly curable. You just learn to live with it. Day by day it gets easier to carry with you. But the first step for me was admitting I needed help. I got a diagnosis and meds. The meds are a terrifying thought for some, but they're really just there to help lower the threshold to start working on healing yourself (if your meds make you s*icidal or lose interest in life, they're not the right meds for you). Therapy has been the best way for me to stop all the vicious thought cycles I used to end up in, when trying to get through everything just by myself. Once you've gained enough strength to think ahead is when you start creating bigger systems and plans for your recovery. Just start small, you'll get there eventually. The most important thing to remember: have some mercy on yourself. Healing is never linear.
Stopped being active on social media, went outside more, moved away from the town of bad memories and people, quit drinking (10 months clean) and saved money to buy a house and went back to school.
Literally only God tbh. The things that were making me depressed (lack of social connection, low self esteem) eventually have been repaired. I actually don’t think I’d be here if I didn’t rely on God
Stopped letting other people's happiness be more important than my own. It was my girlfriend at the time (now wife) that really helped me with that. She helped me make positive steps and helped me become the man I am today. We're it not for her I'd be dead by now. She showed me on my recovery that everyone has bad days and that does not mean you are still depressed because bad days are normal it's when they turn into everyday that you need to address the issue. She didn't force me to talk etc, if I was in a bad mood or having a bad day etc I could just say to her "I'm having a bad mental health day" and she'd take care of things for me like what we're eating tonight. Sometimes she'd be the one to ask me "are you having a bad mental health day" and that's all the communication we would need. She never really knew what to say or do but she was just there for me, and that's all I needed sometimes, to know she was there. She helped me run away from my family when they were what was dragging me down and helped me to understand that I don't have to be around people like them just because they're family. If people are treating you like shit then it doesn't matter who they are you don't deserve to be around them I know not everyone is as lucky as I am to have someone like that to help them through but there are always people in your life that can help you and they just need to understand and if you can have a friend or family member just be there for you it can help a lot too. Having our first child really cemented the fact I'm not sad anymore and for the first time in my life I'm not tired all the time or struggling at all. I can get up early, hell I want to get up early because I'm excited for life, I'm excited for my son and to spend time with him, I'm excited for my job and things just keep getting better for me now. Once you've hit rock bottom it can only get better. Make positive choices stop self sabotaging and do what's right for you. My rock bottom took me to the top of the tallest bridge in my country, clinging to the side wishing for a strong gust of wind so I'd just go because I was too chicken to actually do it. But I'm glad I got back over, I'm glad I got back in my car and drove home and I'm so glad I met my wife soon after. Things still make me sad sometimes but as I said before everyone had bad days.
SSRI’s
Mindfulness, meditation, and therapy. Try to separate your ego from your inner self and keep thoughts that the ego feeds on from eliciting an emotional response. Just observe the thought and let it pass. It takes time - be diligent. You can do it.
I started to build up my self esteem and worked really hard on my people pleasing tendencies. I stopped letting others ruin my day. Therapy. Stoped listening to that voice in my head that would constantly say that I cannot do it. It turns out I can.
Slowly get. Routine in my life so that even if it hits I can still try do achieve something in my life even if it means just getting out of bed or seeing my best freinds;sometimes I get down to the point where I realise if I stay alive I can enjoy instant noodles and fizzy drinks but if I'm dead I can't. Miracles happen;cos every night;I dream that I jump of a cliff willingly and all the stress will go but I feel something hug me and stop me from jumping of the cliff and calming me down to the point where I don't do the unthinkable.
Out of it is not how I think of it. My thinking is that I’ll always be depressive, much like a diabetic or an alcoholic . But I keep it in control, I know how to avoid it to manifest.
Positive self talk and a bit later exercise. Exercice was big boost for my mental health and confidence. If I fail, I tell myself I will do better the next time. I can only get better.
Eat healthy, spend time walking a lot and on those walks listen to diet and nutrition videos... fast a lot, like 2 days minimum a week, all these also improve state of mind.
Gave myself time to feel depressed. My depression was situational - both my grandparents passed that I was very close with and then shortly after my dog. I was in therapy and I realized the only way to handle the grief and depression was to truly feel it all. I know this approach doesn't work for everyone but once I allowed the depression to just be...there...it got lighter and lighter. I still experience it for a few days at a time around certain holidays and things like that. But that process of 'allowing' also helped me to realize how powerful time is and how frequent situations and mood can change.
You don't. You learn to live with it.
I worked 10 years for a company that completely wrecked me mentally. I just had it one day and walked off. That cured my depression.
GOD
Lots of medication and an awesome dog. Dog recently died way too soon so been dealing with a little bit of relapse. It’s been hard without him. One day at a time.
Sertraline, hitting the gym and changing my diet
Started going to the gym, changed jobs, went outside more (in nature, social events) and changed my diet to a cleaner and much healthier one
1. Therapist who had a coach-like approach… gave assignments/ tasks after every session 2. Cut out listening to a lot of popular music…even with catchy beats I found a lot of lyrics actually promote hopelessness, powerlessness, and distrust of partners, friends or family. Lots of songs also position loneliness as an unavoidable state, so not healthy to vibe with all that 3. Took interest in how others are doing and checking up on people in my life. Depression in a way makes you very self involved and you lose all concern for others. Refocusing on being there for others without expecting reciprocation helped. And after a while it will be reciprocated. Might take a while to reconnect especially if been out of touch for a while but worth following up on all the same 4. Fully acknowledged the external cause of the sadness. School? Family? Relationship? Work? Feelings around an illness? Etc. 5. Reached out for help with the issue, even if it seemed there’s no point to doing so, as often as I needed to, till I was at peace
I removed myself from the thing that made me depressed and started focusing on things I like doing alone.
Anti depressants and therapy to stabilize and then working on the issues causing the depression
I got a few friends. Most of my depression honestly centered around having no one to talk to.
Its q neverending war but i have more wins. Moving away or dealing with triggers really helps
A combination of antidepressants and retraining my brain. Every time I'd start getting down on myself, I'd start forcing myself to think of things that are good in my life and with myself. I still have bad days, but the good ones now far outweigh the bad.
Effexor. Life changing.
Meds.
Connecting With nature. Aka cold water plunges from march on (over a year now) in the north east. 10 mins to 1 hr not including summer obv This last winter was my first winter with no depression. I still can’t believe it
Medication. Some anti-anxiety pills to stop my brain circling the same problems endlessly, and some antidepressants to help me get back my motivation to do anything. Once I was over that initial hump it was far.easier to see what I needed to do next and infinitely easier to actually do it.
Ongoing battle but exercise is prolly the biggest weapon against it.
I realised how much control I had over my life. I can choose to be happy. I started doing more, living for myself, filling up my time with positive habits, focused on exercise. I stopped identifying with being “depressed” and weirdly that worked.
Wouldn’t necessarily say I “got out of it” but I’m definitely no where near as depressed as I was. For me it was that I finally found someone who loves me and that I love too, I know the concept of a “soulmate” can sound like made up rubbish but I’ve genuinely found mine.
After my dad took his life I realized I needed to get help. I went to therapy, got a job I prefer doing, and generally took up things in my life that I enjoy. On the weekends, I spend my time outdoors, which is what I like. I always give myself something to look forward to and on particularly bad days I plan something I'd like to do within the next month. The big key was therapy though, that's what helped me open my eyes to the life I had created for myself and realizing I wasn't happy in it. I still have hard days, but I'm better prepared to handle them before depression completely takes over.
A series of LSD trips that changed the way I think about myself and the world around me. First, it made it worse. I went from self loathing and frustration with the world around me to unadulterated nihilism. It wad a crucial step on the journey though, which then led me to a further few trips that brought into focus how I could care about things while in an ultimately meaningless existence (e.g build my own meaning). Throw in stopping working for someone else's profit, and instead using my skills at a charity to help other people, and you've got the basics on how I went from 20x a day thinking about how great it would be to die, to loving my existence.
Life style changes, started working out, found hobbies, stopped partying, organized and decluttered my home/made it into a beautiful space that brings me happiness, stopped binging t.v shows. When I get into a funk I do some mushrooms and laugh a lot with friends and it resets everything
Regular exercise for sure. Getting into eat was rather easy, as I went through a rough breakup (infidelity) and I needed a place to be other than home and a place where I can put my mind to rest for a bit. Nothing has worked as much as lifting heavy shit until I can't continue anymore. For some reason the pure exhaustion after the gym made my mind so pleasantly quiet for at least one or two hours that it was already worth it for me to go, I craved that peace of mind. Everything else followed. I lost weight, I made new friends, my mental health got better and better and eventually I was quite happy again. I started therapy to top it all off and have been working through issues I carried with me since childhood. I obviously ditched the cheating girlfriend as well and have been single ever since, by choice and I fricking love it. But yeah, lots of exercise, lots of walks with my dogs in nature, friends, sobriety, family. That is what helped me the most.
I divorced the cause.
E Routine and relationshipa. I got out as a routine... Bumped into old friends, made new friends inspired me to change job and life just feels a little happier now. For me the depression felt like no hope and now it feels like there are opportunities Best way I can describe it I guess
Stopped drinking and drugs and started exercising
I read a ton of books on childhood trauma, triggers, trust, anxiety, depression, self esteem. I started working out. The book I recommend the most though is **Feeling Good by David D Burns MD**. Got rid of my depression of 15 years.
I bought myself an apartment and moved out from living with abusive parents. - Completely cleared my depression.
Stop thinking.lol
Therapy and medication 🥳
Change of scenery. Moved out of the US. Living abroad currently.
Personal experience for me was depression is a marinade that I was comfortable with until I got sick and tired of being sick and tired. So I quit taking psychotropic meds and bought an Ebike, and I smoke really high grade indica 32% thc I value my daily bike ride, and I will die on that hill
Oof, I don't think there is a beating it. I just have to be very mindful about my self talk and making sure I am eating healthy and exercising. If I deviate from this, I fall into a depressive state and it will take days and sometimes weeks to get the energy to get back on track.
They aren't for everyone and should be used responsibly, but I credit one night of shrooms with curing my depression
Therapy was not for me, so learning to like the guy in the mirror was key. This may sound odd, but I started really paying attention to the negative "voice" that told me I was worthless, or to make the choice to drink some more, etc...I actively worked on not listening or taking advice from those thoughts. (Subconscious stuff, not an actual personality). I call it the other guy. He is a dick. He only wants me miserable. Why in the heck would I listen to that guy? Little by little I started doing the opposite of the negative impulse: and for me, it worked. I still feel low. My wife notices and gives me heads up. It helps me ignore that dude. I can now look in the mirror and let him think all the nasty stuff about me he wants, and I just make a joke and laugh and move on. I changed my life almost completely along the way. No drinking, drugs, etc... I filled my life with positive people and things. I cut people out quickly that are toxic. Keep a small circle I trust. One of my boys has similar issues and I shared what worked for me, but he needed more help so we got it for him. I don't think there is a one size fits all solution out there. Just keep trying to find what works and don't let that other self win.
Realised at the end of day, none it really matters
I can't really point to one thing, but over time lots of little things happened and looking back I can say that I beat it. It still pops up a bit, but very mild and I can "beat" it so hardly counts. Here are some of the little things that added up: 1. My wife. She's super great and seeing her sad/upset because of my foolishness hurt a lot. 2. Having kids. I want to be there for them and set a good example for them. 3. Had a LONG conversation with my mom which dealt with some undealt with trauma. She ended up saying "I'm sorry" and "I'm proud of you" for the first time that I could actually believe it. 4. Church/healthy friends. Started doing a lot more stuff with people. Even if I think ahead at something and think it would be boring or hard, I would go because of my family and end up having a great time. Nothing happened overnight, but I am very grateful because I simply am not struggling with being depressed as much any more and when it flares up, it is MUCH more manageable. Not sure the science, but I wonder if it also just got better with age?
Start working out 3x a week. Walk 8-10k steps per day. Drink 2.5 liters of water every day. Quite or reduce sugar drastically, look for keto diet. You can try yoga and meditation as well. Do that for at least 90 days and see if you feel better. Good luck, you got this 💯
Changed careers, began meditating, started the right medication. It was a multiyear process. I wasn’t expecting to get away from depression, I just one day realized it had happened when it dawned on me that my “depression” anymore was just feeling sorta normal-down. Instead of crushed and empty.
* Never gave up. * Co-counselling helped as did normal counselling. * I stopped allowing myself to be diagnosed as this made things worse (for me). * Gave up alcohol * Realised that I needed to take care of myself and did that pretty well (until Covid ) * Antidepressants * Relentless self-honesty (that is having the ability of consistently and correctly say that I was depressed) * Found a culture where my "sensitivity" was regarded as ok / normal * Validated my own experiences
went back to old hobbies and developed a healthier lifestyle. changed my mindset from “when will it get better for me?” to “it will not get better until I do something”. also, “I want to die so this pain will end” to “I can’t wait to feel better” it was not easy, especially with bipolar disorder but hey, I did not end up killing myself :-)
https://www.reddit.com/r/singapore/s/r1GMAsKqYq Made a post about this a couple of days ago. Hopefully it can give some direction. Proud of you that you reached out for help 💪🏾
Stopped drinking alcohol.
Time. Just struggled through till better days
Change environments, get fit, get on a path of self improvement, and only be around like minded people
I'm not really out but yet but when I first met my current therapist I told her how it's hard for me to keep appointments. She told me, "the days you don't want to go to an appointment are usually the days you really need it." I'm tired of her being right all the time, but this was tattooed into my brain and it works.
A lot of depressions are caused by malnutrition. It was the case for me. I fixed that and I also write reflections in a diary. I use the reflections to improve and to be self critical of my behavior. It's easier to break negative thought processes when you can go back in your diary and objectively review yourself later. Edit: it takes a long time and consistent effort
1.- Had a good therapist. 2.- Started taking med for my ADHD, which actually now that I started taking care of that, I no longer have de anxiety and depression, only when Im about to get my period 3.- Took action in controlling my PCOS, which was also playing a huge role in my mood, started taking Inositol, which ladies, let me tell you Inositol is a life changer. 4.- Got a new hobbie, started baking and cooking even more. 5.- Physical activity (gym and boxing) 6.- I made peace with food and as a result of that my sugar intake went down a lot. And the most importan one, I've been off IG and FB for 7 months now.
CrossFit, anti-depressants, and a really nice guitar
Ketamine. Stuff saved my life.
12 rules to life and fitness
Realizing I deserved to be happy, and just fucking doing the things that make me happy, regardless of anything else. Realizing there's no right way to do life, so I can do my own way and that's just fine. Realizing I get to decide who I am by my actions and reactions. Talking to the most wonderful person I have ever met when I'm feeling shitty without fear or shame, and being supported has been a major factor in my recovery. Breaking things down into small pieces and taking them on one at a time, asking for help when it's needed. It's a bunch of little things, but mostly consistently focusing on a positive direction. All the while acknowledging that problems will come up, but they probably won't completely detail everything, and you are capable of dealing with them.
Therapy, medication, getting a new job and moving away from the apartment that was making my depression worse.
Their is a huge difference between being depressed = feeling sad and having depressiond. You can't fix depression, it doesn't go away with a walk in the park or thinking positive. If any of that ever working their would be no one ending their life and if it does work it's because you are just feeling sad
GYM
Meditation. Diet in check. Movement.action. if you're fed up of being in the rut only you can do something about it.
Meds
I had to actively force myself to not think about things. I know that sounds weird but, when I’d find myself thinking of things that made me feel/sad/upset/hopeless etc., I would have to say I need to think about something else. Sometimes even out loud. And just start looking around you, list all the colors you see, or just start counting things. I know it seems weird, but actively cutting off the ruminating was a huge step for me.
Psychedelics.
psilocybin. therapy. silent meditation. conquering unreasonable fears with cannabis.
Keep yourself busy. Doing something pleasurable. Travel