Depression

[bethany971]

I have been struggling with feeling low and unmotivated for about 2 years now, I have been to the doctors and they referred me to therapy but I never found the courage to go to it.

Has anyone found any good ways to overcome feeling low?

[HelpingElbow]

Hi bethany971

At a certain stage of loneliness, it's recommended that one must undergo therapy. It's a corrective as well as precautionary step to prevent certain problems from aggravating further.

If your doctor has recommended therapy or counseling for you, of course you should.

Now coming back to your question, what else can be done to prevent loneliness...

1. Watch sitcom and satire shows... (Recommended)

2. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day (releases happy hormones by burning cortisol)

3. Talk to like-minded people.

4. Practice gratitude.

[bethany971 in reply to HelpingElbow]

Thank you very much!

[carelesssock12]

Music has helped me a lot. Whether I find something as sad or as angry as I feel. It all helps me push through in order to process what is really going on with me. Granted sometimes I just end up spiraling more but at least I'm no longer stuck just feeling confused and frustrated.

I guess understanding yourself and learning to be kind to yourself in these moments is what is critical. The best advice I was given on here was to survive until I had enough courage, strength, and energy to live life. For me living life is simple right now. It's taking my dog to the community dog park (that's typically empty), cooking a new meal, or having self care time with an at home facial or aromatherapy.

We put ourselves through enough mental distress thinking things should be one way and not like this, I should be happy, I should be better. Take baby steps. Start out with finding something that isn't anxiety provoking, something that will distract you. Sometimes we just need a step out of our heads in order to come back and feel more equipped to facing it and simply feeling what we feel. And I'm not saying these things will solve all problems,but if you do it enough you'll realize that "hey, I didn't say in bed all day" or "hey I didn't have these negative thoughts this afternoon". From the plethora of therapy, literature, and advice from people/support groups sometimes it really is one day at a time, one moment at a time mentality that will keep you going.

On a personal quest, right now podcasts are my thing. I'm a true crime lover so listening to "my favorite murder" or "let's never meet" put me in a whole other world. Allowing me to laugh or feel concern for others. Then....my local library has tons of audiobooks and even magazines you can access from apps on your phone. Lastly, I spend time using the Calm app. It has sleep stories, guided meditations, and music that can help relax your mind.

All this is positive content. And that's what we all need more of. You can try these things yourself. One day you may feel like trying out therapy, or maybe you don't. All of that's okay. Just pay attention to yourself and what you need right now.

Sending care and support ♥️

[bethany971 in reply to carelesssock12]

Music also helps me at times, sometimes I just go for a long drive with the music on and it helps, and then it finds it way back, But like you small steps

Thank you very much for your advice.

I’m also a crime lover, I watch and read many things on crime and it does distract me sometimes.

I hope all these things help you also

[Agbehhhh]

Sometimes what helps a little is a cold shower or a hot shower and then rinse with cold water. It sounds horrible but it puts your brain in a state of "woahh this is different". Somebody mentioned music, that is reallllly helpful. Especially if you play opposites: feeling low try something upbeat.

[bethany971 in reply to Agbehhhh]

Thank you, Yes that’s a good idea, I read something online about cold water wakes the mind up

[APOR2017]

I am so sorry that you are feeling this way. I have been there too and the times do not help with it right now. I have been walking, praying, and writing a lot lately. I am here if you want to talk or need anything. Big hugs!

[bethany971 in reply to APOR2017]

Thank you very much, I’m here too if you want to chat! Just message me