Starting to learn how to cope

[nchauf]

Hi. I am starting to learn how to cope with depression and understanding what makes me depressed. I am doing things to get rid of depression from my life and if I am doing something that makes me depressed then I figure out what I can do differently so I quit doing whatever it is that makes my mood change to depression. Usually, I just realize I need to work smarter and harder or read some literature to give my more insight into my problems. I have started working out and not sleeping as much. I sleep much better even though I get less sleep (7 to 8 hours is what I get which is normal). I used to sleep for ten hours a day but now I get a normal amount of sleep which helps me to sleep deeper. When I notice my mood change, I do my best to recognize what is causing it and get to the root of the problem. Meditation helps. I really do my best to home in and be consciously aware of how my thought processes are affecting my mood. When I meditate, I clear my mind and focus on the first thought that comes to my mind. I work through that thought and do my best to have one steady stream of consciousness which helps with attention issues. I use positive self-talk which helps me to build my inner voice with strength of character. I used to only be able to meditate for a few seconds and now I can put some relaxing music on and just be comfortable with myself. Trust me, I used to be mortally depressed with suicidal ideation and now I am happy despite living in a state hospital for over a year and a half. I also read which helps to relax the mind and does many other things that are helpful. I have to read something that I am definitely interested in. I actually have a lot of books I am reading at once and hopefully I will finish one soon. The power of evolution and self-improvement has helped me tremendously. I realized that I am a good person and that I can get better if I work for it. Spirituality has motivated me as well. Finding spiritual growth which gives me a sense of purpose has changed my life. Finding a sense of purpose is that main thing that has helped me. Whatever you are passionate about deep down inside, pursue it in any way you can. Find that personal sense of purpose that will motivate you to break out of that depressive mindset. Progress, not perfection is the key. I am writing a lot. Hopefully this helps someone. Thanks for reading.

[secrets22]

Hello nchauf......well i think you are doing just fine and working on yourself, well done you, and i wish you well.

[Starrlight]

You are very inspiring. Keep up the great work!

[Crumblekins]

Happy to know you're getting better! Thank you for sharing your experience, it really gives me hope. Thanks for sharing things that helped you, I'll definitely try them when I can.

[Kimmieblue]

You sound so positive, thank you for sharing. I'll definitely persevere with meditation, just find it hard to get to grips with, but you've really inspired me to keep trying.All the best to you.

K.