Depressed and Needs Motivation

It's been a lot of years since I have done anything physical. I used to be quite the athlete in my youth.

I get depressed quite easily these days and I need some real motivation.

[backintime Graduate]

How are you doing with the programme ? What week are you on ?

[Hidden in reply to backintime]

Have just started. Was planning to go for a walk today, then start Monday, Wednesday and Friday. But I've been up all night, not had any sleep, so unless I can get a few hours I will not be doing anything today. I have nights like this regularly, there's just me and my dog. He sleeps and I watch jealously.

[backintime Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Your dog needs a walk anyway. Go for your walk today. Check out a route where you can run tomorrow. There will always be reasons not to start, but exercise can help you with your sleep problems and your depression. If you really want to change it could be argued that there has never been a better time to start.

[jmd104 Graduate in reply to backintime]

I agree with this post, there are always reasons not to go. I find the running helps me get in to a routine and improves my sleeping patterns. The first run is the hardest, follow the plan and you’ll be surprised how quickly it starts to make a difference

[Dimi3is Graduate in reply to backintime]

I think that you should insist. The C25K gets very smoothly in your life and there is no need for so much battery fuel as you think. You could take your dog with as well. Don't hesitate. Pick up your shows and go out now!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Welcome... please check out the post for Newbies...

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Slow and steady is the mantra..., rest days are non negotiable, but with some strength and flex and non impact exercise on some of your rest days. Your dog walking will be useful..but more will need to be added Cycling, swimming, walking... Yoga or Pilates etc...

Linked with a healthy eating regime, this programme of nine weeks, if followed , will reap many benefits, both mental and physical.

You may find you begin to sleep better and begin to feel more enthusiastic about your lifestyle

Keep posting for great advice on your running.. we will encourage and advise if necessary.

[ButtercupKid Graduate]

Hi MD - welcome to the forum ! I also wrestle with depression and insomnia, as well as clinical anxiety, and forcing myself to get out there and do this has been really helpful (though it rarely felt that good at the time). Take it slow and steady, but do take it as steady as you can. Your dog will love you for it ! Forgive yourself if you miss a day or two, but don’t let yourself drop out. The support on here is the best ever, so don’t go away and hide, however down you feel. And always remember the First Rule of C25k: The only run you fail is the run you don’t go for ! Enjoy the journey. We’re all here cheering you on x

[LUHAN Graduate]

Hi. I also started to help.with my mental health. I needed something to make me leave the house and a goal to work for. On a whim (and a very low day) I signed up for the london marathon next year..I needed a goal to get to. The first time I went out it was so hard...I had all the excuses lined up...tired being the main one. But I went. There is something about the structure of the program and the support that helps. Please have a go. Believe in yourself and you will be surprised x good luck and let us know x

[Biddy62 Graduate]

Well done. You have come to the right place. You know this is a step in the right directionThe support here is amazing and everyone started with their first short run/walk.

Just put on your trainers and go out. As everyone else has said your lovely dog will thank you and you will begin to feel the benefits.

But most of all keep chatting on here and let us know how you’re doing even if it’s just for more motivation. You will do this and you’ll love it. 😊