8 Things to Do to Overcome Depression

I can only even write this list because I have thought I was depressed three times in my life. At one point I thought I would need medicine, but I wanted to make it without it.So, I did. And so can you. I understand the mindset of wanting to disappear, being lonely beyond any hope, and feeling like it will never end.

It becomes an endless thought cycle that you can become comfortable in.

You have to break it. Act unnatural and get uncomfortable. Get out of the familiar acceptance of the depressing thoughts. I know what it’s like to feel like nothing. You feel nothing and nothing anyone can do can make you feel anything.

But the thing is, they are all lies. Everything in your head is not true if it’s taking you into depression. You believe the lies. The truth is true and you should believe it. You are valued, much better than you think you are, appreciated, and awesome even if nobody notices!

Know that whatever thoughts you choose dwell in you will stamp as true-harmful or beneficial.

So here’s to getting uncomfortable and out of the familiar grave clothes:

1. You are not going to want to do anything on this list.

That’s precisely why it is going to work. If you don’t like it-that one’s for you.

2. Tell yourself it’s a lie.

Out loud, in your mind, to someone else. Make sure you verify and believe that your depressive thinking is not true.

3. Speak the truth to yourself.

Read a book, the Bible, or a confidence statement out loud. Sing an empowering Beyonce song- anything to get you to speak out the truth (even if you don’t believe it yet, you will). Your words will interrupt your thoughts and keep you from playing in the pits.

4. Think about someone else.

Call, text, message a friend that makes you happy. And no, not that person that makes you feel special. A real friend you couldn’t live without. Let them know you appreciate them. Get outside of thinking about yourself and your situation is healthier than you know.

5. Write a list of things you are grateful for.

Don’t just think about it. Write it down. And then even read it out load.

6. Get around people.

Go anywhere there are people. If you live with your family go sit with them. Get to a bookstore or coffee shop. Walk around the neighborhood. Get out of isolation and switch up your normal routine.

7. Get moving.

Write a song, draw a picture, play an instrument, knit a scarf, take your dog on a walk (or your neighbors if you don’t have one), make a thank you or birthday card for someone before you forget and it’s too late.

8. Anything else you don’t want to do, but keep you from crawling into bed, isolating yourself, thinking and feeling lonely.

Dwell in the truthful thoughts, think upon them, speak them out and you will become them.