Depression is an illness that is deeply effected by your environment. And these days the world can be extremely depressing. AND, realistically, we know that even harder times may be coming.
The only way we are going to get through is with inner fortitude. And love. And faith -- religious faith or faith in ourselves and those we love.
Here are 5 quick tips:
Get enough sleep. Sleeplessness is a fairly normal reaction to depression, which is ironic because sleeping too much is, as well. How do you get enough sleep then? TIP: Sound. Listen to environmental sounds such as ocean waves, gentle rainfall or thunderstorms. Listen to classical music, or instrumental music in general. Listen to "binaural beats" - music theoretically designed to put you in a different brain state for deep relaxation or sleep.
Make a concerted effort to make eye contact and smile and nod to people you pass wherever you go. It's a simple, quick thing to do and it really can make you AND the person you connect with feel great, if only for a moment. Those moments add up.
Set a time limit on your news consumption. We must stay engaged to create the world we crave. But we also need to keep a clear head, not influenced by outside voices. So allow yourself to watch or listen to news for just an hour or two each day.
Socialize. Have regular breakfast or lunch dates with friends. Hang out in the park or on your front stoop. Go to the library. Attend an event, such as a lecture or concert, parade or local sporting event. As tempting as it is to isolate in times of stress, it's not great for your mental health. Being around human energy is actually good for human beings. Who knew?
Always be kind. One way to exorcise the demons of sadness and anger is to be kind. Avoid snapping at people out of frustration, and -- as difficult as it is -- arguing angrily with people you don't agree with. The stakes are high, but it's most important that you get through this emotionally and mentally intact. It's the only way we persevere, make the crucial changes we must make in our direct environment, AND manage to live in the world we currently have.
I love you. Hang in there!