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Post by TML on Nov 23, 2014 10:22:55 GMT -5
I have been depressed for a while (since the accident and all the Mom drama). I am taking meds for it but as it was noted in another post for those of us with lower than usually enzyme levels for drug metabolism it is very difficult to get the dosage where it should be (too high - makes sick, too low - not as effective).
So it has been really bad for the past two weeks as those on the work alongs can attest due to my low turnout. So what to do? I have been basically doing enough to keep going and then in bed under covers which helps nothing.
There was something I used to do about this and I have dug this up and am starting on it again today. It is called by the title of this thread: If I wasn't depressed what would I do. Basically it takes me through the day with frequent stops (I usually do it in threes to remember better) to ask myself this.
This morning I started off with the question with what are the next 3 things and it was: I would get dressed, get quick breakfast, make sure I have appropriate cash amount for house cleaner. So I did that then I after I paused and listed off the next things which was check mail, throw out trash in kitchen, throw out trash in living room. Then it was start laundry, dose cat, post on SOOS.
and thus here I am.
So if I wasn't depressed the next things I would do are - shift clothes (washer -> dryer, and new in washer), put new litter in large holder, clean two cat boxes.
How are others handling depression? I am on meds as best as can be. Talking it over is not going to help as it is not really organic and I know what I need to do it is just getting it done until I can work through this.
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Post by cleanbee on Nov 23, 2014 10:37:13 GMT -5
@tml ive been very depressed and handled it by staying in bed for two,days eating nothin but pizza. . This is not advised!
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Post by larataylor on Nov 23, 2014 10:53:13 GMT -5
I've developed so many "thinking tricks" to deal with depression … my thinking is very strong under my depression, like muscles and bones that grow strong by carrying a lot of weight. If I could put that weight down, I'd be amazing. I'm sorry you can't do any better with meds. I think "What would I do if I were not depressed?" is a great question. I hope it helps you get the most important stuff done.
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Post by desireelafleur on Nov 23, 2014 10:53:39 GMT -5
When I fall into this trap I have to realize that my desire for a clean house is stronger than my depression. Also I try to be flexible. If I wasn't depressed I may change the litter, get a donation box ready, and vacuum. If that seems overwhelming it is perfectly acceptable to wipe down the sink and make the bed..what ever it is I feel capable of doing I do instead of what I ought to do or would be doing. The only rule I set for myself is that something must be done that falls in line with my desire for a clean home. It doesn't always have to be the most urgent thing.
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Post by wind on Nov 23, 2014 11:41:54 GMT -5
I do a LOT of reading real, physical books in bed, and have a timer that goes off every 45 minutes or so. When the timer goes off, I go and spend at least 15 minutes doing "productive" things.
This is not a perfect solution, but I guess it's better than just feeling grey and staring at facebook all day. Heh.
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Post by wildpony on Nov 23, 2014 12:24:26 GMT -5
I have battled depression for years. I remember my Grandmother telling me "just stay busy and you won't have time to be depressed." This did not work for me until recently because the depression I had was totally immobilizing (I couldn't get anything accomplished beyond the 'have to's' or 'must do's' and usually wound up eating way too much (carbs) to boot. Luckily my metabolism was rockin' it (until about this time last year) and I didn't gain weight (until about this time last year) now I still have 20 pounds to lose. I am not currently on any depression meds (I've been on just about all of them over the years!) and I suspect they may be part of the culprit behind my weight gain as I lost 10 pounds pretty easily after I stopped taking antidepressants two months ago.
I like using the timer and the challenge threads when I'm feeling low. I especially like your "what would I do if I wasn't depressed" idea and will start using it as well. I have found that "a body in motion tends to stay in motion and a body at rest tends to stay at rest". I try to get up and get busy doing something when I get the blues.
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Post by oust on Nov 23, 2014 12:38:18 GMT -5
I like the idea of baby steps, but keeping taking those steps. Getting trash out is a good one. The cleaner can do her job faster. Maybe stick to very small tasks but keep moving.
Is it sunny where you are? Spend a few minutes in the direct sunlight every hour. Maybe set the timer for 5 minute break to get the sun in your eyes.
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