When the Sun Ain't Shining: Understanding and Managing Your Depression

Have you ever heard a commercial with these questions: Feeling down? Finding it hard to get up in the morning? Unmotivated to do ANYTHING? These are normal signs of depression. Don’t suffer through depression alone, call 888-***-**** for help today.

Well, as much as I hate these types of commercials, they do give some accurate information regarding depression. Sometimes you can notice you are a little “low” and other times, the lowness creeps upon you like a warm, dark cloud, or electric blanket depending on how you deal with depression. Either way, when depression hits, it can be difficult to deal with, especially if you weren’t expecting it. There are a few different reasons why you may experience depression. A few are loss (job, loved one, etc.), feeling overwhelmed and as if you can’t “get over the hump”, abuse, personal problems, serious illness, and substance misuse to name a few.

Though depression does not always feel normal, it is. Many people deal with depression every day. There is situational depression. For instance, my mother passed away in October of 2009 and her birthday is in November. I notice that every year around this time I lose energy and focus. I find it very difficult to get out of bed and the things that normally would excite me hold no appeal. I had to realize what was going on and use a few tips and tricks to combat the depression, because I had to get out of bed to go to work, to make money, to pay bills …and have some fun, too.

If you find yourself dealing with depression, understand you are not an anomaly. You are actually among millions of people who do so, too. Here are a few tips to help during those times of depression:

• Understand you are not alone - many people deal with depression

• Open the curtains, shades, blinds in your home and office - let the sunshine in

• Go for a walk, to the gym, or do a home workout - exercise has been proven to help

• Journal - sometimes writing things helps you process

• If necessary, see a professional

Remember, at Mind Works Counseling Services in Lubbock, TX, we specialize in helping people, just like you, deal with this exact issue, along with many others. Let us help you do life successfully. This is doable, and we are here to help you enjoy life even when dealing with depression. There is no situation you have to navigate alone. At Mind Works Counseling Services we are available and willing to walk with you through all life’s journeys.

Learn more about the Depression Therapy services we offer.

Contact us to schedule an appointment or to let us answer any questions you may have.