Life on Wheels (40 page)

Cognitive difficulties: remembering, concentrating, making even simple decisions

Preoccupation with death or suicide

In the darkest moments of clinical depression, there can seem to be no options remaining for happiness or meaning in one’s life. Feeling like nothing can ever be better is part of the insidious nature of the illness. Some people might tell you to “snap out of it!” They might as well tell you to snap out of pneumonia.

If you suspect you are clinically depressed, remember it is not your fault. It is not a sign of weakness.

You can help yourself feel better sooner, though, and possibly ward off a more serious depression by taking some small steps, even if you have to push a bit to get started.

One of the most common pieces of advice is to simply do something. The simplest activity can give your mind another perspective and provide the opportunity to become engaged and interested in something other than what is troubling. It’s also important to maintain human contact, since loneliness tends to amplify depression, but try to include other topics of conversation besides your woes. Finally, take especially good care of yourself. The following ideas can help lift you out of a common depression:

Listen to your favorite music. Music has a way of bringing feelings to the surface so you can explore them rather than just being miserable.

Play with or read to a child. It will help you get out of your world and see things from a simpler perspective.

Work—or just spend some time—in the garden.

Straighten up a room or a table, or bring in some flowers.

Try to distinguish between what you really are unable to do and what you just don’t feel like doing. For the latter, try to apply yourself, if only for a couple of minutes. You might discover you are able to do what you thought you couldn’t.

Divide big jobs into small ones. They add up quickly that way and will give you a sense of accomplishment—and feel less overwhelming.

If you can, exercise. Physical activity is stimulating and can change the chemistry of your brain to lift your spirits.

Play a game—athletic or otherwise. It will help you focus on the moment. You might even have fun.

Go out with a friend, perhaps to a funny movie.

Hug someone or let someone hug you.