Don't Let Depression Win
Don't Let Depression Win
| Author: Elizabeth Drucker |
| Published on: May 5, 2001 |
Depression is an excruciating condition that attempts to tear at your soul and any semblance of self-esteem you may have. It persistently ravages your positive attributes and emphasizes all that is negative. Depression can be an elusive demon that sneaks up on you when you are engaged in life's simple pleasures and moments of happiness. In addition it is a strong and lethal obstacle that prevents you from pursuing your desires. In the best of cases, depression is a persistent feeling of sadness that lingers in the depths of the mind and heart throughout all times of the day. Although depression is one of the most debilitating forms of mental illness, much can be done to fight its ill effects. The most important thing to do is to first decide that you want to take control over your own mind. This conscious decision will place you on the path to wellness. It is essential that you make a promise to yourself that you will choose to have a better and less sad life. This is a decision that only you can make. Make a declaration to free yourself from whatever pain you are suffering from each and every day. It helps to make an index card of special quotes and pictures that can remind you of your goal. Another thing you can do to pull yourself out of a depression is to choose a role model or mentor that you can turn to in times of distress. Make a list of such people that will really listen to you when you need help. It is also inspiring to read memoirs of other people who have overcome depression and other mental illnesses. I will include a list of some good memoirs and books in my next article. Think about the brilliant people who have suffered from depression and still made a major impact on the world (i.e. Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Ernest Hemingway, etc.). Realize that depression is not your fault. Obviously you did not ask for the big dark cloud to descend over you - it just happened because of some mixture of biochemical and situational factors. The most important thing is that you realize that it is time for you to take your life back. Depression is very treatable through medication, therapy, and a new and enhanced attitude. It also helps to think of depression as a demon that you can fight and win. Depression is a foreign substance that has entered your brain and threatened your tranquility. Doesn't this make you angry? Depression is not who you are, it is just an invader that twists the words of your soul. Once you fight back, you can regain the substance of your mind with a more realistic and positive perspective. Don't let the overwhelming feelings distort your true personality. Fight back for the control of your brain. Remember that conquering depression consists of a melange of solutions. Medication helps correct the problem with the neurotransmitter, Serotonin, that is responsible for your depression. Psychotherapy (talk therapy) will help you determine what triggers depressive episodes, and will teach you new coping skills for working through your pain. Finally, always keep in mind that you deserve to feel better and more in control of your life. It is an unalienable right that is an essential component of the human existence.
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