One of the things that I find frustrating about experiencing depression, ADHD, anxiety, or other disorders is the amount of unsolicited advice you receive. People tell you stupid things like. go outside, cheer up, or dont take things so seriously, without understanding the absolute hell you're going through. But whatever I know some of em are well meaning, but it use to annoy the honeysuckle out of me. I mostly spend time alone so I dont have that problem. But I still have to live with mental illness. Some people find relief through medication, but others, like me, don't find it helpful, and the side effects are just too much for me. However, I know that medication can be life-saving for some people.
Anyway, here are some things that work for me, for now, and who knows for how long:
Of course, none of this prevents the dark days that come or the crying spells that come out of nowhere and other ugly feelings. Or that nasty feeling of feeling like an empty shell. When those happen, I keep in mind that it's okay to not do anything, and I always remember the great lyrics by John Lennon: "I'm just sitting here watching the wheels go round and round." There's nothing wrong with idleness. Of course we still have to get up and earn a living and do everything else everyone else takes for granted.
Another thing that has helped me is the book "Mans search for meaning" by Dr. Viktor Frankl, a survivor of the Auschwitz concentration camp. One of the key points in the book is the idea that some of those who survived the Nazi death camps had something to live for, and finding purpose can be an important factor in managing difficult emotions. Whatever that may be, find a purpose. No matter how small it is. I grew up in the foster care system for the most part and this book really helped me in my youth to see how we can overcome difficult situations, If Dr Frankly survived the horrors of nazi germany and maintained a positive and productive life than foster care despite its hardship didnt seem that awful to me.
You can listen to the audiobook here:
But most libraries will have it.
I hope that you find light in the darkness, my friends.
" Oh yeah, life goes on, long after the thrill of living is gone"
Anyway, here are some things that work for me, for now, and who knows for how long:
- Meditation and breathing: I find that this helps with my anxiety quite a bit. I usually (unless I feel completely down) start my morning with the Wim Hof breathing technique. I don't do the cold shower thing or his other things, because they feel a little culty to me, but his breathing technique is awesome for combating anxiety. If you haven't tried it, you can give it a try here.
- Exercise: I find this works for my mood. I think that when it comes to exercise, you have to find something you like. If you hate running, then why do it? There are tons of other options to try. I used to skateboard and play basketball as a kid, so that's how I got started. shooting hoops and teaching my son to skatebaoard Since I live in the northwest now, I hike everywhere.
- Writing, painting, and drawing: These activities can be therapeutic and help with managing difficult emotions, but again, that works me.
- If you have kids spend as much time as you can with them and be honest about struggles
- Being alone and learning to enjoy being alone, even when loneliness hits: It's important to be comfortable with your own company and to find ways to enjoy your own company.
- Staying away from situations that make me anxious: I used to listen to people and force myself to go to get-togethers and happy hour (the horror!), but now I avoid situations that make me anxious.
- Watching movies, reading, and not being embarrassed to just lay there: It's okay to take a break and relax.
- Spend time with pets, theyre awesome.
Of course, none of this prevents the dark days that come or the crying spells that come out of nowhere and other ugly feelings. Or that nasty feeling of feeling like an empty shell. When those happen, I keep in mind that it's okay to not do anything, and I always remember the great lyrics by John Lennon: "I'm just sitting here watching the wheels go round and round." There's nothing wrong with idleness. Of course we still have to get up and earn a living and do everything else everyone else takes for granted.
Another thing that has helped me is the book "Mans search for meaning" by Dr. Viktor Frankl, a survivor of the Auschwitz concentration camp. One of the key points in the book is the idea that some of those who survived the Nazi death camps had something to live for, and finding purpose can be an important factor in managing difficult emotions. Whatever that may be, find a purpose. No matter how small it is. I grew up in the foster care system for the most part and this book really helped me in my youth to see how we can overcome difficult situations, If Dr Frankly survived the horrors of nazi germany and maintained a positive and productive life than foster care despite its hardship didnt seem that awful to me.
You can listen to the audiobook here:
But most libraries will have it.
I hope that you find light in the darkness, my friends.
" Oh yeah, life goes on, long after the thrill of living is gone"
