It can be quite challenging for a depressed person to see the world in colors. Everything seems sad and frustrating in their eyes. They may appear happy on the outside, but deep down, they struggle to survive. With all the overwhelming feelings, it is hard for them to ask for help. It can be quite a challenge to stay or think positive when depressed.
Even if most of us are open and understanding of mental health problems, there are still a number of people who are ashamed and scared to admit that they need intervention. So, instead of going to a mental health professional, they choose to keep it to themselves.
Asking for help is your top priority when depressed. Depressive symptoms should not be ignored. You have nothing to be embarrassed about when you have depression. All you really need to do is to be honest that you need help.
Ways to think positive when depressed
Depression is treatable but it does not happen overnight. You may still feel excessively down and lonely even when you are taking oral treatments or going to therapy. So what will you do to stay positive even when you are depressed?
Be kind to yourself.
Sometimes the reason you’re depressed is because you don’t love yourself. You feel that you’re not enough or you’re undervalued. It is okay to feel this way but you should never take your worth for granted. Accept that there are times when you cannot be at your best. Remember the only person who can understand and love you is you. Be more compassionate and kind to yourself.
Connect with loving and supportive people.
One of the hardest things to do when you are depressed is to be around people. You just want to be alone and not to talk to anybody. If you are trying to be better, choose the people you want to hang out with. Instead of fitting in with the toxic people in your workplace, go out with your loving family. Catch up with one of your longtime friends who lives far away. It is better to have a few real and supportive connections rather than be surrounded by many unpleasant people.
Do enjoyable activities.
What hobbies or activities did you enjoy when you were young? Are you into sports, music, or crafts? Why not revisit those interests and perhaps they will still be as enjoyable as before? If you’re into music, learn how to play an instrument. Join a book club when you love reading. You can even start your own team and be a soccer or basketball coach. Do the things that make you happy because along the way you will make your life more meaningful.
Keep a gratitude journal.
With the hustle and bustle of life, most of the time you forget to be thankful for all the blessings you receive. It does not matter if they are big or small. The moment you wake up is already a blessing that you should be grateful for. Make it a habit to give thanks for all the beautiful things that happen to you. Have a gratitude journal and list down the things you are thankful for every day.
Live a healthy lifestyle.
They often say a healthy body is a healthy mind. Do not take your physical health for granted. No matter how busy you are, take the time to eat healthy and exercise. There’s no need to go to the gym. Walking around your neighborhood or doing yoga for 30 minutes is enough. Please don’t forget to always get regular sleep.
Take it slow.
Life is not a competition. The reason people get depressed is because they frequently compare their lives to others. They get affected and sad when a co-worker is promoted instead of them. Focus on your life and stop minding other people’s business. Help yourself grow and succeed.
Stop negative self-talk.
Words are powerful and every time you say negative things to yourself, you will slowly believe them. Nourish your body and mind with positive and cheerful words. When you’re depressed this can be difficult because your mind is filled with bad thoughts. If negative thoughts constantly loom over you, this is the best time to see a therapist.
Getting help
Depression is silent. Even the happiest people are still at risk of depression. You cannot tell if a loved one is depressed unless they show telltale signs. But most people try to hide that they are struggling with this mental health issue. They regard it as just being sad even if they know that it is serious. Asking for help is the last thing on their mind because they don’t want to be judged.
Getting treatment for depression from mental health professionals is a must. There’s nothing to be ashamed of about this. You need support and guidance in navigating the complicated aspect of depression.
You need an accurate diagnosis.
Never self-diagnose even if you have most of the symptoms of depression. You have to talk to a mental health professional first before telling yourself you’re struggling with one. There are other possible reasons you are constantly sad. It could be hormones or stress. When you go to a professional, you will know the exact reason.
Mental health professionals can come up with a tailored treatment plan.
Treatment plans for depression are not the same for everyone. When an accurate diagnosis is made, your doctor will make a treatment plan that will work best for your current situation and even your history.
You will have access to different therapeutic techniques and oral treatments.
There are different therapies for depression. Medical professionals only follow evidence-based techniques so you know that your treatment is effective and safe. There are doctors who prescribe both therapy and oral treatments especially when one approach is not enough. When you refuse to go to a professional to help you, your depression will not be treated and it could get worse.
They provide guidance and support.
When you talk to mental health providers, they will make you feel safe. They will not judge you or feel you are inadequate. The only thing you must do is, to be honest and open with them about your thoughts. Remember that you are in a supportive environment. You may feel you may never recover or learn how to stay or think positive when depressed but when you get help, you’ll be okay.
Therapy prevents long-term consequences.
Depression is treatable but if ignored, it could get worse. People who ignore the importance of getting help often have an unhealthy dependency or suicidal thoughts. Others become more violent and aggressive toward their partners or children. To prevent any of these from happening, seeking help should be a priority. You may not know how to stay or think positive when depressed but there’s always hope.
You may contact Mindshift Psychological Services. They provide depression therapy and counseling sessions. Visit their website to learn more about them or contact them at (714) 584-9700 to schedule an appointment.
