When depression hits hard she cannot see her true strength. Her mind struggles to process simple things most take for granted. Every move feels debilitating. Blinking through tears, she tries to make out the objects around her. She tries to see the colours. But her vision is obscured by what seems like a thick, billowy, black veil.
Living with depression continues to challenge me to the core. Some days are better than others. When the disabling effects of depression hit hard its important to remind yourself: it’s okay to not be okay.
It’s okay to rest. I recently read somewhere that mental overwhelm points to the need for self-care. Since my diagnosis, my idea of self care has been shaped by feelings of guilt and undeserving.
In this post I’ve come up with 20 self-care tips to help support the mind and body when depression hits hard. As always, these tips are not a substitute for medical care or therapy, please always seek medical support if your depression has flared up.
Five Things to Remember When Depression Hits Hard
1. Just because you are struggling, doesn’t mean you’re failing.
2. It’s okay to not feel okay.
3. It’s a strength to ask for help, especially if you are feeling low.
4. You matter and the world needs you
5. You are stronger than depression says you are.
Five Things to Help Shift Overwhelm
6. Be kind to your mind
7. Have a glass of water
8. Have a nourishing snack
9. Have a green Juice
10. Let yourself rest
Five Things to Help Nurture Connection
11. Become aware of your breath
12. Take a walk in nature
13. Pet an animal
14. Call a friend
15. Meditate or listen to an uplifting podcast
Five Things to Help Shift Low Mood
16. Warmth – sunshine, warm tea, a hot water bottle
17. Distraction – sudoko, puzzle
18. Write a list of 5 things that make you smile, keep your list handy
19. Gentle Stretching/Yoga
20. Uplifting Music
Always remember: depression does not define you. You are stronger than you think you are and every step you take in this journey reflects your true strength.
What do you do when depression hits hard, is there anything you would you like to add to the conversation?
What was your biggest takeaway from this post. Have I missed anything important? Please leave a comment below and share your thoughts 🙂
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ: While I share my personal experiences with depression, I am not a therapist or health professional. Bravely She Blogs is not intended as medical or therapeutic advice. For immediate help please call one of the support lines below.
Depression Support Lines
United Kingdom
Mind infoline on 0300 123 3393 (9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday)
Samaritans on 116 123 (UK), 116 123 (ROI) for confidential support
United States
If you are based in the US, you can call the Crisis Call Center at 1-800-273-8255 at any time of the day
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