Depression is an insidious influence. It often seems to creep in when least expected; but in actuality, depression has to go through a lot of barriers to get a seat next to you at the metaphorical table. Specifically it has to get past three other entities that serve as protective barriers.
- Relationships with loved ones. This is the primary barrier that has to come down for depression to be most effective. A person that spends quality time with people who love and support them has a good protection in place. Depression will try to use irritability to make you isolate from these loved ones so that it can get closer to you
- The solution - Spend at least a couple of hours of quality time with friends or family once a week
- Hobbies and Interests- This is the second barrier that must be removed for depression to get its prime placement. Everyone has to have activities to provide them with fun/novelty, stress relief, and meaning. These hobbies are even more effective when done in groups as then they can check the “relationships with others” box as well. Depression will try to convince you that these activities not fun anymore, that you don't have time for them, or that you should do them at another time when you feel better
- The Solution - Whether its sportsman activities like hunting and fishing, playing your favorite sport, or artistic expression such as painting or playing musical instruments, find time to do these activities at least one day per week
- Wellness Activities - This includes activities to maintain our general health and wellbeing. Physically, this includes following recommendations and taking prescribed medication as well as getting the recommended amount of exercise. This also includes maintaining personal hygiene and keeping your living space clean. Depression will try to tell you to neglect these areas of you life
- The Solution - exercise as recommended for your age and medical history. Also, keep up with personal hygiene and your living space
In closing, depression works best when it can sit right next to you and whisper in your ear without our relationships, hobbies, wellness routines getting in in the way. So when you find that depression has insidiously removed one or more of these areas, make a plan to reinstitute these routines as soon as possible. Pick a day to spend time with others, a day for you hobbies, and a day to start some exercise, meditation, an other wellness routines. Let depression keep a spot at the end of table where it has to fight to get your attention.