9 Things You Should Not do during a Depressive Episode ...

By Denise

9 Things You Should Not do during a Depressive Episode ...

Depression is a serious illness that has been around for the longest time. During depressive episodes, you feel tired, weak, unmotivated, and just hopeless. Even if deep inside you want to feel better, the depression weighs you down. You feel like you cannot do anything at all. I’m sure you are tired of reading tips and lists of things you should do to feel better when you feel depressed. Well, let’s try to approach this in a different way. Here are nine things you should not do during a depressive episode.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

Please subscribe for your personalized newsletter:

1

Do Not Let Your Depression Define You

Do Not Let Your Depression Define You Photo Credit: lindsmae

Stop telling people and yourself, “I am depressed.” When you state it this way, it is just tantamount to letting depression define you. When you let depression become your identity, it becomes so much harder to break away from it. You have to remember that depression is just an illness that you are experiencing. Depression is not who you are. The sooner you get that into your head, the sooner you can get better.

2

Do Not Think Negative Thoughts

Do Not Think Negative Thoughts Photo Credit: Stefan Söderström

You might find it hard to be positive when you feel your world crumbling around you. But understand that this is the sort of negative thinking that can get you into deeper trouble. Challenge your negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones.

3

Do Not Make Big Life Decisions

Do Not Make Big Life Decisions Photo Credit: Luke Tscharke

When you feel depressed, you are thinking illogically. So hold off on making crucial life decisions such as those pertaining to your job and relationship. Your depression can cloud your right frame of mind and can lead you to make damaging decisions.

4

Do Not Drink Alcohol or do Drugs

Do Not Drink Alcohol or do Drugs Photo Credit: alibubba

Alcohol is a downer so it can worsen the feelings of depression. It is easy to get hooked on drugs because of the temporary high they give you. When you are in the state of depression, you are in altered state of mind. You do not need additional mind-altering substances such as drugs and alcohol.

5

Do Not Eat Unhealthy

Do Not Eat Unhealthy Photo Credit: mela.de.gypsie

Do not eat food with refined carbohydrates and high sugar content. Do not, by any means, skip meals especially breakfast. Eat more of complex carbohydrates and foods rich in B-vitamins. There is such a thing as a diet that makes you feel good.

Famous Quotes

To give oneself earnestly to the duties due to men, and, while respecting spiritual beings, to keep aloof from them, may be called wisdom.

Confucius
6

Do Not Keep Yourself Isolated

Do Not Keep Yourself Isolated Photo Credit: Feeling Croppy

Being isolated is the worst thing you can do when you are feeling depressed. Stay in the company of the people who love and support you. They can help pick you up when you are feeling down. They can make you smile even when you don’t feel like doing so. Continue to attend social activities even if you are not feeling sociable. You can also try joining a support group so you can be with people who understand you.

7

Do Not Stay Inactive and Indoors

Do Not Stay Inactive and Indoors Photo Credit: modenadude

Exercise releases happy hormones that help improve mood. Sunlight has a way of making you feel better. When you feel depressed, don’t stay inactive and indoors until you think you are feeling better. Find your inner strength and get out of the house. Take a scenic walk by yourself or with a friend. Sit under the sun and feel it warm your soul.

8

Do Not Neglect Things You Enjoy

Do Not Neglect Things You Enjoy Photo Credit: Mogsterr

When I felt really depressed, I stopped reading, writing, or doing anything I enjoyed. That just made me feel worse. Even if you don’t feel like doing anything, don’t avoid the things you enjoy. They can be your tools in coping with your depression. Read a book, write, listen to music, enjoy nature, talk to a friend, do simple tasks, draw, or paint. Activities that give your mood a quick boost should not be forgotten.

9

Do Not Avoid Professional Help

Do Not Avoid Professional Help Photo Credit: kriegs

There are times when you cannot cope with your depressed feelings by yourself. Do not deny yourself the opportunity to talk to a professional if the need arises. Do not settle for the first therapist you come across. Find a person you feel comfortable with.

The road to healing begins when you take action against the things that can hamper your recovery. Give yourself a chance to feel happy and alive again. Take things slowly, one day at time, and always stay focused on the goal. Even if you feel like the fight is difficult and the challenges insurmountable, it is not impossible to overcome depression.

Top Photo Credit: Rona Keller

Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

I agree that all of these examples are generally helpful to those suffering from depression. Though, all but #9 are completely unhelpful for someone with severe major depression. My depression holds me hostage without any chance for negotiation. I have had ECT numerous times, am currently taking industrial, weapons grade medication even when I am not currently having a depressive episode and it will still sneak up on me and destroy me. Much like those who live in a flood plain, or tornado alley, the flood or tornado will inevitably and perpetually come barreling through and leave you with nothing, then you do all you can do, begin rebuilding and do your best to prepare for the next natural disaster for which you are never fully prepared.

I start eating unhealthy and then isolate myself to watch horror and comedy movies to get over my depression.

why tf this is a slideshow ya'll want the world to BURN don't you

If only I'd read this earlier..

My best guy friend has depression. He cuts himself sometimes, when it gets real bad. I don't know what to do to make him feel better, for some reason frootloops tend to lighten his mood. He also has this thing where he gets a rush from jumping off buildings and stuff; sometimes he really hurts himself. Idk what to do though :( he won't tell anyone else, including his parents (he's 16). The only way it seems I can help is by talking him through the situation and giving him frootloops...

At last, someone who understands that depression is a serious fucking illness and not just feeling down/being crazy/begging for attention. Great tips as well. Thank you.

Related Topics

8 Types of People You Should Avoid ... 7 Things You Should Not Say to Someone with Depression ... 10 Things You Need to Stop Doing in Your Everyday Life ... 7 Things You Wish You Could Say to Your Landlord ... 7 Things Not to Say at Our Next Job Interview ... 9 Things That Can Harm Your Career ... 7 Things to Be Serious about ... 7 Bad Social Behaviors Nobody Should Be Exposed to ... 8 Places People Need More Manners ... 7 Things You Should Never Buy Used ...

Popular Now