DOWN DAY OR DEPRESSED?
We all have
days where we just don't feel up to anything - everything seems just too much
to take on - days we call "down days".
But, is it a down day or is it depression? Some seem to think that they are depressed
when it could be discontentment, anxiety or hormones. It is wise to resist the thought of
depression until or unless a firm diagnosis is made by a qualified
professional. There are many classic
symptoms of depression that can be easily confused with feeling out of sorts
emotionally, and it is good practice to avoid self-diagnosis.
What can you do?
There are some things which can be of great assistance to relieving feelings of anxiety, discontent and even feeling depressed:
Understand that long-term happiness is something you plan for and decide upon. We can all make short-term plans and goals which go a long way to providing confidence for the long haul, but they're not the be-all, end-all. Create a long range focus to move toward which will make you happy, like being fit and healthy. Let everything you do move you toward that goal.
Recognize what you already have. Too often we take for granted the wonderful gifts that are already in our possession - sight, hearing, touch, taste, a good sense of humor. Take time to enjoy them and use those senses for the pleasurable things in life. Notice the sweet smells, you'll usually smell the other ones without prompting.
Savor the moment. Stop along the way to smell the roses. Slow down and listen to what's going on around you. If what you're doing is feels good, stay there an extra bit longer to enjoy it. Give yourself permission to feel pleasure that the simple things you would have passed over before.
Interface
with friends and family. There's nothing
like being with people you care about and who care about you. Whether it's a family function where the roar
of children's laughter and familiar smells of homemade baking envelop you, or
dinner out with close friends in an intimate corner of a cozy restaurant, you
can gain the feelings of happiness and contentment from knowing you are part of
a bigger picture and your part is important.
You get to choose
Recognizing the need for change is the first step in successfully overcoming those down day feelings. By simply implementing some of these tips, you may find yourself on the sunny side of the street.
or sign up
Post a comment