I remember how difficult it was to be around people when I was under that
magic spell. I felt judged, alone, ugly, and useless, regardless of how loved I
was or how many people were surrounding me. So, instead of deal with those
feelings, I cut off my ties one by one, stopped going to parties, stopped
playing volleyball, stopped going to church, and went to bed. No one could find
me there. No one could tell me how fat I had become or how ugly my clothes were,
and they certainly couldn’t judge my newfound laziness. I was alone.
But, here’s the caveat…we need people. Losing touch with others is
just another way of losing touch with reality. It’s another way of losing touch
with mental stimulation. If you don’t like to be around people for the sake of
being around them, then be around them for the sake of curing your depression.
Going to parties gets you into others’ homes. Going to picnics gets you
outside. It helps you to be around children, who are excellent at breaking the
bondage of negative thinking. People may be mean or insensitive or ignorant
when it comes to depression, but they can also be kind, understanding and
generous. Hang around with people who don’t enable you or bring you down. Let
them inspire you. Let them take you away from that bed or couch. Remember, you
are trying to combat the depression, not give into it.
Music
Sensory stimulation is a great motivator. Looking at scintillating artwork,
getting a deep tissue massage, tasting delectable Mediterranean cuisine or
surrounding yourself in aromatherapy - can all have an awesome effect on your
mood. But, music has a way of really altering your brain waves. Music comes in
every different mood or style you can imagine. Just pop in a classical CD and
you’re transported to an elegant universe where life is serene and rich. On the
other hand, listening to Metallica might help you to vent any anger that’s
bottled up. But, stay away from gloomy and disheartening music or music that is
too cerebral. Your best bet is to keep it light and airy, even if it reminds
you of bubble gum.