Dealing With Depression: 5 Great Coping Strategies

Dealing with Depression: 5 Great Coping Strategies

Dealing with depression and choosing to live takes incredible strength. I lay there, curled in a ball on the floor in an empty room of my home, not wanting to live any longer, questioning life and why anything mattered. In tears, I seriously contemplated ending my life. Thoughts of my children flooded my mind. How could I leave them with those scars? How could I leave them with the unanswered questions of why their mother had taken her own life? My love for my children and the fear of creating a lifelong burden for them was more significant than the pain I felt. The pain was temporary, and I knew it because I had felt it so many times before.

The Battle of the Mind

Still, I lay there for a long time, teetering between feeling like I wanted to die and knowing the feeling would pass. Dealing with depression sucked, but choosing to live was the only option. I did not want to give up. There was something within me that did not want to give up.

Imagine falling into a deep, dark hole. You try to climb out because you can see shimmers of light above. However, as you start to climb, dirt falls into your eyes, and you lose sight of the light. Still, you continue to climb. It feels like you will never reach the top or get out of the hole, but the light is there, and your mind knows that if you continue to dig in and climb to the top, you will eventually make your way out. Dealing with depression is something I wasn’t sure I would ever overcome.

Trusting in God

Aside from my children, I thought about God. Although I did not have a strong relationship with Him then, I still believed He existed. I prayed and talked to Him occasionally. I knew that He did not want me to end my life. I instinctively knew because He had comforted me so many times before. He must have a plan for me. I could not go on living like this and struggling for the rest of my life, could I?

As I lay there, I questioned everything. I questioned all of the decisions I had made in my life up to that point. I questioned my worth. I questioned the very thought of existence in general. I questioned God. I questioned love. In those moments, nothing about life made much sense to me. Life is entirely different now, and the days of suffering feel like a lifetime ago.

Seeking Help and Finding Hope

If you have ever dealt with depression or anxiety, you may recognize the hopeless scenario. Don’t give up! Little did I know as I was lying there on that floor that I would awaken to a new life. Seeking help is a crucial step. Talking to a therapist or counselor can provide the support and guidance needed to navigate through depression. Many resources are available online, such as BetterHelp and Talkspace, offering convenient and confidential therapy options.

Support groups, both online and in-person, can also be beneficial. Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can make a significant difference. Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer support groups and educational resources to help individuals and families affected by mental illness.

Developing Coping Strategies

Developing coping strategies is essential in managing depression. Here are some techniques that have helped me:

Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation when dealing with depression can help calm the mind and reduce stress. Guided meditations such as those on Insight Timer or Calm can be beneficial.
Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins, which can improve mood. Even a short walk can make a big difference. Consider incorporating regular exercise into your routine, whether it’s yoga, jogging, or dancing.
Healthy Eating: A balanced diet can impact mental health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, support brain health. Avoiding excessive sugar and caffeine can also help stabilize mood.
Creative Outlets: Engaging in creative activities like painting, writing, or playing music can provide an emotional release and a sense of accomplishment.
Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a therapeutic way to process emotions. It can also help identify negative thought patterns when dealing with depression and track progress over time.

Embracing a New Perspective

Over time, I began to embrace a new perspective on life. I realized my struggles had shaped me into a stronger, more compassionate person. I started to see the beauty in small moments and appreciate the support of loved ones. My relationship with God deepened as I continued to seek His guidance and comfort.

One resource that profoundly impacted my journey was Neville Goddard’s teachings. His lectures on the power of imagination and belief resonated with me and helped shift my mindset. If you’re interested in exploring his work, I recommend reading his books or listening to his lectures on platforms like YouTube.

Moving Forward

Choosing to live can be an ongoing process when dealing with depression. There are still days when I still experience struggles, but I now have the tools and support to navigate them. Remember that you are not alone, and asking for help is okay. Contact friends, family, or professionals who can provide support and understanding.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please seek immediate help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You are valuable, and your life matters.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with depression is incredibly challenging, but choosing to live is a courageous act of hope and resilience. Trust that brighter days are ahead, and take small steps each day toward healing. You have the strength within you to overcome this, and your journey can inspire others to do the same.

For more insights and resources on mental health, consider visiting Mental Health America, Psychology Today, and NAMI. Embrace your journey and know that you are stronger than you think.

Feel free to explore these links for additional support and information: