Depression: The Human Overdraft Fee
How fitting, my first blog comes at a time when I’m battling one of the most difficult depressive episodes I’ve had in months. I often get, “Phil, what does it feel like?”. My response, “Ummm, have you ever had only $7 in your bank account and that $8 purchase from Saturday comes out on a Monday, now you’re negative $26? Now multiply those emotions by 22”. Some of you are reading this still lost; however, for those of you who said “damn, that’s awful”, you would be correct.
The symptoms of depression vary from person to person. My symptoms usually consist of crippling negative self-talk, “cloudy” thoughts, and tense limbs. Conversely, for others it may be immobility, crying, anger, excessive eating, thought perseveration, etc. If you haven’t noticed, there isn’t one common symptom that exists between the 350 million people worldwide who experience depression. We are unique and unbelievably resilient.
As the symptoms vary person to person, as do the strategies for what it takes to cope in a healthy manner during this period. Therefore, the benefits of having a self-care routine that you can utilize during this time can be critical. It can mean the difference between prolonged depression or a short spurt. My routine is simple, yet feels unbelievably complex and difficult when amid an episode. Upon waking and realizing I don’t like how I “feel”, within 5 minutes I try and take a shower and get dressed. If I can be out of the home within an hour of awaking, I gain confidence that I can make it through the day, no matter how difficult the symptoms. The destination may be to work, to the gym, or to spend time with my daughter; regardless, getting out of the home, ingesting fresh air, can be the difference between a short bout or a full day of depression. I also utilize strategies such as controlled breathing and guided imagery that helps alleviate the “fight or flight” mode that my mind and body tries to enter.
Whether you find yourself experiencing depression related symptoms for the “first” time or are a depression all-star, both can be scary as heck. Remember that it may pass; however, if it persists, find healthy ways to cope and/or seek out professional help. There’s strength in asking for assistance. There are many ways to find help, this includes contacting your insurance company directly or using their website to find resources, talking with your primary care physician, and/or searching terms like “Therapists in My Area” on Google.
No matter what, remember that you are more than what you’re experiencing, and always, PROTECT YOUR QUAD!
Thanks for sharing that everyone’s depressive symptoms can be different. I used to think well, I’m not crying, so I must not be depressed.
My symptoms are more apathetic. I don’t feel like doing anything, have a hard time getting out of bed in the morning, emptiness…etc. Thanks for reminding me to keep MOVING.
Phil, I enjoyed this first article. You are always eerily transparent and that is so needed in this time and space. People need to see someone they can relate to and know they are not alone. Great job!
Appreciating the further explanation that “phenomena” does affect community members. Sometimes community members are expected to withstand unhealthy phenomena in the various areas of human activity, by this they become numb and hypnotized in the reoccurring trauma, but as you pointed by knowing where to turn and having a safety plan are significant.