Set Your Goals
Instead, start writing down simple, specific plans of what you would like to do when symptoms are lower. You could benefit by having different goals for when you are feeling mildly better, moderately better, and much better.
Go to the People
Depression tends to force a desire for isolation. Many people experience depression and introversion, or they fear to be around others during periods of high depression because they feel inadequate, or believe more negativity will build from others. This cuts you off from potential support and leaves you without the opportunity for positive feedback.
When you are feeling good, go to where the people are. Rather than hoping that someone calls you or invites you to a gathering, take the initiative to lead the way.
If you have family and friends that depression has made you neglect, get to them. Let them know what has been going on and what you plan to do about it.
If you lack social relationships, seize the chance to make new connections while symptoms are manageable. New relationships can limit symptoms next time depression strikes.
Care for Your Body
Another facet of your life often neglected during depression is your physical health. Poor mental health contributes to worsening physical health, while poor physical health makes mental health worse.
A good day is a chance to break the nasty cycle. By eating good foods and exercising, you put yourself in a position to further reduce depressive symptoms and add a level of prevention to future symptoms.
Avoid the desire to use a good day to catch up on sleep. If you eat well and increase your physical activity, the sleep will come. There are more valuable uses of your time on a good day.
Care for Your Mind
Depression wears you down, and it is your task to build yourself back up on good days. Luckily, there are countless ways to accomplish this.
While you are feeling better, you may want to start or restart your therapy. You may be surprised by this, but times, when depression is lower, are the best times for therapy.
When depression is too high, you and your therapist will have to spend more time addressing current needs instead of overriding patterns and trends. Less depression means increased awareness and objectivity, resulting in improved benefits.
During your good day, take time to give yourself compliments, reflect on what you have been through and where you are now. Observe the beauty of the world around you that you have missed. Allow yourself to be fully aware of how good you feel while being realistic about depression returning.
Your ability to completely control depression is limited. Even with the best treatments, it will come and go. What you can control is how you respond when it does go.
Taking steps to ensure you get all that you can when symptoms are low will have an incredibly positive impact on your life. With hard work and your share of luck, more good days might be here to stay.
