Depression strikes again!

Dom
Oct 13, 2024
2 min read

The past couple of months cracks have been forming in my emotional armour and the stressful experiences with work and home finally got to me that this week I broke down. I understand that everyone has their limits but I've hit mine and now it's important to have a brief reprieve and focus on rest and recouperation. I've been to this emotional pit before and rather than fall too far down I've recognised that I need support and have taken steps to overcome this current hurdle.

I've been re-prescribed antidepressants and signed off work as a result. I've been told many times that no-one likes to see me unhappy and often it's a shock to most people when they see me like that.

If you've had similar experiences then I empathise. It's not the easiest trek but I understand that with time, rest and being honest with oneself the dark clouds come to pass.

Here's a list of some of things the have helped me over the years:

- Meditation groups - Exercising

- Mindfulness practices - Sleeping before 00:00

- Having a walk - Woodcarving

- Being outside - Watching anime

- Having a bath or shower - Being around friends and loved ones

- Painting - Colouring, drawing and doodling

- Cleaning - Making something I can use

- Jumping - Dancing

- Singing - Stretching

- Samaritans - Journaling

- Changing environments - Reading/learning new skills

- Self care - Getting support from trusted friends, family and professionals

- Medical intervention

This list isn't exclusive and there's more I could add but these are strategies and activities that have helped along the way. I realise that you can't simply rely on just one method you have to use a combination of different approaches. I alternate between them them all sometimes for maybe a month or a few weeks at a time.

Currently I've been learning how to sew as my current mindfulness activity. I made 2 cushion covers and a book sleave so far. My goal is to create my own unique outfit that I can wear on a daily basis inspired by wizards and sages of fantasy. Something that highlights my creativity, love for the spiritual and metaphysical knowledge and appreciation for my own uniqueness.

Here's a few photos of what I've made so far: