Depression impacts people in many different ways. But some of the most common underlying symptoms are sadness, helplessness, and hopelessness.
As you can imagine, with symptoms like those, it can be hard to enjoy both the big things in life as well as the everyday moments.
That isn’t to say everyone with depression stays in bed all day. Maybe people can function and go about their daily routines while dealing with the effects of the disorder. But that’s not the same as enjoying life.
So, is it possible to find some joy in your life while living with depression? The answer is a resounding, “yes!”
Here are four tips that can help you to find enjoyment in each day.
1. Get the Support You Need
When you have depression, it’s easy to want to isolate yourself. To enjoy life, you should surround yourself with people who can help you to find that joy.
A support network is hugely important when you’re struggling with depression. Friends, family members, or even a depression support group can all make a big difference.
Social support will help you to know that you’re not alone in your struggles, and you have people in your life willing to help you get through them on good days and bad days.
Just the knowledge that you’re not alone and that you have loved ones who care about you can help you to enjoy life again in the smallest of ways.
2. Reduce Stress
Everyone deals with stress. It’s unavoidable. When you have depression, however, stress can make you feel even worse due to a long-term buildup of a hormone called cortisol.
You might not be able to eliminate stress. But, finding ways to reduce it or manage it can benefit you. Practice meditation, yoga, or mindfulness. Also, find things you can do each day to let the stress in your life leave you.
3. Understand What Makes You Feel Better
It’s a good idea to create an arsenal of things you can “pull out” at any time to make yourself feel good. Sometimes, this is called a “wellness toolbox.” In reality, it’s nothing more than things you like to do that make you happy.
Naturally, these things are specific to you. They can include drinking hot chocolate by the fireplace or going for a walk with your dog. Maybe in your toolbox, you have “calling your mother” or “reading a book.”
Make a list of the things you enjoy most, and keep it with you at all times. When you’re feeling sad, or you feel a bout of depression coming on, try to do something from that list to help you find enjoyment at that moment.
4. Change Your Thinking Patterns
Depression can lead to negative thinking about yourself, your relationships, and many other things in life. It’s not always easy to change those patterns on your own, but it’s essential to have the skills to do so.
That’s why therapy can help if you’re struggling with depression. While a social support system can help you not to feel alone, a professional counselor or therapist can teach you the skills needed to change your daily thinking patterns. As a result, you can create a more positive mindset and start to enjoy life again.
Begin Working With A Therapist Specializing in Depression in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and online in Arizona
If you’re dealing with depression and having a hard time finding enjoyment in your life, feel free to one of our Phoenix, Arcadia, Biltmore, Scottsdale, or Anthem counselors who specialize in depression therapy. We’ll work on figuring out how you can handle your depression and, at the same time, rediscover your joy. Our team of caring therapists understands that the decision to start therapy can be challenging. This is why we are happy to offer a complimentary 20-minute phone consultation. Our locations for counseling are located throughout the valley with counseling centers located in Phoenix, Anthem, Scottsdale and online anywhere in Arizona. You can start your therapy journey with Crossroads Counseling by following these simple steps:
- Contact Crossroads Counseling for a complimentary 20-minute phone consult
- Meet with a caring therapist
- Start coping with your anxiety symptoms
Feel free to learn more about our practice by visiting our about page, FAQ, and blog, or read more about our staff members to start finding your best therapeutic fit! or, call us at 623-680-3486, text 623-688-5115, or email info@crossroadsfcc.com for more information!
Depression doesn’t have to keep you from savoring every precious moment of life.
