Depression leaves long-lasting consequences and it has the potential to impact our outlook on life. We may end up losing relationships, jobs, habits, health, goals, and even self-esteem. Getting back to our premorbid personality seems to be an unattainable task after depression. However, it’s not entirely impossible!
Research also provides us with the hope that people can enjoy mental peace after recovering (Fuller-Thomson, Agbeyaka, LaFond & Bern-Klug, 2016). Certain factors play a vital role in the journey of regaining life. These factors include social support, physical activity (exercise),and spirituality. Some may think that recovering from chronic depression is more complicated. But research says that the length of time someone struggled with depression does not impact the likelihood of regaining mental tranquility. Let’s dive right into the main topic and see how can you regain your life after depression.
Set goals
Goal setting is the first step to initiate your journey of getting back to life. To set positive and progressive goals, you need to identify your priorities and values. You may consider making a list of the things you value the most in your personal and professional life. Keep looking for career opportunities as it is one of the significant factors that help bring the lost balance back in life. It may not be effortless to break the habit of inactivity after depression. But, indulging in your favorite activities might do the trick. Positive activities like studying, gardening, or cleaning will boost your energy, resulting in effective goal setting. It is best if you keep evaluating your progress throughout the journey of recovery. Self-evaluation helps in tracking issues and making changes where required.
Seek social support
Social support plays a significant role in the recovery. Professional help is essential in the recovery journey to prevent relapse. Along with that, reconnecting with your lost contacts can be highly beneficial. You may consider sending them a text or email. You can also seek social support by joining a support group. Getting the support of people who had experienced a similar situation can help maintain a positive outlook towards life. Making new friends is another smart strategy to seek social support. However, it is important to prioritize quality over quantity. Focus on befriending those who send out positive vibes to the universe.
Work on your emotional and physical health
People having poor physical and emotional health are less likely to recover fully. To improve your physical health, it is imperative to treat any present medical problems. Another crucial area to focus on is taking care of your body. People suffering from depression find it difficult to carry out daily body care activities like washing, cleaning, bathing, etc. So, it would help if you resume these daily chores as soon as you start feeling better. Make physical activity (exercise) an integral part of your daily routine. It will keep you physically and emotionally fit by providing energy and regulating emotions. It is very important for your emotional health to replace the negative and irrational thoughts. Practice positive self-talk. Spend your time carrying out activities which make you happy. Focus more on the positive aspects of life by practicing gratitude.
Research has found that depressive people having an enhancing attribution style of positive events are more likely to recover from depression when positive events occur (Needles & Abramson, 1990). Turns out, focusing and generalizing positive events can help you a lot. You can always get back to your life after every setback.
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