How to Overcome Depression?
We all have bad days. Do you sometimes feel like you’re locked up and time is just passing you by? Do you feel alone and life has just been going in circles? Here are 5 mindsets that will hopefully teach you how to overcome depression.
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Counting things you are thankful for
We all know we have things we are thankful for no matter what place we are in at life. It’s different when you see things in writing because you get to count how much you’re thankful for in a day, whether it is big… or small.
It could be as big as a promotion or a new member of a family.
It could be something as simple as having a really good coffee.
Everyday, I try to write “Things I am Thankful for Yesterday” and “Things I am looking Forward Today” because it helps me notice all the things I can be grateful for, whether they are big or small.
James 1:17 says “Every good and perfect gift is from above.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 says “Give thanks in all circumstances.”
It didn’t say some or good circumstances, it said all. It is because even the bad circumstances have the potential to develop our character and turn us into someone better. Someone who knows how to overcome depression.
Remember, it is not the happy people who are thankful. It is the thankful people who are happy.
Pursue a Hobby or a Passion
Everybody has something that they love to do. Whether it’s art, cooking, music, sports, writing, etc–pursue it whether you think you’re good at it or not. We believe that God is pleased with our passions and hobbies because He put those desires in our hearts.
Colossians 3:23 says “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”
When we honor God with the things we do, we don’t have to seek approval from others. Finding joy in what we do because God is pleased with it helps us overcome depression.
Give to overcome depression
One of the things that will help you find joy is by giving to others. Someone once said,
“Our greatness is not in what we have, but in what we give.”
Last week, we went to a camp to give gifts to the children of airmen about to be deployed. It felt good to help because it took away the focus on things I don’t have and shifted the focus on what I can give.
Ephesians 2:10 says “We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.”
When we help others, we share in their joy and that will bring fulfillment in our hearts.
Open up
We always have a tendency to clam up and avoid talking about our vulnerabilities because of the fear of being judged. People can be judgmental at times, but it is always a good idea to open up about the things we are going through to lessen the burden.
Find a trusted friend, a family member, a church minister, or anyone whom you know can give you encouragement and advice. Don’t force yourself to open up, take it one day at a time and whenever you feel for comfortable. Supportive people can help you overcome depression.
Ecclesiastes 4:9 says “Two are better than one.”
You are not alone
Always remember that even if your experiences are unique, someone is also hurting the way you do right now. You may not know them, but they too are hurting as well. Don’t think that you are alone in this battle.
Many others are climbing the same rocky mountains as you do. Use your experiences to show others that the scars that you carry are those which made you strong.
Feelings and thoughts will always be temporary. But our source of security, God, will always be constant.
I encourage you to read this book, “When the Darkness Will Not Lift”. It is a book authored by John Piper. As you read it, you will gain insight to the spiritual and physical aspect of depression and what it means to wait on the Lord in times of darkness.
Other Depression-Related Resources
If you are in a crisis, or you are having suicidal thoughts, please talk to a licensed professional, a therapist, a counselor, a pastor, doctor or call the suicide prevention hotline at:
1-800-273-8255
Also visit the National Suicide Prevention Hotline website.
For facts and information about suicide and suicide prevention, visit American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
noutati interesante si utile postate pe blogul dumneavoastra. dar ca si o paranteza , ce parere aveti de cazarea in regim hotelier ?.
hello, I google translated your post since I only understand English and Filipino! But anyway, here is my opinion on hotels. Hotels are also a good way to unwind with your family. I think what you can do is to find a hotel on a reputable website, such as “Booking.com” or “Trivago.com” and check out the prices, amenities, and ratings. And after that, choose the best hotel that fits your budget and preferences. I am able to get good deals when I book early (2 months in advance or more). Thank you! I hope you enjoyed my post.