As humans, we are built for connection and intimacy, and there are various ways you could get ahead of depression through connection, and as with most things in life, connecting with people is the map to finding our way out of pain and back to wellbeing.
The main components of treatment for depression include therapy and medication, but self-care steps can get you ahead with your struggle with depression. Reaching out and connecting with people can be challenging when depressed, but taking small steps can make it easier over time.
Now, you may wonder what connecting with people means and why you would want to connect with others.
Connecting with people is the sense of closeness and interaction a person can have with other people around them. Humans are social beings and connecting with others involves having a personal conversation about what is important to you and how you feel. And also, taking time to listen to someone else and feel empathy for them.
Research shows that connecting with people is good for our mental health and has proven to lower the rates of depression and other mental health conditions.
You may be anti-social or an introvert that enjoys spending time on your own, but you need to understand that for you to get better, you may have to get out of your comfort zone sometimes. I enjoy staying alone but, I often try to spend time with others because I understand the importance of human interaction.
3 Ways to Get One Step Ahead of Depression Through Connecting with Others
Talk to Someone
Although when depressed you may want to get away from everyone and stay crawled up on your bed. This used to be me. I avoided the people around me and made unnecessary excuses to see anyone. Then I realized that staying alone didn’t help with my feelings, it only created an opportunity for negative thoughts to fill my mind.
I understand that being depressed makes you feel like no one would understand how you feel, so talking to someone would seem like a waste of time. But it isn’t. Talking to someone makes you feel better. You could talk to a family member, a close friend, and anyone you feel comfortable talking to.
It’s very relieving to have someone listen to you talk about how you feel. Connecting and communicating with others helps you with your struggles. So, when you’re going through depression periods, instead of burying your feelings and pretending to be okay, talk to someone. You might be surprised to find out how much tension can be released after sharing your emotions and feelings.
Get a Supportive Friend
When you’re dealing with depression, it’s necessary to check the kinds of friends you have. The friends we keep often have a huge influence on our lives. You want to make sure the friends you have are not toxic and they do not negatively influence your life.
If you don’t have a supportive friend, get one. A supportive friend is someone who understands you and truly cares for you. Both of you may not have a perfect friendship, but they will always be there for you through thick and thin. Having a supportive friend helps you with your struggle with depression.
When you have a supportive friend, it will be easier for you to speak up about your feelings. And, when they listen without judging you, it could boost your self-confidence and self-worth.
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Spend More Time with Others
Socializing provides a lot of benefits for our mental health. Although when depressed, we may want to isolate ourselves from others, which typically worsens the depressive mood. While having feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness during depression periods, self-isolation could increase your chances of developing low self-esteem.
Being around others whenever I’m having a mental breakdown, often gets me out of my depressive mood. Try spending time around others, they could be your friends or family members. If they aren’t close to you, try calling or chatting them up.
You could visit a friend, attend a religious program like church services, chat with your neighbours, or play games with someone. Do something you enjoy doing or feel comfortable doing with someone. And, avoid spending so much time alone when depressed.
Conclusion:
Remember your mental health matters a lot. So, take some time to prioritize your mental well-being. Spend quality time with your friends and family and be in relationships that inspire you to be a better version of yourself.
Which of these steps have helped you through your struggle with depression in the past and what other ways do you connect with others during your depression periods? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
DISCLAIMER:
This blog post is part 1 of my 5-part series on my best self-care tips for depression.
The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is provided for general information only.
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If you need help or know someone who needs help with their mental health or mental illness, check out the resource page for mental health resources.
