Patterns in Depression: Have you Noticed Any in Yours?

 


Tracking moods seems almost as tedious as enduring moods. But there is a great benefit to it.

There are mood tracking charts available online, just look up 'mood tracking charts'. Choose one that would be easy for you to use.

Why track moods? Because there is valuable information in that. Not only can you notice the day of the week or the time of the day when your mood dips, you can find out what foods or what kinds of social situations affect your mood in a positive or negative way. And then you can make some changes in your life around that.

Managing depression is so much more than the right medication and a few visits with a good therapist. Just as managing other illnesses, diabetes or Parkinson's for example. They too require more than medication to manage the illness.

I know this sounds like a lot of work, but it is worth the effort. And YOU are worth the effort.

Let me give you an example from my own life. On Sunday we usually go to church if I'm not too tired from other social activities. I like my church, I love the people there. I chat and hug both before and after church. And my pastor preaches great sermons. We usually go out for lunch afterwards and that is nice too, means I don't have to prepare anything when I get home. But it's a lot of 'peoplizing' and I am an introvert (which means people tire me and isolation renews me).


Frankly my mood is a little elevated when I get home (remember I am mildly bipolar) and I don't want to stop even though I try to. Even by evening I am just a little hyper and find it hard to get to sleep.

But then it hits me Monday morning. I am socially and physically exhausted. I try not to see people on Monday. Monday is a day to reset and relax or just do some things around the house that give me satisfaction and joy.

I know it seems like a lot of work to make changes. Just being depressed is hard enough. But do you want to stay depressed? Do you want to do the work? Are you willing? You are worth it!

I always say that there is hope for depression. You are part of that hope. 

Don't give up! There is hope for depression. 









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